would you like to be God?

[yinyinwang]

if you have to take care of 6 billion people, most of them are poor?

[metropolis_part_one]

No

[Graham]

If I was God I would actually take care of them - then they wouldn't be poor.

OTOH, since god is a figment of peoples' imaginations, if I were a figment of peoples' imaginations I wouldn't be able to do much of anything either so they probably would be poor.

I wouldn't much like being a figment of peoples' imaginations though - some people have really weird imaginations.

Graham

[Mr Clingford]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
if you have to take care of 6 billion people, most of them are poor? Many are poor because they are kept that way by the better off, or because of priorities. For example it would take v little of the defence budgets of the world's nations to provide clean water and food

[jimmygun]

Would you like to be god?

Yes please, for only about one hour. I figure I could get everything I want done in that time and still have a few minutes to call the more repugnant religious leaders to the carpet.

[rustypouch]

I would liketo be God just so that I could smite those who displease me.

[El Greco]

I would like to be Zeus. In our mythology he had sex with every mortal and immortal woman he fancied.

[Nucular]

No, I wouldn't like to be God. Doubting my own existence would soon lose its novelty.

[DarkPrimus]

If I were a deity, I would hardly be the all-knowing, all-powerful being that most people like to think of as god.

I probably would have created the universe accidentally, and set it aside in a musty corner of my basement, trying to remember how I got it to occur, while simultaniously trying to get rid of the "fundamentalist" mold infection.

[Yahweh]

would you like to be God?
Ask a Scientologist...

[Yahweh]

would you like to be God?

Yes.

That one guy from the bible is a prick, its time we had a recall.

[geni]

no but it would be a challange to have god as an oponent

[patoco12]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
if you have to take care of 6 billion people, most of them are poor?


I think it would take supernatural powers to take care of that many people!

If there was only an all powerful being to make sure His creations were properly fed...

[calladus]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
if you have to take care of 6 billion people, most of them are poor?

Nah - too boring!

Really, who would WANT to listen to all those prayers?

Once the novilty wore off I would get so bored. I'd have to do something to liven things up.

I'd start picking 'favorites' and then start asking them to do weird stuff - like turning rivers to blood. Maybe I'd play practical jokes on them, like having them eaten by fish. Maybe I could give one guy super strength that is controlled by the length of his hair. That oughta be good for some laughs.

I could stave off boredom by starting several religions at once, and telling the leaders of each that theirs is the 'One True' religion, and that all others are just pretenders that don't deserve pity.

But finally, I think I would just be so bored that I would just decide to cease to exist.

[T'ai Chi]

Yes, I think I'd like being a god, I think, but it would depend if my boss would allow me to reveal myself to the beings I managed or not.

[c4ts]

Sounds like it would be too much work. First I would do a lousy job, then I'd proabably have to go around appearing in tacos just to shut people up.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham
If I was God I would actually take care of them - then they wouldn't be poor.

Graham
how to do it?

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

how to do it?

And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.

Mark 10:27 KJV

[plindboe]

Sure. With the infinite power that position holds, I would snap my fingers and make the world a better place, where there wouldn't be any poor or any suffering. I would appear to people and set things straight, so there wouldn't be any more bickering over which religion is right.

[Correa Neto]

Sure...

Because then I would at last know why such a powerfull entity would want to be worshipped by pesky humans and try to regulate their lives, telling them what they can or can not eat and with who and when and why they can have sex.

And I would demand sacrifices, a lot of them.
And I would also do it like Zeus :D

[LuxFerum]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
if you have to take care of 6 billion people, most of them are poor?
If I was god, all of them will be poor, and I would make it worst every day.

[UserGoogol]

Sure. Omnipotence is fun.

As for taking care of the 6 billion people on earth, sounds easy enough. Make the skies rain cake or something. Tone down the whole concept of "pain." Or maybe just ascend the lot of humanity into heaven. (Or maybe just a place very much like heaven so that we divine creatures can still get some peace and quiet.)

[triadboy]

Yes.

I'd 'rapture' all the xians and muslims to a big waiting room for eternity. There would be big fluffy couches and xian virgins for the muslims. And little harps and paper-mache wings for the xians. They would all be really confused. And I'd let the rest of the world watch it on satellite TV.

[Lucifuge Rofocale]

No...I would rather prefer to exist....

[Suezoled]

I'm assuming this question pertains to the christian perfect god, and not any of the gods that are anthropomorphic, interact with just anyone?

To be god... hmmm.... sure, I'd give it 2 weeks, just to try it out.

[Nucular]

Originally posted by Suezoled
I'm assuming this question pertains to the christian perfect god, and not any of the gods that are anthropomorphic, interact with just anyone?Oooh ooh can I be god of beer? I can?

I reluctantly accept.

[Marquis de Carabas]

Sure, I'd be god. And I'd use hired goons to "take care of" those 6 billion people.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham

Mark 10:27 KJV
Possible in what way?
Then if you decide yes,
you have to take care of conditions for people to live,
their desires, their motions, etc.
you have to make 6 billion decisions for 6 billion persons evry moment.
you got no time to be yourself, the god.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

Possible in what way?
Then if you decide yes,
you have to take care of conditions for people to live,
their desires, their motions, etc.
you have to make 6 billion decisions for 6 billion persons evry moment.
you got no time to be yourself, the god.

Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength.

Isaiah 26:4 KJV

[El Greco]

Well, if you go and find an ant colony, you can almost play god. You have life and death power upon ants, you can start wars with nearby colonies, you can give them food or throw famine all over them, flood their colony or whatever.

It gets boring after a while.

That's why ancient Greek gods were the best, because they were almost humans and could play interesting games with their flock :D

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham


Isaiah 26:4 KJV
If blind trust is every thing, what is the brain for?

