Quote:Well without trying to specifically endorse any particular religion, I will say that it is impossible to sever religion from philosophy. A lack of belief in "religion" is either atheism or agnosticism, and is still a belief in itself. And what a person believes (or does not believe) will dictate their ideologies and view of life. If I don't believe in an afterlife, or consequences or rewards for many actions, do I step in front of a bullet for someone, whether a family member or not? Well, I have 2 children and a wife who also need me to be their hero as well. If I don't believe in an afterlife, I probably take the path that is best for my myself and my family. If I do believe in an afterlife, and can exhibit the bravery needed, I put my life in harm's way, place my life in a higher power, and risk my life for another, though they might be a complete stranger.

 

I think if you want to have a philosophical discussion, you have to keep religion out of it.   Nothing kills a philosophical discussion like religion kills a philosophical discussion.   That is because religion starts with a conclusion.   That's it.   End of discussion.  

 

If you want to have a philosophical discussion, you have to bring in logic, and reason, and evidence.   You have to be open-minded, or at least pretend to be open-minded.   Too many discussions end with, "I believe this because the good book tells me so."   People ground themselves in their religion.   It's the basis of all their beliefs.  It is not subject to question. 

---