5 Questions about Life

[Tara91]

I just posted this in the Teen section, but I also need to hear from another age group.

Hi everyone! I have to do a project for one of my classes and I was looking for your help. We're discussing people's worldviews---their beliefs about life and how that affects their morals, etc. We are supposed to ask five questions to 3 teenagers and 3 adults, then write a paper comparing the two. I thought it would be great to hear all of your answers to the questions, even though I'm hoping more than three of you will respond!

Before I get to the questions, I want to ask that there be NO DEBATE on this thread. I think (in fact, I hope) that there will be lots of different opinions. I'm creating this thread purely for educational purposes, and I really, really don't want it to get locked.

Also, when you answer the questions, please state your religion. I know I could look at your faith icon, but sometimes I can't make heads or tails of what some of them mean.

And now, for the five questions.

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

5. What is the purpose of society?

Many, many thanks for any help you could give me!

Tara

 

[WingsOfTheNeophyte]

1) Reality is relative, my dreams are real, in the sense of electrical signals are real. One cannot say that something is more real than something else.

2) Big Bang, gravity, abiogenesis, evolution , us

3) Humanity is basically neither good nor evil, we have the capacity for both, simply because they are essentially the same thing

4) Whatever philosophy you prefer to base your morality on.

5) Whatever the leaders/rulers of that society decide.

Meh, I know that was completely unhelpful

 

[The Nihilist]

i agree with wings of the neophyte

 

[MorkandMindy]

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

What is the reality you want to know the ultimate nature of?

For females reality seems to consist of human relationships, friendships and various social complexities.

For males it is the pleasure of looking at young women and playing with machines of one sort or another.

For dogs it is smelling things and places.

If you are not a subjectivist but an objectivist, then the question appears to be one of metaphysics. Our understanding of the underlying nature of the World is still developing.

The ultimate nature of physical reality as we understand it now is a step on from space / time / matter since they don’t obey the conservation laws in all situations so we have to move on to m-brane theory with things a bit more fundamental existing in an additional 7 micro dimensions.

But there are emergent properties above the level of particle physics which determine the World we live in. Neglecting emergent properties would be just plain silly.


2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

Our world appears to be about 4.6 billion years old in an observable universe which appears to be 13.5 billion years old. World formed by light pressure and gravitational attraction from remains of supernova explosion. Observable universe expanded from tiny spot in multiverse. If it hadn’t done that we would not be here to talk about it.


3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

When you were very young before you learnt about Christianity you most likely had a clearer idea about this than now. My mother spanked a lot and my dad spanked less often but a lot harder (really hot bottom). Needless to say I didn’t like either one of them. Neither appeared to do anything helpful either. That’s human behaviour. Some bits helpful, some bits not, all viewed through our instincts and other things we learn.

Humans are the product of a long evolutionary process. Some parts of us are not suited to modern living, some parts really aren’t suited to anything but are just there because we haven’t had time to fully evolve into upright stance, and other defects are just ones that didn’t get selected out at the time and now everyone has them so they can’t evolve out now very easily either and they’re a real pain.

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

The purpose of morality is to aid our survival in a community.

5. What is the purpose of society?

Individuals attempt to survive and reproduce. Belonging to a society can be a big help in that goal. Societies are a kind of mega being and themselves compete with other societies.

I'm an atheist now, started as an atheist, was an evangelical non Calvinist Christian for ten years, back to atheist again.

 

[Martin^^]

Challenging questions Tara

Religion: none (agnostic seeker division)
Age: 48

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

The evidence of our senses limits any common objective reality to the physical universe. We have the power of imagination to speculate on what might be beyond that, but there seems to be no method of verifying any of the ideas we form that way. Many faith groups will cite 'evidence' for theirs being the true religion, but this is invariably a gathering of selective evidence to suit their particular case.
There may be a higher reality beyond the physical, but we have no objective means of investigating it.


2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)
Starts with Big Bang, ends with Heat Death of the Uiniverse. That's the plan for this week, anyway.

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)
Basically, all of the above. The mix in individual cases is determined by genetics, upbringing and social environment.

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)
Morality is relative to the society we live in. We may see the behaviour of some societies as wicked and evil, but if we were born into them, we would probably buy right into it with all the other cannibals. Or we would be eaten.
5. What is the purpose of society?
To maximise the survival and prosperity of the greatest number by providing a social framework for individuals to structure their lives. Or vice versa.

 

[ArchaicTruth]

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

Infinite

2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

I really couldn't tell you, but being a Catholic my answer if any would have to be creationism.

