Hey CS... can you do an in depth look at the Turin shroud please? I would love to know your take on the evidence presented there. I know you'll be cautious of post purchase rationalisation so I'd value your assessment.
I am blown away by the interviewing skill shown here. Alex appears to be gifted with a remarkable capacity to listen and ask pertinent questions to get the best out of his guest. Excellent. There are quite a number of people on the BBC who could learn from this man.
I'm an Orthodox Christian priest and have been watching your channel for a few years now. There's a reason I keep coming back. You have this incredible ability to dialogue and push back, yet more importantly, to admit when you are stumped or have no response. Great job on this incredible interview.
I think it is amazing that you, a man of faith, has confidence in your religion and that you can simultaneously enjoy watching critical voices and respecting the other side! we need more like you sir!
@@mancipiachristi9032maybe if we weren't told on almost every post on the internet that we need to become Christians or else we're bad people and going to hell. Imagine getting that message on the daily from people outside of your religion who tell you who you are without knowing you.
@@Jan-Dehning I watch a lot of Alex O'Connor as a hyper religious Christian. I sometimes even find that my faith gets stronger watching his videos. What I really admire about Alex is that he is not dismissive like other atheists and is truly one of the most talented, intellectually honest thinkers of our time especially considering how young he is. I understand why he is not religious and I will admit he has made me question my faith at times, but as where I am now my religion is stronger than ever and I just like listening to many different point of views.
Well done Alex. Without wanting to sound sycophantic or patronising you have really grown doing this. Your most admirable quality is maintaining openness whilst being skeptical, which is a really rare quality. Long may that continue.
He hasn't grown. He's still very young with his life maybe in front of him. Probably the same as you. Life is the teacher about these things. Not Dawkins.😂
He didn't push against any of his ideas. If I wanted to listen to this guy spout nonsense and demand that to have a debate we must first accept that jesus rode from the dead as a fact that there is an all powerful God that can perform miracles. He basically wants people to be Christians and then look at the resurrection of christ from that perspective. Alex did nothing to push against his ideas, if I wanted to listen to this guy spout nonsense I would have just watched his UA-cam channel
@sgsupreme17 I agree the "hasn't grown" comment was mean spirited and wasn't even a true statement because ALL OF US, are constantly growing as human beings and Christians. The remainder of his statement was reasonable and shouldn't be discounted, just because of the hateful initial remark!
An absolute pleasure to watch and listen to this young man provide thoughtful and provoking questions with respect while not compromising his position. Definitely earned a like and more views
Agreed. Easily the most well thought out, reasonable and charitable atheist on UA-cam. At least that I've observed. His lack of disdain and cynicism makes it so much easier to clearly hear from both sides.
And that's what people who seek truth should aspire to be. We all should be humble enough to know that we don't understand everything and that we are on a journey to knowing it. Emotions and biases will just be blockages on that quest.
Yo i don't know if it's just me but I have a feeling that the Spirit of God is genuinely working in him. I hope and pray that he truly repents and puts his faith in Christ.
@@Bluewolf-I'm not sure how a false religion that comes after 600 years later, that denies Jesus died on the cross or that believes salvation is by good deeds and not God's grace or by having a deficient reconciliation of God's divine justice and divine retribution being fulfilled, has anything to do with what is being said here.
Hello Adele. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
I am deeply relieved that I’m not the only Christian who has a deep admiration for Alex and love for his channel, arguments, and respect and humility he has towards his guests with opposing views. He is one of my favorite atheists(or whatever he wants to be titled) and honored to have my faith tested by him
@@davidstaffell You can fundementally disagree with somebodies point of view (especially on a matter on which there is no known way to definitively prove it in either direction) and still Respect and Admire that same person. The meaning of the sentiment could be disputed sure, but the meaning of anything can be disputed, like how I could argue that you think its insulting means nothing. On that point, it is not insulting. I am quite unsure how you reached this conclusion as, like are you new to debating? As respecting and having admiration for your opposition is fundamental to a healthy conversation that doesnt just devolve into childish insults. Also this comment in support of a channel/creator you clearly also like so why the pointless hate, did you just feel the need to shit on a Theist?
Wow... So, wouldn't this world be great if we were all robot clones of each other who thought the same things!!!! I have many people that I respect and trust that have different opinions than I do. I embrace difference. @@davidstaffell
@@shadowtekmain Hi Shadow. I just want to inform you on something about proof. You state that _there is no known way to definitively prove it in either direction,_ but that's not how proof works. You can only proof something exists, you can't proof something doesn't exist. You can make up the weirdest thing imaginable, but you can't proof it doesn't exist anywhere in the universe. You can't proof unicorns don't exist, of fairies don't exist. Maybe they exist on some island where no one has ever been before. You can't proof green swans don't exist, because for that you have to collect all swans that exist, and check one by one if one is actually really green. But if you find one green swan anywhere, and check if it really green (by DNA or checking for paint) you can easily proof green swans exist: because look! I got one here in my hands. So basically, the one making the claim "green swans exists" has the burden of proof: you claim something, proof it. As long as no one has proven green swans, they don't exist. And the same goes for gods too.