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

If blind trust is every thing, what is the brain for?

Trust the Lord your God with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

[Jon_in_london]

Being able to turn water into wine would be quite cool...........

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham

Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
Trust in understanding is better.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

Trust in understanding is better.

He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who cherishes understanding prospers.

Proverbs 19: 8 NIV

[The Thrasher]

Originally posted by calladus


Nah - too boring!

Really, who would WANT to listen to all those prayers?

Once the novilty wore off I would get so bored. I'd have to do something to liven things up.

I'd start picking 'favorites' and then start asking them to do weird stuff - like turning rivers to blood. Maybe I'd play practical jokes on them, like having them eaten by fish. Maybe I could give one guy super strength that is controlled by the length of his hair. That oughta be good for some laughs.

I could stave off boredom by starting several religions at once, and telling the leaders of each that theirs is the 'One True' religion, and that all others are just pretenders that don't deserve pity.

But finally, I think I would just be so bored that I would just decide to cease to exist.

This reminds me of an essay I wrote for one of my undergraduate English courses. It was titled "god's ant farm". Basicly my suggestion was that an almighty diety would need something very odd to keep it entertained. So, why not invent a universe with self aware inhabitants and then spend your time screwing with their minds? I think that would be more fun than solatiare after a few millenia.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham

Proverbs 19: 8 NIV
Any one with wisdom will not only concentrate on himself. Soul and wisdom are the two sides of a coin, with soul you will look for higher wisdom, with wisdom you will have a better soul.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

Any one with wisdom will not only concentrate on himself. Soul and wisdom are the two sides of a coin, with soul you will look for higher wisdom, with wisdom you will have a better soul.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.

Psalm 111:10 KJV

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham




Psalm 111:10 KJV
Would you mind explaining,
This sounds vague.
Why should your lord be afraid of the beginning of wisdom?

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Mr Clingford
Many are poor because they are kept that way by the better off, or because of priorities. For example it would take v little of the defence budgets of the world's nations to provide clean water and food
the answer will not be that simple.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

Would you mind explaining,
This sounds vague.
Why should your lord be afraid of the beginning of wisdom?

For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Proverbs 2:6 NIV

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham

Proverbs 2:6 NIV
where is the valueable mouth?

[CWL]

Originally posted by Yahweh


Yes.

That one guy from the bible is a prick, its time we had a recall.

:D

Led'z give de Univeeerze a God it deservez. Led'z bring buzineess bak into de Univeeeerze. Eet'z time for a todall rekall!

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by jimmygun
Would you like to be god?

Yes please, for only about one hour. I figure I could get everything I want done in that time and still have a few minutes to call the more repugnant religious leaders to the carpet.
If god is so busy with his own business, why did he create human beings for?

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

where is the valueable mouth?

Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9 NASB

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Matthew 18:20 KJV

[jimlintott]

if you have to take care of 6 billion people, most of them are poor?

What about all the other beings in my universe. Am I just supposed to ignore them?

I'm pretty busy. there are many planets in worse shape than your's some of them have even discovered the one true religion.

Now I have to wait for my taco to cool so I can eat it.

[CWL]

Yes, vote four Ahnoold as Kovenoor of de Univeerz. Eet's time for a todall rekall of dis "God-perzon". Leet'z zend a message to dose in power! Finalee we would get a Kovenoor of de people four de people of de Univeerz four a change.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham


Joshua 1:9 NASB
Matthew 18:20 KJV
still vague. there is too much crap in the name of some one.

[Yahweh]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

If god is so busy with his own business, why did he create human beings for?
"In the beginning, Man created God in his own image"...

"And the God man created was savage"...

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

still vague. there is too much crap in the name of some one.

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.

2 Timothy 3:16 KJV

[Yahweh]

Originally posted by Graham
2 Timothy 3:16 KJV

"All scripture is the word of God" is a funny one.

See Judges 19:22-30...
19:22
Now as they were making their hearts merry, behold, the men of the city, certain sons of Belial, beset the house round about, and beat at the door, and spake to the master of the house, the old man, saying, Bring forth the man that came into thine house, that we may know him.
19:23
And the man, the master of the house, went out unto them, and said unto them, Nay, my brethren, nay, I pray you, do not so wickedly; seeing that this man is come into mine house, do not this folly.

19:24
Behold, here is my daughter a maiden, and his concubine; them I will bring out now, and humble ye them, and do with them what seemeth good unto you: but unto this man do not so vile a thing.
19:25
But the men would not hearken to him: so the man took his concubine, and brought her forth unto them; and they knew her, and abused her all the night until the morning: and when the day began to spring, they let her go.
19:26
Then came the woman in the dawning of the day, and fell down at the door of the man's house where her lord was, till it was light.
19:27
And her lord rose up in the morning, and opened the doors of the house, and went out to go his way: and, behold, the woman his concubine was fallen down at the door of the house, and her hands were upon the threshold.
19:28
And he said unto her, Up, and let us be going. But none answered. Then the man took her up upon an ass, and the man rose up, and gat him unto his place.

19:29
And when he was come into his house, he took a knife, and laid hold on his concubine, and divided her, together with her bones, into twelve pieces, and sent her into all the coasts of Israel.
19:30
And it was so, that all that saw it said, There was no such deed done nor seen from the day that the children of Israel came up out of the land of Egypt unto this day: consider of it, take advice, and speak your minds.

After taking in a traveling Levite, the host offers his virgin daughter and his guest's concubine to a mob of perverts (who want to have sex with his guest). The mob refuses the daughter, but accepts the concubine and they "abuse her all night." The next morning she crawls back to the doorstep and dies. The Levite puts her dead body on an ass and takes her home. Then he chops her body up into twelve pieces and sends them to each of the twelve tribes of Israel (Parcel Post?). The story, which must be one of the most disgusting stories ever told, ends with: "consider of it, take advice, and speak your mind." Those who do consider it will immediately reject the idea that the Bible is inspired by God. Hopefully, they then will speak their mind.