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

As individuals we are whatever we chose to be, as a race, we're just a bunch of idiots.

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

To further the happiness and wellbeing of all sentient beings without the use of ignorance.

5. What is the purpose of society?

Order, the social contract.

 

[nadroj1985]

Before I answer, let me note that most of the questions presuppose too much, and so too, probably, do my answers. But that doesn't mean I can't have a crack at them

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

What you are experiencing right now is ultimate reality, and nothing is more real than anything else. Please note, you are experiencing it RIGHT NOW: this is NOT a copy, an appearance, or anything else. It is the real thing. Kinda neat, eh?

2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

The world never came into existence. The Big Bang is no answer to this question, contrary to what the others have been saying. The world started nowhere and at no time (which is really what the Big Bang theory admits anyway, so far as I understand it), and it ain't going anywhere neither. Cool, no?

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

Humanity is a grouping term that humans came up with, and shouldn't have. Humans are things that ask questions like "what is humanity?" and never answer them, but become better and (oddly enough) more human in trying. Liberating, n'est pas?

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

Dancing (self-explanatory, I think).

5. What is the purpose of society?

To not get in the way too much, and to not let the rules (which are, unfortunately, necessary) spoil the game.

 

[us38]

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

No one knows.

2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

No one knows.

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

Depends on who you ask and how you define the terms.

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

Long-term self-interest.

5. What is the purpose of society?

Society is an inevitable outcome of morality.

 

[Eudaimonist]

Hi, I'm 40 years old, and I have no religion as such, though I am philosophical. My philosophy is called Eudaimonism, which is naturalistic and nontheistic.

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

Reality is that which doesn't go away when you shut your eyes.

Human beings, the Earth, etc are fully real -- meaning that they change, act, and influence each other -- even if these things are potentially misunderstood or incompletely understood.

2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

The world never popped into existence, IMV. It has always existed. Time (i.e. change) might have a beginning though. While I'm not wedded to any particular cosmological theory, the Big Bang theory seems like the leading contender at the moment.

As to where it is going, where are you taking it?

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

Human beings are born neither good nor evil in actuality, since no one is born with a moral character. As one develops, various good or evil behaviors may emerge. However, I believe that every individual has the potential for goodness (e.g. for wisdom, good character, friendliness, etc), and developing this potential is what it is for a human being to be psychologically healthy and flourish. Even though we do have the possibility of developing an evil character, I don't believe that we were born to be "Orcs".

The "body", by which I take it you mean bodily urges, are neither good nor bad. It is what you do about them that is good or bad. There is a need for wisdom to decide the proper time and place to allow one's bodily urges expression.

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

The proper basis for morality is the fulfillment (the survival and flourishing) of the life of the individual human person as a rational being with a complex psychology.

5. What is the purpose of society?

The purpose of a civilized society is to provide a social and legal context in which all individuals are recognized as having the right to pursue their values (in groups with mutual consent, or alone) so that they may flourish and find happiness.


eudaimonia,

Mark

 

[quatona]

Hi Tara,
last thing first: I don´t subscribe to any religious concepts.



1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

The term "ultimate reality" seems to be an inherently religious one. I must admit I cannot make any sense of it. Also, I can´t wrap my mind around a meaning of "real" that allows for gradation.
Does a god/gods/higher power exist? I see no reason to assume so.

2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

I don´t know. I tend to think that it didn´t come into existence at all.

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise?

I see good actions (in the meaning of: having predominantly positive effects from what I can tell) and bad actions (the opposite). Beyond that, I don´t know why to judge an individual person, and I don´t know how to possibly judge mankind in general good or bad. Good/bad compared to what? Apples, birds, nuclear plants? Good/bad in regards to which purpose/goal/standard?

Is the body inherently wicked?

Other than that a god has said so, I have no idea how this position can be reasonably held. The body is what it is.

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

The desire to get along with our fellow creatures and our environment, the desire to be accepted and respected.

5. What is the purpose of society?
Do you mean what is the intention of humans in its habit of building societies? I guess making life easier.
Or do you mean what should be the goals of society in detail?
Many. Right from the top of my head I would say lessening the effects of the unequalities that people are naturally subjected to.

Many, many thanks for any help you could give me!

Any time.

 

[Wiccan_Child]

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

I have absolutely no idea, but I'd be surprised if our percieved reality is the only one.

2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

I believe our universe was created without intent or by a sentient being. It is ultimately run by mathematical laws and physical constants.