Within Reason is exactly what I've been looking for. By allowing interviewees to express their positions wholly while being mildly challenged with common objections to their arguments, I feel like I can really understand the ideas better, especially when those ideas are ones I oppose. By pressing the guests only modestly, conversations flow smoothly, leading to greater clarity. It also seems to promote a more civil conversation, which is a breath of fresh air. Thanks Alex!
Are you serious? It is a waste of time, it also puts ridiculous unreasonable arguments on the same level as actual arguments and that is exactly what is actually what religious apologists LOVE, the second they smuggle in that JESUS rising from the dead could even remotely be a fact, all the Christians in the comments salivate. Debates with non fact religious should honestly be delegated to things humans haven’t proven time and time again with facts of the universe, proper history. This whole “every conversation is worth having” shit is getting old.
It would be great when the discussion revolved around facts and not fiction. The dragon in the garage is invisible is as useful as a topic as a dead human that is god or something else Please do not allow fantasy and pseudo-history in the conversation.
Hello Mike. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
@@EpicLemonMusic Sorry but without conversation challenging us to look further and just looking at the facts of today we would never grow as humanbeings we must be challenged to grow so your whole shut down people you dont agree with not only shuts down conversation it also shuts down growing.
Why I bet you'd appreciate an interview with Alex and RJ Reynolds, where the tobacco exec explains why his tobacco products are actually quite healthy. - If you prefer an unchallenged billboard, why not listen to Bill directly? Only when ideas, claims and assertions are probed, challenged and investigated by a competent interlocutor can they have any hope of earning some sense of credibility. Watching Alex serve up unchallenged softballs was a study in sleep inducing conversation. 😴
Thank you for these conversations, Alex! I love to see you speak with people on a human level with no disdain or hatred. I love hearing both sides be respectful. Thanks, Alex and William!
I love the interaction between you two. It's contrasting in very many ways. Age and looks and accent and world view. Yet very respectful and kind all the way throug. I enjoyed it very much
@@SnakeWasRightyeah but doesn't mean atheism solves anything either. Who's gives shit about mass slaughter if you're an atheist? Who gives a shit about anything? It's only a bunch of molecules colliding that all came from nothing that will return to nothing. Nothingness galore
@@joverstreet24 I'm not referring to any scripture per se, I'm referring to Craig's excuses, of course it's the excuses for things in the Jewish and Christian scriptures. He says God commanded the Israelites to slaughter every last man woman and child on several occasions, as a "mercy."
@@SnakeWasRight You speak as if humans have some sort of intrinsic value and right to life outside of God. From where would you get this in a universe created by time +chance + matter?
as an american it definitely seems odd to be offered condolences for the death of a monarch a month later almost as if it were on par with the death of a family member
@@user-md3wm7vu1f "As an American" is precisely why you find it odd. I'm Australian so we have more of a connection to the death of the Queen as we are in the commonwealth, yet we don't feel the way England feels toward it. It's simply just a cultural difference.
The irony of Bill Craig coming on and immediately giving a sincere statement about how sorry he was that the queen died, thinking Alex was saddened by it and not realizing that Alex probably gave less than zero shits about the whole situation is just beyond hilarious.
@@christopherwilliams7905 I'm not one to cling religiously to dictionary definitions, but they are useful and show that in fact, it is almost the 'type specimen' of irony.... "a state of affairs or an event that seems deliberately contrary to what one expects and is often wryly amusing as a result."
Yeah, next he will come on and say how much he just enjoyed a steak....until he realises that Alex is a vega ... oh wait ... no, he likes steak now because it was just slightly too inconvenient not to pay to murder innocent animals.
@@christopherwilliams7905 I think there is some irony there, the person who thinks there is an afterlife is giving condolences for someones death, the person who thinks death is final is less effected. That is in direct opposition to how you would think it would go.
@taggartaa I could explain it being the exact opposite just as easy. It's definitely not irony. Even if what you say is true that's still not what irony is
Thank you Alex, i have been following you from the past three years, you have been such inspiration. I am Christian, obviously writing you from India, Manipur state. You have open my eyes in many ways through your sublime skills of questioning and analysis. You and William would always be my favourite ones.. once again thank you Alex...
i adore these conversations. being an atheist who was raised Catholic, there's always a lingering part of my mind that wants to cling to Christianity. so it is brilliant to hear two intelligent spokesmen for each side discuss these things. keep it up Alex 🙌
Can I ask how you went from believing in the existence of discarnate interdimensional parasitic entities (i.e, demons) that harbour extreme malice towards human beings and are actively working for their destruction, to not beliveing in them? Interested in understanding how that happened.
