Post-materialist science manifesto (Introduction)

by dhw, Monday, February 23, 2015, 22:32 (3560 days ago) @ George Jelliss

I agree with most of George's criticisms, but would welcome an open-minded approach to the problem of consciousness and to the study of psychic phenomena. I'm only chipping in here in order to add a massive HEAR HEAR to the following:
 
GEORGE: 17. They claim their post-materialism gives us back our "dignity and power" but I was unaware we had lost it, or had much in the first place. Why can't materialists favour compassion respect and peace? Far from creating a "deep connection" between ourselves and nature it seems to me they are separating us from nature. Materialists can also have environmental awareness and favour the preservation of life forms, and be contemplative.-One of the great myths created by the religions is the idea that anyone who does not believe in God (or in their own particular God) is incapable of love, empathy, morality etc. I recall a discussion with Tony on St Paul's charming summary of it all: “Be ye not unequally yoked with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness?” (Cor. 2, 6, 14). I would still welcome this project, but George has highlighted the problem I mentioned earlier: I fear that like some scientists on the other side of the fence,they will colour their science with their personal prejudices.