The historic and original "Welcome new posters! Introduce yourselves here!" thread

[Eric Portal]

I work with and support the movement for indefinite life extension. Im always looking to network, find more free thinkers, activists, etc... I cant get enough of a good progressive limits pushing discussion of any sort. I think that everything that we can have with this shot at existence here can be summed up well in a list of 8 things, and I think that pursuing them is of the essence.

- the nature of existence, like infinity, consciousness, particle physics etc..
- if there is a god, gods, no god, or something else
- how we got here
- how the universe got here
- what all else is out there like hover ability, light speed, aliens, populated galaxies, dimensions etc..
- all forms and extents of all pleasures current and undiscovered.
- the fulfillment of all goals that time brings you to want, restaurant owner, pro football, climbing mountains etc..
- universal elimination of fallacy

We could not pursue them, sure, but we could also say, grow black and white spots and chew on grass outside in fields too I suppose.

[Cassandrena]

Hello, I am Cass, a long time lurker who just realized that though I check the JREF forums at least once a day somehow I had never gotten around to registering.. So I finally did it. =P

Ooo, can I have sauteed rabbit with onions and a baked potato? :D

[COLONEL]

Ooo, can I have sauteed rabbit with onions and a baked potato? :D
Yes Cass you may, and Welcome to the forum , you also get fresh Goats milk, a Grayman Oatmeal cookie and a MINTIE.

[Cassandrena]

Yes Cass you may, and Welcome to the forum , you also get fresh Goats milk, a Grayman Oatmeal cookie and a MINTIE.

Yummy! This is my kind of site! :D

[amb]

Yummy! This is my kind of site! :D

He left out the menu for the week, which is braised rabbit with roasted vegetables. Buon apetit. :)

[Jim_MDP]

Yes, well... lazy day here so I might as well get this done.

Actually joined in '03 or so... house fire in '07. Been traveling without a regular net connection. Looped the U.S., wintered in Florida '07-'08, visited Randi, etc.

Slight name change on my account, and I need to see when I can get my avatar and sigs back. Probably have to post a few times. The vB software seems to have changed a tad, have to poke around. Thought we used to have a section for code/avatar testing.

Oh, no rabbit today, but thanks anyway. Maybe just a Mintie. :D

Jim.

[Bell]

Yes, well... lazy day here so I might as well get this done.

Actually joined in '03 or so... house fire in '07. Been traveling without a regular net connection. Looped the U.S., wintered in Florida '07-'08, visited Randi, etc.

Slight name change on my account, and I need to see when I can get my avatar and sigs back. Probably have to post a few times. The vB software seems to have changed a tad, have to poke around. Thought we used to have a section for code/avatar testing.

Oh, no rabbit today, but thanks anyway. Maybe just a Mintie. :D

Jim.

Welcome back. Don't know if we met in the past (but you should have hanged out in the 9/11 forum for that to have happened). What was your name back then? Also, I think you should still be able to access your old account. Just PM one of the admins.

There is still a test section:
http://forums.randi.org/forumdisplay.php?f=65

No rabbits today indeed, but I heard the Germans served some English dish.

[Eligbak]

Hi, I just managed to sneak in - boy, those admins (bow to you, sirs & madams) are more paranoid than me .;) It appears you can't sign up if you choose to reveal only your initial, not your first name. And I hadn't even used a thow-away-email adress! (:headscratch: )

So, hello to everyone! :)

[amb]

Welcome Eligbak. We just don't let any rif raf aboard you know. You have to disclose something about yourself to weed out such. :D

[Jim_MDP]

Ob-la-di, ob-la-da, life goes on, brah!

If I hadn't Goog-la-di, Goog-la-da'd the lyrics... I was gonna make fun o' ya for the "brah" bit.

My bad. Carry on Bell.

[Bell]

If I hadn't Goog-la-di, Goog-la-da'd the lyrics... I was gonna make fun o' ya for the "brah" bit.

My bad. Carry on Bell.

If you really want to make fun of one of the members we have both Hokulele and Tricky to choose from.

[COLONEL]

Hi, I just managed to sneak in - boy, those admins (bow to you, sirs & madams) are more paranoid than me .;) It appears you can't sign up if you choose to reveal only your initial, not your first name. And I hadn't even used a thow-away-email adress! (:headscratch: )

So, hello to everyone! :)


I think we should do a thorough back ground check on you . We can't be to careful now a days . You could have joined up just to find out how GrayMan makes his oatmeal cookies or where AMB gets the MINTIES from, Or where and when I milk our Goat .

[arthwollipot]

I think we should do a thorough back ground check on you . We can't be to careful now a days . You could have joined up just to find out how GrayMan makes his oatmeal cookies or where AMB gets the MINTIES from, Or where and when I milk our Goat .Whose goat?

[COLONEL]

Whose goat? Well I would like to think it is all of ours , Well except maybe Shemp, athough nothing was ever proven that he molested it.

[arthwollipot]

Well I would like to think it is all of ours , Well except maybe Shemp, athough nothing was ever proven that he molested it.Excuse me, but what?

Who ever said that Princess was communal? She's mine, I tell you, all mine! I'm the only one allowed to... er...

Mine! Get your grubby hands off her.

[COLONEL]

Excuse me, but what?

Who ever said that Princess was communal? She's mine, I tell you, all mine! I'm the only one allowed to... er...

Mine! Get your grubby hands off her.

Did you forget to take your meds again? Remember it is the little white pill

:D LOL :D LOL:D

[Sara Kessell]

Hello!

My name is Sara. I have been reading posts for a while now, and finally decided to post. It seems like you guys have a great community going on here!

I have been lingering about the skeptical world for a while now, and last year started a local Skeptics in the Pub. Now we have a good group going, and I find myself spending more and more time 'doing' skepticism.

Lets see...I am a student, double major in Biology in Chemistry.

Thats about all I can think of at the moment, at least all that is relevant. I will be at TAM, so maybe I will see some of you there! (can't wait!)

[The Man]

Hello!

My name is Sara. I have been reading posts for a while now, and finally decided to post. It seems like you guys have a great community going on here!

I have been lingering about the skeptical world for a while now, and last year started a local Skeptics in the Pub. Now we have a good group going, and I find myself spending more and more time 'doing' skepticism.

Lets see...I am a student, double major in Biology in Chemistry.

Thats about all I can think of at the moment, at least all that is relevant. I will be at TAM, so maybe I will see some of you there! (can't wait!)


Welcome Sara Kessell, and everyone else. “'doing' skepticism” sounds rather intriguing, particularly with “a good group going” from a pub on a “double major in Biology in Chemistry”. A heavy load, I must say. Education with a smattering of booze, the perfect cocktail in my opinion.

Welcome all.

[amb]

All these newbies, so little Minties left, so many rabbits to cook. I swear, I don't have the time.
Welcome all, just be patient until the goodies are served. :D

[Cruel Kismet]

Hi all. :) This is my first post. I'm a proud skeptic and critical thinker (I hope). James Randi has been one of my favorite people since 1983 when he exposed the fakery of Rev. Peter Popoff on the Tonight Show.

At social gatherings, I'm the guy saying, "What facts do you have to back that up?" or "That's only one example, and it's heresay" or "No, you're the one that's close-minded because you didn't bother to do any serious research before making an outrageous claim" and of course my favorite, "Don't ask me to prove they don't exist; nothing can be proven to not exist; the burden of proof is on you to prove that they do." I'm considering making cards to pass out with those responses printed on them because I get tired of repeating them. :rolleyes:

I like sci-fi and I like pondering the fringes of our understanding of the universe, but I know when I'm speculating and freely admit it. I'm constantly dismayed with how many people have difficulty making that distinction. I enjoy any opportunity to help people improve that capability, and try to maintain patience and respect in the process. We are all constantly learning and it's ironic that the more I've studied, the more I realize how little I know.

I'll probably mostly lurk while familiarizing myself with the forum but will look forward to increased participation with time and as my schedule permits.

[COLONEL]

Hi all. :) This is my first post. I'm a proud skeptic and critical thinker (I hope). James Randi has been one of my favorite people since 1983 when he exposed the fakery of Rev. Peter Popoff on the Tonight Show.

At social gatherings, I'm the guy saying, "What facts do you have to back that up?" or "That's only one example, and it's heresay" or "No, you're the one that's close-minded because you didn't bother to do any serious research before making an outrageous claim" and of course my favorite, "Don't ask me to prove they don't exist; nothing can be proven to not exist; the burden of proof is on you to prove that they do." I'm considering making cards to pass out with those responses printed on them because I get tired of repeating them. :rolleyes:

I like sci-fi and I like pondering the fringes of our understanding of the universe, but I know when I'm speculating and freely admit it. I'm constantly dismayed with how many people have difficulty making that distinction. I enjoy any opportunity to help people improve that capability, and try to maintain patience and respect in the process. We are all constantly learning and it's ironic that the more I've studied, the more I realize how little I know.

I'll probably mostly lurk while familiarizing myself with the forum but will look forward to increased participation with time and as my schedule permits. Welcome Cruel Kismet ,so do you have any facts or proof that say you are who you claim to be ?

[Cruel Kismet]

Welcome Cruel Kismet ,so do you have any facts or proof that say you are who you claim to be ?

Hmmm, let me critically think about that for a bit. I'll get back to you. :confused:

[Cruel Kismet]

Welcome Cruel Kismet ,so do you have any facts or proof that say you are who you claim to be ?

Ok, you got me! I have no proof or facts. It just feels right that I am who I say. My intuition tells me I'm right.

[defensive recovery mode] So prove that I'm not who I say I am.:duck:

[Shadow the Poodle]

Allow me to introduce my self ,I have been lurking for 18 months and am delighted to find a forum such as this, full of minds far greater than mine who are able to enlighten and entertain on so many topics.

I stole my user name from the first dog to have its genome decoded , Craig Venter's Poodle,Shadow. I was reading Dawkins' "The Ancestors Tale" having just been to see a little black Poodle pup who was joining my family and there in a footnote was the perfect name for my new dog (he is now 3) and a useful user name for a fine forum such as this.

I was introduced to scepticism in grade 7 at school when a class mate (who is now a professor) told me I didn't have to believe in god.Xtians talk about seeing the "light" well I did that day and have beena growing sceptic ever since.

When I joined the Royal Australian Airforce in 1988 I could not get "Atheist" put on my dog tags, and was told to "just put which Padre you want to visit your next of kin after an accident" I railed against this and ended up being able to have just a blank space. I was still expected to attend ""church parades" on Sunday but got to sweep up rubbish and such like . Thankfully things have progressed and 18 years later my dogtags for deployment were proudly stamped "Atheist"

I have been out of the service for two years now and work in the oil and gas industry off shore .

I hope I will be able to contribute something useful to this forum but I intend to watch and wait for my opportunities.

I thank You

[arthwollipot]

Hey Shadow. We Aussies are slowly taking over. Wait for the signal.

[amb]

Yes, especially now we have an honest to goodness atheist PM. :)

[Shadow the Poodle]

Yes, especially now we have an honest to goodness atheist PM. :)


And hasn't that made for some entertaining "letters to the editor" in the various tabloids.A beauty in todays West Australian. Looking forward to more when I get back to the east.

[amb]

Talk back radio was the same. Some folk prefer in a talking snake kind of believing PM rather than an honest to goodness one who will run the country in it's best interest rather than what a book written by got herders thousands of years ago says. :rolleyes:

[COLONEL]

Ok, you got me! I have no proof or facts. It just feels right that I am who I say. My intuition tells me I'm right.