This video is here, for example. A guy who was struggling with severe porn addiction receives a minor exorcism from a Protestant and has the demons that were burrowed into the energetic layers of his body soul composite cast out. How did you come to the conclusion that they no longer exist? ua-cam.com/video/Ry0mU0flrJ4/v-deo.html
I was surprised by Dr. Craig's response to the separation of church and state. Many Americans are ignorant on the Danbury letters and what the separation means and does. Furthermore, his stance on putting God on money, in the pledge, makes it trivial. I'm not religious, but I can appreciate that point of view, and even agree with it. I love this podcast! Well done, Cosmic😉
@@damminers49 Even Muhammed Hijab -- a Muslim Apologist -- calls William a juggernaut. That right there tells you of the respect that an intellectual man of Jesus Christ has from various societies and peoples of thought across the social sphere. P.S. When it comes to true Discipleship, Yahweh wants people to use their brains. Not accept things blindly. That's a false definition of "faith" that people cooked up over the years. We have to use our minds.
If I'm not mistaken, I believe the phrase "In God We Trust" was placed on American currency some time during the Cold War as a way of distinguishing the United States from the godlessness of the Soviet Union.
This is what the world needs. Two people of opposing views who can have a civil and friendly conversation. Whether you are friendly and kind to your fellow human is far more important than whether you have a faith or not.
Again Alex, incredible work. You said how you didn't push back and how you allowed Dr. Craig to speak his ideas in full, and I can't commend you enough for that. Most will butt in and change the conversation to suit the needs of what the host thinks the audience wants to hear. But it is indeed the entire thought of the guest we do want to hear, otherwise there's no point to the long form content at all. So please, keep up the fantastic work
The lack of pushback was quite disappointing since Dr. Craig is intellectually quite shallow - by his own admission no less. Why does he get to say that feeling warm and fuzzy makes it *rational* to believe in magic and, more than that, a very, very specific kind of magic over all other kinds of magic, with no pushback? Those are not ideas worth listening to. That is the deliberate naivete of a man who wants to believe things with no evidence to them because he is promised eternal life.
@@mikolmisol6258 you disagree with Alex, Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris and various other well known atheists that William Lane Craig is a formidable debater and intellectual?
I'm not a believer, but I watch such content because I enjoy hearing both sides of any intellectual discussion on biblical history. During the discussion, I developed a newfound respect for William Lane Craig after hearing his thoughtful and insightful answers to tough questions. Alex is always fantastic. Beautiful discussion.
Logan Hello. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers. Kind Regards, Bluewolf.
Perfect having this on a Sunday I felt like praying in hospital I was worried about surviving the night and wracked with guilt about past issues with family. I still found it difficult to pray to a higher power as the people I really wanted to talk to were alive
I appreciate WLC much more in this sort of format, rather than in formal debates. I was a bit underwhelmed by his criticism of higher standards of evidence for extraordinary claims, but I appreciated his honesty and overall thoughtful output in this conversation.
I feel like Alex consistently explains my own thoughts better than I could have. I love that each party genuinely listens to the other side and answers to the best of their ability. It's really a breath of fresh air.
As a person who's been in a handful of life-threatening situations, I've never really felt any compulsion to pray to anyone or anything. Usually, there's just a profound sense of quiet acceptance and me going, "Oh. So that's it then?" in my mind. The whole "no atheists in fox-holes" idea seems something felt and propagated by people who already had a religious predilection from environment and upbringing or who have some deep-rooted fear of dying. Dying, however, is not very scary when you realize you go unconscious every night as you go to sleep and that there's a non-zero chance you might never wake up again, yet most people don't balk at the thought of sleeping. Now, pain? That I'm scared of. Upon reflection, I think most people will find that the real struggle over death is tied to all the excruciating ways in which you could die or loss of all your worldy attachments. Not permant unconsciousness. Why would you fear permanent unconsciousness? It's no worse on you than all the time before you were born, or all the time you spend in deep sleep every day.
I think it depends on whether or not you grew up in a religious framework. Obviously growing up secular or atheist would not result in someone’s V praying in a tense situation.
@Bryce Gladwin Yeah. That was kinda my point. This obviously also connects with the whole "god-shaped hole" argument, too, when people make the argument that most people "need" religion. It's very difficult to appraise because many needs and behaviors are generated by circumstance. Most people in today's society would probably feel very disconnected and troubled without the internet, computers, and/or smartphones. That doesn't mean we, as a species, have "internet and computer-shaped holes in our hearts"
Fantastic interview. Didn’t previously know either of these people, but I’m quite impressed how the interviewer, who obviously had an opposite viewpoint than the guest, asked very good questions in a very respectful manner. And the guest gave some impressively thorough and obviously well-researched answers. Kudos to both for a very intriguing, civilized interview.
Wonderful conversation. Alex is so thoughtful and respectful in these conversations and able to set his ego aside, which must be challenging. It's a refreshing change from many like conversations I've seen.
