Atheism 2.0 | Alain de Botton

www.ted.com What aspects of religion should atheists (respectfully) adopt? Alain de Botton suggests a "religion for atheists" -- call it Atheism 2.0 -- that incorporates religious forms and traditions to satisfy our human need for connection, ritual and transcendence.
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[@hamishwoodland7424]

Atheists aren't an active group in ourselves. We don't all want to fight religions. We don't all need a connection between us. We don't feel guilty for looking at old churches. We simply don't believe there is a God. That's it.

[@rafb145]

if atheists are not an active group than why are you speaking on behave of all of them?

[@Wegnerrobert2]

He is not speaking in behalf of all of them, he just said "don't all". You also don't need to be part of an "active group" to speak about a concept lol

[@TheLyricalWrdsmth]

It's a compulsive need to feel more correct than others.

[@SanjanaKarkera]

Agreed

[@Quinnandfriends1]

traditional500 Nice strawman

[@dornelli1]

I'm an atheist who loves to admire churches and the rituals. Its not a contradiction, because many believers also see the logic in my points. Its all about tolearance and learning to live together.

[@lilrog0909]

I couldn't agree even more. I really hate being around militant athiest but I love science and history

[@agunemon]

haha exactly... thats why even if I'm an atheist I don't mind going to christian churches when my friends/family invite me even if they know I'm an atheist... its fun, especially the rising popularity of having christian bands in it... even plain old catholic homilies... the preachers always tell nice stories that almost always have a good moral and not just because it was what god willed... its also probably the reason why there is no militant atheist, well if there is then there would be barely any militant atheist...

[@ViolaGMidi]

How I wish people with religious could think the same way.

[@kostailijev7489]

Religious atheism is the new "in thing!"

[@socksumi]

I don't admire religious rituals... at all. Some churches look impressive but it only serves to remind how rich and powerful they are. I recently visited the basilica in Vatican City. The lavishness, the gold, the endless ornamentation is so decadent and over-the-top that it's quite unsettling.

[@christopheranderson3064]

As an atheist Alain De Botton gave religion the credit it deserves. That is what you call intellectual honesty at its best.

[@fritula6200]

Atheism isn't intellectual honesty.... it's a LIE.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

The Lord works in mysterious ways. So mysterious for some of us that we deny His existence. Very sad state of affairs, atheists do not realise what they are missing, I do, good luck.

[@lmdeboom]

@@jeffforsythe9514 we've been there. I believe people missed things by believing in the existence of the old man in the sky.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

@@lmdeboom That old man is now here in human form and this is now the beginning of a brand new age. falun dafa

[@fatihtuncel6987]

To Imam Shafi'i What is your proof for the existence of God? they said * He said; * mulberry leaf * Put those leaves and eat milk, bee ground honey, deer ground musk, The caterpillar makes the ground silk * Taste, colour, smell and substance to create beauty so different from what is belongs to Allah

[@asmameklati2722]

I can't explain how this hit me now. I was religious.. muslim to be exact and I left it 4 years ago but still am struggling and feeling lost without any guidance. I'm so hight rn and I feel like I just discover a new path while watching this

[@Heroqudah]

you lost alot!

[@jurassicthunder]

this is the road to reality and science. you are in the right path. read more scientific and philosophical books that's based on truth that way you can find some answers

[@sangteawazza4187]

@@jurassicthunder than what is truth based on,does it come by chance or it is just an illusion

[@siddhantjadhav2793]

Your amazing brain guides you, think, ask questions, argue, be rationale all the while also fulfilling your goals in your life while also enjoying it. Remember you create your own destiny and not some invisible sky daddy lol

[@siddhantjadhav2793]

@@Heroqudah He/She lost nothing but irrationality and delusions. He/She is learning to accept our reality as it is, our yet unknown origin, he/she is only gaining from this normal experience. Omar you are just afraid of loosing the sheep from your herd as you want to continue as a sheep so you try to hold back others with your stupid negativity

[@tigerwa]

I am an atheist though I very occasionally go to church (CofE) because I like singing loudly out of tune and free wine, I often feel I am not the only one there for those reasons too.

[@sergio7248]

hahahahahhahahahaha best comment

[@johnarbuckle2619]

++++++++++

[@adaslesniak]

Because Christian narrative (fairy tale part in mind of many) doesn't resonate with lot of people while their miss practice and talks about values (exactly what this talk was about), so they do believe in what Christianity is about in terms of moral and social things, but they do not agree on many "you need to believe in all of those dogmas".

[@sergio7248]

Adas Lesniak So right.

[@jayd4ever]

then you are living in falsehood

[@Badboyifier]

is this the school of life guy?

[@oneiota2424]

Yep!

[@jamesrands]

Yes, but his voice sounds different on "School of life"

[@devonking1897]

A different setting, different pacing, and even a different microphone can do a lot to change the sound of a person's voice

[@jamesrands]

Devon King I think I also had an image of the School of Life narrator in my mind which was very different.

[@TechReviewTom]

I totally thought the same thing

[@lizosaurusrex]

Well that was unexpectedly wonderful. One of my favorite TED talks to date, for sure.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

My friend, you are eternal..I and even many atheists, have seen the Spirit realm with our own eyes.. You may be surprised to know that the there's only a thin veil that separates the physical world from the Spirit realm. First, do you know any pagan gods who made promises to their people and kept them? None..right? The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob made many promises to His people since ancient time and kept them..and His promises for the future of the Jews and gentiles who received Jesus as Messiah are currently happening before our very eyes. One particular fulfillment of the prophecy is the return of the Jews to their homeland in 1948. Case in point: God made a promise that in the last days, He will bring His people back in the land of Israel after more than 2000 years of exile in different parts of the world. Did He fulfill that? Yes, in 1948, the Jews came back to the land and became a nation again after more than 2000 years of exile outside Israel. It was in 70 A.D when the Roman empire massacred the jewish population in Israel but some managed to escape to other countries..that was the start of their exile in the different countries in the world. Can I ask you something? Can a people become a nation again after having been dispersed in different parts of the world for more than two thousand years? And in the countries where they were exiled, they were the minority and were heavily persecuted. They were not allowed to secure jobs and were often expelled from their lands.. And throughout the ages, kings, queens, political and religious leaders tried to annihilate them...do you think they could survive as a people? Could they become a nation again and become a powerful force in the region shortly after they reestablish themselves in the land of their forefathers? And as they tried to rebuild their tiny country, they have to survive the attacks of the neighboring nations that are more well-established and have their respective armies? Considering they are a small country, with no army at that time, as small as New Jersey with the land mostly dessert, surrounded by enemies who attack them from all sides--- and with hardly any natural resources that even Mark Twain in his diary said that even a cactus was having a hard time to grow in this arid, bone dry and dessicated land ? Will they survive? What do you think?

[@____Zer0____]

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! -Philippians 2:5-8

[@jerrywhite7328]

As an atheist I have to say that this is amazing. I spent years trying to understand how exactly to, you could say 'be', an atheist, and it took a lot of trial and error, and a bit of anger at being lied to about something so massive as The Meaning of Life. I hope young atheists find this, and other School of Life videos, and make better choices. Indeed the Sermon is much needed in modern society, and I wish to elevate this man to a sort of Sainthood.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

I sought the meaning of life for close to forty years and then received His Divine blessing, good things take time, good luck.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

I know that God exists because after 35 years of seeking I received His blessing.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

The Lord never lied to you. The more faith that you have in God, the greater the blessings, poor you.

[@tok1879]

@@jeffforsythe9514 lol, did he tell you what his life lacks is blessings?

[@jeffforsythe9514]

What irony. Atheists demand proof that God exists while they are the proof that Satan does.

[@pernus5856]

This approach is fine in the UK, where the church has in large part faded into obscurity. The problem is that American Evangelical Christendom will not go so quietly. They are positively rabid.

[@frenchie1132]

@Colin Cleveland big business in US - all travelling in their private jets!

[@jasim3839]

I would add most of the world is probably worse than America.. in these places we still need the militant atheism " Religion is bullshit" argument

[@femalespartacus]

👏👏👏👏👏

[@geneba712]

Because church in UK is empty of real content, AEC has biblical foundations and is mainly protestant.

[@strings-n-keys]

Christianity will not go away as long as the Holy Spirit dwells on earth and when prosecution comes it will go underground just like in the Soviet Union. Not everyone is brainwashed thank God!

[@tonyrelignisilly3633]

Atheism is not the right word to describe what Alain is advocating.

[@ShreyRupani]

+Tony Relignisilly Which is why he's calling it Atheism 2.0. An idea of what he thinks atheism should be, rather than what it is.

[@tonyrelignisilly3633]

Shrey Rupani yes indeed, and I'm questioning wether what Alain us saying deserves the 'atheism' mantle at all.

[@donlowell]

+Tony Relignisilly How about simply secular humanism?

[@albadona9300]

+Don Endsley Humanism and Christianity, the way I understand them, are almost identical. I welcome any thoughts, questions, or suggestions than can correct me.