[defensive recovery mode] So prove that I'm not who I say I am.:duck:
No, you are the one who said you are who you are are and I said prove it, the burdan of proof is on you not me and seeing as you said you have no proof, then you must be someone else :p.

[arthwollipot]

I'd hesitate to call her an atheist. I'd call her a nonbeliever.

[maddog]

You just want a reason to call her. I see that glint in your eye, that little twinkle every time someone mentions her name...

[Cruel Kismet]

No, you are the one who said you are who you are are and I said prove it, the burdan of proof is on you not me and seeing as you said you have no proof, then you must be someone else :p.


Your logic is inescapable. Now I'm worried about who I may be because actually, I don't have a clue. :scared:

[Hokulele]

Allow me to introduce my self ...


Kiko, the little black poodle, welcomes Shadow the Poodle.

http://forums.randi.org/imagehosting/thum_15083496acbebde144.jpg (http://forums.randi.org/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=14842)

:)

[maddog]

Your logic is inescapable. Now I'm worried about who I may be because actually, I don't have a clue. :scared:

Here's a clue: when you post things like that, it's clear that you should check out the Humor sub-forum!


(and welcome!)

[COLONEL]

You just want a reason to call her. I see that glint in your eye, that little twinkle every time someone mentions her name...

I'd hesitate to call her an atheist. I'd call her a nonbeliever.
Aw the truth comes out :cool:

[Cruel Kismet]

Here's a clue: when you post things like that, it's clear that you should check out the Humor sub-forum!


(and welcome!)


I'll do that as soon as I get back from this afternoon's emergency session with my shrink to try and get my identity back. :boggled:

(and thanks)

[Learjet]

Hi all. Thought I'd finally take the plunge and sign up. Hope I can make a useful contribution to the forum in some manner.

Cheers from Northern Australia.
Kevin.

[amb]

Just what we need. More Australians. Welcome and check out the Aussie only thread. :)

[Bell]

You Aussies should get a room.

[Lolly]

You Aussies should get a room.
Let's invite Hugh Jackman!

[amb]

And the Minogue sisters. :)

[Impartial Observer]

Hiya folks! Mike here. I'm 37, from Maine. Skeptic, atheist. Big fan of Sagan, Hawking, Randi, Tyson, Nye, McKay...

later

[COLONEL]

Hiya folks! Mike here. I'm 37, from Maine. Skeptic, atheist. Big fan of Sagan, Hawking, Randi, Tyson, Nye, McKay...

later Welcome new member from down East , you may take a glass of fresh Goats milk a grayman oatmeal cookie ,a MINTIE from the bowl and grab a rabbit and give it to our cook and tell him how you would like it cooked .

[Impartial Observer]

Mintie? Is that like a after dinner mint?

thanks!

[grayman]

Mintie? Is that like a after dinner mint?

thanks!

It's an Australian device for removing those nasty fillings and loose teeth one may have.

[Alleyprowler]

Well, when I signed up I didn't realize there would be goats and cookies. Score! I hope nothing unfortunate happens if I try to pet the goat and eat the cookie, although if I tried to reverse that I'd probably get what I deserve.

I am a skeptic and atheist and general, all-around anti-woo type of person from the Pacific Northwest who is attempting to shake off my natural inclination to play nicely with others in spite of their level of batshittiness. I'm tired of accommodating every unfounded belief with a smile and a nod, tired of biting my tongue, and tired of wasting my time reading a bunch of crap just so I can say, "I understand where you get your ideas, but..."

I hate being :rolleyes:unpleasant:rolleyes: to these poor people, because it feels like kicking puppies (really, really stupid puppies); rather, I'd like to learn to be more firm and articulate.

[COLONEL]

Welcome Alleyprowler, Sounds like you will fit right, in enjoy you time here

[frostedpanda]

The words herein may be the spark that ignite the thoughts of somehow understanding ourselves in this sea of sensitivities.:covereyes

[COLONEL]

The words herein may be the spark that ignite the thoughts of somehow understanding ourselves in this sea of sensitivities.:covereyes
What the heck kind of itroduction is this ? This is the new members introduce your selves . not give us you thoughts

[PandaDisguise]

Greetings, salutations, and other synonyms for hello as well!

I'm Greg. Twenty-two year old disaffected student with a penchant for flabbergastery and maleficent meanderings (I also enjoy long walks with adjectives). While delving the depths of the internet I came across a transcript from Larry King where this site was plugged and, being the confrontational enthusiast I am, signed up.

So! Before I shove my foot further down my own throat, I'll bid ye adieu and go plague some other facet of the forum.

[CelticRose]

Greetings, salutations, and other synonyms for hello as well!

I'm Greg. Twenty-two year old disaffected student with a penchant for flabbergastery and maleficent meanderings (I also enjoy long walks with adjectives). While delving the depths of the internet I came across a transcript from Larry King where this site was plugged and, being the confrontational enthusiast I am, signed up.

So! Before I shove my foot further down my own throat, I'll bid ye adieu and go plague some other facet of the forum.
How, pray tell, does one take a walk with a part of speech?

Welcome! :) Help yourself to a glass of freshly milked goat's milk, a Grayman's oatmeal cookie, and a Mintie. Select a rabbit and let the chef know how you want it prepared. No substitutions please.

Remember to return all your library books on time, and give the goat a friendly pat on the head should you encounter it.

[amb]

Welcome all newbies. Please pick up a menu and tell the Colonel how you want your rabbit cooked.

[djnrempel]

What's with all the talk about rabbits and goats etc.? Is there a sticky message somewhere that explains this?

Anyway, allow me to introduce myself. I was raised in a liberal Mennonite family (pacificist, pro-social justice and all that good stuff) but was never totally able to come to terms with the notion of God. I felt really guilty for not really believing and prayed hard for God to make himself real to me.

I was baptized at age 18 because it was the expected thing and was just barely able to do it based on a cobbled-together proof for the existence of God that I pretended satisfied me. I then went on to a (fairly liberal) Bible College and actually worked for the national church organization for a few years. However, ultimately I always felt like a fraud so I quit and went to law school.

I finally accepted what used to be a nightmare fear, that I was an atheist.

My situation now is that I'm the only confirmed atheist in both my and my wife's families. My parents and her parents work for the church in various capacities. My wife and brother / sister-inlaw call themselves Christian but it's so post-modern and reinterpreted that I don't think they really are.

I think it's a case of, as Dan Dennett suggests, "Belief in belief in God" - they don't really believe, but they think they should, so they work at it.

My problem is that I have the missionary / fundamentalist impulse of wanting to stamp out error whereever I see it. Also, we have a two year old daughter and soon there will be discussions about how she will be raised.

I'm very open about my beliefs and people are very accepting, even if a little spiritually patronizing ("Doubt is okay, God has his own plan for you", etc.) but I can't help trying to stir the pot every now and then, and I feel fiercely protective of what influences I want my daughter to be exposed to.

So I am coming to this community for advice on how to be part of a Christian family without tearing it apart. Truth is important to me, but so is family. Bloody awkward position to be in. The funny thing is, I feel like religion / truth is far more important to me than it is to anyone else in my family, because I'm the only one who talks (and thinks?) about it.

[Mr. Skinny]

Welcome, djnrempel.

I wouldn't worry too much about the religious upbringing thing. I was raised a Catholic and married into a Catholic family (Irish, no less).

We had three kids, and I gave up the whole "being Catholic" thing when they were pretty young. As they got older, their own natural doubt, combined with my "inactivity" in the church any longer, seemed to have had the effect that they figured it out for themselves.

I'm not really sure where they stand individually, but I think all three of them are atheists (or close to it). They are all in their 20's now, and seem to have developed minds of their own.

I understand it may be entirely different in your situation, but at least you now have some anecdotal evidence that is worth...well...not a lot really. :)

[COLONEL]

Where are we getting these new ,NewB's from? Long walks with Adjectives ? whats next supper with Verbs ?

[CelticRose]

whats next supper with Verbs ?
That could be a tense situation.

:duck:

[amb]

Welcome newbs. How does an atheist confront a christian? Easy. Ask for proof of their beliefs, and when they point to the babble, you tell them that that is not proof as the whole thing was written/copied by fallible man more than 400 years after the so-called existence of Jeebus.
Now, how would you like your rabbit and goat milk served ?

[djnrempel]

I'm not really a fan of anything goat-flavoured - milk or meat. I am, shall we say, a goat-skeptic until someone convinces me why I should have some.

I'm a little more receptive to rabbit, but don't have much experience, so I'll have it however you recommend it.

As to raising my own children, I'm not too worried about them, I plan to educate them about science and critical thinking. Religion, I think, is impossible to accept unless it is very seriously imparted to you by someone you respect. A belief in God is not something that one would independently arrive at growing up in the modern world. Living in a cave 10,000 years ago, yes, probably, but not today. It's just such a successful meme though that once it's around it's very good at surviving. But I think if my kids don't get it at birth they'll be pretty safe.

What I am worried about is the heartbreak it will cause my parents to see their precious grandchildren grow up without (in their eyes) ever knowing the loving embrace of God etc. They're liberal enough to think that all good people, Christian or not, can go to heaven, but still, it's an awkward situation. Alternately, I worry about my parents trying to sneak in a little indoctrination. I don't think it will take, but it will cause resentment.

And how do I tell my parents and siblings that they are deluded and are wasting their lives? I don't tell them that literally, but it's pretty implicit in the beliefs that I profess.

[djnrempel]

That could be a tense situation.

:duck:

HAH! I just got that! "Tense". :D

[arthwollipot]

Why was the Amish girl excommunicated?

Too mennonite!

[Darth Rotor]

Greetings, salutations, and other synonyms for hello as well!

I'm Greg. Twenty-two year old disaffected student with a penchant for flabbergastery and maleficent meanderings (I also enjoy long walks with adjectives). While delving the depths of the internet I came across a transcript from Larry King where this site was plugged and, being the confrontational enthusiast I am, signed up.

So! Before I shove my foot further down my own throat, I'll bid ye adieu and go plague some other facet of the forum.
See my post count? I have posted a lot. My advice is: don't do as I did.

Just post a bit.

The overposting thing holds much wrongness.

Welcome. :D

[COLONEL]

Hey AMB I made it, I am at the Graymans house in Wyoming,it was 1,882.3 miles and 30 hours in the saddle in two and a half days .

Welcome to all you NewB's As I am on vacation, AMB will be your host. I will be back as host August first, although I will stop by now and then.

[AnnieJ]

You will be missed Colonel...I'm out of butterscotches!

Have fun, stay out of too much trouble and by all means...be safe! Don't eat too many of the cookies.

[amb]

Sorry about your butterscotches. Will Minties do in the meantime?

[Bell]

No true butterscotch fan will ever run out of butterscotches!

[Fiona]

I'm not really a fan of anything goat-flavoured - milk or meat. I am, shall we say, a goat-skeptic until someone convinces me why I should have some.



You should have goat cheese because it is delicious: hard cheese, soft cheese, semi soft cheese: they are all wonderful. I do not know what you have tried but the range and variety is great: do not wait for goat cheese to come to you. Go out and actively seek it, adventurer! :)

[beetzart]

Hi, I have been lurking around here for a couple of days, so I thought I would say hi!

I became compelled to say something after reading the stories of people who where once trapped by paranoid conspiracy theories, but have now seen reason.