Oh William,you know the reason why we the colonists left away from Britain......It was because of the Monarchy run state affairs. Long Live the Democratic Republic
Alex picks his targets - firmly contending with WLC, John Lennox, Stephen C Meyer would damage his reputation and status and he knows it so he treads carefully.
@@Matthew24.4 or maybe he is genuinely curious and seeking the truth. Maybe he chooses to interview Christian apologists and philosophers that he genuinely respects even if he disagrees with them.
One thing i would like to say is respekt to Alex for his great manners, patience, empathic analysis and general likeable character. I enjoy listening to this very much....
Recent credible science on the shroud of Turin in contrast to the 1988 carbon study, points to a burial cloth of a crucified man. How the negative image was imparted on the cloth points to a phenomenon akin to a resurrection that we only now are beginning to understand.
@@jonathannidock5770 true. Just a look at the photonegativ should make clear to anyone that this can't be the work of a forgery. The photonegativ image is so extraordinary that it must raise the question how it was made and why we don't have a similar image of anyone else in history
I loved your sincerity "I haven't challenged you as much as I expected" as you were fascinated by Craig's way of presenting his arguments. Your attitude is quite rare when people with opposite views discuss. Thank you Alex
Thank you Alex for this fascinating discussion with Dr. Craig. I really appreciate your civil, good-faith approach, and how you apply your deep curiosity to better understanding (if not necessarily agreeing with) your guest’s perspective. I also appreciate your letting your guest flesh his ideas out without unnecessary interruptions. Keep delivering this sort of great content!
@@user255 The purpose of life, why we are on this earth, the fundamental matters of belief, Where did we come from, where are we going, the spirit, reality, Who created this world/this universe... such kind of things...
Well done Alex. I’ve followed you for a number of years and have always appreciated your demeanor and respectfulness. I am a Christian and truly wish you well on your continued endeavors. Also, you could play a young Paul in a Beatles film.
i don't think he would even think about playing the beatles. the beatles who preached there is no Jesus or God in 1968 in America all most getting kicked out of the U.S by apologies preventingit they are 100% atheist.
This Within Reason project is great and I cant wait to see more! I really hope you include other God-centric beliefs in your discussions, particularly (admittedly an interest of mine) Hindu Advaita . Thanks again for your work!
Namaste and love from a Hindu from India! 🙏🇮🇳☮️☮️ I must admit that I am extremely sympathetic to Advaita (particularly the Advaitic pluralism of Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi) even though I lean more towards the panentheism of Ramanujacharya. I hope that peace and love will prevail in the world!
I'd like to see this. Hopefully they would touch on the disgusting doctrines of karma and reincarnation and the inherent racism and tremendous human suffering they have caused. Maybe it would stop all the white middle class people, who spit on and repudiate their own culture and spiritual heritage and look to the incoherent religions of the east, dead in their tracks once they realise the implications of such beliefs.
Hi Jen! Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
That was a remarkable discussion, as a person of faith I came to see William speak but I have such high respect for the way Alex holds himself and never invests too heavily on a stance and keeps an amazing balance between open mindedness and skepticism. Really great to see such a healthy discussion from two opposing view points in such a respectful and well spoken way. Thank you to the both of you for your insights on such an interesting topic
Give yourself some credit too for watching atheistic content. I think these open conversations are crucial for maintaining peace and reducing harmful stereotypes from both sides as much as possible. I've heard so many atheist saying that theist only believe because they are brainwashed ignorant people, and theist saying that atheists do not believe merely because of their ego and so on. When reality cannot be much further from the truth, and such stereotypes only work to harm relationships between the groups.
Bobby! Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
Hello Megginson. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
WLC is unabashedly an Apologist. What is apologetics? It is not apologising. It is not saying “I’m sorry, I should not have said that thing. Rather it is saying things you should be ashamed of, but aren’t. Apologists are defenders of the faith, who make up whatever ever excuse is necessary to rationalize or justify every instance where their religious doctrine is inadequate, inconsistent, immoral or factually false, or to simply obfuscate, distort, dismiss and ignore all the evidence against said doctrine. In other words, Apologists are professional liars.
@@Francoisdp82 hahaha 🤣 It's probably because I used to watch debates a lot and I can't stand nonsense. I've heard him mangle logic so many times, that I seriously couldn't listen to his voice anymore. That doesn't mean he's somehow an exception with that, from other apologists,but his voice is just really annoying/specific/recognizable and with that connection my brain made,it became unbearable. I didn't hear him in a long time, that's why I could listen to him for half an hour (or whatever time he talked in first half hour of this video) , before the "allergy" returned.
Thank you for this. I was a Christian many years ago, bible college, ordination etc etc. I have moved away from the Christian faith. But as I age I am revisiting the bible and the message it communicates. Again, thank you.
The Quran allows marriage and sexual relationship with prepubescent girls who you married (Quran 65:4) and their prophet married Aisha at 6 and consumated the marriage with her when she was 9. So absolutely, do check out islam if you want to puke.
