#Religious skepticism

[blueheartbooks]

The Brothers Karamazov: A Masterpiece of Moral Inquiry and Psychological Depth

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" stands as one of the most profound and influential works in the canon of world literature. Published in 1880, this epic novel delves into the complexities of human nature, morality, faith, and existential angst, weaving together a rich tapestry of philosophical inquiry and psychological insight.

At the heart of "The Brothers Karamazov" are the three titular brothers: Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha, each representing different facets of the human psyche and grappling with their own existential dilemmas. Dmitri, the passionate and impulsive eldest brother, struggles with his desires and impulses, torn between his love for two women and his sense of honor. Ivan, the intellectual and skeptical middle brother, grapples with the problem of evil and the existence of God in a world filled with suffering. Alyosha, the youngest and most devout brother, seeks spiritual redemption and strives to embody the teachings of his mentor, the elder Zosima.

Through the interconnected stories of the Karamazov family and the residents of their provincial Russian town, Dostoevsky explores a wide range of philosophical and ethical questions, from the nature of morality and free will to the existence of God and the meaning of life. Drawing on his own experiences of poverty, suffering, and spiritual crisis, Dostoevsky imbues his characters with a depth and authenticity that resonate with readers on a profound emotional and intellectual level.

One of the most compelling aspects of "The Brothers Karamazov" is Dostoevsky's exploration of the human condition and the existential struggles that define the human experience. Through the trials and tribulations of the Karamazov brothers, Dostoevsky grapples with the fundamental questions of human existence: What is the nature of good and evil? Is there a higher purpose or meaning to life? How do we reconcile the existence of suffering and injustice with our belief in a just and compassionate God?

Moreover, "The Brothers Karamazov" is celebrated for its richly drawn characters, vividly depicted landscapes, and masterful storytelling. Dostoevsky's prose is by turns lyrical, philosophical, and profoundly moving, capturing the complexities of human emotion and the inner struggles of his characters with a rare depth and insight. From the dark and brooding Dmitri to the idealistic and compassionate Alyosha, each character is rendered with such psychological nuance and complexity that they feel like living, breathing individuals, grappling with their own hopes, fears, and desires.

In conclusion, "The Brothers Karamazov" by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a towering achievement of world literature that continues to captivate readers with its profound insights, moral complexity, and psychological depth. Through its exploration of timeless themes and universal truths, "The Brothers Karamazov" speaks to the enduring mysteries of the human condition and the eternal quest for meaning, redemption, and spiritual fulfillment. With its richly drawn characters, intricate plot, and philosophical depth, "The Brothers Karamazov" remains a timeless masterpiece that rewards readers with new insights and revelations with each reading.

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" is available in Amazon in paperback 24.99$ and hardcover 30.99$ editions.

Number of pages: 515

Language: English

Rating: 9/10                                           

Link of the book!

Review By: King's Cat

[blueheartbookclub]

The Brothers Karamazov: A Masterpiece of Moral Inquiry and Psychological Depth

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" stands as one of the most profound and influential works in the canon of world literature. Published in 1880, this epic novel delves into the complexities of human nature, morality, faith, and existential angst, weaving together a rich tapestry of philosophical inquiry and psychological insight.

At the heart of "The Brothers Karamazov" are the three titular brothers: Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha, each representing different facets of the human psyche and grappling with their own existential dilemmas. Dmitri, the passionate and impulsive eldest brother, struggles with his desires and impulses, torn between his love for two women and his sense of honor. Ivan, the intellectual and skeptical middle brother, grapples with the problem of evil and the existence of God in a world filled with suffering. Alyosha, the youngest and most devout brother, seeks spiritual redemption and strives to embody the teachings of his mentor, the elder Zosima.

Through the interconnected stories of the Karamazov family and the residents of their provincial Russian town, Dostoevsky explores a wide range of philosophical and ethical questions, from the nature of morality and free will to the existence of God and the meaning of life. Drawing on his own experiences of poverty, suffering, and spiritual crisis, Dostoevsky imbues his characters with a depth and authenticity that resonate with readers on a profound emotional and intellectual level.