[@donlowell]

Alba Dona, secular humanism rejects the supernatural, which all religions operate in. From Wiki, "The philosophy or life stance of secular humanism (alternatively known by some adherents as Humanism, specifically with a capital H to distinguish it from other forms of humanism) embraces human reason, ethics, and philosophical naturalism while specifically rejecting religious dogma, supernaturalism, pseudoscience, and superstition as the bases of morality and decision making."

[@soundsqueerbutokay]

He is the most eloquent person I have ever seen speak. Like, his brain is connected to the internet or something. I love him!

[@HMZ047]

Uh sir, this a ted 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘬.

[@iconsonscreen7291]

Him and russell brand are phenomenal! I like them both very much.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

sounds like you do not get out very often.

[@Nat88123]

Religion recipe. Main course Christian with Islam entre and buddhism for desert. Yeah great way to unite, get more confused. Perhaps some satanism and witchcraft because he knows what to cherry pick because he knows what is ultimately good. Playing God he is

[@jeffforsythe9514]

What irony. Atheists demand proof that God exists while they are the proof that Satan does.

[@hansrudolf7212]

I remember that richard dawkins did say and many times repeated "that i love Christmas carols and music and those beautiful rituals. Im an ex Muslim Atheist from Afghanistan. I love to celibrate the feasts and so on as well . So pls dont generalize about all atheists .

[@vijaysaini1537]

I m atheist from india . i love diwali and all other festival

[@CihanTelli]

@Semih Çorbacı okurken "kesin kurban bayramını kastediyordur" dedim :))

[@shadygamererfan377]

Ex muslim from India but I don't like to do rituals.

[@mansourq.689]

Salam watandar Atheist

[@shanestrickland8481]

Same it's not everything in religion that I have a problem with. The socializing and the holidays I have nothing against against cruel inhumane and messed up parts of religion that I have a problem with. Even though the superstitious parts I have problems with and the nonsensical parts I have problems with as well.

[@theopaopa1]

"the possibility of an harmonious disagreement"

[@tims9662]

And here we are in 2021....

[@MorganHyde-ie5ru]

Not possible

[@mBUSHattack]

As a former Catholic turned agnostic/secular humanist, I really shared this sentiment. I realized the ritual and persistent thought reminders through structure are missing in pure atheism, at least for me. maybe not universally, but for myself.

[@sevilnatas]

Michael Bush, Atheism is simply the lack of belief in a God, you are an atheist. The only thing "missing" from atheism is the belief in god. Anything else that you want to add to your life is your right, such as, Secular Humanism. The only thing you can't add to your life and still be an atheist is the belief in god.

[@j0hncon5tantine]

@Michael Bush I understand the problems with the Catholic sect of Christianity and why you left, but that group of people who practice wrong does not negate the fact that God is real and that he cares about you..... Do you believe your body, life, family and the ground you get to walk on are all a gift or something else? If you believe it is something else then what do you think it is then?

[@i_love_rescue_animals]

Michael Bush I'm an atheist and I enjoy going to a Unitarian Universalist church. It is mostly secular - though, it was originally founded in Christianity. I think of it as humanist. A lot of different folks attend my church - a couple Buddhists, lots of atheists & agnostics, some Christians, etc. It's nice that it is very inclusive.

[@janelam3420]

Michael Bush /

[@diyalectic52]

VeroMithril Why?

[@hedayetulislamhimel]

His voice is exactly how I imagined while reading his book .

[@dagi135]

What is the title of his book

[@hamidehiraj45]

@@dagi135 Religion for atheists

[@jeffforsythe9514]

You mean the forked tongue sound?

[@mikeygarcia8271]

You know what element atheists missing in the equation ? The Biblical prophecy is the element that is missing, something that other religions can't claim to possess. Not only did the Jews survive more than two thousand years of threats of annihilation and persecution but the fate of this group of people has been disclosed in prophecies thousands of years ago. Many of which have been fulfilled, others are being fulfilled currently and a few have yet to be fulfilled. Case in point: More than thousands of years ago, God said that the Jewish people will be scattered in all four corners of the world - check! 2nd, they will return to their homeland , to be specific- to a desolate land - check! [ Mark Twain, during his visit to Israel 150 years ago described the holy land as a desolate land that even cactus could hardly grow ] Israel has been one of the top exporters of agricultural products in the world..heck it even the Netherlands, the number 1 exporter of flowers worldwide even import flowers from Israel. 3rd, they will make the land prosperous- check! considering the fact that israel was such a small country, mostly dessert, had no oil nor gas during the first 5 decades of existence..[it was etablished in 1948 btw} and always in constant threats of annihilation as they were surrounded by enemy countries. 4th, Think about this...God made a promise that He will preserve them as a separate people until the end of days despite thousands of years of being scattered in all parts of the globe - check! I have been in Israel and you will see Jews from Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, etc..People who came to Israel from all countries of the world and yet their identity remained intact...that is nothing short of a miracle..a fulfillment of prophecy made thousands of years ago. and the list goes on...I can tell you more.

[@JKR9488]

I find religions fascinating, but I'll never believe in them

[@rafayshakeel4812]

Well, it's a good thing that you find Religions fascinating, but why is it that you won't pick one true Religion and believe in it, mate? Just curious!

[@Noba46688]

@@rafayshakeel4812 because to believe in a religion is to intentionally delude oneself using the beliefs of other likewise deluded individuals as justification for doing so.

[@rafayshakeel4812]

@@Noba46688 That's your subjective opinion, mate! You're calling 6 Billion people delusional without any evidence, mate.

[@Noba46688]

@@rafayshakeel4812 it is illogical to believe that an all powerful being exists (or beings exist). What created the being(s)? When? How? Why? Did they do it alone? Where? Why don’t they make the world a better place? Why did they allow the holocaust to occur? What about the rape of Nanking? But yes, I’m SURE that this being or these beings are full of love. History has definitely proven this.

[@rafayshakeel4812]

@@Noba46688 This is the reason why you should learn more about your own worldview, mate! Under Atheism, there is no such thing as "The Problem Of Evil." Under Atheism, everything which exists is only a rearrangement of matter, nothing more! So, your worldview doesn't give you the platform or the right to talk about these matters. By the way, Mr. Richard Dawkins himself claimed the following: - In a materialistic universe, there is at bottom no design, no purpose, no evil, no good, nothing but pointless indifference. These are the sayings of your so-called intellectual prophet, Mr. Richard Dawkins. By the way, I'm not supporting this claim on Mr. Richard Dawkin's quotes, rather these are the sayings of the founding fathers of Atheism! You're mocking religious people for being delusional, yet you don't even know the basic stuff about your own worldview. Under Atheism, there is no difference between excrement and a human being. It's only a rearrangement of matter. This is not me trying to insult you or anything else for that matter, rather these are the implications of an atheistic, materialistic, and godless worldview. You can fact-check everything I said, Mr./Ms. SupaNoba!

[@rogerfroud300]

He's absolutely correct about why Religions are so robust and survive even though they are nonsense. I was brought up a Baptist but loathed every wasted moment I had to give over to it. People like me really don't want those structures in our lives. Coming together under a brand (Church) of Atheism 2.0 is far too structured to be acceptable to me. Much as I'd love Religion to die out, combining forces and turning Atheism almost into a Religion itself it not the way forward. To me, Atheism is just that, not believing in Theism. I think I'll leave it as that.

[@solarnaut]

I suppose he was prescribing a global "wiki project" to "fill in the gaps" created by a non-theistic life. His suggestions could also be for individual atheists to consider ways to address some of these human needs that "membership has its privileges" church-goers get plugged into. The "pilgrimage" reference tickled me because I have "jokingly" described certain "important to self" trips that way. I would not do well in a chorus or church picnic, but have, a time or two, envied the glassy-eyed happiness those deluded folks access.

[@zertxer_zertxer]

I suppose his point is that Atheists don't _have to_ reject all Religion outright, but they may choose things that appeal to them without losing their intrinsic Atheism.

[@rogerfroud300]

***** I was always of that view, but the rising tide of Islam and the persisance of Religion in the USA are an ever present threat to rational society. We can remain silent while they tirelessly try to convert us all, or make a stand and actually speak out against Religion. Atheism by it's very nature tends not to galvanise people into pressure groups. Fortunately there are some Secular Societies that do that, and champions of Evolution who tirelessly campaign and argue on our behalf. There are far too few voices heard though, and that needs to change if we are to keep our freedom.

[@PredatorH2O]

@@andrii5175 Almost all of the things you described were done by religious people. Getting rid of religion is a way forward for society.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

People will basically follow any path whether it leads to destruction or to a football game. Unreal, what sheep. They see an applaud sign or a laugh sign and immediately obey. Falun Dafa is a wonderful spiritual practice that wants nothing but for you to reach your spiritual awakening.

[@DavidVeal]

I have never heard this kind of atheism before, but I have preached it for 20 years. Respect is a key ingredient to atheism. It is a shame that some people who do not believe in the myths of gods feel the need to tear another down. And it ultimately becomes a cat chasing it's tail sort of argument. No on really changes anyone's mind. And good people, regardless of their faith, are still good people. I love it when my family and friends ask me about my ideas of creation and all of that, I love it when they share theirs. Respect. It's so needed in this life. You and I do not own the sensibility of another. Why try to pull happiness and direction from someone who has finally found it?