Take a read of Ezekiel 23:1-46, its an amusing story. Two sisters were guilty of "committing whoredoms" by pressing their breasts and bruising "the teats of their virginity." As a punishment, one sister's nakedness was discovered, her children were taken from her, and she was killed by the sword. And the fate of the surviving sister was even worse: Her nose and ears were cut off, she was made to "pluck off" her own breasts, and then after being raped and mutilated, she is stoned to death. Praise God.

Is the bible truely the word of God? In all that is humanity, I'm disgusted that either of those stories could be written by either man or deity...

[El Greco]

Yahweh, someone else told you the same thing an hour ago, but shouldn't you be sleeping now ? :D

[Graham]

Originally posted by Yahweh

Is the bible truely the word of God? In all that is humanity, I'm disgusted that either of those stories could be written by either man or deity...


For in the gospel a righteousness is being revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."

Romans 1:17 NIV

Now go to bed - your bitterness is showing :p

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham

2 Timothy 3:16 KJV
How do I know this is true. We hear too much the same from hypocrites.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

How do I know this is true.

And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

John 8:32 KJV



We hear too much the same from hypocrites

The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.

Proverbs 10 9 NIV

[Mr Clingford]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

the answer will not be that simple. Would you expand on that; I am not sure what you mean.

As a hypothetical, just a fraction of defense spending could go a hell of a long way to addressing the plight of many. The greed, though, of many in government means that the poor are left that way

[Perforatu]

Virtually every computer game by Peter Molyneux allows you to play god. Clearly, it's a lot of fun. Especially if you get to smack your followers around for no reason (like in Dungeon Keeper and Black & White).

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham


John 8:32 KJV

Proverbs 10 9 NIV
the truth is that we seldom know the truth.
wish it would not be too late to find.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

the truth is that we seldom know the truth.
wish it would not be too late to find.


There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven….

Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham


Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV
this is an open thread for any possibility.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Mr Clingford
Would you expand on that; I am not sure what you mean.

As a hypothetical, just a fraction of defense spending could go a hell of a long way to addressing the plight of many. The greed, though, of many in government means that the poor are left that way
If we cut the defence budget without improving efficientcy and effectiveness, the safety is a problem. without safety, you will have more problems than now.
There are greedy selfish guys everywhere, not just the top ones.
So the phrase should be rewritten as pressing for efficiency.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

this is an open thread for any possibility.

So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God—all because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done for us in making us friends of God.

Romans 5:11 NLT



that was a tough one . . .

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham

Romans 5:11 NLT
that was a tough one . . .
what about those other beliefs or religions?
Science and all the other thinkers contribute more than religions in human progress.
So this claim is not founded on concret facts.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

what about those other beliefs or religions?
Science and all the other thinkers contribute more than religions in human progress.
So this claim is not founded on concret facts.

. . . the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Proverbs 2:6 NIV

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham


Proverbs 2:6 NIV
see reference above.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

see reference above.

cheaping out on me? fine, how about a change of pace?


Fools of little understanding are their own worst enemies,
for they do wrong deeds which bear bitter fruits.
That action is not well done, which having been done,
brings remorse, whose result one receives crying with tears.
But that action is well done, which having been done,
does not bring remorse,
whose result one receives gladly and cheerfully.

Dhammapada - Sayings of Buddha - Translated by S. Beck

[Yahweh]

Originally posted by El Greco
Yahweh, someone else told you the same thing an hour ago, but shouldn't you be sleeping now ? :D
Sleep, I dont need sleep, SLEEP IS FOR THE WEAK (and the sleepy)!

[c4ts]

Sleep is for those who have not discovered the miracle of caffene.

[Dorian Gray]

Graham, I can't help but notice that you haven't had a single post that originated from your own cranium. This is one of the reasons people becone atheists - otherwise they feel like parrots incapable of any original thought, let alone a critical one.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Graham

cheaping out on me? fine, how about a change of pace?

Dhammapada - Sayings of Buddha - Translated by S. Beck
Is this relevant here? Or relevant to you only? you are just talking for the sake of talking.

[Craig]

I think that it would be very difficult to hold on to who I am, given omniscience, omnipotence, and all the rest of it.

I could easily see myself succumbing to "omniapathy".

In which case it wouldn't really matter if I existed or not.

[Jude]

When I was a kid my parents got me an ant farm. After watching the ants carve out a complex system of tunnels, I gleefully grabbed the farm with two hands and shook it up as if it were an Etch-a-Sketch. With a smile. Would I like to be God? You bet. You sure wouldn't like it, though.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by rustypouch
I would liketo be God just so that I could smite those who displease me.
you got to end up smite every one.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by El Greco
I would like to be Zeus. In our mythology he had sex with every mortal and immortal woman he fancied.
I did the same fancy at 12.

[evildave]

Which 'God'?

The insecure and repugnant 'God' of Jack Chic, who tosses good people into hell because they don't believe in him, and rewards horrible people for believing?

The 'God' who has to sincerely cry every time homosexual activity (and various other things fundies whine about) occurs?

The 'God' who punishes/destroys many unrelated people when some sin occurs (ala fundy claims that 9/11 was a judgment).

The 'God' who designed everything and every outcome, and who then "judges" his mechanically predictable creations and rewards/condemns them based on outcomes he preset and that they could not change?

The 'God' for whom people fight wars and routinely murder?

The 'omnipotent' 'God' who can't even seem to make a little more rain happen in places that are turning into deserts, no matter how the wasted people in these places pray as their babies die?