One of the most compelling aspects of "The Brothers Karamazov" is Dostoevsky's exploration of the human condition and the existential struggles that define the human experience. Through the trials and tribulations of the Karamazov brothers, Dostoevsky grapples with the fundamental questions of human existence: What is the nature of good and evil? Is there a higher purpose or meaning to life? How do we reconcile the existence of suffering and injustice with our belief in a just and compassionate God?

Moreover, "The Brothers Karamazov" is celebrated for its richly drawn characters, vividly depicted landscapes, and masterful storytelling. Dostoevsky's prose is by turns lyrical, philosophical, and profoundly moving, capturing the complexities of human emotion and the inner struggles of his characters with a rare depth and insight. From the dark and brooding Dmitri to the idealistic and compassionate Alyosha, each character is rendered with such psychological nuance and complexity that they feel like living, breathing individuals, grappling with their own hopes, fears, and desires.

In conclusion, "The Brothers Karamazov" by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a towering achievement of world literature that continues to captivate readers with its profound insights, moral complexity, and psychological depth. Through its exploration of timeless themes and universal truths, "The Brothers Karamazov" speaks to the enduring mysteries of the human condition and the eternal quest for meaning, redemption, and spiritual fulfillment. With its richly drawn characters, intricate plot, and philosophical depth, "The Brothers Karamazov" remains a timeless masterpiece that rewards readers with new insights and revelations with each reading.

Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" is available in Amazon in paperback 24.99$ and hardcover 30.99$ editions.

Number of pages: 515

Language: English

Rating: 9/10                                           

Link of the book!

Review By: King's Cat

[kree8r0]

If Darwin's theory is correct, why is the human population increasing?

This post is a response to a question posed in its complete format: “If Darwin’s theory is correct, then there is always fierce competition within each species in which only a few survive. Why is the human population increasing?” This question is an example of someone reading something about what someone else proposes, not to learn from them or to understand what they mean by what they write or…

[graciehatesgracie]

Ethel Cain stop making songs about me challenge go!!!1!1!1!1!!!

[theshedding]

Family, Grief, Religion & Manners

So the day (or day after) my Mom died exactly two months ago, one of her favorite cousins of her age group called me to offer me his condolences. This cousin lives in Hampton, VA and is a retired, married professional living a solid middle class, boomer life. Yet he never called to check on me/her (except once in the hospital), never came to see about her or send a birthday card or flowers in the year and some months she was home.

Until she passed. Then he calls me; after initially offering condolences, he quickly launched into his own grief narrative around his mother some years back (centering himself), going on and on…and on.

Then he asks “Are you a Christian?” I say “No, we’ve had this conversation before” (re: we talked extensively about my non-belief in 2022, though he didn’t recall). He then begins to say, “Iook, I know you don’t believe, but I want you to know if you just call on the name of Jesus and say his name 3x every time you miss your mother, that feeling will go away!”

Stunned, I say nothing. He pauses and goes on. “Trust me, it will work! I promise you.”

He kept repeating this and centering his own story of grief-rather than saying something helpful or consoling. I could go on….but the point is, in the immediate aftermath of my mom’s death, I was being forced to engage his theological views and false gospel…even though he knew I was not a believer. In fact, BECAUSE I am not a believer. As the call drew to a close, I remained mostly silent, placated him a bit, made no promises and ultimately, politely ended the call.

___________________

The point of this story? As I have been wrapping up sending the thank you cards to those who came to the service (or couldn’t come)-today I kept the promise I made to myself following the call with this cousin and decided to send him a very customized, special message. Let’s just say “it’s been in my spirit” to address him.

