how much proof is needed?

[Allen]

Ok, so all of us here have realized in one way or another that there is not a God (or for the agnostic, God is not what the general believe him to be).  I want to get to the heart of the matter... why do people believe in God?  I know I will get some cliched answers... what I want is some really deep (not bible story deep (BS), thought provoking deep) reasons as to why so many people believe in a God. Also, why are they in such denial about scientific explanations of such things?

[Allen]

nothing, huh? OK, well how about I start... I feel that a reason some people believe in a God is to give their life meaning and to try to seperate themselves from the "common" animal. It is difficult for most people to imagine that other animals (such as dolphins) may have cognitive thinking... To tie this in with the subject matter, the more science discovers the more humans would be bound to the other animals. Through discovery of the physical universe we are realizing our insignificance, eventually making us as insignificant as, say, a house fly (don't get me wrong, even house flies serve a purpose; but they are seen as more of a nuisance than a contributor). Ultimately, people will realize their insignificance in the universe and will lose their "meaning for living" philosophy if they were to accept scientific proof. OK, now someone else...

[Allen]

Good point. People like direction... most feeble minded do not like making decisions of their own accord. This is evident throughout history time and time again, so many are easily controlled... even so that an invisible being is going to direct their actions. Perhaps more backbone would have prevented the Hollocaust... but regardless, I'd just prefer to see some more spine in some of these people! Maybe someday the actions of these individuals will be for selfless reasons rather than making attempts to "Please God so that I can get to Heaven", and action will be taken without having to "be told" to do it. I wouldn't hold my breath though....