The 'God' who has to play judge to the over 100,000 people who die every single day?

The compassionate, loving and omnipotent 'God' who has to listen to billions of prayers every day and then callously disregard them for 'mysterious' reasons?

What a lousy job. What sort of moron would honestly want it? Be the one "ultimately" responsible for humanity's (and whatever else's) fates balanced on a pin. Make one seemingly nice change, eventually cause utter destruction.

Of course, utter destruction is what's called for in the various doomsday prophesies, so maybe your God's doing his job just fine.

[yinyinwang]

Good questions.
Does god konw what he was doing when he set off the big bang?
Is god moral in doing so?

[sorgoth]

Yes, I would want to have Godly powers. My first act would be to leave the mortals to their petty games, and not mess with that AT ALL. Then, I would take those who wished to come and create a new universe. I would create an avatar of myself that would have no knowledge of his being God. I would live out my life in this new Universe, and when my avatar has died, I will review it. If it is Good, I will leave it be. If not, I will return all those humans to the Earth, and hope the next batch is a bit better.

[sparklecat]

Not sure. First thing I thought of was "power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely." So I'd end up screwing up the world completely most likely... but I could always make a new one.

Perhaps if I had a sort of built in goodness? Or limited power so I didn't end up killing everyone and getting bored with things...

I really don't think I'd make a very good Supreme Being though.

[Some Friggin Guy]

No, I would not like to be god for 2 reasons.

1. I hate toadies. I would not want anyone being totally subservient to me.

2. I do not ever want anyone to ever commit murder in my name.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

Is this relevant here? Or relevant to you only? you are just talking for the sake of talking.

The question was:

Originally posted by yinyinwang

what about those other beliefs or religions?
Science and all the other thinkers contribute more than religions in human progress.
So this claim is not founded on concret facts.

The first quote I posted in response to that was from the New Testement:

. . . the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Easy enough to see how that's approriate.

The second quote, from the Dhammapada admittedly was a little less an answer to the question than a dig at the opposition (a claasic tactic of thereligious, IMO):

Fools of little understanding are their own worst enemies,
for they do wrong deeds which bear bitter fruits.

Fools being "Science and all the other thinkers" obviously.

You posted a question about God. There's no shortage of atheists, agnostis and "freethinkers" around to give you their perspective so I thought I'd answer it from the other direction, so to speak.

Apparently it wasn't appreciated. Whatever.

Graham

[Graham]

Originally posted by Dorian Gray
Graham, I can't help but notice that you haven't had a single post that originated from your own cranium. This is one of the reasons people becone atheists - otherwise they feel like parrots incapable of any original thought, let alone a critical one.

Strangely enough, I put far more time and effort into sourcing appropriate quotations than I usually put into my more original responses.

It was quite eduational actually. All of the bible quotes came from here:

Bible quotations orgainised by topic (http://www.quotedoctor.com/bible_verses.htm)

A handy resource on occasion.

Graham

[yinyinwang]

I do appreciate your answers at first and that is why I answered most of them, but i think you are too far away from the track, so i thought maybe I should remind you.

[Graham]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
I do appreciate your answers at first and that is why I answered most of them, but i think you are too far away from the track, so i thought maybe I should remind you.

I do have tendency to wander :)

[Nucular]

Originally posted by Graham
I do have tendency to wander :) Thus saith the LORD unto this people, Thus have they loved to wander, they have not refrained their feet, therefore the LORD doth not accept them; he will now remember their iniquity, and visit their sins.Jeremiah 14:10-16 KJV ;)

[Mr Clingford]

Originally posted by Graham

There's no shortage of atheists, agnostis and "freethinkers" around to give you their perspective so I thought I'd answer it from the other direction, so to speak.

Apparently it wasn't appreciated. Whatever.

Graham
Don't presume to speak for me, Graham!!:D

[Dorian Gray]

This is the link I would use for Biblical quotes:
http://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/

[Graham]

Originally posted by Nucular
Jeremiah 14:10-16 KJV ;)

Oh, touche.

:clap:

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Nucular
No, I wouldn't like to be God. Doubting my own existence would soon lose its novelty.
How becoming god hurts your novelty? No sense of time?

[Diogenes]

Originally posted by sorgoth
Yes, I would want to have Godly powers. My first act would be to leave the mortals to their petty games, and not mess with that AT ALL.

I think God has joined the discussion..:eek:

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by DarkPrimus
If I were a deity, I would hardly be the all-knowing, all-powerful being that most people like to think of as god.

I probably would have created the universe accidentally, and set it aside in a musty corner of my basement, trying to remember how I got it to occur, while simultaniously trying to get rid of the "fundamentalist" mold infection.
You certainly will create something no matter how much power you have.
But to choose the best representative of yours in human is not a simple thing, is it?

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Yahweh


Yes.

That one guy from the bible is a prick, its time we had a recall.
sounds familiar.

[epepke]

After the first couple of weeks fixing the obvious problems with the universe, I think I'd get bored.

I get such a kick out of figuring things out that I wouldn't know what to do with omniscience.

[c4ts]

Originally posted by yinyinwang

If god is so busy with his own business, why did he create human beings for?

Bloodlust. Or maybe so he could see monkies in outer space.

[kerfer]

And give up my existance? :confused:

Don't think so! :cool:

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by epepke
After the first couple of weeks fixing the obvious problems with the universe, I think I'd get bored.

I get such a kick out of figuring things out that I wouldn't know what to do with omniscience.
you don't have to work so hard.

[DVFinn]

Everything we've been able to discover up untill now about the universe, our planet and the origins of life would suggest that there is absolutely no need for a "God," so sure.

I'll take the job, since it's clear that you aren't actually required to do anything. Anything I did then do to alleviate suffering would be a bonus.