[@DavidVeal]

ZyTelevan I think any person takes a lot into consideration, and no single person or single debate really changes anyone who doesn't want change. That is more along the lines of what I should have said. People do change, all the time. To me, a true believer in God will always have that on them. To me that is why people take the time and effort to debate, they just have not fully let go. However, we are diverse, dynamic critters, so any general statements from me are of course not worth the pixels they're formed by. I get that.

[@ambruskocsis6559]

David Veal I agree. I'm a Christian. I can accept if someone's beliefs is not the same as mine (there are many form of Christianity itself). I have no problem atheists either. What is hurts me is the "religion is the root of al evil and if you're religious than you are automatically stupid and ignorant" arguament, wich is quite simplifies the whole question. It's mostly a negative stereotype, based upon acts and statements of radical and fundamentalist people. Very much like the "atheists are immoral" nonsense. No one can truly understand the other side if we constantly puts labels on each other. Sorry if my english is not perfect, I'm from Hungary and I studied english a long time ago. :-)

[@juanzulu7203]

+David Veal well, I basically agree with you. Of course we dont need to be on the offense all the time. But how can you ever "respect" ridiculous beliefs, religious or not? I cannot. I would need to lie. And I have the strong feeling that it is similar to you. You just PRETEND to respect those beliefs. This is something we can do with children. But adults deserve more than that, namely the gift of critique.

[@DavidVeal]

I can set aside one's beliefs while respecting the many different values of a person. I do not put that much emphasis or I should say concern on anyone's religious belief. Faith has little to do with the aggressiveness or peacefulness of an individual, or of an organization.

[@juanzulu7203]

David Veal faith means believing something without good reason which in itself is nothing to be proud of or nothing which in the long run has ever caused something good.

[@p.bamygdala2139]

"We have secularized badly". I agree. Well said. The big challenge for the movement is to determine what alternative we will provide to entice and incentivize de-conversion. We probably need to commoditize it to sustain and expand.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

What irony. Atheists demand proof that God exists while they are the proof that Satan does.

[@andrewaustin8135]

@@jeffforsythe9514 That makes absolutely zero sense. In what way do people who don't believe in any gods and other mythological beings prove the existence of gods and mythological beings?

[@____Zer0____]

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! -Philippians 2:5-8

[@IIVVBlues]

I enjoyed this perspective very much. I have volunteered at museums for decades and it never occurred to me to incorporate themes similar to the way religions do. The same goes for music. As a musician this has given me some new ideas for my presentation to audiences. Thank you.

[@LenweTaralom77]

“Art for art's sake is an empty phrase. Art for the sake of truth, art for the sake of the good and the beautiful, that is the faith I am searching for.” ― George Sand

[@gooddayok]

I hope these movies will help you as they have helped me GOD HAS ARRIVED kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYWopZRqgdFnadU GOD OF GODS | BIRTH OF THE UNBORN: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZnRoKmfo8SkrKc

[@proculusjulius7035]

@@gooddayok god's not dead, he just doesn't exist.

[@christophercousins184]

I agree, but that's very different from saying art should be didactic... "Should be, should buzz..."

[@jeffforsythe9514]

If you are sincere and have a kind heart, read the book Falun Gong.

[@maxverse]

I've watched a ton of TED talks, and their meaning and impact aside - he's one of the best speakers I've ever heard. Just a touch on the fast side. But both of his speeches are such pleasures to listen to, both in pacing, phrasing, and delivery.

[@____Zer0____]

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! -Philippians 2:5-8

[@thecanadianamateur1129]

This is the most powerful thing I’ve read in a while and thank you so much for this. I needed to hear this.

[@____Zer0____]

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! -Philippians 2:5-8

[@buttkid3548]

As an atheist, and musician, I enjoy spiritual Hare Krishna chants, Indian music, old gospel music, and SLAYER!!!!

[@magicvortex]

In my opinion he is talking about problem that is not existing. I never abandoned awe, art, community, morality... and others as atheist.

[@Bathna33]

He has a very beautiful accent.. and such a beautiful mind.

[@Bathna33]

+Jack Palkovic well.. I think so :D

[@buckerine]

+Jack Palkovic what do you have against him?

[@AnkitSinghAnarchoAtheist]

He has channel named "School of Life"

[@bicycleetc9436]

JustDance Pinky33 Really, you think so? Thanks for telling us about you.

[@ciao-cj5in]

and head

[@bryankristercaranto4039]

This is a brilliant talk! Been thinking of the same stuff. But he only explored the surface. I believe he could even further it. Love it!

[@jeffforsythe9514]

Please do not quit seeking the Lord. Try asking the Lord to show you that He exists, but do not forget to say please.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

You know what element you're missing in the equation ? The Biblical prophecy is the element that is missing, something that other religions can't claim to possess. Not only did the Jews survive more than two thousand years of threats of annihilation and persecution but the fate of this group of people has been disclosed in prophecies thousands of years ago. Many of which have been fulfilled, others are being fulfilled currently and a few have yet to be fulfilled. Case in point: More than thousands of years ago, God said that the Jewish people will be scattered in all four corners of the world - check! 2nd, they will return to their homeland , to be specific- to a desolate land - check! [ Mark Twain, during his visit to Israel 150 years ago described the holy land as a desolate land that even cactus could hardly grow ] Israel has been one of the top exporters of agricultural products in the world..heck it even the Netherlands, the number 1 exporter of flowers worldwide even import flowers from Israel. 3rd, they will make the land prosperous- check! considering the fact that israel was such a small country, mostly dessert, had no oil nor gas during the first 5 decades of existence..[it was etablished in 1948 btw} and always in constant threats of annihilation as they were surrounded by enemy countries. 4th, Think about this...God made a promise that He will preserve them as a separate people until the end of days despite thousands of years of being scattered in all parts of the globe - check! I have been in Israel and you will see Jews from Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, etc..People who came to Israel from all countries of the world and yet their identity remained intact...that is nothing short of a miracle..a fulfillment of prophecy made thousands of years ago. and the list goes on...I can tell you more.

[@RatatRatR]

Check out his book Religion For Atheists.

[@ReasononFaith]

I loved the talk. Thank you Alain. While I squirmed at the title, since I believe that 'atheism' is one specific position to one very specific question, Iove the idea that we have something to learn and incorporate from religious structure, practices, etc. --- just not their doctrinal positions or truth claims. Independently, I've had very similar intuitions and ideas, as I have spent time in counter-apologetics with Islam, from a peaceful sect of Islam that I left. I recognized the value of Community, but didn't want to have to buy into any supernatural, unsubstantiated dogma. I have an idea I will be pursuing, about 'Religion Minus the Bullshit', that takes what you've articulated here so beautifully, and helps organize it. You are totally on to something. I believe that I have some ideas that will help address the problems/limitations that most non-believers would have with these ideas. Of course, they are opt-in, for those who believe there are things we can incorporate as best practices for living, to make our lives richer and more fulfilling. A huge thank you for laying this ground work and sharing these ideas.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

Take a good look at Falun Dafa, very wonderful.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

You know what element atheists missing in the equation ? The Biblical prophecy is the element that is missing, something that other religions can't claim to possess. Not only did the Jews survive more than two thousand years of threats of annihilation and persecution but the fate of this group of people has been disclosed in prophecies thousands of years ago. Many of which have been fulfilled, others are being fulfilled currently and a few have yet to be fulfilled. Case in point: More than thousands of years ago, God said that the Jewish people will be scattered in all four corners of the world - check! 2nd, they will return to their homeland , to be specific- to a desolate land - check! [ Mark Twain, during his visit to Israel 150 years ago described the holy land as a desolate land that even cactus could hardly grow ] Israel has been one of the top exporters of agricultural products in the world..heck it even the Netherlands, the number 1 exporter of flowers worldwide even import flowers from Israel. 3rd, they will make the land prosperous- check! considering the fact that israel was such a small country, mostly dessert, had no oil nor gas during the first 5 decades of existence..[it was etablished in 1948 btw} and always in constant threats of annihilation as they were surrounded by enemy countries. 4th, Think about this...God made a promise that He will preserve them as a separate people until the end of days despite thousands of years of being scattered in all parts of the globe - check! I have been in Israel and you will see Jews from Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, etc..People who came to Israel from all countries of the world and yet their identity remained intact...that is nothing short of a miracle..a fulfillment of prophecy made thousands of years ago. and the list goes on...I can tell you more.

[@0fficer47]

There is a balance to behold here. There are aspects of both atheism and religion that everyone should see but often overlook.

[@scubasteve1757]

Dan of Deadwood Spirituality - the Human Soul that makes us feel reborn upon peeling back a new layer of the universe and seeing behind the veil?

[@170221dn]

How can there be a balance between believing a god exists and not believing a god exists?

[@IanD-ut4dy]

@@170221dn I know this is a late reply but here goes. The balance isn't between the beliefs (even though atheism is a lack of belief), it is the mechanics of each system. In religion I imagine it is the ability to attract and teach and continue to attract new adherents as well as "spiritual fulfillment". For atheism it is the aspect of skepticism that naturally comes with non-belief. Really combining those two leads to secular humanism, which is what I suspect the Ted talker is alluding to.