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

Humans are humans, neither good nor evil. Only actions have morality.

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

According to my moral code, it is morally wrong to infringe on the free will of another. Otherwise, it's allowable.

5. What is the purpose of society?

To support the individual.

 

[elman]

=Tara91;38782187]
And now, for the five questions.

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

Christian. I believe there is a spiritual or non worldly reality and I believ it is more real than the things we touch and see in this world.

2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

This world is temporary and is going to pass away, become nothing. It came into existence because it was created by God

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

Man is a creation of God and is created spiritually alive as well as physically alive. All men if they live long enough will be unloving, commit evil, and this will separate them from spiritual life. They can however turn from being unloving to being loving and God will raise them up again spirituly

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

Being concerned about the welfare of others rather than self. Being loving.

5. What is the purpose of society?

I believe we all exist for the purpose of maturing into loving beings. It is the purpose of society to assist us and encourage us in doing that.

 

[chipmunk]

Religion: None
Age: 25

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

Functionally speaking, I believe in consensus reality. Reality is what we agree that it is. However, real reality exists irrespective to our personal perceptions of what it is. Also, we all have our personal realities or our perceptions of what reality is.

I believe there are gods.


2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

My personal belief is in evolution. I believe a god or gods had their hand in creating this planet and that they may have had some effect on how things evolved. The world will end when the sun dies (well, somewhat before that actually). Where are we going? I believe that our current state is merely a stage of some longer more eternal life.

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

I don't really see humanity as good or evil. It simply is.

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

I think morals are based on ones own perception--at least, on the individual level. Collectively the morals of a group of people are somewhat more nebulous as you see through changing laws and beliefs over the centuries.

5. What is the purpose of society?

To ensure that the greatest portion (and ideally all) of the population lives in maximum contentment.

 

[DailyBlessings]

Also, when you answer the questions, please state your religion. I know I could look at your faith icon, but sometimes I can't make heads or tails of what some of them mean.

I am a Christian, and am currently studying theology at Lutheran seminary.

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

The nature of ultimate reality is a question that is beyond my ability to answer. God is an expression of ultimate reality... so is the notion of divine word, of Brahma, of the tao. I do believe that there is an ultimate reality, and we can grasp bits and pieces of it. And I believe that Christ recognized himself as the incarnation of the truth in all of its meaning. But for us, the full perception of the truth is beyond our means to understand. And I think the truth is is more likely to look like a question, than an answer.

2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

It came into existence by and through the will of God who created, is, and sustains it. Where it is going, I have no idea, but I'm glad to be part of the journey.

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

I see humanity as essentially good. We are beautiful, and by and large we do most of the things that we do with the right reasons at heart. But we are by nature severed from the knowledge of God, and so are prone to error, reconciled to the will of God only through Christ. It does not make us "evil", but we do err, and God loves us for this as much as anything else.

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

It may be self-explanatory, but I don't really have an answer. I think individual motivations toward moral behavior probably differ between people.

5. What is the purpose of society?

The purpose of society is to remind one another that we are not alone.

 

[meebs]

And now, for the five questions.

1. What is the nature of ultimate reality? (What is the "most real" thing in this world---i.e. is there a God? gods? higher power?)

I call my self a pantheist (sexed up atheism as some like to call it

All reality is god, but god has no sentience. All that is, is and there is nothing more.No spiritual or supernatural entities or forces.

2. What is the nature of the world? (How did it comes into existence, where is it going, etc.)

It just happened to come into being through scientific processes defined (however the theories might change a bit as we discover more).

3. What is humanity? (basically good, evil, or otherwise? Is the body inherently wicked?)

Human beings are animals that have evolved more complex then other animals. We have an ability to manipulate this world (that is not nessarily bad) by fashioning tools. We are both good and bad according to our subjective views.

4. What is the basis of morality? (self-explanatory, I think)

I think it has evolved over time with us. I think it started as a pack animal morality, then tribes etc. We are social animals and to get along to an extent we have developed social rules. How we deal with each other and other things.

5. What is the purpose of society?

Im not sure, i don't think it has purpose. I guess its a thing that has evolved and what we are a part of. Im not so sure.

Many, many thanks for any help you could give me!

Tara

hope im not too late

 

[Eudaimonist]

I call my self a pantheist (sexed up atheism as some like to call it

I suppose even atheism has to put on a lowcut dress and get out of the house now and then.


eudaimonia,

Mark

 

[meebs]

I suppose even atheism has to put on a lowcut dress and get out of the house now and then.


eudaimonia,

Mark