This is how I put my feelings into words:

Dear Cousin, I hope you have had a good holiday season and start to the new year. Thank you again for your condolences last November, and for the loving card you mailed.  I write however, both to acknowledge and draw attention to a great offense I took during your phone call in the immediate days following my mother's transition. Out of respect for the loving friendship the two of you shared, and my grief and shock, I listened to your evangelism over the phone but chose not to offer a rebuttal at the time.  However, following critical reflection I am afraid there is one. Saying "Jesus three times" to alleviate the grief of my mother (or any loved one) does not and did not "work". But it did serve as a crude and misplaced effort to wield power and privilege over someone who has politely already expressed to you their disbelief in the tenants or claims of your faith. Imposing Christian mantras upon someone who expressly does not share Christian beliefs -for a variety of reasons- is inappropriate, offensive, and unbecoming, in fact. You did this repeatedly over your phone call. Had I been Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Yoruba or of any other faith, I imagine you might have extended more courtesy and respect for my beliefs than what I listened to on the phone. But apparently to you, a secular humanist and atheist does not get afforded the same courtesy or consideration-even given the death of his mother some 48 hours prior.  The truth is, I am not only a non-Christian, but I am also a secular activist, congressional advocate for Black Freethought, and a Black, Queer secular community organizer on these issues specifically: religious freedom, interfaith advocacy, anti-religious stigma, and linkages to Black and minority communities in health, sexuality, education, etc...You show no interest in the "why" of my non-belief; only that I am a non-believer and effectively targeted me for a Christian conversion on a call where I was grieving the loss of my mother. Might you ever wish to understand why I am-or others like me are no longer a Christian (or religious, generally), please consult my work; one of which is entitled "Where We're Headed" (wwh.podbean.com), an award-winning narrative podcast that takes a deep dive into Black history covering the legacy and phenomena of religious dissent as political resistance all around the African diaspora. There I engage in these and other related topics for anyone interested, no matter their faith. My mother knew these things about me-my non-belief and religious skepticism were no secret. And though she kept her faith (and I respected it), she also celebrated my work and was proud of my activism and political and cultural advocacy.  Please know I have no interest in your conversion or de-conversion; I respect and support your choice to believe -or not- based upon your autonomy if nothing else. But like many before me raised a believer who then changed my mind about their faith tradition, so have I. The right to change one's mind about any faith tradition at any moment-given sufficient and/or empirical evidence against it, is a right I claim proudly for myself. Losing a parent is not an opportunity to affirm your beliefs- but an opportunity to show care, interest, comfort, and sensitivity to those who cared for, and showed up for that loved every day during their last years-even to those who are atheists.  Given those two options, an unequivocal "I'm so sorry for your loss" will always suffice for a better message of condolences. Sincerely, -R

Podcast: “Where We’re Headed” W: wwh.Podbean.com // Produced by Fibby Music Group, LLC  Sponsored by the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities

I said what I said. This was wholly inappropriate; I will say what deserves to be said.

Besides, he didn't even come to the funeral.

[captainjonnitkessler]

Sometimes people will say things like "minority and mainstream religions should be treated equally". But this is a trap and they will get VERY mad if you say that you do treat them as equally false or equally damaging, because what they actually meant was "it should be considered equally wrong to criticize or disrespect any religion in any manner".

[omegaphilosophia]

The Philosophy of Satanism

The philosophy of Satanism, particularly in modern interpretations, is often grounded in individualism, self-empowerment, and a rejection of traditional religious dogma. There are various branches of Satanism, each with its own approach and interpretation. While early portrayals in history associated Satanism with anti-Christian and occultist ideas, contemporary movements largely emphasize philosophical, symbolic, and sometimes atheistic elements.

Core Branches of Satanism

LaVeyan Satanism: Founded by Anton LaVey in 1966, LaVeyan Satanism is one of the most well-known and structured forms. LaVey’s Satanic Bible outlines Satanism as an atheistic philosophy that emphasizes rational self-interest, individuality, and personal freedom. LaVeyan Satanism doesn’t worship a literal Satan but uses "Satan" as a symbol of rebellion against conformity, self-denial, and oppressive moral codes. Core principles include self-reliance, pursuit of pleasure, and rejection of guilt or shame for natural human desires.

Theistic Satanism: In contrast to LaVeyan Satanism, theistic Satanism involves the belief in and veneration of Satan as a deity or supernatural being. Followers may view Satan as a force representing wisdom, self-empowerment, or the spirit of rebellion against unjust authority. They typically emphasize spirituality, ritual, and a personalized relationship with their deity.