[@Me-ip7tt]

So many interesting ideas, it seems like he had trouble keeping up with the speed of his own thoughts and ideas, I agree with so many of the things he says

[@juleslu8403]

wonderful!!! makes so much sense and lines out the necessary framework, and helps to destigmatize atheism. Alain de Button is one our modern geniuses.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

A modern genius? You mean that there are old-fashioned geniuses? What irony. Atheists demand proof that God exists while they are the proof that Satan does.

[@____Zer0____]

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! -Philippians 2:5-8

[@socksumi]

"Human need for connection, ritual and transcendence". All I need is the comfort of familiarity and fellowship with other humans. I wouldn't mind a little change and variety thrown in the mix. You can leave transcendence off the list... I don't need that. I also don't need to call these things religion because they are not.

[@adrianmbugua8344]

One thing I strongly agree is religion gave as great art.

[@serlGlent]

+buru kenge and great stupidity people

[@cosmicplebe310]

+serlGlent why look at the bad side..

[@rescyou]

No, religion stole money from poor people to purchase great art.

[@archievilliers5177]

Not really, it's just religion had the money back then. Artists need money. 1+1=2.

[@skaterdude7277]

you have missed the entire point of the video

[@OrangeAnimeGirlLover]

Watching this video I couldn't help but think about me and one of my best friends. She comes from a Christian household and holds strong beliefs in her faith but you would never be able to tell that unless you asked her. I on the other hand am an Atheist but I don't dismiss religion as being nothing but fairy tales because I can see value in it. However, their are parts in religion I disagree with. But me and her everyday at least once a day, talk about religion and are views on it but It isn't a conversation that I dread on having each day. Believe it or not, we agree on things and it's one of the favorite parts of my day. I may not have the same view point as her but I start to get a better understanding of why people believe in God. I'm not saying I ever will but rather than hating on someone because your religious values are different. I feel that the best way people can come to an understanding about things is by meeting in the middle and talking about things. I find religion to be a fascinating topic. Something I could talk about all the time because our modern day world would never have come to be with out it.

[@j0hncon5tantine]

@LionHeart1511 Your friend is correct though, God is real and he is your great great grandfather to the 200-300th generation back! You should pray to him and get to know him.... Do you believe your body, life, family and the ground you get to walk on are all a gift or something else? If you believe it is something else then what do you think it is then?

[@bobs182]

@@j0hncon5tantine Your body, life, family, and the ground one walks on are reality. They are all real.

[@j0hncon5tantine]

@@bobs182 Saying they are real is a description or one aspect of them. IF you do not believe they are a gift then is that ll you have to say about them? Do you really appreciate them?

[@bobs182]

@@j0hncon5tantine I appreciate those who do things to help me but nobody did any of the things mentioned for me.

[@j0hncon5tantine]

@@bobs182 Well, what if I told you somebody did and I have evidence that would hold up in a court of law for it? Would you believe me? Would you want to see it?

[@SkylerBaird]

I'm LDS and I refer to this Ted talk often when teaching people why commandments are good.

[@azeljoyportugues572]

He is my ideal man, I like how he do his hand gestures and he looks so humble and respectful

[@talalcockar1389]

Cool haircut too

[@karenKristal]

this is excellent

[@MercyMburuNyakio]

this is literally one of the most underrated ted talks.

[@DL-rl9bd]

I am a former Christian turned atheist, and I have found that the secular world, namely atheism, leaves a void, as Alain alluded. While morals, virtues, and values are conflated with religion, such as Christianity, they exist in spite of religion, not because of it. However, religion is an outlet for community, relationships, social, and interpersonal connection. This is what atheism fails to offer. Though, it’s purpose is not to claim to offer such things. That said, I’ve been wondering if it would be possible to create an atheist, or secular, “church“ experience. Literally, like what you would see in a church service, with music, singing, a message, a time to socialize, a group service, and individual services. Basically, the same model as a modern, Christian church minus the religious dogmas, doctrines, worship of a deity, and supernaturalism. Maybe I could be a pastor for the First Church of Atheism?

[@ronaldlindeman6136]

I would include things like music concerts as non Religious. I would include sporting events as non Religious. I would include most movies, plays and TV shows as non Religious.

[@kevingolden4683]

And the reason you'd fail in being the pastor for such a church is not just because of the doubt in your tone, but also because you were never truly a Christian.

[@DL-rl9bd]

Kevin Golden please see logical fallacy, “no true Scotsman”. Old, tired, and fallacious argument. Thank you. Not sure where you see doubt in my tone. But, yeah, no doubt that religion, and its gods, are a man-made social construct.

[@ronaldlindeman6136]

I'm sorry for my first answer. You are right, atheism does not offer the same things of community, and it not configured to. Atheism is more about honest philosophy. There is a place already for atheists and humanists who want a more Religious like experience, and that is the Unitarians. There's a history of it, Thomas Jefferson thought that everybody would turn to that after they learned how wrong Christianity actually was. Deists would go into being Unitarians, some of it was promoted by Ralph Waldo Emerson. But Unitarianism didn't really catch on. But you can find some Unitarian buildings and services in large cities, I have been to a few. It's a 20 minute drive for me one way, I'd go a lot more.

[@DL-rl9bd]

Ronald Lindeman Firstly, thank you for the apology. You don’t see that, too often, on social media. I appreciate it. Although, your first answer wasn’t disagreeable. It just didn’t follow, I thought. But, yes, the unitarian universal church is what I’m getting at. But, I think they still flirt with spirituality and divinity. I tend to believe that all religions are tapping into a common denominator.

[@gaurav.raj.mishra]

Anybody else got the Richard Dawkins reference?

[@SuperEdge67]

Gaurav Mishra Everybody did.

[@gfrozin]

A well deserved standing applause. Thank you!

[@____Zer0____]

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! -Philippians 2:5-8

[@cyrhow5096]

I remember the good ole day when Atheists said Atheism wasn't a belief system. Alain de Botton is fighting hard for it to be one.

[@sharismad]

Belief system? Atheism? Can you explain?

[@punchline43]

@@sharismad No, he can't.

[@basilharrison3071]

This is fulfilling to the soul my peers told me exists, I need hours and hours of this to listen to

[@jeffforsythe9514]

You need to keep seeking the Lord.

[@psyekl]

This speaker makes the same error that so many do: The idea that modern atheists dismiss religion outright ( @ 0:30 ) The arguments of religion being "wrong and ridiculous" does not apply to their utility in society. Something can indeed be incorrect and absurd, but still have a great deal of utility. If these individuals would sit back and listen to the people they choose to criticize they will find that the conversations do mention this on many occasions. It is a very common recognition among the modern secular culture that the unity, camaraderie and ritual observances that bind religious communities are missed and even desired. This speaker is very intuitive in this aspect.

[@chrissonofpear1384]

Up to a point, anyway, yes.

[@amused6415]

Religion takes humanity's greatest fear, the fear of death, and offers a promised land. Therein lies their power.

[@osamab814]

a MUSEd yup the answer the question of why we exist and where our destination

[@PhilGeissler]

Amen!

[@HP160498]

You have it wrong. It’s more about the feeling that you are not alone, you are special an that there is someone out there who cares about you very much. I don’t believe in god btw

[@PhilGeissler]

@@HP160498 You both give valid points.

[@BettyWhite2171]

@@HP160498 It also allows them to feel it's ok to do horrible things because they have the option of redemption. "God is all about forgiveness" 🙄

[@JackieBaisa]

This the best TED Talk I've ever heard. Truly. I've sent many people this link, and I myself have watched it at least a dozen times. I think all of this is a good reminder that we are all human, with human needs, and there is no one side. We all believe what we believe, but we all want the same outcome--culture, love, learning, growth, communion with nature and others, reminders to look at the sky. Bravo. Excellent talk.

[@luyar2]

I could listen to this guy all day

[@DS40764]

If you take the good, the bad of something will still be there. I enjoyed going to free Church dinners, until I sensed that I couldn't be myself there without the looks of condemnation. When a person came over to me and insisted I pray, or we pray before the dinner, I prayed,pretending to believe. But maybe it was in my eyes that I don't believe? There is always something attached (they will feed you if you are needy but you better pray with them), although they say there isn't, as their Religion condones. Yes the Churches are pretty, and the music fine-I'll give you that. But I often wondered why I went to those dinners. Maybe I wanted to feel like I belonged , but I never really could. I often wondered why others did, besides the dinner part. Maybe they liked the sense of community and belonging. But you can get that kind of thing through interests and culture. But you have a point, non-believers should be more sociable, although here in the South US this could be dangerous, or lonely.

[@nickboldan7833]

Politeness truly is an oft-forgotten virtue, something which many atheists need nowadays since they've become bitter and unruly. Too many atheists who try to ridicule people of their faith even when they are good, peaceful people, not keeping in mind that so much of science and reason - which is as close to an ultimate truth for them as anything - is built from men and women who believed in god AND lived a good life. Mr. de Botton is an honorable man for reminding us of it in a very effective manner. Great TED Talk.

[@VJScope]

+Nick Boldan People often confuse impoliteness with clarity.

[@jarkkojuntunen5506]

+VJScope , they often confuse bitchiness to wittiness, too.