[Disbeliever]

Well, if God is omniscient, what's the point, really? You know the future, so there's no joy in doing anything, and you have nothing to learn or experience due to your neverending knowledge. Hell, you can't even kill yourself to end your boredom because of your omnipotence.

Personally, that sounds like the crappiest existence ever.

[sorgoth]

Originally posted by Some Friggin Guy
No, I would not like to be god for 2 reasons.

1. I hate toadies. I would not want anyone being totally subservient to me.

2. I do not ever want anyone to ever commit murder in my name.


You could easily stop them. You're god.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by c4ts


Bloodlust. Or maybe so he could see monkies in outer space.
playing games for fun?

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by DVFinn
Everything we've been able to discover up untill now about the universe, our planet and the origins of life would suggest that there is absolutely no need for a "God," so sure.
Would you mind explaining how you get there?
I'll take the job, since it's clear that you aren't actually required to do anything. Anything I did then do to alleviate suffering would be a bonus.
What if I take working as a suffering?

[DVFinn]

Would you mind explaining how you get there?

I somehow imagine that theism/atheism debates must have been pretty well exhausted on this forum. Simply stated I'm an atheist. I see no reason to believe in silly nonsense such as deities. While I respect that there are differences of opinion on that topic is it really necessary to rehash that debate here? We could just cut and paste a few hundred pages from the talk origins archive and call it a day. If we have to go into it then start another thread.

As an atheist I don't believe that there is a god doing anything, so if I became god and did absolutely nothing then the world would continue exactly as it currently does.

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I'll take the job, since it's clear that you aren't actually required to do anything. Anything I did then do to alleviate suffering would be a bonus.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


What if I take working as a suffering?

Then you're pretty much out of luck. I said alleviating suffering would be a bonus, not a promised benefit.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by DVFinn
I somehow imagine that theism/atheism debates must have been pretty well exhausted on this forum. Simply stated I'm an atheist. I see no reason to believe in silly nonsense such as deities. While I respect that there are differences of opinion on that topic is it really necessary to rehash that debate here? We could just cut and paste a few hundred pages from the talk origins archive and call it a day. If we have to go into it then start another thread.

As an atheist I don't believe that there is a god doing anything, so if I became god and did absolutely nothing then the world would continue exactly as it currently does.
We don't have to go over the archive of debate, but you certainly can tell a few points you hold as whatever-ist.

Then you're pretty much out of luck. I said alleviating suffering would be a bonus, not a promised benefit.
how do you know god did nothing?

[DVFinn]

We don't have to go over the archive of debate, but you certainly can tell a few points you hold as whatever-ist.

Certainly.

I am not a whatever-ist, I am an atheist. I hold no belief in Gods as no one has ever presented to me any valid reason to believe that there is such a being. No line of rational inquiry that I am familiar with has ever shown the concept of God to have anymore validity than than the concept of leprechauns.

I claim no evidence against God, rather I am an atheist by default. If someone were to tell me that the universe was created by a Giant Purple Ethereal Unicorn who sneezed out the world and then imploded I would not be able to disprove it, but I would not accept that fact alone as reason to take it seriously. I hold "God" to the same standard. So I don't have to "get there," rather I start there and allow for the presentation of evidence to change my mind. So far none has been presented that I have found credible.

I hope you did not think me rude in being reluctant to expound, I just don't like to highjack forum threads and this one wasn't chiefly about the existence of God.

how do you know god did nothing?

I don't "know", any more than I "know" that the unicorn doesn't gallop though the heavens with the souls of the wicked forever impalled on his mighty horn of justice. I just find the idea silly considering the lack of evidence.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by DVFinn


Certainly.

I am not a whatever-ist, I am an atheist. I hold no belief in Gods as no one has ever presented to me any valid reason to believe that there is such a being. No line of rational inquiry that I am familiar with has ever shown the concept of God to have anymore validity than than the concept of leprechauns.

I claim no evidence against God, rather I am an atheist by default. If someone were to tell me that the universe was created by a Giant Purple Ethereal Unicorn who sneezed out the world and then imploded I would not be able to disprove it, but I would not accept that fact alone as reason to take it seriously. I hold "God" to the same standard. So I don't have to "get there," rather I start there and allow for the presentation of evidence to change my mind. So far none has been presented that I have found credible.
No evidence means no conclusion for both ends. The most you can get is ambiguity.
If every one demands answers from others, there will be no answer.
I hope you did not think me rude in being reluctant to expound, I just don't like to highjack forum threads and this one wasn't chiefly about the existence of God.
A offtrack roam does not hurt much. We can come back later or stop anywhere you like.
Clearing background also help this topic.
I don't "know", any more than I "know" that the unicorn doesn't gallop though the heavens with the souls of the wicked forever impalled on his mighty horn of justice. I just find the idea silly considering the lack of evidence.
there are far more possibilities than the one you mentioned.

[DVFinn]

there are far more possibilities than the one you mentioned

In fact there are an infinite number of possibilities. Any ridiculous thing I or anyone makes up, if it can't be disproven, is a possibility. So what?

Something being possible alone is not reason enough to give it consideration, as then we would have to give equal credence to every absurd notion. Rational inquiry separates out those concepts that can be supported by evidence from the pure fluff and provides a framework for further exploration.

"God" just doesn't make the cut. No evidence, not in accord with anything we've discovered about the way the universe works, no reason to believe it whatsoever other than a handful of old superstitions.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by DVFinn


In fact there are an infinite number of possibilities. Any ridiculous thing I or anyone makes up, if it can't be disproven, is a possibility. So what?

Something being possible alone is not reason enough to give it consideration, as then we would have to give equal credence to every absurd notion. Rational inquiry separates out those concepts that can be supported by evidence from the pure fluff and provides a framework for further exploration.

