Counter Apologetics

I’m joined today by Jonathan Machnee, an autistic researcher who has conducted the largest English language ethnographic study of Christians and ex-Christian autistics (autism 1, or what was formerly known as Asperger’s Syndrome or high-functioning autism). His research has included data mining over 26,000 autistics and conducting over 500 interviews with autistic Christians and ex-Christians in order to understand the intersection between autism, Christianity, and nonbelief. Christianity On the Spectrum Autism and Apologetics Jon on X Email Jon at christianityonthespectrum at gmail dot com My Linktree / Timestamps / 00:00 Why are autistics less religious? 29:36 Do autistics practice religion differently? 37:56 Why does everyone think they’re autistic? 1:02:07 Imago Dei 1:18:03 What surprised you in your research?

The discussion critiques Mel Gibson's claim that 'nobody dies for a lie,' focusing on the questionable historical evidence of the apostles' martyrdom. It explores how many martyrdom stories are embellished and often mythological. Hypothetical scenarios reveal that individuals can die for beliefs they may not truly hold. Additionally, the psychology of faith is examined, particularly how believers adapt after disillusionment, exemplified by the Millerites' response to failed prophecies. Ultimately, the complexity of human behavior challenges the straightforward notion behind martyrdom.

The discussion dives into the absurdity of prioritizing fleeting pleasures over eternal truths in a religious context. Thought experiments challenge theodicies, questioning the validity of justifications for evil in a world created by a benevolent deity. Diverse views on hell and the concept of universalism reveal stark contrasts between Orthodox Judaism and mainstream Christianity. Personal anecdotes and humor intertwine with philosophical musings on morality and suffering, offering a refreshing take on the often heavy themes of faith and divine justice.

Dive into the intriguing journey of Philip Goff's conversion to a unique interpretation of Christianity. Explore his thoughts on a finite God, panentheism, and the essence of being a 'real' Christian. The conversation challenges rigid definitions of faith and delves into the complex relationship between belief, rationality, and doubt. With critical views on traditional doctrines and a philosophical take on theism versus naturalism, this discussion invites a fresh perspective on the nature of divinity and personal beliefs.

Two Christian apologists reviewed my series on the moral argument for God on their channel, Democracy of the Dead. I recorded my own counter-response shortly thereafter, but thought it was too profanity-laden and impolite to release. Generally speaking, it’s good to remain dispassionate in these online spaces, but I let my frustration get the better of me. However, I changed my mind. I trust that you in the audience can discern why I’m reacting as I do in the episode. My exasperation was entirely the product of their errors, oversights, and misunderstandings — all of which were completely avoidable, had they put one-tenth of the effort into their video that I put into mine. Their mistakes are not exclusively philosophical. In many instances, they simply misunderstand what is being said, for what purpose it’s being said, and even who is saying it. All in all, it was an extremely tedious video to review, but I hope that my commentary makes it interesting, or at least entertaining. Linktree  

Adherent Apologetics and the host discuss the shift from atheism to agnosticism due to religious ambiguity, diversity in theistic views, peer disagreements, and the value-selection hypothesis. They reflect on personal journeys, influences from Christian thinkers, and the complexities within theism and atheism.

I’m interviewed by Fuad Abdullah Harahap (@fubilosophy) about my deconversion, the sad state of Christian apologetics, my issues with the skeptic community, free will, the afterlife, agnosticism, and a few other topics. Fubilosophy Linktree

What would convince you of God’s existence? Specifically, the Christian God. What would change your mind and cause you to convert? I name three things: Christian aliens, miracles, and religious experience. That’s not an exhaustive list, but those things would dramatically raise my credence in Christian theism. I spend the most time talking about religious experiences, mainly for two reasons. First, their epistemic significance is not always appreciated by nonbelievers. Second, I’ve noticed that some Christian apologists really hate it when nonbelievers say the experience of God would convince them of theism and thought that was worth examining. / Videos referenced in the episode / Jimmy Akin & Emerson Green – Debunking the Skeptics on UFOs The Argument from Miracles (Panel) Countering the Argument for the Resurrection of Jesus What would make atheists accept a miracle claim? | C.M. Lorkowski & Real Atheology 5 Mistakes Atheists Make About Epistemology  4 Things I Learned About Epistemology Phenomenal Conservatism with Michael Huemer Linktree

Exploring the rationality of beliefs like theism, atheism, and agnosticism. Reflecting on evidence for and against theism, value selection hypothesis, and epistemic uncertainty. Discussing fine-tuning, evolutionary trajectory, and reevaluating theistic beliefs towards agnosticism.

Returning guest John Buck joins me to debate universalism, eternal conscious torment, and other topics related to hell and the afterlife. My Playlist on Hell Linktree