Why be moral?
The inadequacy of theistic morality - Part i: Motivation8 total reviews
Comment from BeasPeas
This is an interesting write, Craig. It all boils down to the second commandment which is: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. That's it. Marilyn
reply by the author on 29-Feb-2020
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This is an interesting write, Craig. It all boils down to the second commandment which is: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. That's it. Marilyn
Comment Written 29-Feb-2020
reply by the author on 29-Feb-2020
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I agree 100%, Marilyn. Which is why all the concern with morality based on what some particular god wants that doesn't have to do with how we treat others is pointless. There goes at least the first three commandments :)
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Belief systems are impossible to refute, Craig. We either believe or we don't. It's a personal thing. Either way is okay. Marilyn
Comment from Sandra du Plessis
A very well-written prose about morality and what will make us choose between right and wrong. In my opinion I will do what is right to be able to live with myself and my conscience of mind.
reply by the author on 27-Feb-2020
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A very well-written prose about morality and what will make us choose between right and wrong. In my opinion I will do what is right to be able to live with myself and my conscience of mind.
Comment Written 27-Feb-2020
reply by the author on 27-Feb-2020
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That's the best approach, I think. Thanks for reviewing, Sandra. Much appreciated.
Comment from juliaSjames
I wonder if you've ever read posts by Cogitator? If not suggest you check out his portfolio.
It's great that you're back posting on FanStory, and showing a different side with this philosophical commentary on virtuous living.
One of the most "Christian" people I know is a cousin who goes out of his way to be helpful. He's not only compassionate, but like the Good Samaritan he acts in accordance with his feelings regardless of consequences. He doesn't think of himself as a "good person". And he's not a churchgoer. In fact he keeps away on the grounds that the last time he darkened the doors of a church it burned to the ground the next day. Swears this is true.
But he lives by his own moral code of helping those in distress. Regardless.
We all know of people who perform heroic acts on the spur of the moment, sometimes costing them their lives. We all know of people who perform despicable acts. Why?
I spent a lot of time in hospital environments over the last few years due to my husband's serious illness and because of my own sequence of surgeries. I witnessed acts of unsung kindness by doctors and nurses. And to my astonishment, complete strangers reached out to me, paying for meals for no reason, exchanging friendly and encouraging smiles. Again, why?
Perhaps, in spite of superficial differences and the rifts caused by religion, we know at some level that we are members of the human tribe.
Looking forward to your next contribution.
Blessings Julia
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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I wonder if you've ever read posts by Cogitator? If not suggest you check out his portfolio.
It's great that you're back posting on FanStory, and showing a different side with this philosophical commentary on virtuous living.
One of the most "Christian" people I know is a cousin who goes out of his way to be helpful. He's not only compassionate, but like the Good Samaritan he acts in accordance with his feelings regardless of consequences. He doesn't think of himself as a "good person". And he's not a churchgoer. In fact he keeps away on the grounds that the last time he darkened the doors of a church it burned to the ground the next day. Swears this is true.
But he lives by his own moral code of helping those in distress. Regardless.
We all know of people who perform heroic acts on the spur of the moment, sometimes costing them their lives. We all know of people who perform despicable acts. Why?
I spent a lot of time in hospital environments over the last few years due to my husband's serious illness and because of my own sequence of surgeries. I witnessed acts of unsung kindness by doctors and nurses. And to my astonishment, complete strangers reached out to me, paying for meals for no reason, exchanging friendly and encouraging smiles. Again, why?
Perhaps, in spite of superficial differences and the rifts caused by religion, we know at some level that we are members of the human tribe.
Looking forward to your next contribution.
Blessings Julia
Comment Written 26-Feb-2020
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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I'll check out some of Cogitator's work. I don't recall ever having read anything by him.
I suspect you are right about the realisation we are all playing the same game, Julia. Although we may have been conditioned to believe otherwise, I think at some primal level that is programmed into us.
Thanks for the kind words of encouragement, much appreciated. Craig
Comment from Debbie Pope
Oh, Craig, I have missed your discourses and your sense of humor. I was worried that the fire in Australia had taken away your desire to write. It's so good to hear from you.
I look forward to your future discussions. I feel like I am sitting in philosophy class again. That's a good thing.
Up front, I'll say that I am a Christian, but my beliefs aren't much like the Christians you describe. I sort of have made up my own version. I went to a three month Bible class a few years ago. After every class, I found myself saying "I don't believe that." What I do believe is all mixed up. I am happy thinking that much of the Bible is symbolic and mythical, written by men and not infallible. I don't believe in Hell. I believe in God because I have always felt his presence, sometimes even in a miraculous way.
Thank you for your post. Listening to you helps me sort out how I feel. We are not that far apart philosophically. I just believe in a God for all people. I do good because I can't do otherwise and live with myself. Even absent religion, I would act the same.
