polemics - the practice of argumentation and refutation of an opponent’s opinions, particularly in theological and philosophical writings.
www.sastor.com/Glossary_P.html
So, the point is that--yes--Humanism is a counter point to religion for many non-religious people. I think that Eugene's point in his post is very well observed and I agree! My own conclusion or view of humanism is, as I suggested in class yesterday, it presents many universal values that people across cultures/faiths share. The big point of contention always has to do with things like the story of creation vs evolution--religious "truth" vs scientific "truth"--is God real and did God give us a purpose or do we need to create that purpose? These are the polemics that we will never resolve and have probably produced some fruitful debate and questioning in some historical moments--but my own personal view is that we don't need to be stuck here any more.
Here is a funny example (I think) of a polemical view:
http://www.bible.ca/tracks/b-humanism-is-religion.htm
Your ending comment reminds me very much of what the bhudda said when he was teaching. there are certain universal questions that simply cannot be answered, and we should not waste valuble time on them when there is so much more at stake in life.
ReplyDeleteYes--here is the parable where he makes that statement: A man is hit by an arrow. The philosophers stand around and ask questions like--Who shot the arrow? Why an arrow? Why this man? Was he/she aiming for something else?
ReplyDeleteThe Buddha says, Stop asking questions and pull the arrow out!