"God" just doesn't make the cut. No evidence, not in accord with anything we've discovered about the way the universe works, no reason to believe it whatsoever other than a handful of old superstitions.
How do you know the next one is also absurd?

[DVFinn]

How do you know the next one is also absurd?

I made no claim of such forknowledge.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by DVFinn


I made no claim of such forknowledge.
How many absurd scientific theories we have to now and we have not got a satisfactory one for all questions, what would you say?

[DVFinn]

How many absurd scientific theories we have to now and we have not got a satisfactory one for all questions, what would you say?

I'd say please restate the question because I have no idea what you're asking. No offense intended as I'm notoriously sloppy in my own posts at times, but I honestly can't understand what you're trying to ask.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by DVFinn


I'd say please restate the question because I have no idea what you're asking. No offense intended as I'm notoriously sloppy in my own posts at times, but I honestly can't understand what you're trying to ask.
I don't think it is an offense, dear friend. You can have your idea about anything, even intuitively without any explanation, I just want a debate to help understanding.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Disbeliever
Well, if God is omniscient, what's the point, really? You know the future, so there's no joy in doing anything, and you have nothing to learn or experience due to your neverending knowledge. Hell, you can't even kill yourself to end your boredom because of your omnipotence.

Personally, that sounds like the crappiest existence ever.
Ayn again.
God may feel boredom with human, but just remember, human is not the only thing god have, is it?

[Mr Clingford]

Originally posted by Disbeliever
Well, if God is omniscient, what's the point, really? You know the future, so there's no joy in doing anything, and you have nothing to learn or experience due to your neverending knowledge. Hell, you can't even kill yourself to end your boredom because of your omnipotence.

Personally, that sounds like the crappiest existence ever. Which is why that is not the Christian understanding of the concept of God

[plindboe]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
Ayn again.
God may feel boredom with human, but just remember, human is not the only thing god have, is it?

You should change your current nick to Sir Askalot.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by plindboe

You should change your current nick to Sir Askalot.
What about you, Sir Nevermind.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by geni
no but it would be a challange to have god as an oponent
I wonder if satan has ever challaged god directly.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by patoco12



I think it would take supernatural powers to take care of that many people!

If there was only an all powerful being to make sure His creations were properly fed...
In that analogy, your parents are responsible for your life all the time?

[Disbeliever]

Which is why that is not the Christian understanding of the concept of God

That depends which "Christian understanding" we're talking about here. There's a million of 'em. Which God am I being?

[Disbeliever]

Ayn again.
God may feel boredom with human, but just remember, human is not the only thing god have, is it?

Well, I think you mean God has side projects other than humans, but that wasn't my point, and it wouldn't matter. I was suggesting that if God is omnipotent, then there is no enjoyment of any activity... you know the outcome, you know what the activity is before you even do it and its results.

But since this isn't the widely held view of God, it doesn't matter. I do, however, know Christians that consistently tell me God is omniscient, when I don't think that's at all possible. I'm sure it wouldn't be very amusing, no matter what your view of God.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Disbeliever
Well, I think you mean God has side projects other than humans,
Not side, equal or more fun projects.
but that wasn't my point, and it wouldn't matter.
what do you mean?
I was suggesting that if God is omnipotent, then there is no enjoyment of any activity... you know the outcome, you know what the activity is before you even do it and its results.
we know what we are producing everyday, it may lack of fun in doing routine, but we have purposes other than entertaiment even with or without omnipotence.

But since this isn't the widely held view of God, it doesn't matter. I do, however, know Christians that consistently tell me God is omniscient, when I don't think that's at all possible. I'm sure it wouldn't be very amusing, no matter what your view of God.
You attack with boredom but only care the flu opinion?
I think we know very little about god.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by LuxFerum

If I was god, all of them will be poor, and I would make it worst every day.
why do you choose this way?

[Disbeliever]

ARGH! You're not grasping my point at all.

IF God is omniscient, God knows everything.
IF God knows everything, God knows the future.
IF God knows the future, where is the will to create?

Some Christians answer with the love of creation, but that love is not present when you already know every outcome that will occur with your creation, in every minute detail. It is utterly pointless to do so.

As I said though, this is a theoretical model of God, since he is omniscient. Many Gods aren't.

[sparklecat]

Why are you putting God inside time? Thats not the usual Christian conception.

[Disbeliever]

this is a theoretical model of God

Could you guys stop telling me this now? It's just the model I hear most often. Just chill.

[sparklecat]

And you get this theoretical model from where? Make one up if you want, but don't claim its the Christian God one sentence prior.

[Disbeliever]

It's just the model I hear most often.

And as I said, there's millions of Christian conceptions of God. Which one would you like me to be?

[T'ai Chi]

Originally posted by T'ai Chi
Yes, I think I'd like being a god, I think, but it would depend if my boss would allow me to reveal myself to the beings I managed or not.

I think I changed my mind. :)

I realize I am probably too lazy to be a god.

[sparklecat]

Originally posted by Disbeliever


And as I said, there's millions of Christian conceptions of God. Which one would you like me to be?

Be? I'd say you should cast your belief where you think the truth lies.

But beyond that, when talking about the Christian God, go for where doctrine comes from... the Bible and Augustine :D

[frisian]

Originally posted by Disbeliever


And as I said, there's millions of Christian conceptions of God. Which one would you like me to be?

hmmm, have any idea why?

Perhaps it is a subjective experience?

[Lord Emsworth]

Originally posted by T'ai Chi


I think I changed my mind. :)

I realize I am probably too lazy to be a god.

Lazyness is not the problem, I think.

You still have the possibility to create, then leave your creation to it's own devices and take a nap where your creation will never find you.

