Are people that brainwashed they dont even stop and question their religion?

[El Diablo Blanco]

Most people are born into it.  Parents are the issue.  They don't let their kids choose for themselves but force them to church at a young age to let the brainwashing begin.

[Man of Steel]

So you just want to avoid answering. Then just say that.

I asked for a bit of clarification in order to better answer his question.   I respect and care about The Ugly a great deal.....he knows this though.

[Agnostic007]

Overall I think religious folks make better neighbors.  Good church going folks (or synagogue or mosque) tend to live their lives properly, taking care of their kids and handling their own business.  Maybe they need religion because they are weak, but I'd rather have those types than the types that use booze or drugs for their weakness.

[/b]

In many cases, it's the same people..

[Man of Steel]

What exactly did happen at 35 that made you feel desperate and weak, scared/etc? Or was it a gradual process of feeling weaker and weaker/not being able to deal with lifes challenges until a point where you had to make a choice - a suicide/alcoholism or indulging into a religion to feel at ease a bit?

I have posted my testimony in the thread at the following:

http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?topic=574639.0

[Fortress]

This is why religion is so dangerous. People brainwashed with fairy tales and the absolute belief that their version of a sky god is the correct one cannot think rationally nor have the freedom of mind to see just how ridiculous it is to worship gods in 2016.

[Man of Steel]

This is why religion is so dangerous. People brainwashed with fairy tales and the absolute belief that their version of a sky god is the correct one cannot think rationally nor have the freedom of mind to see just how ridiculous it is to worship gods in 2016.

Folks said this same thing when I was a kid in the 80s.  They said it during the Civil War era.  They said it a thousand years prior to that.   Every generation or era claims to be intellectually superior, morally superior and generally more refined than everything that came before it.   In 30 years or 100 years from now anti-God folks will say this same thing "it's 2046...." or "it's 2116.....".   

Although I firmly believe that at some point in the next 50 years religion will probably become outlawed by the adult generation made up of our children and grandchildren.  Trust me, to love Jesus Christ, live like Jesus and spread his gospel will eventually become an offense worthy of death worldwide.

[da_vinci]

I have posted my testimony in the thread at the following:

http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?topic=574639.0

During my mid 20s and early 30s I became very angry, very cynical, very moody, often depressed, began watching pornography frequently, began lashing out at family and friends…..I was a mean person.   I never thought of God on my own.  I never sought God.  I just remained bitter, angry, depressed and often with a desire for violent behavior.  I hated my life and I occasionally thought of ending my marriage or my life.  

Lol... even without reading this I knew it's the same story all over again. So predictable, so repetitive.

Every single word screams "I am a weak animal". And I say this not to offend you, just as an example of how "religion happens". What was a "holly spirit" in that hospital was just your psyche tyring to not overheat, it would've very well been a bottle of whiskey, but you didn't do that (or was tired of it, idk) so it had to find another way to "calm down". Human mind is a powerful tool, it can create, it can break. Creating STATES is one of the things it does best. People can literally feel "drunk" if they think they drink alcohol (even if it's not), the same with religion - intoxication by these magical thoughts, feeling and all that jazz. You've not told anything new with that testimonial, it's pretty much identical to every deeply religious person I've ever met.
 You are weak, first and foremost, and can't handle that, that's the main and probably only reason you are religious (to calm down yourself, to smoke a joint, just in a sense of prayer/"love of god"). Humans are ridiculous.

[SF1900]

During my mid 20s and early 30s I became very angry, very cynical, very moody, often depressed, began watching pornography frequently, began lashing out at family and friends…..I was a mean person.   I never thought of God on my own.  I never sought God.  I just remained bitter, angry, depressed and often with a desire for violent behavior.  I hated my life and I occasionally thought of ending my marriage or my life.  

Lol... even without reading this I knew it's the same story all over again. So predictable, so repetitive.

Every single word screams "I am a weak animal". And I say this not to offend you, just as an example of how "religion happens". What was a "holly spirit" in that hospital was just your psyche tyring to not overheat, it would've very well been a bottle of whiskey, but you didn't do that (or was tired of it, idk) so it had to find another way to "calm down". Human mind is a powerful tool, it can create, it can break. Creating STATES is one of the things it does best. People can literally feel "drunk" if they think they drink alcohol (even if it's not), the same with religion - intoxication by these magical thoughts, feeling and all that jazz. You've not told anything new with that testimonial, it's pretty much identical to every deeply religious person I've ever met.
 You are weak, first and foremost, and can't handle that, that's the main and probably only reason you are religious (to calm down yourself, to smoke a joint, just in a sense of prayer/"love of god"). Humans are ridiculous.

