On Tue, Sep 04, 2001 at 10:16:50PM -0500, Dan Minette wrote:
> The real question is "why should we?" As a religious person, I
> believe that we are created in the image and likeness of God. Thus,
> I should because treating other humans as though their lives are as
> important as mine. I know many non-religious people who think we
> should act that we "just because its the right thing to do." I think
> that's a perfectly valid reason, but I also think that is a faith
> statement, just like mine.
There can be some pragmatism in it, too. Although the genes will tend to
"act" in a short-sighted selfish manner, intelligent beings need not.
For example, if I wish to clone myself or travel to another star-system
or to become effectively immortal, the way to maximize my chances
is usually to cooperate with others to advance the capabilities of
the human race as quickly and as much as possible. In many cases,
this will mean behaving in a "moral" way, although the ends justify
the means would sometimes justify behaving "immorally" (for example,
elitist behavior might sometimes be most efficient towards achieving the
goal). But in most cases, what is "best" for everyone would be best for
achieving such difficult goals.
So there is a reason that is not faith based. But maybe you would say
that wanting to be immortal is faith. I'm not sure what I would call
it. Instinct, maybe, since almost all animals try to avoid death.
--
"Erik Reuter" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> http://www.erikreuter.com/