This is what happened to me. For nearly seven years I read nearly everything by David Icke. I also went to see him at Brixton Academy and looking back I cringe with the way I used to act. Admittedly I was mentally ill (mainly depression and anxiety, to the point that I was taking olanzapine and lithium), and I wanted to remove responsibilty of my actions away from me and towards the actions of a 'shadowy government'.

Now I am studying science through the Open University and can see through the woo of Icke. I am also banned from his forum. I used to spend hours arguing with 'troofers' and got so fed up with wasting my time that I got my self intentionally banned; I criticised the moderators, and within the hour I was gone.

Anyway, glad I found this place :)

Beetzart

[Bell]

Hi, I have been lurking around here for a couple of days, so I thought I would say hi!

I became compelled to say something after reading the stories of people who where once trapped by paranoid conspiracy theories, but have now seen reason.

This is what happened to me. For nearly seven years I read nearly everything by David Icke. I also went to see him at Brixton Academy and looking back I cringe with the way I used to act. Admittedly I was mentally ill (mainly depression and anxiety, to the point that I was taking olanzapine and lithium), and I wanted to remove responsibilty of my actions away from me and towards the actions of a 'shadowy government'.

Now I am studying science through the Open University and can see through the woo of Icke. I am also banned from his forum. I used to spend hours arguing with 'troofers' and got so fed up with wasting my time that I got my self intentionally banned; I criticised the moderators, and within the hour I was gone.

Anyway, glad I found this place :)

Beetzart

*shifts into reptilian form*

Welcome Beetzart! Good to hear you are doing well and that you turned over to the dark side. Once the NWO has processed your application you will get your goodies bag and a voucher for Starbucks.

*shifts back into human form*

[Fiona]

Welcome beetzart. We have our share of conspiracy theorists here: but if you stay out of CT you should be fine :)

The usual hosts will be along soon, so your best plan is to catch a rabbit while you are waiting :)

[Illiadus]

My name is Thomas and I'm interested in finding out what the general agreement is among skeptics on what would suffice as evidence that various paranormal claims, reincarnation in particular, are real phenomena - or if no agreement exists, what form and amount of evidence would leave no critical voice unsatisfied.

Also, who would win in a fight to the death between Uri Geller and Sylvia Browne?

[arthwollipot]

See my post count? I have posted a lot. My advice is: don't do as I did.

Just post a bit.

The overposting thing holds much wrongness.

Welcome. :DNaaahhh!

[arthwollipot]

My name is Thomas and I'm interesting in finding out what the general agreement is among skeptics on what would suffice as evidence that various paranormal claims, reincarnation in particular, are real phenomena - or if no agreement exists, what form and amount of evidence would leave no critical voice unsatisfied.

Also, who would win in a fight to the death between Uri Geller and Sylvia Browne?Welcome. I recommend you start a thread in General Skepticism and the Paranormal (http://forums.randi.org/forumdisplay.php?f=7). I'd be happy to participate.

[TubbaBlubba]

Well, what's there to say... My name is Leonard, I'm soon 18 years old, a high school student, I live in Sweden. I study the Natural Sciences program in HS, I aspire to become a physician. I enjoy reading books of various kinds, currently making my way through Feynman's lectures on physics, very interesting textbooks. I also enjoy various forms of completely mindless entertainment (e.g. stupid action cartoons) to relax.

Umm... Well, I have a tissue disease, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which basically makes my collagen strands more elastic. It's somewhat disabling in that I can't walk very far (more than ~300 meters is very hard without cramping), and makes me somewhat weaker, but I can mostly live a normal life. I actively train, mostly with free weights, in order to improve my condition. I can also put both of my legs behind my head and then type on the keyboard. Very fun.

Other fun stuff... I'm bipolar (ended up going on sick leave for it last 1,5 months in school, blargh), and just now trying a lithium treatment which will hopefully work well. Stirred up some mighty drama before I left school. Blurgh. Alas, I'm still young.

How did I end up here? Well, I've seen Randi referenced a few times in various media, and I looked up some how his videos on Youtube, and was utterly stunned by this fantastic man. I looked at the forums, the intellectual level seemed reasonable, so I ended up registering.

A little, or in reality, absolutely nothing of value, about me.

[Illiadus]

Moderatjävel. :)

[COLONEL]

You will be missed Colonel...I'm out of butterscotches!

Have fun, stay out of too much trouble and by all means...be safe! Don't eat too many of the cookies.Here is another big bag of Butter scotchies

[TubbaBlubba]

Moderatjävel. :)

Except I'm voting for Vänsterpartiet.

[Illiadus]

Då har vi kanske en chans ändå, kamrat. Kul att råkas.

[TubbaBlubba]

Detsamma, detsamma.

[Lolly]

Jag talar inte Svenska.

[amb]

I beg your pardon? What was that again? You want the rabbit cooked with a chili sauce? Your wish is my command. Coming right up!
And Fiona, goat cheese or feta is sometimes not affordable by the general public. I agree though, it is something special. I should know, I sell the stuff.

[COLONEL]

I love feta and have it all the time :)

[ncrespi]

I joined JREF yesterday. My name is Nina, 58, divorced.
A resident of Coney Island, but please don't hold it against me as it doesn't define who I am :)

My interests are metaphysics, religion, psychology, astrology, tarot, pets.

The last book I read was "Psychic in 2 Worlds" by Sylvia Browne. I'm not a fan of hers but of the topic. To me, it sure beats discourse on Tiger Woods!

[ncrespi]

Thomas, regarding "proof" of reincarnation, I can offer only something personal which convinced me:

As soon as my daughter was born, I called her " the mother". Never knew why, but it stuck. Decades later, a psychic ( whom I never told this to ) said my daughter & I shared a past life in a convent. She was the officiating head of it & guess what they called her?

[grayman]

Thomas, regarding "proof" of reincarnation, I can offer only something personal which convinced me:

As soon as my daughter was born, I called her " the mother". Never knew why, but it stuck. Decades later, a psychic ( whom I never told this to ) said my daughter & I shared a past life in a convent. She was the officiating head of it & guess what they called her?

Well that's it. I'm convinced.

[amb]

As am I! :p

[Bytor]

Hello djnrempel,

Like you I am new to the organized skeptic scene (waiting in airport on the way home from first TAM) and am also Mennonite, but I am not an atheist. Though, honestly my views about whether the Bible is historically accurate (I don't feel we have any evidence to show it is) and the strong pro-science stance I take in Usenet groups like alt.talk.creationism and talk.origins mean I often get mistaken for an atheist. I'm probably that kind of po-mo, very non-literal, liberal Christian you describe your family as being. "Deist" might even be applicable to me.

My suggestion would be to keep close that good old Mennonite sense of community and caring for others that comes out of the story of the Good Samaritan. Regardless of your current religious beliefs, chances are you still have that ethical sense of how to treat you fellow humans in common with the rest of your family even your reasons fro having it are no longer faith-based.

I'm new to this forum, too, and I look forward to interacting with another Mennonite and maybe even meeting you at a future event.

[grayman]

Well that's it. I'm convinced.

As am I! :p

But to be honest, I didn't believe in reincarnation during any of my past lives either.

[Mountweazel]

Hello Jref-ers. I come to you as a CT refugee looking to make sense of the nonsense. Please be gentle.

A little background: I'm a relatively intelligent (hopefully) and fairly well educated dude. I spent 4 years in the Navy after high school, got a poli sci degree from one of the better universities in the country, and then went on and and eventually got an MS in electrical engineering and now work as an engineer (you can really get a lot accomplished in 12 endless meandering years of college). So anyway, what I'm trying to say here is that I feel like I know how to use my brain to a certain extent, think critically and all that groovy stuff. I've never been strongly partisan politically, but have always been intensely interested in politics, history and current events.

My brother is a rabid, foaming at the mouth Alex Jones-er. He always felt very skeptical about the mainstream 911 story and for the first few years afterward channeled his believer-hood into being "A Democrat" a la Keith Olberman, Air America etc. I never got as into it as he did however, and it was always apparent to me that he was kind of a zealot about it. However, in the last couple of years he has discovered Alex Jones et al and is now a full on zealot for that cause, hook line and sinker. Chem trails, HAARP, 911 Truth, the NWO, you name it he has bought the entire chimichanga with an extra serving of refried conspiracy on the side. And not only has he bought into it, there's not really any room for discussion about it with him. He doesn't so much have a conversation about these things as make pronouncements and decrees about the true state of the world, and gets agitated and even angry when confronted with an opposing point of view. Being a naturally skeptical person, I kept it at a distance for a while, but slowly I myself became more and more interested in it, and for the last 6 weeks or so I have been listening to Alex Jones and some of the other GCN podcasts daily.

I have to admit, its some extremely sexy stuff. I mean, holy Jeebus, it explains everything!!!! You can feel your brain cells crying out "Eureka" as you finally mainline "The Theory of Everything" into your spinal cord. For the naturally curious type, like myself and I expect a lot of others here, the feeling that you are being initiated into the "Secret Knowledge" that explains the whole world is a real rush. It seems like there's some kind of deep desire that we have to make sense of things, so deep that we are willing to sacrifice reason and logic itself if they get in the way of that feeling being satisfied. So I'm really going to try and avoid hating on the woo-addicted because I can understand why its so hypnotic.

That being said, its very difficult to listen to that stuff for too long before the cracks begin to appear. For me, especially as an engineer, its all the 911 stuff that I just can't take. In fact, pretty much anything that has anything to do with science they get wrong. But then Alex Jones will repeat WE HAVE THE DOCUMENTS!!!! over and over like that makes it true. LOL.

The final straw for me came a couple days ago. I got into a kind of flame war on prisonplanet over an article on 911 Truth. I wasn't trying to be a troll, but when I raised questions about the supposed "evidence" for 911 I was met with open hostility. I had been aware of Jref already, but that was pretty much what caused my full cognitive reorganization. I haven't listened to AJ since, joined up here and hope to, in the coming millennia, go through some of the woo with you skeptical types.

In particular I would like to discuss some of the NWO and financial/banking/End the Fed stuff. That was the stuff that really grabbed me, and honestly although I see the movement in general as fraudulent, I'm not convinced that just because they get all the science wrong that they don't necessarily have a point with their critique of globalism and central banking.

For example, its hardly a CT-only view that NAFTA has harmed both American and Mexican working people while it has benefited multi-national corporations. And as for the Fed, I'm not convinced that Ben Bernanke or Alan Greenspan are any more working in the best interests of the United States than our democratically elected leaders.

Anyway, I'm not proposing to get into those topics here. And please don't take this as some kind of attempt to slip some woo in through the backdoor while I'm claiming I'm not. I honestly would like to find some way to make sense of all this. I will continue to lurk in the forums and post these questions there when appropriate. But I would be happy to hear any feedback on my general overall grand unified theory of confusion.

Thanks! :)

[Mr. Skinny]

Welcome, Mountweazel.

Nice introductory post. However, if you do open a thread in the 9/11 conspiracy forum it would help if you linked to the above post. No sense repeating what's already been said.

The reason I say this is: That subforum has already heard nearly every argument that's been made, so it's likely you'll be met with some derision unless you've got something new and interesting to present.

Just my humble opinion (as forum god. :))

[Keeper of Pigasus]

I am the Keeper of Pigasus. Some of you may know me as that kid that is always at TAM and carries a very large Pigasus on his shoulder. You may also know me as sgf8's youngest son, or Stirling.