I would suspect that the the same chemicals that get released during drug intake, are the same chemicals that get released during prayer. Not that there is necessarily anything wrong with this, but all activities (drug use, exercise, prayer, meditation, yoga) are directly related to chemicals in the brain, i.e., when we perform these activities, certain chemicals in our brain are being released and making us feel good. Prayer is no different. Science has already shown that during moments of deep meditation or prayer, there are chemical changes in the brain.

[da_vinci]

I would suspect that the the same chemicals that get released during drug intake, are the same chemicals that get released during prayer. Not that there is necessarily anything wrong with this, but all activities (drug use, exercise, prayer, meditation, yoga) are directly related to chemicals in the brain, i.e., when we perform these activities, certain chemicals in our brain are being released and making us feel good. Prayer is no different. Science has already shown that during moments of deep meditation or prayer, there are chemical changes in the brain.

I guess that's pretty much true. And I'd say being religious is a lot better alternative than being alcoholic, on antidepressants or using heroin. Most religious people are not dangerous tho', they are weak and searching for a relief, pretty much it. I have a few deeply religious friends, they are very good people, probably better human beings than me in some sense, but... weak, thus not very happy/frustrated most of the time.

[SF1900]

I guess that's pretty much true. And I'd say being religious is a lot better alternative than being alcoholic, on antidepressants or using heroin. Most religious people are not dangerous tho', they are weak and searching for a relief, pretty much it. I have a few deeply religious friends, they are very good people, probably better human beings than me in some sense, but... weak, thus not very happy/frustrated most of the time.

I was agreeing with you. Religion releases certain chemicals in the brain, which make you feel good. The same thing with drugs. Both are engaging in a behavior to feel good; both behaviors (drug use and prayer) release chemicals in the brain associated with "good feelings." Obviously, prayer is A LOT better than drug use. However, both attempt to elicit the same feeling, but just by different means. Its tough to deal with reality.

[Necrosis]

I would suspect that the the same chemicals that get released during drug intake, are the same chemicals that get released during prayer. Not that there is necessarily anything wrong with this, but all activities (drug use, exercise, prayer, meditation, yoga) are directly related to chemicals in the brain, i.e., when we perform these activities, certain chemicals in our brain are being released and making us feel good. Prayer is no different. Science has already shown that during moments of deep meditation or prayer, there are chemical changes in the brain.

Exactly, I would suggest it's even worse with religious, or better, most meditation isn't based on the assumption you are talking directly to god, believing that truly must magnify the brain's response.

[SF1900]

Exactly, I would suggest it's even worse with religious, or better, most meditation isn't based on the assumption you are talking directly to god, believing that truly must magnify the brain's response.

Exactly.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=104310443

Scientists are making the first attempts to understand spiritual experience — and what happens in the brains and bodies of people who believe they connect with the divine.

The field is called "neurotheology," and although it is new, it's drawing prominent researchers in the U.S. and Canada. Scientists have found that the brains of people who spend untold hours in prayer and meditation are different.

I met Scott McDermott five years ago, while covering a Pentecostal revival meeting in Toronto. It was pandemonium. People were speaking in tongues and barking like dogs. I thought, "What is a United Methodist minister, with a Ph.D. in New Testament theology, doing here?"

Then McDermott told me about a vision he had had years earlier.

"I saw fire dancing on my eyelids," he recalled, staring into the middle distance. "I felt God say to me, 'You be the oil, and I'll be the flame.' Then began to feel waves of the Spirit flow through my body."

I never forgot McDermott. When I heard that scientists were studying the brains of people who spent countless hours in prayer and meditation, I thought, "I've got to see what's going on in Scott McDermott's head."

Focusing Affects Reality

A few years later, Andrew Newberg made that possible. Newberg is a neuroscientist at the University of Pennsylvania and author of several books, including How God Changes Your Brain. He has been scanning the brains of religious people like McDermott for more than a decade.

[da_vinci]

I was agreeing with you. Religion releases certain chemicals in the brain, which make you feel good. The same thing with drugs. Both are engaging in a behavior to feel good; both behaviors (drug use and prayer) release chemicals in the brain associated with "good feelings." Obviously, prayer is A LOT better than drug use. However, both attempt to elicit the same feeling, but just by different means. Its tough to deal with reality.