You should better get yourself a proper scientific education especially about evolution and cosmology! Then you will no longer be able to believe all that supernatural nonsense! We are nothing but a species of apes man nothing more nothing less!!! So ALL religions and ALL their silly but also cruel doctrines can ALL be thrown right in the trash!!!
What a fantastic way to talk with this guy! Ive hesdd William on a good few debates so far and though its fun to see his view ve destroyed by many of the other leaders, seeing this sincere approach with no anger, overtalking, etc was such a breath of fresh air. Both of you provided fascinating perspectives.
Catholic here, and I love you Alex and all your work! Really admire your openness and kindness. I wish more of my fellow Christian apologists engaged with your level of charity.
This is just an exceptional interview/debate. Dr. Craig is without a doubt exceptional in both his knowledge and delivery... having said that, you, Alex, are an exceptionally worthy opponent. You have the ability to draw from your guests their best answers and I believe that is because you are not superficial... you lead through logical steps to literally force the guest to give it his or her best shot!!
Is this a joke? Are you genuinely that dense? Craig demanded that the viewers and Alex argue with him with the stipulation of believing Jesus resurrection was an indisputable fact. He used nothing besides bad faith arguments the whole video and Alex didn't do anything to push against him or question his claims. Absolutely pathetic.
Jesse! Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
Jesse. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
45:20 No, WLC. The idea of historical resurrections to 1st century Jews was not unknown. 1 Kings 17 - Elijah raises a young boy from the dead. 2 Kings 4 - Elisha raises another young boy. 2 Kings 13 - A dead body is thrown onto the bones of Elisha and comes back to life. Edit: He even said it twice. And Alex was impressed by it. And the idea that the creed quoted by Paul in Corinthians coming about “so soon” after the death of Jesus being strong is not good. As a modern example: It’s been just over 2 years since the events in Washington of Jan 6. We can rewatch dozens of videos taken that day. There’s hundreds of court records about it. But I hear outright falsehoods about that day constantly coming from people defending those who participated. Whoops.
I agree, seems like a false claim, but pretty sure he has something to say to this objection, i doubt he just ignores this. But i would have loved this objection to appear in the discussion
Obviously Craig and christians are familiar with those narratives. They do not apply because there are crucial distinctions to be made between resuscitation and resurrection. Those people, as Lazarus, were brought back to life (resuscitated) and died again later. Jesus’ account on the other hand is totally different. It is associated with the concept of an afterlife, and implies a more permanent and transformative change beyond mere physical restoration, like the resurrection of the dead that Jews expected to happen only in the end of times.
Also, about the creed not applying despite originating so soon after the events, we’d have to dismiss the entire history of mankind by such standards. The reason you can dismiss the false statements about Jan 6 is that you have have evidence against them being true. It also comes from history, and it’s not the case concerning the resurrection narrative.
I have actually had a similar dream of dying in a plane. The entire universe was collapsing into itself, all the planets were hurling towards the tiny plane and I knew I was going to die. In that moment, I reset my brain to my fundamentalist Christian upbringing and started praying as well. I woke up weeping. It was simultaneously the most vividly beautiful and surreal dream I have ever experienced while also being absolutely heartbreaking. All the dreams and nightmares I have had since then have felt trite and silly in comparison.
There was a imam who would write the name of Jesus on a piece of paper and give it to people who are experiencing nightmares and they would experience remediation.
@@joshuafollowsJesusChrist There was a shaman who would perform rain dances for his tribe when they needed rain and they would have their crops saved by rainfall.
Alex, in an online world filled with proponents aiming solely to win arguments, I commend and thank you for engaging in conversations that clearly show we can have uplifting and loving discussions without total agreement. Even in 2023, it's possible to lead with intellect rather than emotions. Kind regards, a Christian.
Joshua. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
I'd be very interested to see you do a podcast with Religion for Breakfast or Esoterica, I know your content is more theology than religious studies, but I think an interdisciplinary podcast would be pretty dope, your comments here on ritual made me think of religion for breakfast, and the dostoevsky part of the conversation made me think of Esoterica. I think a podcast discussing the anthropological/sociological side of religion would be super interesting to hear, since most of your content is more in the philosophy/theology/ethics area.
@@howlrichard1028 Theology is the study of God. It’s more like philosophy but with a direction towards God as an interest. Religious studies is the study of religion. It’s more anthropological and directed towards the phenomenon of religion within culture and people.
@@howlrichard1028 it's pretty much what Noah said, Religion for Breakfast has a video that goes a bit more in depth into the kinds of questions RS academics would research, you can find it looking up "religion for breakfast religious studies" its also just a great channel in general if you're interested in an academic study of religion everywhere from ancient egypt to topics like how covid affected religiosity
Another distinction is that theology is usually done through the lens of religious belief, whereas religious studies is more academic in nature and is agnostic towards the truth of any particular religion.
