not what controls morality. Both Atheists and Christians feel good when they do something for someone else and unhappy when they wrong someone else. The fictional Bible deals largely with stories of immorality, and is unnecessary if not dangerous.
FOOTNOTE: I suppose there are a few Christians who hate people and only do good because they think it will get them to a mythical Heaven. They are exceptions.
Most Atheists and Christians are good for the same reason. It makes us happy to help someone and makes us unhappy to harm someone. (Atheists do it without that confusing fictional Bible, so I prefer their natural approach.)
SECOND FOOTNOTE: I presume that the believers and non-believers in other religions are similarly motivated.
2007-10-06 14:01:05 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Social Science ➔ Psychology
I DO it because it's the right thing to do no matter what my spiritual beliefs. I want people to treat me like I deserve respect an consideration just because I'm human like they are, so that's the way that I treat them. I treat people like I would want them to treat me and my family because everyone has someone who loves thems and deserve to be treated like human beings.
2007-10-06 14:53:36 · answer #1 · answered by Kathryn R 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You are mistaken about the reasons Christians do good deeds.
The Bible (fictional or not) is a historically significant work which has greatly influenced entire civilizations for thousands of years. Who in the world are YOU to come along all of a sudden, open it and glance at a few pages, read a few articles of pop culture, and declare it "Unnecessary" and "dangerous"?
It is very, very presumptuous of anyone to completely discount an important piece of literature this way. Even the most educated athiest scholars do not discount the significance of the Bible. Its historical accuracy and archeological evidences are accepted by nearly all main-stream scholars of today. Intelligent people can recognize the value of a piece of powerful and world-altering literature even if they do not embrace the beliefs outlined within.
Of course, you have the right to believe that the Christian faith is not for you. But you are making a bold leap with the assumption that Christians are good only as a ploy to get into heaven. I personally know many, many people who were morally upright for many years BEFORE they even thought about becoming Christians.
No one will argue against your claim that most people are good. I have lived more than 45 years in more than 3 countries, and I will attest to it. But lay off the religion-bashing, please. Allow other people to worship as they see fit.
I ask you this: If having faith in a God and a religion brings peace to so many people, why take it away? Wouldn't you agree that the "good" thing to do would be to let them have it?
2007-10-06 14:26:34 · answer #2 · answered by artistagent116 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yo forgot to say that some of the christians (or generally believers) do it for the reward, and for the fear of punishment. That's why religions started in the first place, to bring a little morality in the lifes of completely immoral people. And this is not the right section for this question
2007-10-06 14:05:58 · answer #3 · answered by larissa 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
We are social beings and it is in the best interest of social order to look out for each other. The social order of the group you belong to dictates who you will make happy/unhappy and give you the internal 'feeling' associated with the act.
Therefore whilst you are looking out for your own group you may not necessarily be looking out for another group in the same way.
Religion is a complex set of rules that are interpreted by the person reading the book associated with it. Again, they are looking out for their group. Social structure and interaction between humans is complex and involves many variables for an individual to 'feel' comfortable with themselves and others.
2007-10-06 14:17:30 · answer #4 · answered by sag_kat2chat 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are truly an atheist, then why do you care so dearly about what other people believe? Live and let live.
2007-10-06 14:09:54 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I believe in doing good and helping in secret, that way no one can judge you when your not doing. helping others is about saving yourself as much as it is for others. peace!
2007-10-06 14:04:20 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'm sorry. Are you asking a question or making a social commentary?
2007-10-06 14:44:16 · answer #7 · answered by shinobisoulxxx 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