Debating the Existence of God: Engagement and Understanding

When someone claims that they do not believe in god, how should you respond? Should you engage in a discussion, or is it simply not your business?

Engagement and Non-Engagement

One common response is to dismiss their stance, simply stating, “They don’t have any beliefs in god-things and it’s none of your business anyway.” However, this approach may not always be the best. In a world where diverse belief systems coexist, it is often more productive to engage in thoughtful discussion, even if you do not share the same beliefs.

Another perspective is that of a Quora user. They would agree that if there were no God, the universe and earth would not exist; and that man cannot do anything without Him. This highlights the interconnectedness of our existence and the possibility of a higher power.

Theoretical Approaches

One can also approach the topic from a theoretical angle, proposing thought experiments such as the one involving Mary. Mary, who grows up in a world where she knows every natural law and has perfect knowledge of her surroundings, learns about the experience of color for the first time. By experiencing something new without any changes in the materialistic world around her, this thought experiment challenges the deterministic view that everything that has happened can be pre-ordained by material laws.

Philosophical Considerations

The argument for a dualistic universe, where the material and the non-material are both important, can also be compelling. If everything is simply governed by natural laws, how can we explain the mysterious phenomena of human consciousness and free will?

Respecting Beliefs

Not everyone seeks to convert others to their beliefs. Some individuals, like another user mentioned, respect different beliefs and prefer not to push for conversion. However, if the belief in the non-existence of God leads to discussions, they are willing to engage in these discussions, albeit in a different manner than one might expect from a Christian perspective.

Conclusion

Engaging in discussions about the existence of God can be challenging and thought-provoking. Whether through empirical arguments, theoretical thought experiments, or philosophical considerations, these conversations can lead to deeper understanding and respect for diverse belief systems.