@@zacharyshort384 Not exactly. Theology tries to explain in a philosophical way what God's essence is according to different religions. Theo = God Logos = Study Theology = The study of God You don't have to be religious in order to be considered a theologian. In fact there are atheistic theologians (possibly even CosmicSkeptic could be considered one of them) who try to explain what God's nature is according to different religions but who don't necessarily believe in any religion particularly. Similarly, one can be considered a theologian of Islam and be a Christian. Religious studies on the other hand tend to be more sociological. They ask questions such as "which part of the world believes in Buddhism?", "why do different people believe different religions?", "why do people even believe in religions at all?", "how did religions come to be?", etc. These are sociological (and at times, psychological) questions rather than the philosophical ones that theology tries to answer.
Great conversation! I’ve heard Dr Lane many times and never found him convincing but this was the first time I thought he was interesting. well done Alex!
Eugene. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
I really like the conversational tone and focus on the big picture as opposed to technical objections in there conversations. I hope you can get more great guests like this on.
Hello De Rossi. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
The Pharisee Paul was a relentless persecutor of the Jesus-Jews because they proclaimed the crucified Jesus to be the resurrected Jewish Messiah. Then Paul had a miraculous encounter with the Christ deity on the road to Damascus. Sometimes it takes a miraculous encounter to become a believer.
First time I've ever listened to William Lane Craig carefully. I realize I've dismissed him too casually in the past. I so much appreciate your ability to let your intellectual opponent make their points without jumping too hastily into the conversation. Bravo.
You didnt dismiss him too casually at all. His argument assumes much and fails to show how those assumptions are justified on any rational basis. As if it needs to be repeated, the bible is not a history book. And there are zero contemporaneous accounts of the jesus characters life and times.
@@zapkvr0101the New Testament is a history book as much as any other book. History is built off of written records established by eyewitness accounts and (if you are lucky) verified by people who knew eyewitnesses. Explain to me how the New Testament is not a history book.
As an atheist, im glad you had Mr William Lane Craig on. We may not see eye to eye but i do respect him for the theological academic he is. William is a truly kind and brilliant man.
I’m praying for you. Thank you for being open to listening. I used to be like you till i was screaming at God that I just had to know. He showed me by raising me 3 inches above my body and feeling His indescribable love
Try and remember that this is not a debate, and that is why the discussion is a bit more loose than I think some are expecting. They are examining each other, not fighting each other.
A debate doesn't have to be fight but it should be a discussion. This wasn't a discussion but felt more like a WLC fan podcast because Cosmic barely engaged even when WLC just droned on with lots of word salad nonsense.
Huge fan! I am a Christian but love the curiosity and discussion that Alex provokes. Well spoken, clearly articulated ideas, excellent questions, respectful approach and in all, an excellent fellow.
Hi Kevin! Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
Alex, just discovered your podcast. Can't thank you enough for sharing your thoughts and views. I really appreciate your respect for your guests, and your commitment to intellectualism, no matter how ridiculous they may be. Keep up the great work!!
Maybe I misunderstood what Craig said, and maybe Craig misspoke - but at 34:30 mins, Craig said words to the effect of, 'if the events are highly improbable, we can still claim they occurred if they are expected in a paradigm'. He literally just argued that the resurrection occurred because the Christian hypothesis says it occurred, and the Christian hypothesis occurred because the resurrection occurred.
Yeah, that "urge" to pray in moments of crisis or despair never really went away for me. But to have someone use that as an argument is just silly. It's alot like going to a domestic abuse victim and saying "see, when he hits you you immediately assume it's something you did wrong, therefore it's true that you *_did_* do something wrong and it's your fault". Deeply ingrained habits and emotions are some of the hardest things to rid yourself of. But those leftover shadows of my christian self do nothing to prove the god he believed in and feared.
I like the broadly friendly tone of this conversation. Both sides are making an effort to avoid gotcha questions, both also successfully asked questions which illuminated the positions of the other without resorting to combativeness.
Alex, thanks for this interview. Thank you for your respect and integrity. I am a Christian and I enjoy WLC, I also feel that you are genuine, thoughtful, and honest. I think it’s important to push Christian scholars on these claims but you never make anyone feel stupid or uneducated. You are a good man and a asset to the Christian and Skeptic communities.
I wasn't expecting to like WL Craig, but he seems incredibly kind and very understanding of the relevant questions; willing to engage in good faith. I am so enjoying this discussion.
Again, great breathing space you give to your guests, Alex! Interesting to see people's ideas unfolding freely, without them having to justify every word along the way.
@@garythefishable It's not the diet dichotomous "switch" insinuation, but the clear diagnosis of GI issues with a direct name and treatment options that he is likely treating with enzymes/drugs/avoiding-certain-trigger-foods/etc. He said his body is not good at digesting beans for protein and the beans (and probably wheat) cause him IBS so in order to not rely on non-solid protein shakes he has to eat some meats (not sure which, and probably with digestion boosting enzymes).