[@emans8762]

Nick Boldan atheism is bitter and unruly the first actual atheists were the most miserable and suicidal people at there time their reasons were cos they realised that without God life is insignificant and meaningless

[@hades066]

Agreed

[@theapistevist8128]

Darkmatter2525 addresses this assertion of yours in his video, The Theft of Our Values. Dissent feom the Church or the belief in a god meant one of three things, or perhaps even all three. Becoming a social outcast, torture, or death. The Church has long since lost its monopoly of morality.

[@legendofloki665i9]

Thank you. I couldn't agree more, even if I were an atheist. Well said, and well pointed out.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

What irony. Atheists demand proof that God exists while they are the proof that Satan does.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

You know what element you're missing in the equation ? The Biblical prophecy is the element that is missing, something that other religions can't claim to possess. Not only did the Jews survive more than two thousand years of threats of annihilation and persecution but the fate of this group of people has been disclosed in prophecies thousands of years ago. Many of which have been fulfilled, others are being fulfilled currently and a few have yet to be fulfilled. Case in point: More than thousands of years ago, God said that the Jewish people will be scattered in all four corners of the world - check! 2nd, they will return to their homeland , to be specific- to a desolate land - check! [ Mark Twain, during his visit to Israel 150 years ago described the holy land as a desolate land that even cactus could hardly grow ] Israel has been one of the top exporters of agricultural products in the world..heck it even the Netherlands, the number 1 exporter of flowers worldwide even import flowers from Israel. 3rd, they will make the land prosperous- check! considering the fact that israel was such a small country, mostly dessert, had no oil nor gas during the first 5 decades of existence..[it was etablished in 1948 btw} and always in constant threats of annihilation as they were surrounded by enemy countries. 4th, Think about this...God made a promise that He will preserve them as a separate people until the end of days despite thousands of years of being scattered in all parts of the globe - check! I have been in Israel and you will see Jews from Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, etc..People who came to Israel from all countries of the world and yet their identity remained intact...that is nothing short of a miracle..a fulfillment of prophecy made thousands of years ago. and the list goes on...I can tell you more.

[@mikaailahmed5679]

Alain is an absolute gem in a sea of mediocrity and rigmarole. One of the best speakers out there and such fluid articulation of his ideas. Love his School of Life stuff too!!

[@mental9453]

He is still an atheist though

[@mikaailahmed5679]

@@mental9453 so?

[@RatatRatR]

Being an atheist is fine.

[@patrickoneill1993]

Harmonious Disagreement-an essential stepping stone towards diverse Unity. Thank you for words, Alain. Cheers, Pat O’Neill

[@jeffforsythe9514]

The difference between knowledge and wisdom is suffering...........falun dafa.

[@cristian_5305]

As a devout Christian, I appreciate an atheist that at least gives religion it’s due respect, thank you

[@danniealexander4131]

He's making great points. Things to think about and try and implement.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

You know what element you're missing in the equation ? The Biblical prophecy is the element that is missing, something that other religions can't claim to possess. Not only did the Jews survive more than two thousand years of threats of annihilation and persecution but the fate of this group of people has been disclosed in prophecies thousands of years ago. Many of which have been fulfilled, others are being fulfilled currently and a few have yet to be fulfilled. Case in point: More than thousands of years ago, God said that the Jewish people will be scattered in all four corners of the world - check! 2nd, they will return to their homeland , to be specific- to a desolate land - check! [ Mark Twain, during his visit to Israel 150 years ago described the holy land as a desolate land that even cactus could hardly grow ] Israel has been one of the top exporters of agricultural products in the world..heck it even the Netherlands, the number 1 exporter of flowers worldwide even import flowers from Israel. 3rd, they will make the land prosperous- check! considering the fact that israel was such a small country, mostly dessert, had no oil nor gas during the first 5 decades of existence..[it was etablished in 1948 btw} and always in constant threats of annihilation as they were surrounded by enemy countries. 4th, Think about this...God made a promise that He will preserve them as a separate people until the end of days despite thousands of years of being scattered in all parts of the globe - check! I have been in Israel and you will see Jews from Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, etc..People who came to Israel from all countries of the world and yet their identity remained intact...that is nothing short of a miracle..a fulfillment of prophecy made thousands of years ago. and the list goes on...I can tell you more.

[@Soytu19]

He is basically explaining what the School of Life is all about. School of Life = tools of religion + philosophy + psycholohy

[@noname-zl5es]

For me , becoming an atheist is a journey of searching truth, questioning things instead of believing blindly and making our own paths ...

[@melstarw85]

great talk - love his ideas about art

[@jeffforsythe9514]

In my opinion, art and beauty should be synonymous. Did you know that Picasso knowingly demonised art? If you look closely you can see it in his eyes. Oh, yes, on a different note, how many abstract artists does it take to change a lightbulb? A fish.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

Art and beauty should be synonymous. Picasso demonized art. Just my understanding.

[@tubeyou89119]

Love this!! Among many points that I totally agree with Alain, there are a couple highlights I really happy to find the confirmation from him: "Politeness over differences", "do not need individual leaders" and "should learn good things from different religions".. I want to say many atheists do have faith, plenty of it.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

Ask yourself who would want you to deny God?

[@tubeyou89119]

@@jeffforsythe9514 Ask yourself who would want you to buy the whole god thing?

[@jeffforsythe9514]

If one wants to return home to Heaven from where we all fell, faith in God and kindness are both definate requirements.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

You know what element atheists missing in the equation ? The Biblical prophecy is the element that is missing, something that other religions can't claim to possess. Not only did the Jews survive more than two thousand years of threats of annihilation and persecution but the fate of this group of people has been disclosed in prophecies thousands of years ago. Many of which have been fulfilled, others are being fulfilled currently and a few have yet to be fulfilled. Case in point: More than thousands of years ago, God said that the Jewish people will be scattered in all four corners of the world - check! 2nd, they will return to their homeland , to be specific- to a desolate land - check! [ Mark Twain, during his visit to Israel 150 years ago described the holy land as a desolate land that even cactus could hardly grow ] Israel has been one of the top exporters of agricultural products in the world..heck it even the Netherlands, the number 1 exporter of flowers worldwide even import flowers from Israel. 3rd, they will make the land prosperous- check! considering the fact that israel was such a small country, mostly dessert, had no oil nor gas during the first 5 decades of existence..[it was etablished in 1948 btw} and always in constant threats of annihilation as they were surrounded by enemy countries. 4th, Think about this...God made a promise that He will preserve them as a separate people until the end of days despite thousands of years of being scattered in all parts of the globe - check! I have been in Israel and you will see Jews from Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, etc..People who came to Israel from all countries of the world and yet their identity remained intact...that is nothing short of a miracle..a fulfillment of prophecy made thousands of years ago. and the list goes on...I can tell you more.

[@dimitrispap777]

@@mikeygarcia8271 only religious people could think that those "prophecies" show that god exists.

[@drbobinski1]

great message, great speaker. I am an atheist but love Christmas, etc....Churches are amazing architecturally as well.

[@scygnius]

This is one of those TED talks that I never want to end!

[@MikkoHaavisto1]

He says that the first premise is that "of course there are no fairies and gods, etc...!" I wish this was the case, but we still live in a world where majority of the people believe in some kind of personal god. A lot of people believe in witches, big foot, magic, angels, demons and horoscopes. The world we currently live in still needs to be told the basic arguments about the supernatural again and again.

[@rishideosaran3801]

I think he was speaking from an atheistic point of view, people will believe what they want. It's not up to you or me to change that, especially if what they believe in has no negative effect on us or themselves. Like Alain says, politely ignore it.

[@MikkoHaavisto1]

Well, I would argue there are a lot of negative effects ranging from freedom from religion issues to female genital mutilation. Ignoring might be polite, but I also think it is condescending and cowardly.

[@rishideosaran3801]

+Mikko Haavisto I'm speaking about in general, every side has negative aspects, fanatic atheism and religious fanatics, but there are also a lot of good that comes from both non-fanaticized sides. It's not cowardly, you don't have an obligation to tell someone that what they believe in is wrong, because when it comes down to it that's your opinion, and again it doesn't affect you in any immediate way. I'm agreeing with you on that some people today are too superstitious and obsessed with the supernatural, but you, as a person, have no right to tell them that what they believe is nonsense, with exceptions ofc such as with your mention of female genitalia mutilation and what not, because stuff like that is morally wrong.

[@MikkoHaavisto1]

You can't say it's morally wrong, unless you dismiss the premises in which they base their morals. But I agree, some or even most cases are pretty harmless. Still, if someone enthusiastically tells me about their horoscopes, I'd rather respect them and say that I don't believe in such things and ask for some evidence for fortune telling. Just being polite and saying "good for you" makes me feel really dishonest and condescending.

[@rishideosaran3801]

+Mikko Haavisto I feel you, and I meant morally wrong in a secular contemporary society. But yeah that's a reasonable problem, although i'd not ask them for proof lmao that might get them offended

[@M29WeaselDriver]

I'm a devout Christian and I've got to say that's a good speech Well done. With that said people who are religious have contributed greatly to science and medicine. Galileo was a catholic. Einstein was Jewish Lewis Pascal was Christian. Indeed lots of university's were founded by religious organizations.

