Books Like This Should be a Warning Signal to Inerrantists
I just saw an announcement of a new book by Paul Copan and Matthew Flannagan. Copan and Flannagan are good guys, but some of the positions they have to defend (because of their commitment to Biblical inerrancy) are not. I’m embarrassed for inerrantists. Just look at the publisher’s description (presumably written by one or both … Books Like This Should be a Warning Signal to Inerrantists
On Second Thought, Christian Apologists Are Right
On second thought, I’ve realized that Christian apologists are correct about atheism and morality. With that, I’m signing off to go eat some babies.
Embarrassed by Some Atheists
I don’t feel like naming names, but recent behavior by some prominent atheists (plural) has me feeling somewhat embarrassed to be associated with them.
Getting back to the “Fundamentals” in Texas Education
https://www.salon.com/2014/09/19/creationism_is_just_the_start_how_right_wing_christians_are_warping_americas_schools_partner/ Texas is great. Sure, the weather is hot, and you might have to dodge some tornadoes, and you had better like Tex-Mex and chicken fried steak (actually, I do). But it is never boring. The fundamentalists keep it interesting. The State Board of Indoctrination, er, Education, which is dominated by fundamentalists, wants to … Getting back to the “Fundamentals” in Texas Education
“But is it Art?!” Family resemblance concepts’ (Wittgenstein) explained simply (from my The Philosophy Gym)
9. But is it Art? From my book The Philosophy Gym: 25 Short Adventures in Thinking. I mean they’d gone and fucking installed the work without me even being here. That’s just not on. This is my bed. If someone else installs it, it’s just dirty linen. If I do it, it’s art. Tracey … “But is it Art?!” Family resemblance concepts’ (Wittgenstein) explained simply (from my The Philosophy Gym)
The Historian’s Job and Christian Apologetics
I am currently writing a work of history. My co-author and I are investigating the nuclear tests conducted in the Marshall Islands by the U.S. from 1946 to 1958. During that period, the United States conducted 67 nuclear tests (including some duds) on or near Bikini and Eniwetok atolls in the Marshall Islands. These tests … The Historian’s Job and Christian Apologetics
Secular Humanism: why it’s a strategic mistake to define as requiring naturalism
What does secular humanism (or, as we say in the UK, humanism) involve? In Humanism: A Very Short Introduction (OUP 2011) I suggest that most of those who sign up to secular humanism sign up to following:
Critical Thinking and Skepticism – Part 2
Based on a quick review of Michael Shermer’s key statements about skepticism (A Brief Introduction, and A Skeptical Manifesto) there appear to be at least two general principles of rational skepticism: GP1. Be open-minded, not closed-minded or dogmatic. GP2. Be discriminating about believing claims, theories, and viewpoints, not gullible and credulous. In my previous post on this subject … Critical Thinking and Skepticism – Part 2
Religion and Violence
I hope that Victor Reppert will not feel that I am baiting him. In a recent post I said some mean things about C.S. Lewis, which with Victor is generally like humming “Hail to the Victors Valiant” around an Ohio State fan. Here I begin with a paragraph he recently wrote for his Dangerous Idea … Religion and Violence