William Lane Craig has a very warm and appealing manner; nevertheless, note the circularity when he's asked about the resurrection: miracles are not hard to accept, he says, if we believe in the first place that God exists. Because a God who made the universe would of course be capable of a miracle as petty as a resurrection. In other words, miracles make sense *as long as you believe in the ultimate miracle,* which is the idea of the omnipotent Creator God! Quite a leap, and Alex might have interjected at the point to observe this.
I'm sorry but maybe you are thinking that way because you are coming from the worldview that assumes or find it 'naturally incredible' that He exists. But for someone to whom the question 'why is there something rather than nothing' is sufficient to say that existence in itself is a miracle, it's not a leap at all. If God exists, He would not be a miracle, He would actually be the source behind order and why science can even be done. Sorry for firing ideas but I think that stating that 'God is a miracle' comes from our worldview and is in itself circular. I appreciate your comment by the way. Even though this is Alex's channel, you are surrounded by Christian comments :D It's kinda weird and funny.
Likewise, Dr Craig starts with the assumption of some causor or moral origin and then makes a leap at the end that that cause or origin is the God of the bible, which is demonstrably false when information about the god of the bible from various historical sciences is considered.
The funny part is, if people did start coming back, we'd have to reassign the probability that Jesus was resurrected, but it would also make it mundane and no longer a divine miracle.
Alvin Plantinga would be amazing here. I know Alex is a fan. There aren't many clips of him just speaking with people, but he seems very interesting and has a perfect radio voice
@@a.i.l1074 This would be absolutely gold, but unfortunately I'm not sure if Plantinga does interviews anymore (at least I heard something similar somewhere).
Wow... it is amazing to see a learned skeptic, who is rational enough to have a civilised interview with a person he doesn't agree with. And even admitting that the arguments against his own views are stronger than he expected. A breathe of fresh air compared to the likes of antagonistic skeptics like matt dillahunty, who keeps cutting people off mid-conversation with his all mighty "mute" button.
34:13 It's not about God wanting us to believe in Him "so badly" - He has a perfect balance of evidence while also designing existence in a way that you have to seek Him. If He made Himself obviously known to humanity, which He obviously has the power to do, then we would never develop a true loving and faithful relationship with Him because we would all follow Him out of fear rather than love & faith. Relationships with a spouse here on Earth are supposed to represent how we are supposed to love God. Nobody wants to be forced to love or trust anyone. True love is a beautiful thing.
Observe how Craig modifies the phrase "Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence" to "Extraordinary events require extraordinary evidence" (33:40) and then disputes the premise. This is not an innocent mistake on his part, as I have seen him employ the same rhetorical tactic when confronted with the same question. However, it might be considered acceptable if one believes in an exception to the 8th commandment for the sake of Jesus.
Civil conversation? Yes, it was. Craig arguments boil down to = it's true because me believing that it was true (without evidence) while doing my under doctorate studies (plug book) studying the stories that say it's true (without evidence) made me come to conclusion that it is true (plug book) because of all the evidence, the evidence being the stories that don't have any evidence that anything in them are true. How you come to the conclusion this was an intellectual discussion, I have no clue.
I find it curious that most of you guys at the comment section seem to respect/admire Alex’s intellect and thoughts, while at the same time being so dismissive of Dr. Craig’s thoughts as if they weren’t respectable positions. Alex clearly considers them to be worth considering and highly regards Craig as a philosopher. You don’t need to agree with the guy (Alex certainly does not), but labelling Craig as delusional or his arguments as silly seems quite naive. It should drive you to question your own grasp of the topics being discussed.
Thanks Morning Brew for my daily news briefing - sign up for free here morningbrewdaily.com/cosmicskeptic
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Hey CS... can you do an in depth look at the Turin shroud please? I would love to know your take on the evidence presented there. I know you'll be cautious of post purchase rationalisation so I'd value your assessment.
Alex, isn’t it your birthday tomorrow?
you should invite jonathan pageau on this show
Im unsubscribing morning brew. Its nonsense
Would you concider speaking with the guy who has a channel called actualizedorg? I forget his name now but he is "deep"
I am blown away by the interviewing skill shown here. Alex appears to be gifted with a remarkable capacity to listen and ask pertinent questions to get the best out of his guest. Excellent. There are quite a number of people on the BBC who could learn from this man.
All if the BBC could learn. All christians could too.
I am a Christian Priest...@@carmenmccauley585
Not much of a recommendation - BBC is utterly shit these days. The bar's in the ground.
Knows better not to debate him. There's levels to this.
This is barely a debate, no pushback against stupid claims
I'm an Orthodox Christian priest and have been watching your channel for a few years now. There's a reason I keep coming back. You have this incredible ability to dialogue and push back, yet more importantly, to admit when you are stumped or have no response. Great job on this incredible interview.
Cool! Where are you from?