Or, you could send your son

[frisian]

Originally posted by Lord Emsworth


Lazyness is not the problem, I think.

You still have the possibility to create, then leave your creation to it's own devices and take a nap where your creation will never find you.

Or, you could send your son

:p

Good to see you Ems.

Cheers.

[Lord Emsworth]

Originally posted by frisian


:p

Good to see you Ems.

Cheers.

Thank you. It's good to see you, as well

[Schizobunny]

If god can create giant purple gorillas to roam the world than yes. Sorry, I have a fascination with giant purple creatures.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Disbeliever
ARGH! You're not grasping my point at all.

IF God is omniscient, God knows everything.
IF God knows everything, God knows the future.
IF God knows the future, where is the will to create?

Some Christians answer with the love of creation, but that love is not present when you already know every outcome that will occur with your creation, in every minute detail. It is utterly pointless to do so.

As I said though, this is a theoretical model of God, since he is omniscient. Many Gods aren't.
god is realiseing what he knows the future, so what is wrong with that?

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Schizobunny
If god can create giant purple gorillas to roam the world than yes. Sorry, I have a fascination with giant purple creatures.
I guess god does not have a color problem nor a color bias.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by calladus


Nah - too boring!

Really, who would WANT to listen to all those prayers?

Once the novilty wore off I would get so bored. I'd have to do something to liven things up.

I'd start picking 'favorites' and then start asking them to do weird stuff - like turning rivers to blood. Maybe I'd play practical jokes on them, like having them eaten by fish. Maybe I could give one guy super strength that is controlled by the length of his hair. That oughta be good for some laughs.

I could stave off boredom by starting several religions at once, and telling the leaders of each that theirs is the 'One True' religion, and that all others are just pretenders that don't deserve pity.

But finally, I think I would just be so bored that I would just decide to cease to exist.
that does not sound like god because if he choose to cease it should happen at the beginning.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by T'ai Chi
Yes, I think I'd like being a god, I think, but it would depend if my boss would allow me to reveal myself to the beings I managed or not.
who is the boss of god?

[BillyJoe]

god does not exist so no I don't want to not exist least not right now

[!Xx+-Rational-+xX!]

Originally posted by BillyJoe
god does not exist so no I don't want to not exist least not right now

Very true this is an undeniable scientific fact and anyone who thinks otherwise hates science!


The main thing us atheists have to fear is evangelists getting more radical! There is good reason to believe that they are forming a more aggressive religion called the avengalists "avenging in the name of God"! We will have to watch out and be rational as always!

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by BillyJoe
god does not exist so no I don't want to not exist least not right now
How do you know?

[BillyJoe]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
How do you know? i jus do

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by BillyJoe
i jus do
Are you supergod?

[BillyJoe]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
Are you supergod? don't you mean "SuperGod"

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by BillyJoe
don't you mean "SuperGod"
who is the radical indeed?

[!Xx+-Rational-+xX!]

Originally posted by BillyJoe
i jus do

This is right and it is not possible to argue with this line of reasoning because skeptics know for certain what they claim and always win by default! Since skeptics say there is no God then God does not exist because skeptics have science and are in the best position to judge reality!

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by !Xx+-Rational-+xX!


Very true this is an undeniable scientific fact and anyone who thinks otherwise hates science!


The main thing us atheists have to fear is evangelists getting more radical! There is good reason to believe that they are forming a more aggressive religion called the avengalists "avenging in the name of God"! We will have to watch out and be rational as always!
Don't mix claims with facts, that is anti-science.

[BillyJoe]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
who is the radical indeed? no i was just suggesting you need some capitalization when using the word SuperGod otherwise it seems contradictory even oxymoronic

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by BillyJoe
no i was just suggesting you need some capitalization when using the word SuperGod otherwise it seems contradictory even oxymoronic
Are you capable of arguing without insulting, or this is the only thing you can do.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by !Xx+-Rational-+xX!


This is right and it is not possible to argue with this line of reasoning because skeptics know for certain what they claim and always win by default! Since skeptics say there is no God then God does not exist because skeptics have science and are in the best position to judge reality!
you call that reasoning?

[BillyJoe]

yin,

Originally posted by yinyinwang
Are you capable of arguing without insulting, or this is the only thing you can do. Clearly you are misunderstanding me. :(
There have been no insults.

Perhaps it's that word "oxymoronic", I don't know

BillyJoe

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by BillyJoe
no i was just suggesting you need some capitalization when using the word SuperGod otherwise it seems contradictory even oxymoronic
If it is not insult to me , it is at least an insult to the cause you are promoting.

[BillyJoe]

yinyinwang,

Originally posted by yinyinwang
If it is not insult to me, it is at least an insult to the cause you are promoting. Well I hardly know you.
I've been to your website but there are no clues there.

Also I do not have a cause.
I do not believe in causes. Just in people interacting with other people. I was under the mistaken impression that we were responding to each other's posts light-heartedly and tongue-in-cheek. I guess something got lost in the translation.

regards,
BillyJoe.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by BillyJoe
yinyinwang,

Well I hardly know you.
I've been to your website but there are no clues there.

Also I do not have a cause.
I do not believe in causes. Just in people interacting with other people. I was under the mistaken impression that we were responding to each other's posts light-heartedly and tongue-in-cheek. I guess something got lost in the translation.

regards,
BillyJoe.
Thank you for your visit.

Yinyinwang

[BillyJoe]

I think I've just been dismissed!

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by BillyJoe
I think I've just been dismissed!
you are wellcome. I enjoy friendship and debates of good points.
I do appreciate your attention and opinion.

[BillyJoe]

Ah, good, I will sleep soundly now.
Tomorrow I leave all the weekend frivolity behind and get serious again

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by c4ts
Sounds like it would be too much work. First I would do a lousy job, then I'd proabably have to go around appearing in tacos just to shut people up.
Why do you have to shut people up?