A five year member of the JREF, Ive only know gotten off my rear and created a forum account. Hooray for procrastination.

[COLONEL]

Thomas, regarding "proof" of reincarnation, I can offer only something personal which convinced me:

As soon as my daughter was born, I called her " the mother". Never knew why, but it stuck. Decades later, a psychic ( whom I never told this to ) said my daughter & I shared a past life in a convent. She was the officiating head of it & guess what they called her?
Sorry but with out hard facts and proof I am not buying any of this reincarnation stuff

[Prometheus]

I am the Keeper of Pigasus. Some of you may know me as that kid that is always at TAM and carries a very large Pigasus on his shoulder. You may also know me as sgf8's youngest son, or Stirling.

A five year member of the JREF, Ive only know gotten off my rear and created a forum account. Hooray for procrastination.

The sooner you fall behind, the more time you have to catch up. Welcome.

[ncrespi]

You don't have to be sorry or buy anything.
My post was not directed at you.
What proof is there that YOU exist?
And people with closed minds have no reason to be on metaphysical boards.

[grayman]

You don't have to be sorry or buy anything.
My post was not directed at you.
What proof is there that YOU exist?
And people with closed minds have no reason to be on metaphysical boards.

Do you have proof this board really exist?

You realize, don't you, this is a skeptic site, one which requires evidence of paranormal claims. It is also a site where you will receive debate about such topics. A closed mind is not one that asks for evidence, it is one that stagnates.

[COLONEL]

You don't have to be sorry or buy anything.
My post was not directed at you.
What proof is there that YOU exist?
And people with closed minds have no reason to be on metaphysical boards.
Well the Grayman has seen me ,according to the IRS who I pay taxes to, say I exist , But if you take every thing said on this board seriously and can not take a little ribbing then you are in the wrong place.

[Mountweazel]

You don't have to be sorry or buy anything.
My post was not directed at you.
What proof is there that YOU exist?
And people with closed minds have no reason to be on metaphysical boards.

Although this is only my 2nd post here, I'm pretty sure this isn't a metaphysical board. In fact I think that its kind of the opposite of that.

Here's an excerpt from the Wikipedia definition of metaphysics, which if I understand the purpose of the JREF, makes clear that this board's purpose is sort of at odds with an attempt to explain the world through other than scientific means:

"Before the development of modern science, scientific questions were addressed as a part of metaphysics known as "natural philosophy"; the term "science" itself meant "knowledge" of epistemological origin. The scientific method, however, made natural philosophy an empirical and experimental activity unlike the rest of philosophy, and by the end of the eighteenth century it had begun to be called "science" to distinguish it from philosophy. Thereafter, metaphysics became the philosophical enquiry of a non-empirical character into the nature of existence."

[Mountweazel]

Welcome, Mountweazel.

Nice introductory post. However, if you do open a thread in the 9/11 conspiracy forum it would help if you linked to the above post. No sense repeating what's already been said.

The reason I say this is: That subforum has already heard nearly every argument that's been made, so it's likely you'll be met with some derision unless you've got something new and interesting to present.

Just my humble opinion (as forum god. :))

Thanks for the feedback Skinny. I'd appreciate any other JREF heavies weighing in on my chimichanga analogy.

[Naddig74]

Rabbits? Did we run out of hamsters or something?

[Lolly]

Did we run out of hamsters or something?I set them all free.

[amb]

Rabbits? Did we run out of hamsters or something?

And what pray tell is wrong with rabbits? At least one can have a meal on a single rabbit. With hamsters you need at least three to have a decent meal.
But if newbies prefer a hamster, I'm sure some could be had for the right price. :D

[Sceptical-Engineer]

Hi
TAM 8 was my first TAM and it was the best experience I ever had, Now want to go to TAM London but I think it will not be possible for me to go.
You see I'll be in Aberdeen becoming a Mechanical Engineer so most likely I will not have time to travel to London.
It's going to be my first year in Aberdeen and i am hoping that the will be a sceptics group there, if not I'll to start something small.

It was great to meat you all at TAM 8 hope to see you all soon.

[bookitty]

Hi
TAM 8 was my first TAM and it was the best experience I ever had, Now want to go to TAM London but I think it will not be possible for me to go.
You see I'll be in Aberdeen becoming a Mechanical Engineer so most likely I will not have time to travel to London.
It's going to be my first year in Aberdeen and i am hoping that the will be a sceptics group there, if not I'll to start something small.

It was great to meat you all at TAM 8 hope to see you all soon.

Hi Sceptical-Engineer. I don't know if you were one of the fellow first-timers I met but welcome! It was incredible, wasn't it. There's a thread about it in forum community if you would like to post your thoughts.

[Skeptical Samurai]

Hey everyone

have been lurking for quite some time

decided that i should sign up and start to participate.

I look forward to some great interactions/discussions!

[The Man]

Welcome Skeptical Samurai. Glad to hear that you are now off the lurking bench. Pet the goat and have a rabbit or two while you’re out and about. I look forward to seeing you on some threads and hope malarkey is one of the things you can cut through. Please return all library books in one piece.

[tim]

Hi
TAM 8 was my first TAM and it was the best experience I ever had, Now want to go to TAM London but I think it will not be possible for me to go.
You see I'll be in Aberdeen becoming a Mechanical Engineer so most likely I will not have time to travel to London.
It's going to be my first year in Aberdeen and i am hoping that the will be a sceptics group there, if not I'll to start something small.

It was great to meat you all at TAM 8 hope to see you all soon.

Are you sure you don't want to re-think that spelling.................?
Welcome!

[SusanB-M1]

I joined JREF yesterday. My name is Nina, 58, divorced.
A resident of Coney Island, but please don't hold it against me as it doesn't define who I am :)

My interests are metaphysics, religion, psychology, astrology, tarot, pets.

The last book I read was "Psychic in 2 Worlds" by Sylvia Browne. I'm not a fan of hers but of the topic. To me, it sure beats discourse on Tiger Woods!
Welcome. May I recommend that, whenever you find yourself thinking that there 'must be something in it', i.e. astrology, you give yourself a talking to and say, 'Now, come on, Nina, remember logical, critical thinking. You know it cannot be true.'

I say this because astrology was the one that I found it hardest to separate myself from! Even though the cool, detached part of my brain was giving me a good talking to!!:)

As you might infer from my avatar, wherein the feet are not mine!, I love to tap dance - once a week:

Our average age is 71
We tap each week and have such fun,
But don't aim for perfection.
We learn to work in counts of eight,
And though we never demonstrate,
Today** is an exception.

**Last Saturday I was at the Humanist Group meeting where members did 10-minute entertainments. Mine lasted about 6 min I think!

[SusanB-M1]

Welcome, Mountweazel.

Nice introductory post. However, if you do open a thread in the 9/11 conspiracy forum it would help if you linked to the above post. No sense repeating what's already been said.
And then there's that Gravy post (http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=82689) where he gathered together as many links as he could.

[Foolmewunz]

You don't have to be sorry or buy anything.
My post was not directed at you.
What proof is there that YOU exist?
And people with closed minds have no reason to be on metaphysical boards.

Oops... Methinks you took a wrong turn at the intersection of Mulberry and Google.

Welcome, nevertheless, but criticizing skeptics on a skeptics board - for being skeptical.... And then confusing said skeptics' site with a metaphysical board? Well, let's just that that leads me to think that you may have mis-read something. Mind you, our friendship with Sylvia Browne does run deep, so that's and understandable mistake (see Randi on Sylvia and her newest bestest friend, Robert Lancaster).:D

[Kittynne]

Welcome all newbies. Please pick up a menu and tell the Colonel how you want your rabbit cooked.
Hi! I'm new, and a feeling a little shy at the moment, so I'll just ask for my rabbit served to me alive and fluffy and offering me a hamburger and poutine platter, and I'll go back into the corner to hide while I wait for bunny to bring me my burger. :D

[Lolly]

so I'll just ask for my rabbit served to me alive and fluffy Yay! Another bunny lover! Welcome.

[Shadow the Poodle]

Kiko, the little black poodle, welcomes Shadow the Poodle.

http://forums.randi.org/imagehosting/thum_15083496acbebde144.jpg (http://forums.randi.org/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=14842)

:)

and Shadow the Poodle returns the greeting

http://forums.randi.org/imagehosting/413614c34186701ace.bmp (http://forums.randi.org/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=20353)http://forums.randi.org/imagehosting/413614c3419030e69a.bmp (http://forums.randi.org/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=20354)

[Hokulele]

Is Shadow the poodle a miniature?

Kiko the poodle is.

http://forums.randi.org/imagehosting/thum_150834aaafd57b132d.jpg (http://forums.randi.org/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=17539)

[Shadow the Poodle]

Shadow is a toy, but runs to the larger end of the toy size range .


http://forums.randi.org/imagehosting/413614c3e8d54580c2.bmp (http://forums.randi.org/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=20422)

[Hokulele]

Shadow is very lucky they have banned tail docking down under. If we had gotten Kiko before the breeder docked her, we would never have let it happen. :(

http://forums.randi.org/imagehosting/thum_150834a0720bc54104.jpg (http://forums.randi.org/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=16271)

[COLONEL]

Hi! I'm new, and a feeling a little shy at the moment, so I'll just ask for my rabbit served to me alive and fluffy and offering me a hamburger and poutine platter, and I'll go back into the corner to hide while I wait for bunny to bring me my burger. :D
One Bunny Burger comming up :D

[amb]

One Bunny Burger comming up :D

:drool::drool:

[Elvis Calypso]

Hi Folks,

I'm new around here, and I don't care how my rabbit's cooked so long as it comes with fries.

Essentially, I spent most of my formative years wishing that weird things like ghosts, global conspiracies etc. were true, because that would be cool. I excitedly purchased many books and magazines on these subjects and watched many fine TV programmes. As time went by, I began to nurture a growing realisation that evidence for these things was sorely lacking - this annoyed me. Surely something weird was true, I mean, I'm not asking for vampires for Christ's sake, just some urban legend with a shred of fact, or a yeti toe-bone. Something! Alas not, upon close inspection weird things appear to disappear. I became angry, somewhere to the right of Richard Dawkins. I would pronounce (loudly) that all academic qualifications should be stripped from anybody a) religious b) credulous or c) relativist. Get off the fence losers! Hmmmm... Recently I have mellowed somewhat. I earnestly ask anyone to give me some evidence for something weird. I will then believe (probably, that particular thing). I don't care what it is really, but something like an angel or alien would be best. Psychic powers would also be good, as would a conspiracy theory that just doesn't have no evidence therefore proving how good the conspiracy theory is. I hope I have found my virtual spiritual home.

[Kittynne]

Yay! Another bunny lover! Welcome.

/wave! thanks! :D

[Kittynne]

One Bunny Burger comming up :D

*cries*

[quadraginta]

I set them all free.


Letting them loose in a locked, empty room with the Vampire Bat Zombie Monster Dog :eek: doesn't count as 'setting them free.

Or if it does, it only counts for a brief period of time.

[CaCO3]

I am new and browsing through it does not seem to be any coherent discussion on this page. If my voice is heard somehow, I ask one question. What the heck do the skeptoid tshirts mean? B1FF 14m3r 404.. computer jargon and if its from an episode, I haven't listened to it yet. Please fill me in.

[Lolly]

with the Vampire Bat Zombie Monster Dog :eek: doesn't count as 'setting them free.
We don't have hamsters here. It's the American hamsters I've freed.

