In a message dated 3/4/99 5:33:15 PM Central Standard Time, konsler@ascat.harvard.edu writes:
<< An apologist could answer this question. I don't expect, or even encourage, you to have that SAME purpose. But, I would like to know what you think the purpose of logic / reason / science...as I said the: "grand justificational edifice" is. What is it FOR? >>
Well I don't really have a "God's eye" point of view such that I could tell you in any ultimate sense. In fact I doubt that such a point of view exists at all.
As far as the ULTIMATE meanings of life, I have no earthly idea, I have no idea whether there even is such a thing. In fact, the answers to such questions are of no consequence to me. As far as I am concerned, it all could be ultimately meaningless, and the contemplation of such a possiblity gives me no pause whatsoever.
But I do know this, while the universe may ultimately be meaningful or meaningless, there IS enough meaning there to satisfy my meager meaning needs which are considerable, but far short of ultimate.
>>Why should we value it? What difference does it make?<<
I don't think it is a question of why we should value it. We do. The reasons that we do probably have some connection into our evolutionary nature, both biological and cultural.
>>What is the purpose of reason?<<
A purpose of reason, to construct meanings and understandings that most closely reflect reality.
>>What is the purpose of faith?<<
Historically A purpose of faith was to provide stable common reference points for cultural/social organisms to thrive. If individuals subject articles of faith to rational criticism, that threatens the stability of cultural/social organisms that rely on them for existence. So they are IN PRINCIPLE not subjectable to rational criticism to people that hold them.
>>For me, the answer is (more or less) the same for both questions.<<
Not for me.
>>You may fiat that faith and reason have the same purpose, in which case a
self-consistent person would stop bellyaching so much about religion.<<
I am not bellyaching about anything. And this is not strictly about religion, it is about faith. I am happy to agree to disagree. Faith is not a good thing. If religion wishes to survive, it should stick to ritual and customs, and steer clear of ideology.
>>Or, if you like, you may try and refute.<<
See above. Its not really a refutation unless you see it that way.
>>Oh, a third option is that you could ignore me.
...or you could write more poetry.
You have complete freedom of expression, but all your options lead right back into my web. But, go ahead...wriggle wriggle wriggle.
wriggle wriggle wriggle
It's the only way I know to make you see reality. First you exaust yourself...then things become apparent.<<
Your arrogant gaze is duly noted.
-Jake