Sorry to be rambling. It's just good to talk to you.
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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Oh, Craig, I have missed your discourses and your sense of humor. I was worried that the fire in Australia had taken away your desire to write. It's so good to hear from you.
I look forward to your future discussions. I feel like I am sitting in philosophy class again. That's a good thing.
Up front, I'll say that I am a Christian, but my beliefs aren't much like the Christians you describe. I sort of have made up my own version. I went to a three month Bible class a few years ago. After every class, I found myself saying "I don't believe that." What I do believe is all mixed up. I am happy thinking that much of the Bible is symbolic and mythical, written by men and not infallible. I don't believe in Hell. I believe in God because I have always felt his presence, sometimes even in a miraculous way.
Thank you for your post. Listening to you helps me sort out how I feel. We are not that far apart philosophically. I just believe in a God for all people. I do good because I can't do otherwise and live with myself. Even absent religion, I would act the same.
Sorry to be rambling. It's just good to talk to you.
Comment Written 26-Feb-2020
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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The desire to write hasn't been there of late, Debbie, I'll admit that. I was actually having a private discussion with someone about this issue and thought since I was going to spend an hour or so putting down my rambling thoughts, I might as well put it out there for anyone who was interested to read.
I agree with you -- I don't think we are that far apart, philosophically speaking. And you strike me as the kind of person who would do good simply because they know it's the right thing to do.
As I was sitting here this morning, a song started flitting through my head, which I thought was relevant to my post. I've changed the very end to reflect that.
Many thanks for your always encouraging words and the delightful rating.
Cheers,
Craig
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That is an awesome closing, Craig.
By the way, I went to your portfolio to find your article and you only have 2 posts in the full portfolio. What happened to all your good stuff?
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Cleaning house. A new year, a clean slate. But I don't see myself adding too much to it. I've lost enthusiasm for the site. Certain aspects of it are a farce, in my opinion. I don't need to say any more, but it's nothing to do with fine people like yourself who share a love of putting thoughts into words.
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I'm sorry to hear you say that. I love to read your posts. I don't consider myself a writer. If I didn't write on FanStory, I wouldn't write a word. So I do it. It's good for me.
Comment from Iza Deleanu
Morality nowadays is in a very delicate balance and can be subjective, for example some people are hiding behind this veil and kill young girls in the name of honor and I am stopping here... I think no matter the religious aspect, morality goes hand in hand with conscience and education. Thank you for sharing.
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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Morality nowadays is in a very delicate balance and can be subjective, for example some people are hiding behind this veil and kill young girls in the name of honor and I am stopping here... I think no matter the religious aspect, morality goes hand in hand with conscience and education. Thank you for sharing.
Comment Written 26-Feb-2020
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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That you for the kind words and for sharing your thoughts. Both are appreciated. Craig
Comment from nancy_e_davis
I live by The Golden Rule Craig. "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you." I asked four girls I worked with what is The Golden Rule, and they didn't know. They were trying to solve one of life's dilemmas. I don't remember the dilemma, but they certainly didn't want to do the right thing. I was appalled. Well done. Nancy
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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I live by The Golden Rule Craig. "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you." I asked four girls I worked with what is The Golden Rule, and they didn't know. They were trying to solve one of life's dilemmas. I don't remember the dilemma, but they certainly didn't want to do the right thing. I was appalled. Well done. Nancy
Comment Written 26-Feb-2020
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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I don't think there is any better rule to live by, Nancy. I also like the abbreviated version: "Be kind." I believe that's a complete philosophy in its own right. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and for taking the time to review and offer your welcome comments. Craig
Comment from Teri7
Craig, This is a very interesting and well written post you have penned about why be moral or do the right thing? You gave some very good illustrations and good information. I try to do the right thing, because we are human beings should want to do it. I am also a Christian and trying to live as such. When I have done something to make someone smile or help them it makes me feel good inside. Thanks for sharing my friend. May God bless you! Teri
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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Craig, This is a very interesting and well written post you have penned about why be moral or do the right thing? You gave some very good illustrations and good information. I try to do the right thing, because we are human beings should want to do it. I am also a Christian and trying to live as such. When I have done something to make someone smile or help them it makes me feel good inside. Thanks for sharing my friend. May God bless you! Teri
Comment Written 26-Feb-2020
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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Thanks so much, Teri. Yes, I believe you are kind because it's your nature to be so. Most grateful for your thoughtful comments. Craig
Comment from emmaysavage
This essay is well reasoned and pretty comprehensive. I like it that you view virtue as an act -- a verb if you will -- and not a static state of being.
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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This essay is well reasoned and pretty comprehensive. I like it that you view virtue as an act -- a verb if you will -- and not a static state of being.
Comment Written 26-Feb-2020
reply by the author on 26-Feb-2020
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Thanks for the thoughtful and kind comments. Much appreciated -- Craig