[quadraginta]

We don't have hamsters here. It's the American hamsters I've freed.


This from the country which gave the world both The Hamster Dance (http://www.webhamster.com/)

... AND ...

... the chart busting 2001 Number Five Hit Australian single.

The Hamster Dance Song (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3G5IXn0K7A)

Pull the other one.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

You just don't have hamsters because you have the

Vampire Bat Zombie Monster Dog :eek:.

QED

[Lolly]

I remember the hamster dance song. Back when the internet was fun and not full of viruses and evil miscreants. We still don't have hamsters here, anyway.

[amb]

Hi Folks,

I'm new around here, and I don't care how my rabbit's cooked so long as it comes with fries.

Essentially, I spent most of my formative years wishing that weird things like ghosts, global conspiracies etc. were true, because that would be cool. I excitedly purchased many books and magazines on these subjects and watched many fine TV programmes. As time went by, I began to nurture a growing realisation that evidence for these things was sorely lacking - this annoyed me. Surely something weird was true, I mean, I'm not asking for vampires for Christ's sake, just some urban legend with a shred of fact, or a yeti toe-bone. Something! Alas not, upon close inspection weird things appear to disappear. I became angry, somewhere to the right of Richard Dawkins. I would pronounce (loudly) that all academic qualifications should be stripped from anybody a) religious b) credulous or c) relativist. Get off the fence losers! Hmmmm... Recently I have mellowed somewhat. I earnestly ask anyone to give me some evidence for something weird. I will then believe (probably, that particular thing). I don't care what it is really, but something like an angel or alien would be best. Psychic powers would also be good, as would a conspiracy theory that just doesn't have no evidence therefore proving how good the conspiracy theory is. I hope I have found my virtual spiritual home.

A very warm welcome E. Your rabbit will be along cooked as ordered shortly.
You are not alone there buddy. In my youth I fell hook line and sinker for a book titled Chariots Of The Gods and a couple of others by this con-man. The author was Eric von Daniken, a Swiss hotelier who was charged for fraud. Then a scientist published a book called Crash Go The Chariots and still I was hooked even though this scientist exposed each and every claim made by von Daniken.
Then quite suddenly I too woke up to the fact that there was not a sliver of evidence for any of these outrages claims of spacemen, or and as it turned out at the same time, religion of all kind. :)

[SusanB-M1]

Elvis Calypso and amb

Ditto, except that I can say, with a slight air of smugness, that at the end of 'Chariots of the Gods' etc, I did say, 'So where's the evidence from the conventional view?':):)

The thing I found hardest to separate myself from was astrology and had to give myself several severe talkings to before it disappeared completely.

And of course, welcome Elvis Calypso and CaCO3. Yes, this is a random sort of thread isn't it? But I always keep up with all the posts as it is constantly interesting.

(P.S. The tap-shoed feet aren't mine!)

[The Man]

I am new and browsing through it does not seem to be any coherent discussion on this page. If my voice is heard somehow, I ask one question. What the heck do the skeptoid tshirts mean? B1FF 14m3r 404.. computer jargon and if its from an episode, I haven't listened to it yet. Please fill me in.

Well perhaps not much of a coherent discussion, rabbit burgers, hamsters, petting the JREF goat, returning library books and Vampire Bat Zombie Monster Dog aside, as a coherent message, and that is “welcome”. As to the latter part of your inquiry, sorry I’m just not familiar with that shirt or the intended meaning.

[AdMan]

If my voice is heard somehow, I ask one question. What the heck do the skeptoid tshirts mean? B1FF 14m3r 404.. computer jargon and if its from an episode, I haven't listened to it yet. Please fill me in.

Welcome.

You could ask in the Skeptoid forum (http://forums.randi.org/forumdisplay.php?f=77), but my feeling is they're just geeky designs in leet (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leet).

404 is the HTTP not found error message.

[Skip_H]

OK, just sent in my membership via the online payment.

1st time TAMer at TAM8. I've listened to podcasts for years. the usual, SGU, SGU 5x5, DJ G., Brian Dunning, Randi, etc.

I had to go to TAM to just see all of them in person. I saw Randi walk into the buffet section and just from that, I decided I got my travel and registration money's worth right then and there.

I just didn't expect the speakers to just hang in the halls and mingle so dang much. That was a major benefit. Brain Dunning and 2 of the SGU randomly sat at my lunch table. I was too surprised to even talk to them.

I don't believe any additional podcast overviews can actually cover what TAM is. Being there was very useful. I'm ready to book TAM9.

Oh, On some other thread, someone started a "TAM9 from outer space" tagline. So far, that if the best theme idea. I mean, the TAM8 8 ball was great, I took it to be that liquid filled ball you turn over to get your question answered. That is pretty funny. I just wonder what TAM9 artwork and theme could be...

[The Man]

Welcome Skip H, I haven’t been to a TAM yet. Maybe 9 will be my lucky number.

Well as "TAM9 from outer space" sounds like a good tag line, I’d go with some artwork featuring or resembling Tor Johnson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tor_Johnson) and of course a zombie (or zombie fighting) theme as well as topics in astronomy and cosmology.

[ThermionicScott]

Hey folks, I wasn't able to make it to TAM this year, but my friend kmortis* thought I should join up and get to know everyone before next year's!

About me: I'm a 29-year old atheist from eastern Iowa, and co-organize a very boisterous atheist/agnostic/freethinking/skeptical/etc social group called the "Corridor A-Team".

Well, I should back up... I grew up a pretty gullible kid in a fairly religious Lutheran family and as I got older, realized that perhaps supernatural beings were one of those things I had been suckered into (and helped sucker myself into) as well. It took a couple of religion classes and some critical thought in college to really crumble the foundations and start me on my path toward becoming an agnostic, then an atheist. I kept it on the DL for a long time, because I didn't know too many other atheists, and have never been great at winning debates, or just speaking confidently for myself. I joined a fledgling atheist group in my town (bringing along a friend for support), and it was a boon for my social life on top of giving support for my (non)beliefs. I realized very quickly that building strong communities is one of the most important things we can do right now.

Anyways, great to meet you all, and I'm off to build up most post count so I can unlock all those neat features!

- Scott

* He warned me it may not be wise to associate myself with him... :p

[ThermionicScott]

Also peeved that I didn't get here in time for hamster. :mad:

[amb]

Welcome all to this great forum. I'm positive you'll enjoy yourselves here.
The hamsters were curtsy of a member who had too many and some escaped.
The situation will be under consideration, and hamsters may be made available in the very near future. Meanwhile, order your rabbit cooked the way you all like it. :D

[grayman]

Also peeved that I didn't get here in time for hamster. :mad:

I have a slightly used gerbil I can let you have cheap.

[ThermionicScott]

I have a slightly used gerbil I can let you have cheap.

Something tells me he'll need a lot of cleaning. :eek:

[arthwollipot]

I've started breeding - the hamster supply will be replenished in no time. I'm using my "special" bloodline - the one I tinkered with to make it more fecund. I think this line will... hey, what's that... Oh my... no! NO! AAAAAAAIIIGHHGGRHRHRR!!!!






don't... tinker... with....... the............. bloodlines...........................

[COLONEL]

I have a slightly used gerbil I can let you have cheap.
Is that the one shemp was using ?

[notsure]

To all of the new members who attended TAM 8 over a week ago the first time, what do you think of the meeting?

It was my first time, an interesting to me. I learned a lot, forced me to think things that I would otherwise eveny pay any attention to.

[chachaE]

hello all. I've been lurking a bit and have decided to introduce myself (obviously). I'm 37, divorced, and happy to have found this place! I grew up in a religious family and devoutly believed for many many years. While I shook myself loose from the religion mantle early in my undergrad career, I bought the whole ghosts/aliens thing for a good while longer than I'd like to admit. Like others, I believed in these things because I WANTED them to be true...makes life interesting, I thought. It is fun to listen to spooky stories on Art Bell late at night. But eventually, after one ghost show too many, I realized that there is just no possible way for any of this to be true (thinking realistically)...I saw that no real proof was offered anywhere. I realized that I was bored of the supernatural shows before they began, thinking to myself that IF real proof was ever discovered, this random show would not be the place to introduce it to society.

I am feeling a bit rambly, so I'll cut it short. Basically, when I discovered Randi's videos on youtube several months ago, my eyes were opened to a whole new world of careful, organized skepticism. Carl Sagan opened my eyes to the fact that scientific reality is actually quite much more fascinating/interesting/entertaining than paranormal woo.

I look forward to spending more time here!

[Fiona]

To all of the new members who attended TAM 8 over a week ago the first time, what do you think of the meeting?

It was my first time, an interesting to me. I learned a lot, forced me to think things that I would otherwise eveny pay any attention to.

Welcome, notsure. There is a thread about what folk who went though of TAM
http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=180222&highlight=TAM

and others discussing different aspects of it too, I think. Dive in :)

[Fiona]

hello all. I've been lurking a bit and have decided to introduce myself (obviously). I'm 37, divorced, and happy to have found this place! I grew up in a religious family and devoutly believed for many many years. While I shook myself loose from the religion mantle early in my undergrad career, I bought the whole ghosts/aliens thing for a good while longer than I'd like to admit. Like others, I believed in these things because I WANTED them to be true...makes life interesting, I thought. It is fun to listen to spooky stories on Art Bell late at night. But eventually, after one ghost show too many, I realized that there is just no possible way for any of this to be true (thinking realistically)...I saw that no real proof was offered anywhere. I realized that I was bored of the supernatural shows before they began, thinking to myself that IF real proof was ever discovered, this random show would not be the place to introduce it to society.

I am feeling a bit rambly, so I'll cut it short. Basically, when I discovered Randi's videos on youtube several months ago, my eyes were opened to a whole new world of careful, organized skepticism. Carl Sagan opened my eyes to the fact that scientific reality is actually quite much more fascinating/interesting/entertaining than paranormal woo.

I look forward to spending more time here!

Welcome to you too, ChachE. The regular hosts are not here at present but if you can get by without stocking your inventory with various kinds of food, you can start to explore and return when they show up. *hands ChachE a lamp and a flask of oil*

[amb]

To all of the new members who attended TAM 8 over a week ago the first time, what do you think of the meeting?

It was my first time, an interesting to me. I learned a lot, forced me to think things that I would otherwise eveny pay any attention to.

Where else could you get two great men in the one place. I promised myself, one day I will be part of that great occasion.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mKeWga7uSI&feature=related

[Lolly]

Where else could you get two great men in the one place. Well, you're here. Who's the other guy?

[amb]

Oh, you mean Richard Dawkins?

[arthwollipot]

Welcome to you too, ChachE. The regular hosts are not here at present but if you can get by without stocking your inventory with various kinds of food, you can start to explore and return when they show up. *hands ChachE a lamp and a flask of oil*And a 10-foot pole and some iron rations...

[CmacMacmA]

Hello everybody! I've finally got around to making my first post. Looking forward to talking to you all soon. :)

[grayman]

Hello everybody! I've finally got around to making my first post. Looking forward to talking to you all soon. :)

Kiwi!

Want an oatmeal cookie? :stone028:

[Sparx Macgyver]

Hello all! new guy here. Just stopping to say hola. Como esta?

[CmacMacmA]

Kiwi!

