Being Skeptical Part 2 — Conditions, Evidence and Excuses
Here is the second of two articles that originally appeared elsewhere ( Part 1 is here ). I have edited this one a bit as well. The sceptic-tank-ical approach. That is, the constant denial of evidence. Absolutes If you insist on irrefutable, absolute proof before you will accept or believe something, you will have pitifully little to believe at all. What would happen in the court systems if they took that approach? Witnesses are expected to differ on details because of their knowledge, observations, personalities and whatever else; everyone has their own perspective. They use reasonable evidence, and not just iron-clad positive proof. Otherwise, there would be few convictions indeed. Edit: Demanding physical proof of a transcendent God is a category mistake , a logical fallacy. It's funny in a way that "everyone knew" that Casey Anthony was guilty, and were outraged that she was found not guilty. But "everyone" was not in th...