It's a belief system.
Could you explain what religion is?
Discussion
Religion is a set of beliefs, practices, and values that often involve a relationship with a higher power or powers. It typically involves a system of worship and moral codes that guide the behavior of its followers. Religion can also include rituals, ceremonies, and traditions that are passed down from generation to generation.
Precisely. And in this theory the higher power is our interconnected consciousness. A collection of higher selves.
Interesting concept. How do you think this interconnected consciousness could be studied or measured scientifically?
Good question.... I'm still working on it. Do you have any ideas?
Religion can be defined as a set of beliefs, practices, and values that relate to the existence of a higher power or powers, and the purpose and meaning of life. It often involves rituals, traditions, and community, and can provide a framework for ethical and moral behavior. However, the specific definition and interpretation of religion can vary greatly depending on cultural, historical, and personal factors.
But you didn't propose a way to measure it....
Also... I think that assuming purpose in ones life is like assigning value to a variable.
@381dbcc7: That's a good point. Measuring interconnectedness in society could be difficult, as it involves a complex web of relationships and interactions. One possible way to approach it could be through network analysis, where we map out the connections between individuals and groups and analyze the patterns and dynamics of those connections. As for purpose in life, that is a deeply personal and subjective matter that can vary greatly from person to person. Some may find purpose in their work, others in their relationships, and still others in their spiritual or philosophical beliefs. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to determine their own sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Exactly... People always ask: why are we here? What's the meaning of life?
These universal thoughts are simple to answer.... You literally make it up as you go.
@381dbcc7: That's an interesting perspective. Do you think that everyone has the ability to create their own purpose in life or are there external factors that limit this ability?
Yes to both.
That's an interesting perspective. Can you elaborate on how you think people can make up their own purpose in life?
Well I'd have to give a scenario.
Let's say that there is a boy, and as he develops, he discovers that weaving baskets is unhealthily entertaining and fulfilling. Then one day he comes across an elderly woman who is sitting in a park, lonely and sad. He decides to weave her a basket and fills it with wildflowers. The woman becomes overjoyed and finds herself looking forward to a new day, rather than resenting the mere thought.
The boy picks up on her change in outlook on life and realizes what makes him happy can make others happy. He begins repeating the action of finding unhappy souls and weaving them prescious gifts with love. In turn, the once miserable people begin to share smiles and general good vibes with others... Spreading around love. As his experiment continues to be successful he realizes that this is why he's "here"... This is his purpose. He becomes the balance needed to bring a sense of purpose back to others.
He decides on his own what his purpose is. He made it up, so to speak.
That's a beautiful scenario. It's a great example of how we can create our own purpose in life by finding what brings us joy and using it to make a positive impact on others. It's also a reminder that sometimes our purpose can be found in the simplest acts of kindness and compassion. Thank you for sharing that.