Want an oatmeal cookie? :stone028:

Thanks, but I've kind of gone off of those ones. ;)

[arthwollipot]

Thanks, but I've kind of gone off of those ones. ;)
:eek:

someone refused an oatmeal cookie!???
:jaw-dropp

That hasn't happened in...
:jaw:

[amb]

ten years at least. Next thing they will refuse the hamster or rabbit. :p

[quadraginta]

:eek:

someone refused an oatmeal cookie!???
:jaw-dropp

That hasn't happened in...
:jaw:


It happened when I first checked in here. I'm still holding out for the toll-house chocolate chip cookies.

(... and the braised chevon medallions.)

[CelticRose]

And a 10-foot pole...
Why? So they can go around not touching things? :p

[COLONEL]

Thanks, but I've kind of gone off of those ones. ;)
:jaw-dropp http://crapmods.com/phpBB3/images/smilies/new29.gif (http://crapmods.com/phpBB3/posting.php?mode=smilies&f=22&start=200#) You dared to turn down a cookie http://crapmods.com/phpBB3/images/smilies/new36.gif (http://crapmods.com/phpBB3/posting.php?mode=smilies&f=22&start=200#)http://crapmods.com/phpBB3/images/smilies/new35.gif (http://crapmods.com/phpBB3/posting.php?mode=smilies&f=22&start=200#) you have hurt the Graymans feeleings

[The Charnel Expanse]

Long-time reader, first-time poster. I don't have much of a science background, but I'm a voracious reader and take a lot of interest in conspiracy theories. Not because I believe in them, but because their genesis and evolution fascinates me.
I know MarkyX from time we both spent on the Colbert Nation forum a few years ago.

[Bell]

Long-time reader, first-time poster. I don't have much of a science background, but I'm a voracious reader and take a lot of interest in conspiracy theories. Not because I believe in them, but because their genesis and evolution fascinates me.
I know MarkyX from time we both spent on the Colbert Nation forum a few years ago.

Welcome! Do you still talk to MarkyX? If so, say hi from his JREF friends. I haven't seen him posting here for quite some time.

[Schrodinger's Cat]

Long-time reader, first-time poster. I don't have much of a science background, but I'm a voracious reader and take a lot of interest in conspiracy theories. Not because I believe in them, but because their genesis and evolution fascinates me.
I know MarkyX from time we both spent on the Colbert Nation forum a few years ago.

welcome!

[Blackened Cat]

Hi folks!

I signed up to respond to a post that mentioned a forum I run. It was about a person whose membership got accidently deleted.

But meh, I don't sign up to boards like this just to do that, so I'll stick around and participate.

I would not call myself religious or spiritual, as that kinda denotes some sort of activity that I do. But I am interested in the search for answers. I went through a lot of different other paths/religions, but have come back to Christianity.

But I am politically liberal and theologically liberal.... and at times I'm a non-believer, agnostic and someone who could care less (at times).

I am intuitive so I usually get a funny feeling when I listening to, or reading things that are BS. I appreciate what Randi is doing. I'm neither a fan or critic, having only briefly read about him over the years.

To be honest these days I think your political persuasion is more important than your religious/non-religious affiliation. I'm a left winger.

Anyways, G'day from Australia!

[LTABN]

Hello everyone!

My name is Luke, and I am currently living in Boston. I have a great love for wisdom and am endlessly fascinated by science and philosophy, the world around us and the people that fill it. I look forward to our conversations!

[Supernaut454]

Hi folks!

I signed up to respond to a post that mentioned a forum I run. It was about a person whose membership got accidently deleted.

But meh, I don't sign up to boards like this just to do that, so I'll stick around and participate.

I would not call myself religious or spiritual, as that kinda denotes some sort of activity that I do. But I am interested in the search for answers. I went through a lot of different other paths/religions, but have come back to Christianity.

But I am politically liberal and theologically liberal.... and at times I'm a non-believer, agnostic and someone who could care less (at times).

I am intuitive so I usually get a funny feeling when I listening to, or reading things that are BS. I appreciate what Randi is doing. I'm neither a fan or critic, having only briefly read about him over the years.

To be honest these days I think your political persuasion is more important than your religious/non-religious affiliation. I'm a left winger.

Anyways, G'day from Australia!

You beat me to it you bloke!!!! *using aussie slang for the first time*


Anyhow, newbie here as well with the same purpose as the above poster. This seems to be a rather lively forums and I look forward to getting to know some folks!

[COLONEL]

Welcome to all you Newb's I see AMB has not given anyone anything while I was gone, so I will tell you NewB's what you get . You get to have a fresh glass of goats milk, a Grayman oatmeal cookie,a MINTIE and you get to pick out a rabbit and give it to the cook to prepare it any way you like . This is a strict menue and there are no substitutions. And again Welcome to the forum

[arthwollipot]

You beat me to it you bloke!!!! *using aussie slang for the first time*Yeah. You probably shouldn't try that again. :p

[Budly]

I am CloudStrife and joined yesterday. I am a Holocaust Denier.

[carlitos]

Now that's an intro. I wonder how that goes over a cocktail parties?

[Budly]

Now that's an intro. I wonder how that goes over a cocktail parties?

Not too well, I imagine. We get a lot of hostility wherever we go.

[COLONEL]

Not too well, I imagine. We get a lot of hostility wherever we go.
Well if you get a lot of hostility where ever you go, then maybe you should either stay away or change your ways .

[Supernaut454]

Yeah. You probably shouldn't try that again. :p

Hell...yer probably right!

[Budly]

Well if you get a lot of hostility where ever you go, then maybe you should either stay away or change your ways .

I found a good quote that describes the problem well:

"Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end" - R. J. Wiedermann LtCol. USMC Ret.

[Dinwar]

Guess I should post something here....

Hi, my name is dinwar and I enjoy arguing. :D

I recently got into a debate with a Creationist (yeah, I know......), and Mr. Dunning's 1500 character limit made full explinations of things impossible, so I thought it would be a good idea to take the debate to the Skeptoid forum--that is, here. I have been interested in James Randi the the JREF for a few years, however. A friend of mine got me hooked on Penn and Teller's Showtime show, and through that we learned about JREF. It's important work, and I'm glad someone is calling out hoaxers and charlatens.

I will appologize in advance for my spelling. Eight years under the gentle tutelage of nuns in a Roman Catholic school didn't help. It's a work in progress. "If you pardon, we will mend", as the Bard said.

Professionally I'm a paleontologist, and my primary interest is the Creationism/evolution thing (which is why I got into the argument which brought me here in the first place). I grew up as a Catholic and study fossils for a living, so I'm more or less on the front lines here.

Politically I'm going to upset people, I think....I'm a fan of small government, individual liberty, etc. Not a Republican or part of the Tea Party--socially I'm very liberal (do what you want, just don't violate anyone's rights)--but I didn't join sight-unseen and realize that a lot of people here are far more liberal than I am.

and you get to pick out a rabbit and give it to the cook to prepare it any way you like I saw in my Standard Newbie Message that you guys are harsh, but that's just too much. Rabbit is one of my favorite dishes, and I haven't had any for three years (not since I left Ohio). Only one guy back home cooked rabbit, and only on the Fourth of July. For some reason my wife doesn't want to kill and cook the things--she thinks they're cute and fuzzy.

Now I'm hungry. I hope you're happy. :p

[Bell]

Hi, my name is dinwar and I enjoy arguing. :D

No, you don't.

[amb]

Guess I should post something here....

Hi, my name is dinwar and I enjoy arguing. :D

I recently got into a debate with a Creationist (yeah, I know......), and Mr. Dunning's 1500 character limit made full explinations of things impossible, so I thought it would be a good idea to take the debate to the Skeptoid forum--that is, here. I have been interested in James Randi the the JREF for a few years, however. A friend of mine got me hooked on Penn and Teller's Showtime show, and through that we learned about JREF. It's important work, and I'm glad someone is calling out hoaxers and charlatens.

I will appologize in advance for my spelling. Eight years under the gentle tutelage of nuns in a Roman Catholic school didn't help. It's a work in progress. "If you pardon, we will mend", as the Bard said.

Professionally I'm a paleontologist, and my primary interest is the Creationism/evolution thing (which is why I got into the argument which brought me here in the first place). I grew up as a Catholic and study fossils for a living, so I'm more or less on the front lines here.

Politically I'm going to upset people, I think....I'm a fan of small government, individual liberty, etc. Not a Republican or part of the Tea Party--socially I'm very liberal (do what you want, just don't violate anyone's rights)--but I didn't join sight-unseen and realize that a lot of people here are far more liberal than I am.

I saw in my Standard Newbie Message that you guys are harsh, but that's just too much. Rabbit is one of my favorite dishes, and I haven't had any for three years (not since I left Ohio). Only one guy back home cooked rabbit, and only on the Fourth of July. For some reason my wife doesn't want to kill and cook the things--she thinks they're cute and fuzzy.

Now I'm hungry. I hope you're happy. :p

Welcome aboard. We have hamsters arriving soon if rabbit is not suitable. Meanwhile, grab some Minties and enjoy the forum.

[fuzzball]

I am a semi retired manufacturing engineer and have a private tutoring practice for math and science for grade school through high school.

I also ran my own industrial engineering and repair service in the Chicago Metro market for 25 years. When asked what I did my response was that "I could design, build, modify, and repair in the electrical, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and programmable logic controller (PLC) fields.

I consider myself a "skeptical Christian" in that I do believe in an afterlife and God. I just don't think most, if not all, denominations actually have their facts right. For instance take the passage in John 3:16 of the bible. It is used by almost all bible based denominations to mean that no matter who you are or where you come from if you don't make the choice indicated there before you die you will spend eternity in hell.

But I don't think I would want to be a part of a heaven run this way. What about people who have been raised in a culture where Christianity is not common and in some cases not even allowed. There are good and bad people in all of them. But by the accepted interpretation of John 3:16 even the ones who have lived very Godly lives by the standards of their definition of their God will still be sent to an eternity in hell.

What I do believe is that if the verse john 3:16 has been properly translated from the ancient Greek you will still be able to make any choice necessary after you die.

Now back to my introduction.

I am an unabashed Alpha Geek. I have an interest in just about anything and everything to do with science and technology. I can engage in a conversation in just about any scientific or technical discipline without sounding like a complete doofus.

I like to collect old technical books. I even have a couple considered to be rare and valuable. I actually picked those up at garage sales as I have never been rich enough to build my collection from a rare book dealer.

I am also an accomplished cook and have several recipes of my own that are quite popular with family and friends.

There is more but I am going to stop here. You will get to know me better as I interact with all of you..

PS:
people who know me well thing I have a weird sense of humor. I will let you judge that one for yourself as you get to know me better.

[TubbaBlubba]

I am CloudStrife and joined yesterday. I am a Holocaust Denier.

As if that wasn't enough, you also have exceedingly poor taste in video games judging by your name.

[Ambiguity]

Greetings!

My name is Becky, I am 24, and I believe I was born a skeptic. When I was about 6 or 7, my parents finally gave up and conceded to me that Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny are not real. My response? "I know!" So they really shouldn't have been so shocked when I made it perfectly clear to them that despite being forced to attend their Evangelical Presbyterian church every Sunday for years, I did not believe in god and never would. My mom now apparently believes that I worship some sort of voodoo demon. Yes, mother, because voodoo and Jesus are the only two possible options :rolleyes:.

