Morality

Throughout my short career of debating religion, probably the strongest "argument" I've come across is the "argument for morality." The argument goes, "without God, there would be no source for objective morality. Therefore, God must exist!"

I think this argument is ridiculous on many levels. First of all, do you really have such low regard for humanity that you think we're incapable of treating each other with respect without gods? Second of all, can you prove that without religion, there is more crime? I doubt it. Third of all, isn't this a despicable appeal to fear (and consequences, and a red herring), that religion has to be true, because otherwise I might get killed?

Again, while I think it's a pathetic argument, a lot of attention must be paid to it, because many people are hung up on this concept. Is there any truth to this claim? Or is it merely a trick to help the rabbis keep the masses mind-enslaved for the rest of their lives?

It's a brilliant way to sidestep the question. Instead of investigating whether truth claims ABC are correct (in this case, God), let's make a different claim that without this belief, we're all a bunch of filthy Nazi murderers. Still want to question God?? It's a cheap, not to mention disgusting, way of avoiding the question, and don't let the rabbis get away with it.

What's more, one doesn't have to look very far back in history for examples of atrocities carried out in the name of God. It's ironic that what is arguably religion's greatest weakness is often seen as its greatest strength.

However, I think it's unfair to religion to judge it by the actions of some of its adherents, for better or worse. I'm all for objectively looking at the facts, and deciding whether or not a Higher Power exists. The fact that some on the other side of the fence feel the need to instantly attack my character, instead of engaging in reasoned, rational debate tells me all I need to know.