[@stevedarlington278]

Galileo was tried by the catholic church. One is born Jewish.

[@hugopritchard8455]

Pascal's first name was Blaise not Lewis. He was a Catholic theologian as well.

[@draigan]

ive been saying this for years. its amazing to finally hear someone els say it. Church of Compassion ftw

[@MrEddie8313]

I cannot blame both the religious and the atheists people 'coz they're simply all hungry seeking for the truth which offers a culture of a quality-kind of life we are all pursuing after ! ... ✌️✌️✌️

[@SinisterMud]

Atheist do not have certitude religious people have about the birth of existence.

[@leaveme3559]

@@SinisterMud and religious people with all there beliefs can't prove how that existence came to be.. At the end its just blind belief

[@melaenahurtghun1756]

I don't get the notion of replacing the Gospel of John with Shakespeare. How does Shakespeare offer hope and promise? Shakespeare is entertaining and may offer some insights, but it's not something that's going to get me through a depressed episode in my life or help me feel I have a higher purpose and I'm deeply loved by Love itself. I was a little disappointed in this talk.

[@HistoricHisterics]

his pacing is way better in this video than the the one before it

[@tijaplace9228]

Only after the second time of watching this I realized why his voice sounds so familiar to me. The School of Life.

[@beldonhuang]

As many as his talks are, this one is just as interesting and marvelous! There are even ones that I talk about on my channel like those on TED and Google. They are pretty good as well. What a great speaker with a great mind!

[@Jacob-jg5lj]

He just scratches the surface. I believe that if people studied more not what is bad about religion but what is good about religion we would have a better world. Often times but not always when religion became or was known as violent. It was when men justified their deeds and said it was something God told them to do, even though it goes against what religion teaches. I am more familiar with Christianity in this aspect but I have looked into other religions also. But in general they all all based in gaining knowledge and becoming a better person by helping those to around you to that same goal of knowledge and being. But most of the knowledge we have now is good, but often how we use it is superficial or selfish in its use.

[@riesweetandsour]

Does being secular or lack of religious beliefs have to mean lack of creativity and traditions? I don't think so. Our completely rejecting certain imaginary ideas doesn't mean we reject all traditions and creativity. Being atheists we are simply humble enough to recognize and accept the distinction between facts and our creativity. Besides, there exist some secular cultures that have practiced interesting and creative traditions around the world. I don't like the idea of turning to religions as the major sources of creative traditions.

[@arttyree4504]

Just wondering. . . wold the TEDsters consider inviting Timothy Keller or Ravi Zacharias to speak on Theism 1.0?

[@quantumrobin4627]

Art Tyree Hope not, it would break the streak of useful tedtalks.

[@halukercan3893]

Varoluşun temel ikilemi; Rahmaniyet-Şeytaniyet, cennet-cehennem, iyi-kötü, ak-kara, yer-gök, ying-yang, pozitiviti-negativiti olarak farklı inançlarda farklı sözcüklerle tanımlansalarda yüklendikleri anlam açısından aynıdırlar. Farklı ifade edilen ama anlatmak istedikleri aynı olan bu zıtları matamatiğin kümeler bahsiyle betimlersek varoluşun temelindeki mantığa ulaşabiliriz bence. Ben Cennet-Cehennem karşıtlığı üzerinden konuyu irdeleyeceğim. Cennet (Rahmaniyet) ve Cehennem (Şeytaniyet) karşıtlığını matamatiğin kümeler bahsi ile açıklamaya çalışalım. Cennet ve cehennem'i birbirinden ayrı sonsuz birer küme olarak tasavvur edersek bu iki sonsuz kümenin kesişim kümesi ise Evrendir. Cennet sonsuz kümesinde dünya hayatında varolan iyilik ve güzelliklerin tümü sonsuz miktarlarda var iken kötülük ve çirkinlik olarak bildiğimiz hiçbirşey yoktur. Cehennem sonsuz kümesinde de dünya hayatında kötülük ve çirkinlik olarak bildiğimiz herşey sonsuz miktarlarda var iken, iyilik ve güzellik olarak bildiğimiz hiçbirşey yoktur. Evren iki sonsuz kümenin kesişim kümesi olduğu için cennette varolan iyilikleri ve cehennemde varolan kötülükleri içinde kısıtlı miktarlarda barındırır. Burada insanoğlu için asıl zorluk iyi ve kötüyü ayırt edebilme yeteneğinin doğru olarak kazananılmasında yatar. Cennet ile cehennemin kesişimi olan dünyada iyi ile kötü, doğru ile yanlışın ayırt edilebilmesinde "at izinin it izine karıştığı" bir durum söz konusudur. İyi kötü, kötü iyi gibi görünebilir. Dünya hayatında iyilik ve güzelliği kötülük ve çirkinlikten ayıran tek doğru ölçü helal ve haramdır. Evren sonsuz değildir. Cennet ve cehennem sonsuzdur. Bu iki sonsuz kümenin kesişimi olan evren, iki sonsuz küme birbirinden kıyamet gününde ayrılınca sonbulur. İşte o ayrışmanın sonçizgisi de sırat köprüsüdür. Cennetten kovulan Ademoğulları dünya hayatına doğduklarında ağlarlar. Hiçbir kötülüğün, acının varolmadığı cennetten gelen biri ciğerlerini yakan oksijeni soluduğunda hiç tecrübe etmediği acıyı ilkkez tattığı için ağlamaz mı hiç. İmtihan için geldiğimiz bu fani dünyada helal olan herşeyin cenneti, haram olan herşeyin de cehennemi bize tasvir ettiğini bilseydik seçimimizi daha kolay yapmazmıydık. Kim hiçbir iyiliğin, hiçbir güzelliğin varolmadığı, sadece kötülük ve çirkinliklerin sonsuz miktarlarda varolduğu cehenneme sonsuza kadar kalmak için gitmek ister. Eğer neyin ne olduğunu tamolarak anlayabilseydi tabii..

[@piritajennaFIN]

SO MUCH YES. I've been thinking about this stuff a lot.

[@nathangayner7592]

Wow! I think this is so right. To let the foolishness of the beliefs blind us to the essential part religion has played in the entire story of mankind, is to miss out on more than we can know.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

Falun Dafa is a wonderful heart and mind cultivation practice, free.

[@ANDROLOMA]

All people are atheists until instructed otherwise about the alternative through miseducation.

[@ryanhilliker375]

I’m an atheist and regularly sing in choirs. Christmas is pretty awkward for me because “WOO JESUS!”. But I appreciate the music and it’s construction. I’m actually quite jealous because there are some amazing works that are all religious, and I have yet to find secular music with chords as unique as some pieces. Especially remixes of old songs, like vocative’s mary did you know. An absolutely amazing song. And I don’t know of any songs that are secular that have as much of a punch as that. But I still appreciate it for what it is. And I love the song. I’ve learned that just because I’m an atheist, it doesn’t mean that I can’t enjoy music and it’s amazing construction.

[@JackieBaisa]

I agree. One of my favorites of all time is the Hallelujah Chorus. Gives me chills. I try to imagine humans are singing to the stars, the moon, the sky, Mother Earth. However you look at it (whatever you consider "God" or something "greater than self"), the human experience, and the way we express ourselves, is a thing of beauty. Even when life gets ugly, there are lessons to learn, things to feel, growth to experience, knowledge to acquire, people to learn from.

[@miyojewoltsnasonth2159]

TED: Why not say in the description of your videos the date and place of the lecture? Update, please.

[@stinkyoldmonk8982]

I love this man's voice

[@kw_cooper]

It's like shooting fish in a barrel if there is no fish or barrel but everyone says there was one thousands of years ago because there is an old text of first-hand accounts of the barrel and they all pray to the barrel and the barrel with give them everlasting life and the fish will come in a thousand years and save them and we use this barrel to make decisions and laws. And then people kill each other in the name of the barrel, and they fight over the ground where the barrel used to be, and wear necklaces of a fish jumping out of the barrel, and thank the barrel for offering the food they eat. rAmen.

[@JoseAmaya-gp2yb]

You nailed it.

[@osamab814]

Keiland Cooper people kill each other for other reasons too what makes your arguemen valid?

[@crownpoint9]

I am just replying to one thing you said. I have heard it before. That religion causes wars. Not so. Consider the greatest numbers of deaths because of wars. By far the most deaths came from atheist attackers. Stalin, Mao, Pol Pot, Hitler. And then there are the religious, though not Christian attackers. Japan. Millions, millions. Now Consider the wars Christians have been in and consider the mercy they have shown after the war. Ww2. We forgave Germany and Japan. American Civil War. The union did not punish the South. Abraham Lincoln outlined the forgiveness. Atheists have by far caused the most deaths, millions, by cruelly killing their own people. The second most attacking wars is from Islam. It is a religion that should not be lumped with other religions. Look it up. And see it.

[@Ghost_ed1823]

@@crownpoint9 you are wrong to classify the deeds of wicked people as atheistic deeds, those were people who believed in manipulating and torturing humans , atheists dont believe that stop!!! , categorizing nonsense there can be wicked people who are religious , doesn't make every religious person wicked.

