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We
use the word conviction rather than belief because the former means
a statement that arises out of rational processes while the latter suggests
something achieved by an act of faith.
We are convinced that there is only one reality and that reality is the
world we experience through our senses and the instruments that extend
them. [There is no heaven or hell. The supernatural does not exist.]
We are convinced
that the laws of nature are consistent laws and that nature makes no special
dispensations for humans. [The universe is orderly. There are no miracles.]
We are convinced
that there is no division between humans and nature; that ideals generated
by humans are as much a part of nature as flowers. [Plato was wrong.
Idealism is a human invention and natural.]
We are convinced
that rational thought leads to a moral life.
[Faith that there is a god who punishes evildoers is a poor way to
morality.]
We are convinced
that human investigation and reason are our best guides to the truth of
the natural world. [Science rather than religion is the way to real
understanding.]
We are convinced
that humans bring the ideas of Truth, Goodness, Beauty and Love into this
world. Although those ideas are never completely realized they are the
goals that give direction and meaning to life.
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