From: utzoo!decvax!ucbvax!sjk Newsgroups: net.philosophy Title: Re: Immortality and fear. Article-I.D.: ucbvax.1043 Posted: Wed Mar 9 06:18:03 1983 Received: Thu Mar 10 01:23:04 1983 References: sdccsu3.311 rabbit.1147 cbosg.2798 It's interesting to see the apparent contradictions in the religious views of death. For example, Hinduism accepts reincarnation, whereas "you only go around once" in fundamental Christianity. What meaning do these views give to life and death? What hopes and/or fears do they invoke in their believers and do they give more or less purpose to living? I really don't think it matters as much as some people would like us to think.... cbosg!dir's concept of an inherently purposeless life seems like the freest route. Here's something to try if you're ever hassled by a religious fanatic. Allow them to get raving a bit, then pop the question "How would I know you're a Fooist if you didn't tell me?" (this is especially effective with Christians, as you might imagine) I'd like to hear the results of anyone's trying this! scott