[Keziah Mason]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
if you have to take care of 6 billion people, most of them are poor?

Sure. I'd make sure they all got plenty to eat and lived long, fruitful lives.

And then when the planet reached carrying capacity I'd move in and feed. When the ripping and rending and screams and gysers of blood are over, I'd move on to another planet to create the spark of intelligent life so I could have another feast later.

Why stick with puny Christian ideals of god? Elder Gods have much more fun.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Keziah Mason


Sure. I'd make sure they all got plenty to eat and lived long, fruitful lives.

And then when the planet reached carrying capacity I'd move in and feed. When the ripping and rending and screams and gysers of blood are over, I'd move on to another planet to create the spark of intelligent life so I could have another feast later.

Why stick with puny Christian ideals of god? Elder Gods have much more fun.
Why god should do it in turns?

[BillyJoe]

Geni: I will grant you three wishes

I would like to be God

Geni: Then I will turn you into God

Pooooooooooof [disappears]

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by plindboe
Sure. With the infinite power that position holds, I would snap my fingers and make the world a better place, where there wouldn't be any poor or any suffering. I would appear to people and set things straight, so there wouldn't be any more bickering over which religion is right.
God may use his power to make you feel cozy, but you know, they become lazy and irresponsible.

[NullPointerException]

First Step: Remove the old employees(Satan, choir of angels) because it just isn't working great right now. Faith is at an all time low, we are losing once loyal customers to other venues, and revenues from all locations older than 50 years are sliding.

Second Step: Engage in predatory business practices against cottage industries, posers and startups.(Mormons, Muslims, Christians, etc)

Third Step: Profit!

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by NullPointerException
First Step: Remove the old employees(Satan, choir of angels) because it just isn't working great right now. Faith is at an all time low, we are losing once loyal customers to other venues, and revenues from all locations older than 50 years are sliding.

Second Step: Engage in predatory business practices against cottage industries, posers and startups.(Mormons, Muslims, Christians, etc)

Third Step: Profit!
What will god do with profit?

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by plindboe
Sure. With the infinite power that position holds, I would snap my fingers and make the world a better place, where there wouldn't be any poor or any suffering. I would appear to people and set things straight, so there wouldn't be any more bickering over which religion is right.
If you do everything for them you will end up with 6 B monkeys instead of people.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Correa Neto
Sure...

Because then I would at last know why such a powerfull entity would want to be worshipped by pesky humans and try to regulate their lives, telling them what they can or can not eat and with who and when and why they can have sex.

And I would demand sacrifices, a lot of them.
And I would also do it like Zeus :D
When you have your own children, you may get a feel on that.

[Dorian Gray]

What will god do with profit? Build more churches.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Dorian Gray
Build more churches.
Will god feel proud of being worshiped by his stupid creatures?

[BillyJoe]

Originally posted by yinyinwang
Will god feel proud of being worshiped by his stupid creatures? You are making an assumption here. ;)

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by BillyJoe
You are making an assumption here. ;)
God, as a assumption of high intelligence, will not enjoy stupidity, logical, isn't?

[BillyJoe]

yinyinwang, you're right it.....

Originally posted by yinyinwang
...isn't? Thank-you for your support,
BillyJoe

[Soapy Sam]

Would I like to be god?

No. Not again. Once was enough. We have to move on.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Soapy Sam
Would I like to be god?

No. Not again. Once was enough. We have to move on.
On to what?

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by LuxFerum

If I was god, all of them will be poor, and I would make it worst every day.
Did god create to destroy?

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by UserGoogol
Sure. Omnipotence is fun.

As for taking care of the 6 billion people on earth, sounds easy enough. Make the skies rain cake or something. Tone down the whole concept of "pain." Or maybe just ascend the lot of humanity into heaven. (Or maybe just a place very much like heaven so that we divine creatures can still get some peace and quiet.)
I don't want cakes, pizza is fun, wait... let me think....
A plane is good for traveling, and .....

[Rationalist]

Yes, I would like to be God. I would then use Transtopianism to help the 6 billion poor people.

[c4ts]

Originally posted by NullPointerException
First Step: Remove the old employees(Satan, choir of angels) because it just isn't working great right now. Faith is at an all time low, we are losing once loyal customers to other venues, and revenues from all locations older than 50 years are sliding.

Second Step: Engage in predatory business practices against cottage industries, posers and startups.(Mormons, Muslims, Christians, etc)

Third Step: Profit!

Congratulations, you've re-created the middle ages.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by triadboy
Yes.

I'd 'rapture' all the xians and muslims to a big waiting room for eternity. There would be big fluffy couches and xian virgins for the muslims. And little harps and paper-mache wings for the xians. They would all be really confused. And I'd let the rest of the world watch it on satellite TV.

not much fun watching that.

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by Lucifuge Rofocale
No...I would rather prefer to exist....
God can exist too.

[max]

God is a spirit if he exists, that is. Therefore he can't help us physically, only our souls/spirit. That's why he can't do anything about poverty.pain.deformities or anything else physical. Poverty, wars are man made problems and should be man solved.
I wouldn't want to be God

[BillyJoe]

No, max, I can see that you are just a doG :D

regards,
BillyJoe

[max]

yea, I'd rather be a dog any day:D

[BillyJoe]

Goodonya max, you old codger. :)

[yinyinwang]

Originally posted by max
God is a spirit if he exists, that is. Therefore he can't help us physically, only our souls/spirit. That's why he can't do anything about poverty.pain.deformities or anything else physical. Poverty, wars are man made problems and should be man solved.
I wouldn't want to be God
What is so good being a non-spirit?

[max]

I don't know