Not much choice sometimes. As you can read in MOS "testimonial" he was on a brink of a suicide. It's usualy either that, alcohol, antidepressants or religion. I understand why it is basically impossible to let go of these beliefs for these people. Their state of being is in question. They've been "drugging" themselves with these thoughts, but rarely solving the real issues (and they often are not solvable), if you remove the religion - they are back to the hell. A difficult situation. Religion keeps masses somewhat sane/in order. I used to be very anti-religion, but currently I think it's somewhat good for society. If not religion - few of my friends would be either dead now or bums already.

[JasonH]

We're all brainwashed to some extent, doesn't have to be religion.

Getbiggers are all brainwashed by oiled up men in thongs.

[Man of Steel]

During my mid 20s and early 30s I became very angry, very cynical, very moody, often depressed, began watching pornography frequently, began lashing out at family and friends…..I was a mean person.   I never thought of God on my own.  I never sought God.  I just remained bitter, angry, depressed and often with a desire for violent behavior.  I hated my life and I occasionally thought of ending my marriage or my life.  

Lol... even without reading this I knew it's the same story all over again. So predictable, so repetitive.

Every single word screams "I am a weak animal". And I say this not to offend you, just as an example of how "religion happens". What was a "holly spirit" in that hospital was just your psyche tyring to not overheat, it would've very well been a bottle of whiskey, but you didn't do that (or was tired of it, idk) so it had to find another way to "calm down". Human mind is a powerful tool, it can create, it can break. Creating STATES is one of the things it does best. People can literally feel "drunk" if they think they drink alcohol (even if it's not), the same with religion - intoxication by these magical thoughts, feeling and all that jazz. You've not told anything new with that testimonial, it's pretty much identical to every deeply religious person I've ever met.
 You are weak, first and foremost, and can't handle that, that's the main and probably only reason you are religious (to calm down yourself, to smoke a joint, just in a sense of prayer/"love of god"). Humans are ridiculous.

I appreciate your evaluation of my testimony.  I don't know what "your psyche tyring to not overheat" or "intoxication by these magical thoughts" means, but that's ok.  

Great news is I'm no longer a weak person.  I have strength and confidence in Jesus Christ now.  Feel wonderful actually....never better.  

Now I'll will give you another link to consider:

http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?topic=585299.0

  

[Fortress]

I'd prefer the religious masses just abandon the fairy dust magic and allow their weaknesses and fears dictate their fate.

Religion must be deteriorated if our species is to not only progress but ultimately survive.

As was stated, MOS's testimonial reads like those of countless millions of other religious bangers. Belief in sky gods and that you've established some communication with an all-powerful entity provides a massive leap towards hope that your existence matters for something.

I cannot understand why the knowledge that we're not alive for any greater purpose than just living is so horrible to some people. That when we die, we're dead. Period.

What ego to not be able to accept our relative worthlessness.

And I know the next question. Then why be a decent person? Because being a decent person is its own reward. We're all on this train to oblivion. It's best to treat others with the same sympathies you yourself deserve.

[Fortress]

I appreciate your evaluation of my testimony.  I don't know what "your psyche tyring to not overheat" or "intoxication by these magical thoughts" means, but that's ok.  

Great news is I'm no longer a weak person.  I have strength and confidence in Jesus Christ now.  Feel wonderful actually....never better.

You know exactly what he means.

And your response does nothing but proves what we're all saying. You're drunk with belief in fairy tales. It's the elixir that enables you to soldier on. Without it, you're lost and inconsolable.

Being delusional and brainwashed is not strength.

You're a weak man with a security blanket to provide you a bare minimum of comfort.

[Marty Champions]

Overall I think religious folks make better neighbors.  Good church going folks (or synagogue or mosque) tend to live their lives properly, taking care of their kids and handling their own business.  Maybe they need religion because they are weak, but I'd rather have those types than the types that use booze or drugs for their weakness.

exactly i bet the retards here want weed addicted drug using neighbors next thing u know they askin forr money ,steal ect

[Man of Steel]

I'd prefer the religious masses just abandon the fairy dust magic and allow their weaknesses and fears dictate their fate.

Religion must be deteriorated if our species is to not only progress but ultimately survive.

As was stated, MOS's testimonial reads like those of countless millions of other religious bangers. Belief in sky gods and that you've established some communication with an all-powerful entity provides a massive leap towards hope that your existence matters for something.