[@pathfinder1273]

Keiland Cooper You really need to take a course on writing. What a terrible use of metaphor. It makes me think your premise is not well-formed, either.

[@personface5457]

I love Alain and I love his mind. I feel very much in agreement that we should at take the better elements of faith and make the most of them within our lives - even if we regard ourselves as being atheists in most regards. This was a fantastic speech - which is exactly why it would have been amusing if he'd accidentally fallen down the stairs at the end;)

[@jeffforsythe9514]

Who do you think would want you to deny the existence of God? Small hint, LUCIFER.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

What irony. Atheists demand proof that God exists while they are the proof that Satan does.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

You know what element you're missing in the equation ? The Biblical prophecy is the element that is missing, something that other religions can't claim to possess. Not only did the Jews survive more than two thousand years of threats of annihilation and persecution but the fate of this group of people has been disclosed in prophecies thousands of years ago. Many of which have been fulfilled, others are being fulfilled currently and a few have yet to be fulfilled. Case in point: More than thousands of years ago, God said that the Jewish people will be scattered in all four corners of the world - check! 2nd, they will return to their homeland , to be specific- to a desolate land - check! [ Mark Twain, during his visit to Israel 150 years ago described the holy land as a desolate land that even cactus could hardly grow ] Israel has been one of the top exporters of agricultural products in the world..heck it even the Netherlands, the number 1 exporter of flowers worldwide even import flowers from Israel. 3rd, they will make the land prosperous- check! considering the fact that israel was such a small country, mostly dessert, had no oil nor gas during the first 5 decades of existence..[it was etablished in 1948 btw} and always in constant threats of annihilation as they were surrounded by enemy countries. 4th, Think about this...God made a promise that He will preserve them as a separate people until the end of days despite thousands of years of being scattered in all parts of the globe - check! I have been in Israel and you will see Jews from Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, etc..People who came to Israel from all countries of the world and yet their identity remained intact...that is nothing short of a miracle..a fulfillment of prophecy made thousands of years ago. and the list goes on...I can tell you more.

[@Tony11442]

He is on point, i've thought of these things a lot before i heard someone talk about them.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

You know what element you're missing in the equation ? The Biblical prophecy is the element that is missing, something that other religions can't claim to possess. Not only did the Jews survive more than two thousand years of threats of annihilation and persecution but the fate of this group of people has been disclosed in prophecies thousands of years ago. Many of which have been fulfilled, others are being fulfilled currently and a few have yet to be fulfilled. Case in point: 1ST---More than thousands of years ago, God said that the Jewish people will be scattered in all four corners of the world - check! 2nd---They will return to their homeland , to be specific- to a desolate land - check! [ Mark Twain, during his visit to Israel 150 years ago described the holy land as a desolate land that even cactus could hardly grow ] Israel has been one of the top exporters of agricultural products in the world..heck it even the Netherlands, the number 1 exporter of flowers worldwide even import flowers from Israel. 3rd----They will make the land prosperous- check! considering the fact that israel was such a small country, mostly dessert, had no oil nor gas during the first 5 decades of existence..[it was etablished in 1948 btw} and always in constant threats of annihilation as they were surrounded by enemy countries. 4th---Think about this...God made a promise that He will preserve them as a separate people until the end of days despite thousands of years of being scattered in all parts of the globe - check! I have been in Israel and you will see Jews from Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, etc..People who came to Israel from all countries of the world and yet their identity remained intact...that is nothing short of a miracle..a fulfillment of prophecy made thousands of years ago. and that's just a few of the reasons why it is wise to seek God with all your heart to prove His existence....all you have to do is ask Him..come to Him in humility and He will reveal Himself to you.

[@AtamMardes]

"Religion was invented when the first con man met the first fool." Mark Twain

[@John-lf3xf]

Obviously wrong.

[@John-lf3xf]

@@AtamMardes Motivated ignorance is a very generic property of individuals to protect certain states of knowledge. (That is, much more generic than being necessarily what we would formally describe as "gullible emotional person".) And given that there is no one without faith in something, if not metaphysical, then usually seemingly something social, you have not much a point that way either. You (or whoever wrote this) use sets of words which have distinct and subtle meanings in parallel which is quite imprecise and/or redundant.

[@John-lf3xf]

/conf

[@frumaatholoid]

Mark Twain never said that.

[@AtamMardes]

@@frumaatholoid "The best cure for Christianity is reading the Bible." Mark Twain

[@TheGimpwars]

im sure every religious person from preists to parishes doubt their faiths from time to time. Religion can be a battle within oneself. i never really hear an atheist say well changed my mind~

[@pronobsarker3828]

how do you think we turned atheist?

[@jaimebm816]

Increible. Quien es este hombre? Y porque recien oigo de él? Ojalá mas personas pudieran escuchar las palabras de este señor

[@ozgurkaya8037]

As a pantheist, I have been trying to reveal the cultural and therapeutic sides of all the religions for years, because we humans are quite emotional creatures. I agree with Alain de Botton literally

[@alexgoslar4057]

It is the overwhelming unanswered existential questions that make people believe.

[@yeah7046]

You don't need to follow any Religion to be a Human.

[@user-rp5ye7uc6d]

‏Anthony Flew is considered one of the most prominent atheists, so he retracted his atheism and ،told us that the universe has a deity with modern scientific evidence, not with thought or dreams and feeling, but after science and modern discoveries about the existence of a Creator. He fell into another problem that the Creator wanted according to his mood ‏ He wanted the Creator to be neither speaking nor hearing, and creating creation in vain ‏But it is logical that this Creator sends a messenger to teach us who he is. And we have to verify the authenticity of the Messenger and what this Messenger calls to? ‏ It transports sperm from the liquid state to the eyes, heart, blood, arteries, and bones. Unconscious nature creates a conscious human being. Then this nature teaches about the importance of the heart and lung, then puts the rib cage, then oxygen, then water, there is sexual desire, and there are the genitals to complete the male and female sexual process. , What coincidence are you talking about, a coincidence that creates the male and the female. All of these are called verses and there are things that complement each other, there is a lung and there is air and there are teeth and stomach and in food and other things and we say that it has no creator!!! ‏ The only question God will ask you is ‏ focus on it ‏ ((He said: Did you deny My verses and did not encompass them in knowledge, or what did you do?)) ‏ I mean, God Almighty tells you what I told you is a lie and you cannot realize it or understand it ‏ And what in the world have you been doing? ‏ Do you know what your answer is? ‏ ((The decree will befall them for what they did wrong, and they will not be able to speak. ‏ If you find yourself in the world without a choice in a great reality we live in, and you go without a choice and a question is the most important ‏ If your destiny is fire, has God wronged you???ًً ‏Muhammad, may God’s prayers and peace be upon him, is a prophet from the Creator, and before him many prophets did not lie or deceive, and he is the only religion that commands you to worship one Creator who created everything. ‏First of all, you should know that the religion of all prophets is the worship of one Creator who created everything. Islam today is the only religion that commands you to worship one Creator and not idols, illusions, conjecture or a number of gods. But how do we know that the speech is from God and not from Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace? . These are some of the things that comfort your heart and believe that this is a prophet and many of the prophets before him ‏ The Almighty said: (Moreover He comprehended in His design the sky, and it had been (as) smoke) ‏ The smoke confirms that the origin of this universe is inflamed. It is not a lake of water, as was the perception of all philosophies and religions that are based on illusion. This is one of the postulates of modern science today that the sky is condensation of smoke. This fact converted the French scientist Maurice to Islam and wrote a book entitled the Holy Qur’an on the scale of modern science ‏How did Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, know this fact before? ‏ The Almighty says: ((And the heaven We constructed)) ‏ The sky is a building, not a vacuum as it was thought, and this was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2017 that proved it ‏How did Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, know this fact before? ‏The Almighty’s saying: ((And the heaven We constructed with strength, and indeed, We are [its] expander. )). ‏ That is, the sky expands with time. This fact, even in the time of Einstein, was not imagined by anyone and it was proven. And Einstein admitted it and admitted that it was the biggest scientific mistake he made in his life if he believed that the sky was fixed. The Qur’an before Einstein says that the sky expands ‏fact ‏ Almighty’s saying: :((And We have made the night and day two signs, and We erased the sign of the night and made the sign of the day visible that you may seek bounty from your Lord and may know the number of years and the account [of time]. And everything We have set out in detail. )). ‏ The verse of the night is the moon and the verse of the day is the sun. The Qur'an tells that the sun and the moon were fiery masses. That is, the moon was a fiery mass and was erased, and the verse of the day remained visible to the eyes. Was the moon a fiery mass and extinguished? This is one of the biggest scientific issues discovered about the moon. The moon was already a fiery mass, and NASA issued on its official website a conceptual clip entitled The Evolution of the Moon in the video. In fact, the moon was a fiery mass like the sun, and this is what the Qur’an told about and the truth of modern science. ‏How did Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, know this fact before? ‏Almighty’s saying ‏And you see the mountains thinking that they are rigid, while you will cross as the passage of clouds. [It is] the work of God who has perfected everything. In fact, he knows what you're doing.)) ‏ And the verse clearly spoke of a strange phenomenon, which is that the viewer of the mountains appears to him still, that is, they are still, but in fact they are not like that, rather they are in a state of constant movement. And the infidels of Quraish had previously accused our master Muhammad, may God’s prayers and peace be upon him, of madness, and it is likely that their joy was overwhelming when this verse was revealed. ‏ They also found in it, according to their claim, evidence of this madness, and they told the people: How can you believe this man who says that these fixed mountains move like clouds moving in the sky! ‏ And today it is proven that the earth rotates, and with it the mountains, how did Muhammad know that and why is he telling you instead of the matter that makes people consider him crazy? The matter was not from him, but from God. Almighty’s saying ‏Those whom Allah (in His plan) willeth to guide,- He openeth their breast to Islam; those whom He willeth to leave straying,- He maketh their breast close and constricted, as if they had to climb up to the skies: thus doth Allah (heap) the penalty on those who refuse to believe)). ‏After man was able to reach the sky by flying by modern means of transportation, he knew that the higher up in the air, the less oxygen and atmospheric pressure, which causes severe tightness in the chests and the process of breathing. : ‏How did Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, know this fact before? It was not from him, but from God Almighty’s saying ‏Or (the Unbelievers' state) is like the depths of darkness in a vast deep ocean, overwhelmed with billow topped by billow, topped by (dark) clouds: depths of darkness, one above another: if a man stretches out his hands, he can hardly see it! for any to whom Allah giveth not light, there is no light! ‏Modern sciences have revealed that in the bottom of the deep seas with abundant water - the deep sea - there is great darkness, to the extent that living creatures live in this darkness without visual tools, but live using their other senses such as hearing. ‏These dark darknesses are not found in the sea water that surrounds the Arabian Peninsula, but rather they have been discovered in the oceans far from it ‏This verse shows another aspect of the Qur’anic miracle, which is that the sea wave that all people only knew was one wave in the seas ‏The verse says there is another wave in the depths of the sea, and divers discovered at the beginning of the twentieth century a fact that was hidden in the depths of the sea, that fact that shows another wave that throws divers into it as it is thrown at swimmers, and this wave was discovered by Scandinavian divers. I will tell you what the Prophet said. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, said: One day the Bedouins who live in the desert will build tall towers, and this is my duty. Go and see where the tallest buildings are and who owns them. ‏God Almighty: ((We will show them Our signs in the horizons and within themselves until it becomes clear to them that it is the truth. But is it not sufficient concerning your Lord that He is, over all things, a Witness?) And God informed the Qur’an of this by saying: “Did you think that we created you without a purpose and that you would never return to us?” ‏All these and other matters that I have not mentioned indicate that this is a prophet from God..More important than that, as I told you, is the only religion that commands you to worship one Creator, who created everything and before him many prophets ‏Say, if you wish, there is no god but God, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of God ‏ speak from the heart

