'Either the Bible is just an ordinary book, written by mortals, or it isn't. Either Christ was divine, or he was not. If the Bible is an ordinary book, and Christ an ordinary man, the basic doctrine of Christianity is false. If the Bible is an ordinary book, and Christ is an ordinary man, the history of Christian theology is the story of bookish men parsing a collective delusion. If the basic tenets of Christianity are true, then there are some grim surprises in store for non-believers like myself. You understand this. At least half the American population understands this. So let us be honest with ourselves: in the fullness of time, one side is really going to win this argument, and the other side is really going to lose.'
Sam Harris-Letter to a Christian Nation.
Actually, only the Christian can win in real terms. If he is right, then he survives death and is conscious of the fact. (The atheist is conscious of losing in that case.) If the atheist is right, on the other hand, then neither will know this because their consciousness will end at their death.
Posted by: Account Deleted | 03 January 2010 at 03:33 PM
....and if the christian is wrong?
t
Posted by: Tony | 03 January 2010 at 04:05 PM
Yes, but the framework of rational thought on which this argument is based is only a few centuries old. It is unreasonable to criticise people for thinking and believing in the way that was dominant in their own time.
The 'tenants of Christianity'? Perhaps Sam Harris means 'tenets'.
Posted by: Peter Harvey | 04 January 2010 at 04:37 PM
my error not that of mr harris- tenant has been evicted!
t
Posted by: Tony | 04 January 2010 at 05:27 PM
Hi,
This is Vicky Silvers, Asst. Editor for Christian.com which is a social network made specifically for Christians, by Christians, to directly fulfill Christian's needs. We embarked on this endeavor to offer the ENTIRE christian community an outlet to join together as one (no matter denomination) and better
spread the good word of Christianity. Christian.com has many great features aside from the obvious like christian TV, prayer request or even find a church/receive advice. We have emailed you because we have interest in collaborating with you and your blog to help us spread the good word. I look
forward to an email regarding the matter, Thanks!
God Bless,
Vicky Silvers
vicky.silvers@gmail.com
Posted by: Victoria Silvers | 15 April 2010 at 04:09 PM