During the youthful period of mankind's spiritual evolution human fantasy created gods in man's own image, who, by the operations of their will were supposed to determine, or at any rate to influence, the phenomenal world. Man sought to alter the disposition of these gods in his own favor by means of magic and prayer. The idea of God in the religions taught at present is a sublimation of that old concept of the gods. Its anthropomorphic character is shown, for instance, by the fact that men appeal to the Divine Being in prayers and plead for the fulfillment of their wishes. Nobody, certainly, will deny that the idea of the existence of an omnipotent, just, and omnibeneficent personal God is able to accord man solace, help, and guidance; also, by virtue of its simplicity it is accessible to the most undeveloped mind. But, on the other hand, there are decisive weaknesses attached to this idea in itself, which have been painfully felt since the beginning of history. That is, if this being is omnipotent, then every occurrence, including every human action, every human thought, and every human feeling and aspiration is also His work; how is it possible to think of holding men responsible for their deeds and thoughts before such an almighty Being? In giving out punishment and rewards He would to a certain extent be passing judgment on Himself. How can this be combined with the goodness and righteousness ascribed to Him?
(Albert Einstein, Science, Philosophy, and Religion, A 1934 Symposium published by the Conference on Science, Philosophy and Religion in Their Relation to the Democratic Way of Life, Inc., New York, 1941; from Einstein's Out of My Later Years, Westport, Connecticut: Greenwood Press, 1970, pp. 26-27.)
Tag: man magic evolution superstition invention accountability contradictions early-man
As frustrating as the battle for purity must be, I suppose it's easier if you've got company.
Kevin RooseTag: accountability discipleship
An apology can be a wonderful thing so long as it is infrequent and from the heart. However, beware of the person who justifies bad behavior with apologies. For them it is a means to an end, and quite often at your expense.
Gary HopkinsTag: inspirational spirituality healing enlightenment apology oneness accountability spiritual-growth bad-behavior
There is no fault, only responsibility.
Rob LianoTag: responsibility personal-growth problem-solving blame accountability fault
Ownership: 'A commitment of the head, heart, and hands to fix the problem and never again affix the blame.
John G. MillerTag: results accountability ownership
Before you make a decision, ask yourself this question: will it result in regret or joy in the future?
Rob LianoTag: inspiration decisions future-plans regret personal-development results rejoice accountability
Perhaps he needs the money. Some of the men live too richly for their purses, if you understand me. Fame would allow him large debts, but everything has to be paid back in the end.
Conn IgguldenTag: accountability fame-and-fortune
« prima precedente
Pagina 6 di 6.
Data privacy
Imprint
Contact
Diese Website verwendet Cookies, um Ihnen die bestmögliche Funktionalität bieten zu können.