If I understand Dawkins and Dennett correctly we can probably deduce that previous to being convinced that Darwin had indeed developed a convincing explanation showing that it is possible to create sentient, rational beings from inanimate beginnings it was probably impossible for anyone to not be a theist of some sort. Now that atheism is rationally valid, to replace the goodness of God,it can be held that its creed must provide consolation and meaning to life in order to stave off despair without recourse to a supreme being other than the universe itself. That is, for the theists of the world to retain hope and faith in their existence. For me, I find it easy to delude myself that not only is religion to do with faith and hope which it fulfils admirably but that it is also to do with truth. Clearly a trap that I must avoid in order to empathise with believers.
Hence my initial post - To geet a handle on some replacement for many years of blind faith. Thanks for your contributions. If you have any more keep them coming. I am all ears. A THOUGHT + Why did God wait until we brains had already stuffed up before he sent his prophets to help us out.