[@nisachumnantrakul]

I have become atheist and humanist after I found out that being liberated as a non-believer or non-religious in societies that I live and work in is inadequate due to the lack of scientific mobilization and resource. I had known Atheism since my university years in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA (2010-2012), where I majored in Political Science and International Relations. I was a muslim who was part of international services during part of my study program and work program. I decided to become non-muslim, then non-religious, and atheist, subsequently. I had a horrifying experience that falls into the idea of violation of human rights and international rights caused by religions and societies due to their misunderstanding, false claims, and violation of international laws. I feel the urgency to reach out to and to connect with atheism and societies to protect my life and my health, as well as to continue with my work program when atheism is the community that I connect with. I think that atheism has its science and authority to punish wrong-doing in societies as according to international laws and international justifications. I like this video and the fact that I can make more human contacts with atheist community who shares part of the understanding and value of this part of human science and Earth science. I think that human lives scientifically connect with work of humanities, existing resources, and humanistic events as according to their vision and life purpose. I have my current interest and connection with Humanist Singapore, UK, and USA to protect my privacy and to gain security that serve my personal and private program in the international communities. I hope that my accounts that I obtain from my work program can lead me to the international communities and to produce precise returns to myself and involvements. I will frequently connect with international atheist communities to maintain the connectedness and to contribute to their evolution. Nisa C.

[@adamwho9801]

This really isn't about atheism, it is about secularism. It is about how to structure secular organizations to be more satisfying to the human brain which is evolved to operate in groups and with ritualized behaviors.

[@yeshua731]

No offense taken. Here is a quote I like: "The only problem in communication is the illusion it has taken place." ;)

[@PredatorH2O]

Good one.

[@Shunarjuna]

Alain de Botton looks like he has a giant brain… sounds like it too.

[@devinbeverage5199]

+TheLyingTruthTeller That sounds related, thanks for your contribution. While we’re at it, I have heard he has a certain affinity for canning strawberries.

[@alir.9894]

+thelyingtruthteller Why do you say that he has a giant temper?

[@mcseedat]

Think he meant giant "temple"

[@goodkidsincity]

I see what you did there.

[@BIGGOODBOY]

Shunarjuna he sounds like he gotta big booty too

[@TRUTHorSTFU]

Alain de Botton is a refreshing breeze that sweeps impishly and unceremoniously through the stifling cobwebs of both secularism and orthodox religiosity.

[@paulbriody297]

An excellent talk. Certainly worth listening to.

[@SamtenDeWet]

"It is not enough to make noisy calls to halt moral degeneration; we must do something about it. Since present-day governments do not shoulder such 'religious' responsibilities, humanitarian and religious leaders must strengthen the existing civic, social, cultural, educational, and religious organizations to revive human and spiritual values. Where necessary we must create new organizations to achieve these goals." H.H. the Dalai Lama

[@zzzzzz...9902]

I am atheist and I really like wine. So I did a test. I went to church. When it was half way done, the service, the church had communion. So I went up the first time and then sat down. I let a few rows of people go through. I then got up and proceeded to take communion again. I wondered if the minister would notice, the thing is he didn't notice. So I got to take wine twice. I recommend this for anyone who is an atheist and likes free wine. I am thinking about running this experiment again but go for three times. Do you guys think it will work?

[@princesseuphemia1007]

Interesting. I totally get what he's talking about with the ritualized actions that remind you of philosophical truths you're trying to live by. I'm also an atheist but for most of my life I have done some kind of secularized religious practice for the meditative effects of it if that makes sense. I just feel like I can connect to a philosophical idea more deeply when I do a physical thing symbolizing that idea . It's like I can communicate with the idea itself rather that just one sidedly thinking about it and forgetting it. For years I was a Buddhist which is considered to be more of a philosophy than a religion by most of it's own followers and these days I'm more of a Norse pagan. I do'n't literally believe in Odin or Thor. I just enjoy the ritualistic aspects of it and interpret all the Norse mythology stuff as metaphors the same way I did with Buddhism, which can make it a little awkward when I come across other Norse pagans who literally believe that Odin and Thor exist. Lol. I have learned that there are secular religious people in lots of different religions now. For example did you know that secular Jews are a thing too?

[@jeffforsythe9514]

Most religions give us no answers or very warped ones. Falun Dafa...............truthfulness-compassion-tolerance

[@mariesmith8454]

First time I've listened to de Botten. He's an impressive speaker. I liked his objectivity yet earnestness on the topic. Interesting. Footnote: I'm not an atheist but not an established religion churchgoer either. I believe the body is an earthly vessel for spirits, which are eternal, though I'm at a loss to know how they were created other than by a power far exceeding that of humans.

[@____Zer0____]

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross! -Philippians 2:5-8

[@mariesmith8454]

@@____Zer0____ , I don't think it's necessary for humans to be subservient or suffer in order to believe they aren't the highest form of being.

[@____Zer0____]

@@mariesmith8454 That's not what I said though. The message was the humble ourselves down and treat one another as how Jesus would. The message being Jesus was a pure and humbe spirit and we must treat each other that way.

[@mariesmith8454]

@@____Zer0____, My reply's the same, bc the message is the same.

[@____Zer0____]

@@mariesmith8454 So is mine.

[@honestyrocksu]

I've heard similar ideas from Dawkins and Dennett

[@thunghiem9594]

I might agree on the psycholosical and social values of religion, but on the point about the communication of religion, I am skeptic. With the exception of Buddhism, all major religions stress faith over reason and their communitcation is the way to enforce that. If you confront the young, malleable minds and turn knowledge into drills, unchallegeable "truth", what would happen to critical thinking and scientific enquiries?

[@fathimacader718]

The Muslims of old did v well with scientific inquiry. Optics, medicine, algebra, parts of mathematics, parts of medicine have extensive contributions made by Muslims.

[@pathfinder1273]

I would change your words to "most major faiths have deteriorated over time into dogmas that stress faith over reason". Originally, all faiths stress a balance of faith and reason, but as time goes by, this alters. Meanwhile, the Baha'i Faith is one major faith which still stresses the balance, and in fact, has it enshrined in its scriptures so that it can never change.

[@jeffforsythe9514]

Falun Gong is a wonderful new religion from the school of Buddha. 100 million practitioners worldwide....................truthfulness-compassion-tolerance.

[@valeriehudson7276]

I refer t o myself as a recovering Catholic, read buddhism and pray to the Saints I grew up with and not to people forcing doctrine

[@deeproff1294]

His work is so important. 👏🏻👍