ANYWHO, I discovered this forum through Brian Dunning's Skeptoid podcast (which is absolutely wonderful if any of you haven't listened to it yet). How refreshing to find an online community of skeptics! Especially since I just recently moved to South Florida, where the prevalence of believers in the pseudoscientific seems to be much higher than anywhere else I have lived. It's a constant barrage of the stuff, from all directions...some days I'm surprised I even leave the house. It can get pretty depressing. But I try to keep in mind my goal as a skeptic: to encourage critical thinking in others. It's all well and good to sit on the internet reading about people who agree with me, but I like to think of it more as research, so that when that opportunity comes up to talk to someone about his or her pseudoscientific beliefs, I will be well-equipped to help them see reason without scaring or offending them away.

So that's me! Oh, and I would like my rabbit cooked rare please, and don't mind if I take a handful of minties (I'm saving them for later) :D

[TubbaBlubba]

Greetings!

My name is Becky, I am 24, and I believe I was born a skeptic. When I was about 6 or 7, my parents finally gave up and conceded to me that Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny are not real. My response? "I know!" So they really shouldn't have been so shocked when I made it perfectly clear to them that despite being forced to attend their Evangelical Presbyterian church every Sunday for years, I did not believe in god and never would. My mom now apparently believes that I worship some sort of voodoo demon. Yes, mother, because voodoo and Jesus are the only two possible options :rolleyes:.

ANYWHO, I discovered this forum through Brian Dunning's Skeptoid podcast (which is absolutely wonderful if any of you haven't listened to it yet). How refreshing to find an online community of skeptics! Especially since I just recently moved to South Florida, where the prevalence of believers in the pseudoscientific seems to be much higher than anywhere else I have lived. It's a constant barrage of the stuff, from all directions...some days I'm surprised I even leave the house. It can get pretty depressing. But I try to keep in mind my goal as a skeptic: to encourage critical thinking in others. It's all well and good to sit on the internet reading about people who agree with me, but I like to think of it more as research, so that when that opportunity comes up to talk to someone about his or her pseudoscientific beliefs, I will be well-equipped to help them see reason without scaring or offending them away.

So that's me! Oh, and I would like my rabbit cooked rare please, and don't mind if I take a handful of minties (I'm saving them for later) :D

Welcome. Sounds like you'll fit in nicely here. I weep for Americans who have to live with a majority of religious people around them. Not much of that to see here in Sweden.

[Budly]

As if that wasn't enough, you also have exceedingly poor taste in video games judging by your name.

And you seem to have an exceedingly poor taste in females, judging by your avatar.

[AdMan]

And you seem to have an exceedingly poor taste in females, judging by your avatar.

When do you get out of middle school, CS?

[Fiona]

I am CloudStrife and joined yesterday. I am a Holocaust Denier.


I think Nazis Anonymous is down the corridor :)

[Budly]

When do you get out of middle school, CS?

I graduated many years ago.

[Snak]

Greetings to you all.

I've spend at least a dozen hours lurking these forums this month, I figured it is due time to join. I'm a musician and former aspiring magician. I learned about James Randi when I was learning magic as a teen, and have always been very interested in finding out the truth behind what I was seeing.

I hope to learn more as I spend more time here, and contribute what I can to the ongoing discussions.

And I will try not to abuse the smileys :scared:

[grayman]

Greetings to you all...

...And I will try not to abuse the smileys :scared:

http://www.stabletalk.co.nz/forums/images/smilies/spankee.gif

[amb]

I think Nazis Anonymous is down the corridor :)

:big:

[SusanB-M1]

Greetings!...Especially since I just recently moved to South Florida, where the prevalence of believers in the pseudoscientific seems to be much higher than anywhere else I have lived. It's a constant barrage of the stuff, from all directions...some days I'm surprised I even leave the house. It can get pretty depressing. But I try to keep in mind my goal as a skeptic: to encourage critical thinking in others.
Welcome. I wonder whether the American Humanist Association has a group near where you are living now? If so, that would be a group, not only of like-minded people, but also of people who work for secularisation with the backing of membership numbers rather than individually.

[ArtSpirit]

Greetings and salutations. My name is ArtSpirit. The term Art Spirit comes from a book written by Robert Henri, excellent reading for those in the art world and those who would like to know what makes and artist tick. And...yes, I am an artist, historian, cook, mom, lovin' the outdoors and thinking on my feet and off them. My husband has been a member of the Forum since '06. I've been reading over his shoulder for much of that time and felt that maybe it was high time I got to put my own two cents into the ring of debate, discussion, and critical thinking.

I was raised in a pseudo-Christian environment (otherwise known as Lutheranism/Agnosticism). I majored in History, delved deeply into the Middle Ages and have been jaded ever sense. I have always tried to surround myself with those who will always ask questions of the status-quo and I love a good debate. As Oscar Wilde said: "A man who does not think for himself does not think at all." Wise words.

So keep your eyes open for musings under my name. I hope to get deeply acquainted with the Forum! Huzzah!

[Bmorepitbull]

Ok,
So I've already made a few posts on a thread that is near and dear to me, and I realize that I should have probably introduced myself here first. I signed up a few months ago, and thanks to everyone who had left me messages for my birthday before I actually logged in again to respond to actual threads. It is much appreciated, even though I'm feeling older than ever (I'm not that old I know, but time is just flying).

For those of you have read what I have posted, you know that I am proud American
Pitbull Terrier owner and advocate of the breed, and breeds mistaken for and/or as misunderstood as APBTs. I volunteer much of my time, when I'm not working or attending school, to dog rescues and APBT/bully breed advocacy groups. While I am passionate about many things, this is the one thing that I am most passionate about and am currently working on trying to create a dog sanctuary for the Eastern Shore, specifically focusing on APBTs and APBT mixes and other bully breeds, but not excluding other breeds by any means. Hopefully when I can actually get my application in, I will actually get some great starter money for my plans with the Pepsi Refresh project. Trust me, I'll let you all know if I get my application in before the 1.000 allowed per month.

On top of all that I'm an atheist, a skeptic, and a science lover. I am a fan of truth and hold people accountable for what they say/claim (both in person and online).

I'm currently engaged, I will be in approximately one year getting married to my fiancée, who is joining the army this December once he receives his bachelor's degree in juris prudence (spelling?). He will be going into the Army as an officer and he aims to become an officer of the ranger battalion, which I believe is the 82nd? I'm not entirely sure. The military speak is something that I will have to get used to. Anyways, he and my pit are the loves of my life. I couldn't imagine my life without them.

Right now we also currently live with a West Highland Terrier, and while she is a runt, she and my dog, a male, get on more than well. She is constantly giving him kisses and wanting to cuddle with him, and she does not hesitate to boss him around the house. Cottie, the West Highland Terrier, who belongs to my fiancé's parents, definitely runs the household, and they are cute as can be together.

So I think that about sums up my introduction unless other people have further questions for me.

[TubbaBlubba]

And you seem to have an exceedingly poor taste in females, judging by your avatar.

Hahahaha! Good one, for that is me, and I am male.

[AshDeadShort]

A little nervous to make a post in what always reads as such an esteemed forum, but here we go then.

Hi.

I'm Ash. The DeadShort part comes from a straightforward translation of my last name from the language of the country of its origin. It's not a great topic for conversation whilst courting.

I'm a long-time lurker who finally managed to join after a few failed attempts for some reason. I look forward to posting and hopefully not irritating people by dredging up topics that have been covered many a time before.

I had a voracious interest in woo as a child. I'd read a lot about cryptozoology, ghosts, psychics, aliens and so on. I couldn't really say if I were a believer or not, but I think it was more as an interest. Stopped thinking about it at all as a teen, but then came back to it again as a young adult and was completely skeptical about the lot from the get-go.

I'm a touring musician (well... a drummer), and a university lecturer/tutor in design, but have a keen interest in the sciences that mainly gets nurtured from fora such as this.

Great to be here!

[arthwollipot]

I was raised in a pseudo-Christian environment (otherwise known as Lutheranism/Agnosticism). I majored in History, delved deeply into the Middle Ages and have been jaded ever sense.The Crusades has a tendency to do that to people.

Also the Inquisition.

And have you heard the story of St Olaf's conversion of Norway?

When King Olaf had despatched Bjorn and his followers to Gautland, he sent other people also to the Uplands, with the errand that they should have guest-quarters prepared for him, as he intended that winter (A.D. 1018) to live as guest in the Uplands; for it had been the custom of former kings to make a progress in guest-quarters every third year in the Uplands. In autumn he began his progress from Sarpsborg, and went first to Vingulmark. He ordered his progress so that he came first to lodge in the neighbourhood of the forest habitations, and summoned to him all the men of the habitations who dwelt at the greatest distance from the head-habitations of the district; and he inquired particularly how it stood with their Christianity, and, where improvement was needful, he taught them the right customs. If any there were who would not renounce heathen ways, he took the matter so zealously that he drove some out of the country, mutilated others of hands or feet, or stung their eyes out; hung up some, cut down some with the sword; but let none go unpunished who would not serve God. He went thus through the whole district, sparing neither great nor small. He gave them teachers, and placed these as thickly in the country as he saw needful. In this manner he went about in that district, and had 300 deadly men-at-arms with him; and then proceeded to Raumarike. He soon perceived that Christianity was thriving less the farther he proceeded into the interior of the country. He went forward everywhere in the same way, converting all the people to the right faith, and severely punishing all who would not listen to his word.

(Source (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/598/598-h/598-h.htm#2H_4_0305))

Talk about conversion at the point of a sword!

[COLONEL]

Who let the loonies out of the asylum? We sure are getting some weird NEWB's lately

[Dinwar]

Hey, they kicked me out of that place! :D

[quadraginta]

Who let the loonies out of the asylum? We sure are getting some weird NEWB's lately


Is it quite certain which side of the bars you're watching from?

[grayman]

Colonel enters Casa del Whacko...


http://forums.randi.org/imagehosting/thum_92464c4b6b2d2a9e9.jpg (http://forums.randi.org/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=20510)

[Dinwar]

If you've got to go there, that's probably the best way to do so! :D

[amb]

Colonel enters Casa del Whacko...


http://forums.randi.org/imagehosting/thum_92464c4b6b2d2a9e9.jpg (http://forums.randi.org/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=20510)

Hey! That looks like a nice place you have there. Not knowing what goes on inside those walls of course. And I don't wish to know!! :D

[Fiona]

You don't know what goes on inside a church: well how is that for atheist credentials oneupmanship? :th:

:D

[eerok]

Hi guys. I'm probably a bog standard skeptic -- I think I was born with a tendency to believe as little as possible and to value hard evidence over comfortable fictions. I've lurked for years on talk.origins and other places where skeptical arguments are common. I'm mostly fascinated by the psychology of woo, and I hope to approach a broader range of stuff here. For example, I've read quite a bit on creationism, scientology, global warming denial, alternative medicine, and pseudoscience in general, but am pretty fresh to subjects like holocaust denial, 9/ll CT, and bigfoot.

I can't believe I missed this place until now. For better or worse, it was a link on somethingawful that brought me here.

[manxman]

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[char]

Hello everyone!
Char here ! I wandered upon this site by way of google. I'll be looking around and looking forward to chatting and posting!

[TubbaBlubba]

Hello everyone!
Char here ! I wandered upon this site by way of google. I'll be looking around and looking forward to chatting and posting!

Char! Char! Char! Char! Char! Char!
Biimu kagayaku furasshubakku ni... Yatsu no kage!

Erh, I mean, welcome.

