Existence of God

The latest JimPinto blog: “Existence of God":
http://goo.gl/HUajH2

Summary:

Philosophers, theologians, scientists and others have proposed arguments
for and against the existence of God for thousands of years. Still, this
cannot be proved and acceptance is a personal choice.

All belief systems are based on either evidence or faith. Science
considers that the world is ultimately understandable through observation,
experiment, and extrapolation. Faith-based belief systems are mental
constructs that lack evidence. Indeed, scientific confirmation may be
impossible.

There are many different arguments for the existence of God, based on
history, science, personal experience, and philosophy. Each supports a
certain conception of God, and represent the base of a specific religion.

About 70-80% of the worlds almost 7 billion people profess belief in God.
About a third are Christian, a fifth are Muslim, a sixth are Agnostic or
Atheist, and another sixth are Hindu.

A significant argument against God’s existence is the problem of evil.
The traditional conception of God implies the ability to prevent all
suffering. Suffering, though, is a familiar part of the world around us;
it has not been prevented. Therefore, there is no God.

One of the most common arguments for atheism is the view that religious
belief is mere wishful thinking, just an emotional crutch for those who
are unable to deal with the reality of life without God.

For this blog, I considered it important not to just write generalities,
but to make it personal. In a spirit of agreement, I invited two of my
closest friends, avowed atheists, to present their views in this blog.
And then I present my own view. I invite you to present your own view of
God.

Let’s Engage

Please share our discussion by responding to these questions directly
via the blog. Or, if you prefer, send me an email and I’ll insert your
comments.

1. Do you believe in God?
2. What is your religion?
a. Christian b. Islam c. Atheist d. Hindu e. Buddhist f.Other
3. Are you a devout believer? Explain why you believe?
4. Are you an Atheist? Explain why.
5. Do you often think about this stuff? Or, not really too much?
6. Please comment on Stan Lieberman’s proofs of why there is no God.
7. Please comment on Merle Borg’s view,
“God did not create Man - Man created God!”
8. Please comment on Jim Pinto’s view of God.