The Satanic Temple: Founded in 2013, The Satanic Temple is a non-theistic, socio-political organization that advocates for secularism, religious freedom, and separation of church and state. Its use of Satanic imagery and symbolism is often satirical, serving as a critique of authoritarianism, religious fundamentalism, and hypocrisy. The Satanic Temple’s guiding principles prioritize compassion, rational inquiry, and individual sovereignty.

Other Forms of Satanic Philosophy: Other branches, including Luciferianism, focus on the figure of Lucifer as a symbol of enlightenment, knowledge, and self-discovery. Unlike traditional Satanic archetypes, Luciferianism often associates Lucifer with wisdom, learning, and the search for truth.

Key Philosophical Concepts in Satanism

Individualism and Self-Empowerment: Many forms of Satanism prioritize the individual as the center of moral authority, encouraging followers to take personal responsibility and to live according to their own principles and desires. Self-reliance and self-empowerment are celebrated, often rejecting dependence on external authority for moral guidance.

Rebellion and Nonconformity: Satanism often embraces the symbol of Satan as a figure of rebellion against oppressive norms or restrictive moral frameworks. This aspect resonates with the desire for freedom from traditional dogmas and the encouragement to think critically and independently.

Pleasure and Self-Interest: Satanism frequently rejects asceticism and self-denial, advocating for the pursuit of pleasure, self-gratification, and enjoyment of life. This philosophy is rooted in a materialist understanding of existence, where one’s current life is seen as the primary focus rather than preparation for an afterlife.

Critical Thinking and Skepticism: Modern Satanism, especially within The Satanic Temple, emphasizes scientific skepticism and rationalism. It challenges superstitions, encourages questioning, and critiques traditional religious dogmas that demand faith without evidence.

Ethics and Morality: Satanic philosophies often propose alternative ethics rooted in individual responsibility rather than divine commands. LaVeyan Satanism’s “Nine Satanic Statements,” for instance, outline an ethos that prioritizes self-respect, personal boundaries, and retributive justice, but they reject traditional moral frameworks as rigid or unnatural.

Satanism in Cultural and Social Context

Satanism’s popularity and influence are, in part, responses to societal structures, particularly within heavily religious cultures. By challenging the norms, it presents a counterpoint to dominant religious narratives, emphasizing secularism and religious pluralism.

In modern contexts, Satanism also serves as a vehicle for social critique and protest. Organizations like The Satanic Temple advocate for political issues like freedom of expression and the separation of church and state, often using provocative imagery to challenge established social orders and protect minority rights.

Controversies and Misconceptions

Satanism often faces misunderstanding due to historical associations with evil and media portrayals of occult rituals. While some forms of Satanism are theistic, most modern movements are symbolic, emphasizing reason and autonomy rather than supernatural beliefs. Contemporary Satanists typically do not believe in or worship an actual Satan as defined in Christian theology.

Philosophical Influence and Modern Appeal

Satanism resonates with existentialist themes, particularly the focus on creating one’s own meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. Its principles align with certain elements of Nietzschean philosophy, like the rejection of imposed moral codes and celebration of life and personal strength. It appeals to those who value self-expression, secularism, and an individual-centered approach to ethics.

Summary

Satanism, particularly in its modern forms, challenges traditional moral structures and advocates for individuality, self-empowerment, and a critical, skeptical outlook on life. It exists both as a personal philosophy and a social commentary, reshaping the symbol of Satan from a figure of evil to one of liberation, reason, and humanism.

[shalom-iamcominghome]

I know a lot of people find the religious "coexist" bumper stickers to be trite (I personally don't really), but I think I passed something objectively worse when I was driving around - a "no exist / imagine a future without religion" where the star of david occupied the X in "exist"

They've already tried that, friend, and you're about eighty years too late

What more people ought to remember is that there is a huge difference between atheism and antitheism. Quite literally, we will never live in a world without religion. We've been practicing rituals such as burial of the dead for 130,000 for instance and while it's not inherently religious, there is often a proto-religious/oughtright religious component of believing in a "final rest" which ought not be disturbed, or a soul which will carry on after life and needs to properly be put to rest. We have been crafting amulets to ward off spirits, omens, and to invite joy, peace, and security since antiquity. This idea that everyone will simultaneously abandon all religion, therefore, can only read as a cultural genocide, at least, I think. Religion is part of culture - ask me how I know! Therefore, I'm very, very skeptical of people who just say to abandon religion as a project.