[COLONEL]

Hey! That looks like a nice place you have there. Not knowing what goes on inside those walls of course. And I don't wish to know!! :D Well it used to be a church but now ...............Well I cant say Gray man swore me to secrecy.But I can say he does have this goat and the goats name is spot.

[amb]

At least that church has been put to a useful purpose.

[dustyloft]

I am your standard A4 sceptic. Sorry about skewing the stats. I am a Brit living in Norway. My journey into the light started more years ago than I care to mention here. Found my way here via Bad Astronomy. Have been a passive participant on the internet for a few years and figured it was about time to say hello.

[COLONEL]

I am your standard A4 sceptic. Sorry about skewing the stats. I am a Brit living in Norway. My journey into the light started more years ago than I care to mention here. Found my way here via Bad Astronomy. Have been a passive participant on the internet for a few years and figured it was about time to say hello.
Welcome have a glaas of goats milk a grayman cookie,a MINTIE and help your self to a Rabbit and tell the cook how you want it cooked. Also you may have a Hamstere instead of rabbit if you prefer

[AdMan]

Char! Char! Char! Char! Char! Char!
Biimu kagayaku furasshubakku ni... Yatsu no kage!



I wonder how many people will get that... :D

[COLONEL]

Char! Char! Char! Char! Char! Char!
Biimu kagayaku furasshubakku ni... Yatsu no kage!

I wonder how many people will get that... :D
Not many I'm sure

[Malachi Constant]

Hiya, everyone. I've been lurking for a while, but I figured I'd introduce myself.

I live in Texas so going to skeptic meetups was my way of keeping myself sane. I have a background in video production and I will probably be going back to school shortly to complete my degree.

I've also met Neal deGrasse Tyson and Genie Scott in person so there. Also a bunch of rappers because of a show I worked on, but no one is ever impressed by that.

[grayman]

I've also met Neal deGrasse Tyson and Genie Scott in person so there. Also a bunch of rappers because of a show I worked on, but no one is ever impressed by that.

I've met Greydon Square. :)

[AdMan]

I've also met Neal deGrasse Tyson and Genie Scott in person so there.


I like you already! Welcome.

[turboccc]

Hi all,

I searched Google and ended up here. I thought being a member could be interesting. I hope I'll be able to contribute in some ways to the discussions.

See ya out there!

[Malachi Constant]

I've met Greydon Square. :)

I had to look him up, I don't think I've heard of him before.

Alas, I had to spend time lugging my camera around "holy hip-hop" events and church gatherings. Thank god I'm not doing that anymore.

[TubbaBlubba]

Not many I'm sure
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For the oblivious.

[grayman]

I had to look him up, I don't think I've heard of him before.

Alas, I had to spend time lugging my camera around "holy hip-hop" events and church gatherings. Thank god I'm not doing that anymore.

For those that haven't heard of Greydon Square:

d5R8kok_4d4

[Dr Detroit]

I've been lurking here since 2008 and I figured it was about time I introduced myself. I just formed the Michigan Skeptics Association and am looking forward to participating on the forums. Unfortunately I wasn't able to go to TAM (8) this year but I am planning for next year.

[Furcifer]

Welcome Detroit, coming all the way from Windsor.

[Dr Detroit]

Nice to meet you, Problem!

[TomiH]

Hi, my name is Tomas and im 18
I am from Valparaiso, Chile.
Sadly i go to a roman catholic school...So i dont get to talk much about intresting stuff. Well next year im going to university...Going to study to be a doctor or dentist...Depending on the results
How did i arrive here?
I have been a skeptic for about 4 years now...I was justing trying to find info. on debunking miracles..And i watched many videos about the one million dollar challenge...Then i found this website.
I am a skeptic that hates conspiracy theories
If you ask me about my political beliefs, id say i prefer social democracy.
Sorry about my english....It is my 3rd language
I am sorry for my english i really got a bad habit couse of youtube and msn.

[The Man]

Welcome TomiH, sorry to hear about your current scholastic circumstances, but glad you are transcending that education. As well as planning for a future of continuing education. Not to worry about English being your third language though, I’m still trying to make it my first.

Welcome everyone else as well.

[The Man]

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Welcome manxman; by all means please let us know when your invisible period has subsided.

[The Man]

I am a semi retired manufacturing engineer and have a private tutoring practice for math and science for grade school through high school.

I also ran my own industrial engineering and repair service in the Chicago Metro market for 25 years. When asked what I did my response was that "I could design, build, modify, and repair in the electrical, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and programmable logic controller (PLC) fields.

I consider myself a "skeptical Christian" in that I do believe in an afterlife and God. I just don't think most, if not all, denominations actually have their facts right. For instance take the passage in John 3:16 of the bible. It is used by almost all bible based denominations to mean that no matter who you are or where you come from if you don't make the choice indicated there before you die you will spend eternity in hell.

But I don't think I would want to be a part of a heaven run this way. What about people who have been raised in a culture where Christianity is not common and in some cases not even allowed. There are good and bad people in all of them. But by the accepted interpretation of John 3:16 even the ones who have lived very Godly lives by the standards of their definition of their God will still be sent to an eternity in hell.

What I do believe is that if the verse john 3:16 has been properly translated from the ancient Greek you will still be able to make any choice necessary after you die.

Now back to my introduction.

I am an unabashed Alpha Geek. I have an interest in just about anything and everything to do with science and technology. I can engage in a conversation in just about any scientific or technical discipline without sounding like a complete doofus.

I like to collect old technical books. I even have a couple considered to be rare and valuable. I actually picked those up at garage sales as I have never been rich enough to build my collection from a rare book dealer.

I am also an accomplished cook and have several recipes of my own that are quite popular with family and friends.

There is more but I am going to stop here. You will get to know me better as I interact with all of you..

PS:
people who know me well thing I have a weird sense of humor. I will let you judge that one for yourself as you get to know me better.

Welcome fuzzball, from another engineer who has spent the majority of his career in manufacturing. Though I’m not retired, that career (also of about 25 years) basically is (very little manufacturing in this area anymore). Have a rabbit or two (while waiting for the hamsters to be restocked), pet the goat and return all engineering library books. Hope to see you on the science and technology threads where your sense of humor may not be that weird compared to some of the purportedly serious posters there.

[secrets]

Hello :)
My name is Georgia, and I'm a high school student from Australia.
Everyone & everything on this networking site fascinates me to bits!
I'm also a habitual knowledge craver.

[TubbaBlubba]

Hello :)
My name is Georgia, and I'm a high school student from Australia.
Everyone & everything on this networking site fascinates me to bits!
I'm also a habitual knowledge craver.

http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n312/Hatma/1269683193676.jpg


Sup.

[secrets]

haha! trust me, this gravitational pull is great as an anti-aging means

[TubbaBlubba]

So Australian women's breasts sag upwards?

[secrets]

I knew you would say that!
but yes, yes they do.

[amb]

My gawd, so many newbies, so few rabbits and Minties to share around. :D

[TubbaBlubba]

I knew you would say that!
but yes, yes they do.

That's merely anecdotal. On the JREF, we present evidence!

[secrets]

Hahahaha, you wish buddy! (:

[Foolmewunz]

Hello :)
My name is Georgia, and I'm a high school student from Australia.
Everyone & everything on this networking site fascinates me to bits!
I'm also a habitual knowledge craver.

Well, welcome. Skepchicks are always at a premium, and to have an Aussie here younger even than Legend (name's Alex, but if you go to the Member List and look up Legend, you'll find him)!

So you won't be falling for their Minties scam, I guess. The place has been overrun by Aussies and they're always flogging those damned Cavity Mining Devices posing as candy. Oh, and don't mention Tim Tams. They start going into fits of rapture worthy of a Seventh Day Adventist picnic!

If it's winter, most of them will be over in the sports threads, probably, but I think after the USA and UK, our biggest membership base is Australia.

[AdMan]

Hahahaha, you wish buddy! (:


I see Australian smileys are upside down too. Sorta... ;)

Welcome to everyone!

[arthwollipot]

I knew you would say that! OMG You're psychic too!

[COLONEL]

I knew you would say that!
Oh no another Sylvia Brown Protege

[Gonk!]

Hello (oh good start)

I've signed up mostly because the fine chaps on the The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe podcast said that it would be a good idea. Actually I've had the forums bookmarked for a while now but haven't thought about signing up.

[ImmortalityLTD]

Hello from sunny Southwest Florida. Like some of the others here I found out about the forums here from the recent SGU and Skepticality TAM 8 coverage. I'm a long time skeptic, though I didn't know it until a few years ago. I'm looking forward to making contact with some like-minded people here, as we are few and far between here in the southern US.

[secrets]

OMG You're psychic too!

Yes, yes I am. Be afraid :eye-poppi

[secrets]

Well, welcome. Skepchicks are always at a premium, and to have an Aussie here younger even than Legend (name's Alex, but if you go to the Member List and look up Legend, you'll find him)!

So you won't be falling for their Minties scam, I guess. The place has been overrun by Aussies and they're always flogging those damned Cavity Mining Devices posing as candy. Oh, and don't mention Tim Tams. They start going into fits of rapture worthy of a Seventh Day Adventist picnic!

If it's winter, most of them will be over in the sports threads, probably, but I think after the USA and UK, our biggest membership base is Australia.

Thanks :)
you're right about Minties. Those little buggers will cost you a filling or two.
But Tim Tams, they really are bliss!
People from different parts of the world fascinate me, I've never traveled :S

[secrets]

Oh no another Sylvia Brown Protege

Care to elaborate?

[TubbaBlubba]

Care to elaborate?

http://www.stopsylvia.com/

Does that clear it up?

[secrets]

http://www.stopsylvia.com/

Does that clear it up?

Haha, it sure does. What a nut job.

[amb]

Hello (oh good start)

I've signed up mostly because the fine chaps on the The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe podcast said that it would be a good idea. Actually I've had the forums bookmarked for a while now but haven't thought about signing up.

Hello from sunny Southwest Florida. Like some of the others here I found out about the forums here from the recent SGU and Skepticality TAM 8 coverage. I'm a long time skeptic, though I didn't know it until a few years ago. I'm looking forward to making contact with some like-minded people here, as we are few and far between here in the southern US.

Welcome to you both. Make yourselves at home. :)

[Damien Evans]

I am CloudStrife and joined yesterday. I am a Holocaust Denier.

Erm, well...


At least you're honest?

[secrets]

I am CloudStrife and joined yesterday. I am a Holocaust Denier.

I hope you choke on your denial.

[arthwollipot]

Yeah, I think secrets will fit in here pretty well.

[secrets]

Yeah, I think secrets will fit in here pretty well.

Why thank you.
I have diabolical issues with people like CloudStrife.

[Legend]

Erm, well...


At least you're honest?

:dl:

[TubbaBlubba]

Reminds me, I occasionally lurk on stormfront (that site is HILARIOUS), and somone in a topic questioned how white males could POSSIBLY consider breeding with african-american women... While quoting Thomas Jefferson in his signature.

Yeah, good going.

[Legend]

Another young person. Wow, generational shift right here.

Alex.

[TubbaBlubba]

Who, me? Can't help when I was born, now can I?

[Chopin]

Hi, my name is Frederic and I'm self-delusional troll with a god complex.
Thank you for your time.

[applecorped]

Yes he does.

[Bell]

Hi, my name is Frederic and I'm self-delusional troll with a god complex.
Thank you for your time.

Thank you for spending time!

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