How does ego factor into theism and atheism?

1. 86

   M. T. Dremerposted 9 years ago

   How does ego factor into theism and atheism?
   
   In a lot of debates between theism and atheism, I see the word 'ego' thrown around a lot. How does this concept of our 'self' (or 'self-importance') fit into such debates?

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2. 63

   Craig Suitsposted 9 years ago

   I don't see when self-importance or ego has anything to do with a debate such as this. There is however a major stumbling block when most religiously inclined believers are trained, or better, mind controlled into one singular religious doctrine from childhood on. It is almost impossible for them to face reality, fact, and the truth or even want too. All the various religious organizations know this and expertly see to it that their followers literally have no chance of leaving the fold...

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      aidenwposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Sadly, that is so true.

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      gmwilliamsposted 9 years agoin reply to this

      Great, spot on analysis as usual, Craig!

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3. 67

   aidenwposted 9 years ago

   Many people have identified themselves with their beliefs whether theism or atheism, so when someone disagrees with what they believe, they feel the need to defend themselves (or their belief). I think that's when ego comes into play because they feel that by criticizing their belief, others are actually attacking them.

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4. 0

   Kingslayercrowposted 9 years ago

   Doesn't it seem like religious people feel like they are gods chosen people. Believing that we were created in the image of God is also a narrow minded egotistical thing to believe. Why would a cosmic being look like a giant old man and only love human beings if not to pump up ones ego.

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5. 71

   lone77starposted 9 years ago

   Perhaps a refinement of the term is in order. Ego is more at separation and self-concern. Ego says, "What's in it for me?" Even with anonymous charity, ego is thinking, "I gave and told no one, but I feel good about myself." Even this level of self-concern is evil, because it helps to keep us all separate.
   
   Love is the antidote to this separation. And that is how all dialog should be carried out. God is love and even in the apparent "wrath," He is lovingly helping His children toward awakening. (His children are made in His image and likeness, and He is not Homo sapiens!)
   
   Ego is the great corrupter. It is the source of all evil -- from the separateness of "this is mine," to the crimes of Hitler and Stalin.
   
   Atheism is merely a lack of awareness. When you gain the requisite awareness of the "point in the heart" (as Kabbalists call it), you start to see miracles. Later, you start seeing the threads of creation and learn how to control them.
   
   Ego is the source of blindness. For years, I thought we merely needed to get rid of ego. But now, I'm learning from authentic Kabbalah that we need to grow the ego, but correct it from inward (selfish) desires, to outward (altruistic) desires. When we love others as ourselves, and wish for them everything that they desire, then we will heal the world.
   
   Oh, and btw, Kabbalists wrote the first 5 books of the Bible in code, so no wonder people are confused.
   
   http://perceivingreality.com

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