[crazycatsiren]

You can have faith and be skeptical. As a matter of fact I encourage you to.

[spurgie-cousin]

god hearing young women have such sane and rational conversations adds at least 100 pts to my life force 💓

[orangememesicle]

ok, y’know what? we need to bring back some light reddit atheism. not the condescension and cultural ignorance, but the ruthless critique and mockery of religious conservatism. make the left mean to fundies again.

[skepticscribe]

TW: Mentions of SA

I’m so tired of Christian’s criticizing and making fun of other religions but then they throw a fit when the same thing happens to them.

Yes, I entirely agree that all religions should be critiqued. BUT THAT INCLUDES YOUR RELIGION TOO.

You don’t have a right to critiques the Quran and act like your religion is so righteous when there’s still many fucked up things in the Bible.

“But in Islam, they say that *insert bad thing* is okay!” And so does the Bible?? Seriously, look into the Old Testament. Need some examples?

2 Kings 2:23-24 > God kills some children (the verse states their boys and not men, meaning children) because they called Elisha bald. Yeah. That’s the verse. Literal children are being mauled by bears all because they made fun of someone for being bald. Yes, making fun of someone is bad but that’s an extreme reaction. They didn’t even get the chance to repent.

Judges 16:27-30 > Samson being a terrorist. He murdered a ton of people, which is a sin in the Bible (until god tells them to because that makes so much sense and isn’t hypocritical at all)

Exodus 21:20-21 > A tutorial on how to abusive your slaves

1 Timothy 2:12 > misogyny

Deuteronomy 22:23-24 > blames the woman for being SA’d because she “didn’t scream for help loud enough”

I could ramble for hours about verses like these. There’s so many fucked up shit in the Bible and it’s just ignored bc “god knows best”. Yes, you’re allowed to critique other religions, but it doesn’t make sense for you to criticize them over the exact same things that your religion defends. I don’t hate the message itself, I hate how hypocritical it is.

I’ll probably write a more in depth and less ranty essay on these verses another time so don’t expect these explanations to be my best. There really just summaries of each verse.

And no, I won’t be doing any essays or rants on Islam. Why? Because I grew up Christian, go to a Christian school, etc etc. I have religious trauma and this is my outlet for it. I have zero experience or knowledge in Islam, so I know that I do not have a right to critique it.

YIPEE this is finally done

[graphicnovelist]

Relaxing with my mom and watching ghost stories and the video turns to summoning demons and how to do that and it was one of the rituals I’ve followed just as a offering to ancestors and now I feel really bad???

Is this a sign?

God, is that you?? I’m not summoning demons, dude. I’m just trying to have herbs and stuff?

[tuulikki]

You waste your precious time arguing online about religion, you stop, you log into JSTOR, and you get the joy of reading the opinions of people who actually know about the topic:

Bliss

[captainjonnitkessler]

My greatest fear in life is that the "non-Christians should never celebrate or even acknowledge Christmas as a cultural event because that's normalizing Christian hegemony and is therefore actively harmful" people are going to realize that Halloween is also a secularized Christian holiday and start discourse about how non-Christians shouldn't celebrate it and Christians who do should keep it out of the public sphere lest it further harm non-Christians by its very existence.

APOLLO DO NOT INTERACT IF YOU EVEN LOOK AT THIS POST I'M TAKING THAT DODGEBALL AND SHOVING IT SOMEWHERE UNPLEASANT

[kstarlitchaotics]

I am not at all over the moon with the upcoming Narina

Maybe it's just my own skepticism about the way it's going because of how Hollywood views Christianity now so forgive me if I seem a down play with this

But it'd be one thing if it was a full fledge movies readaptation but it's coming from Netflix and while I use Netflix (mostly to rewatch old series) I know they're not big on religious matters no matter how much they try to prove it

So my concern is are they going to have Aslan as the name that we know in this world or are they going to change it