Q spends some time contrasting two different sorts of religion in this Dialogue.
Some forms of religion promise "proven certainty" and may have particular appeal to people who are, for a variety of reasons, quite anxious. These expressions of religion also trade a lot in fear. Harold Camping represented this variety of religion. More of his story can be found here.
Other expressions of religion appeal to what one writer (Matthew Fox) calls "Original Blessing" which recalls the words of God over all of creation, including people: "It is good, so very good!" These expressions typically do not offer proven certainty but invite people to live "by faith." That is, they call persons to commit themselves to a belief and a lifestyle even though it is impossible to be certain in advance of its correctness.
What is your experience with these and other expressions of religion? Which ones attract you . . . repel you? Why?
Do you think it's desirable to refrain from committing one's life to an idea and lifestyle absent proof of its correctness? Is this possible?
