Talk Heathen 04.42 10-18-2020 with Eric Murphy and Vi La Bianca

Grab that beverage Heathen fans, it’s time for another episode of Talk Heathen! In today’s episode of Talk Heathen, Eric Murphy is joined by Vi La Bianca. #LaMurph“Jimmy” from Canada would like to talk about the dishonest use of the term Atheist. First let’s talk about the definitions of dishonesty and Atheist. Eric puts it bluntly, it seems like Jimmy is gatekeeping a word. Hmm…. His voice sounds familiar, what do you all think? Chris in California is up next, he asks about spirituality and how the brain actually works within reality. For example deja vu, which is a purely a “misfile of information into long term memory instead of short term memory and we think it’s an experience from long ago.” Richard in California is wondering about the Atheist position on a few topics including the existence of God or Gods. First let’s talk about definitions...Geno in California is asking about free will (and eventually racism and thought crime.) Eric responds, Free will in regards to what and then goes on to say that it doesn’t really make sense within reality. It’s a really interesting thought experiment if anything.Catanin in Romania believes that the bible exemplifies empathy, compassion, and love and is calling in to talk about it and it’s usefulness. But does it really prove a God exists? Does being religious benefit society?Kirk in Wisconsin would like to talk about what Lutherans believe and how different it is from other sects of Christianity. He’ll be calling back next week to really dig into it.Up next, Laura in Arizona is wondering what we know about Tulpas. A Tulpa is a concept in mysticism/the paranormal of a being which is created through spiritual or mental powers. How is this different from an imaginary friend? Can they be beneficial to mental health? This is a tough one and approaches the realm of therapy and psychology.John in Colorado, the sacrifice of Jesus doesn’t qualify as atonement for sins according to Jewish law. For example, He wasn’t blemish free, he was a he and not a she... Interesting! Sending to discord! Frank in Belgium would like to know how to talk about how religion can be toxic to children. While we would love to help, there are factors at play that may be important to be aware of. Definitely reaching out to the community would be a good first step.That’s our show for this week, please continue to be safe in your area, wear your mask. The world is better with you in it. See you next week!

Om Podcasten

Talk Heathen is a weekly call-in television show in Austin, Texas geared toward long-form and on-going dialogue with theists & atheists about religion, theism, & secularism. Call 1-512-991-9242 every Sunday from 1-2pm CDT. Talk Heathen is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin.The Atheist Community of Austin is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop & support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing & friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of government-religion separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists & to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.