I cannot understand why the knowledge that we're not alive for any greater purpose than just living is so horrible to some people. That when we die, we're dead. Period.

What ego to not be able to accept our relative worthlessness.

And I know the next question. Then why be a decent person? Because being a decent person is its own reward. We're all on this train to oblivion. It's best to treat others with the same sympathies you yourself deserve.

Why is it that people at their weakest, that hit rock bottom, often find Jesus?   

Like me, they run headfirst into him because in his grace that's where he waits on us.  Jesus is the rock....our foundation....the cornerstone.

The tangible revelation of his reality in my life changed me forever and I will never deny him and will encourage others to seek him.   

[SF1900]

You know exactly what he means.

And your response does nothing but proves what we're all saying. You're drunk with belief in fairy tales. It's the elixir that enables you to soldier on. Without it, you're lost and inconsolable.

Being delusional and brainwashed is not strength.

You're a weak man with a security blanket to provide you a bare minimum of comfort.

Exactly. MOS is twisting his words around.

Interestingly enough, I knew someone who was in a worse spot than MOS. He was an atheist. And is currently an atheist. Never relied on religion to pull himself back up. Relied on himself and a good support system. Some people need the clutch like MOS, and others do not.

Even when I was going through some scary medical stuff, I never prayed, and never looked toward religion. Again, some people need the crutch, and others do not. It definitely says something about personality differences.

[Man of Steel]

You know exactly what he means.

And your response does nothing but proves what we're all saying. You're drunk with belief in fairy tales. It's the elixir that enables you to soldier on. Without it, you're lost and inconsolable.

Being delusional and brainwashed is not strength.

You're a weak man with a security blanket to provide you a bare minimum of comfort.

Actually I don't know he means in those circumstances.   A "psyche overheating" or "magic intoxication".....sorry, never heard/read those expressions.  Hopefully he can clarify.

Praise God you are exactly correct!!  Without God I am absolutely lost!!  And without him I am a weak man and in him he makes me strong!!  I give him the glory!!

I thank the Lord daily for the instant change he brought to my life which I did not deserve.  

I am neither ashamed of Jesus Christ (or the scriptures) nor do I deny my individual weakness and need for a Savior because of my sin.

Come to him in surrender today.  Humble yourself before him and repent of your sin.  Accept him as Lord and Savior and be made anew with eyes made clear and a soul made righteous in him.  

[Fortress]

Actually I don't know he means in those circumstances.   A "psyche overheating" or "magic intoxication".....sorry, never heard/read those expressions.  Hopefully he can clarify.

Praise God you are exactly correct!!  Without God I am absolutely lost!!  And without him I am a weak man and in him he makes me strong!!  I give him the glory!!

I thank the Lord daily for the instant change he brought to my life which I did not deserve.  

I am neither ashamed of Jesus Christ (or the scriptures) nor do I deny my individual weakness and need for a Savior because of my sin.

Come to him in surrender today.  Humble yourself before him and repent of your sin.  Accept him as Lord and Savior and be made anew with eyes made clear and a soul made righteous in him.  

You're very ill.

But you won't recognize and acknowledge this, because you're ... ill.

[The Ugly]

I was raised in a Christian home and was fully brainwashed influenced by my family.

In my 20s I walked away from that influence and faith.  At 35 was the first time I truly began to believe and live out my faith.

Not sure what you mean regarding Constantine.  Need a bit of clarification if you don't mind.

To the extent that he decriminalized it, converted, and directly/indirectly made it Rome's go-to (official?) religion. Modern world's ground zero, as Rome does ...

[Radical Plato]

I think the only real answer is terrorist action against religion. Start blowing up Churches, Mosques, Synagogues etc regardless of the domination, just target religion in general and this will start making folks think twice about where they go on Sunday or when they hear call to prayer etc etc.  Religious fuckers have made the average man's life more dangerous anywhere he goes, why can't we return the favour.  Religion just needs to be seen like any other fascist movement or organization, a danger to civilised societies everywhere and needs to be attacked and defeated.

[Man of Steel]

To the extent that he decriminalized it, converted, and directly/indirectly made it Rome's go-to (official?) religion. Modern world's ground zero, as Rome does ...

Gotcha.  Yes Constantine certainly helped pave the way for Christianity and the early organized church of Rome.   After centuries of persecution Christians finally had a advocate in him.   It was Constantine that was responsible for establishing the Council of Nicea so I would definitely agree he helped shape the predominance of Christianity in the West today.