I think it is amazing that you, a man of faith, has confidence in your religion and that you can simultaneously enjoy watching critical voices and respecting the other side! we need more like you sir!
😊@@Jan-DehningI think it goes both ways more so the other. So many atheists are hostile towards Christianity for no logic or reason.
@@mancipiachristi9032maybe if we weren't told on almost every post on the internet that we need to become Christians or else we're bad people and going to hell. Imagine getting that message on the daily from people outside of your religion who tell you who you are without knowing you.
@@Jan-Dehning I watch a lot of Alex O'Connor as a hyper religious Christian. I sometimes even find that my faith gets stronger watching his videos. What I really admire about Alex is that he is not dismissive like other atheists and is truly one of the most talented, intellectually honest thinkers of our time especially considering how young he is. I understand why he is not religious and I will admit he has made me question my faith at times, but as where I am now my religion is stronger than ever and I just like listening to many different point of views.
Well done Alex. Without wanting to sound sycophantic or patronising you have really grown doing this. Your most admirable quality is maintaining openness whilst being skeptical, which is a really rare quality. Long may that continue.
He hasn't grown. He's still very young with his life maybe in front of him.
Probably the same as you.
Life is the teacher about these things. Not Dawkins.😂
@@Kitiwake bothered much?
He didn't push against any of his ideas. If I wanted to listen to this guy spout nonsense and demand that to have a debate we must first accept that jesus rode from the dead as a fact that there is an all powerful God that can perform miracles. He basically wants people to be Christians and then look at the resurrection of christ from that perspective. Alex did nothing to push against his ideas, if I wanted to listen to this guy spout nonsense I would have just watched his UA-cam channel
@sgsupreme17 I agree the "hasn't grown" comment was mean spirited and wasn't even a true statement because ALL OF US, are constantly growing as human beings and Christians. The remainder of his statement was reasonable and shouldn't be discounted, just because of the hateful initial remark!
@@Kitiwake Life is a great teacher. But Dawkins isn't bad either.
An absolute pleasure to watch and listen to this young man provide thoughtful and provoking questions with respect while not compromising his position. Definitely earned a like and more views
As a Christian who loves to watch atheist UA-camrs, you sir Alex, are my favorite. I hope one day, you and I can discuss fun topics such as this.
Same here. He truly has evolved for the better
Agreed. Easily the most well thought out, reasonable and charitable atheist on UA-cam. At least that I've observed. His lack of disdain and cynicism makes it so much easier to clearly hear from both sides.
Yeah Alex is the goat (Christian)
And that's what people who seek truth should aspire to be. We all should be humble enough to know that we don't understand everything and that we are on a journey to knowing it. Emotions and biases will just be blockages on that quest.
@@Checkmate777 well good on him for getting better ig
I'm late, but this was a really great convo! Thanks for this, Alex. Really appreciate how you conduct these convos!
Would LOVE to see an interview of you two
Yo i don't know if it's just me but I have a feeling that the Spirit of God is genuinely working in him. I hope and pray that he truly repents and puts his faith in Christ.
@@Bluewolf-I'm not sure how a false religion that comes after 600 years later, that denies Jesus died on the cross or that believes salvation is by good deeds and not God's grace or by having a deficient reconciliation of God's divine justice and divine retribution being fulfilled, has anything to do with what is being said here.
Really enjoyed this too
@@thecloudtherapist All religions are *equally false* until they're proven otherwise to be true.
You are so good at allowing people talk and even forcing them to with your pauses. I appreciate you.
Hello Adele. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
I am deeply relieved that I’m not the only Christian who has a deep admiration for Alex and love for his channel, arguments, and respect and humility he has towards his guests with opposing views. He is one of my favorite atheists(or whatever he wants to be titled) and honored to have my faith tested by him
Yeah but you fundamentally don't agree with him, so your admiration means nothing, in fact it's insulting
@@davidstaffell 😂 okay Dave 👍 way to really think that one through
@@davidstaffell You can fundementally disagree with somebodies point of view (especially on a matter on which there is no known way to definitively prove it in either direction) and still Respect and Admire that same person.
The meaning of the sentiment could be disputed sure, but the meaning of anything can be disputed, like how I could argue that you think its insulting means nothing.
On that point, it is not insulting. I am quite unsure how you reached this conclusion as, like are you new to debating? As respecting and having admiration for your opposition is fundamental to a healthy conversation that doesnt just devolve into childish insults.
Also this comment in support of a channel/creator you clearly also like so why the pointless hate, did you just feel the need to shit on a Theist?
Wow... So, wouldn't this world be great if we were all robot clones of each other who thought the same things!!!! I have many people that I respect and trust that have different opinions than I do. I embrace difference. @@davidstaffell
@@shadowtekmain Hi Shadow. I just want to inform you on something about proof. You state that _there is no known way to definitively prove it in either direction,_ but that's not how proof works. You can only proof something exists, you can't proof something doesn't exist. You can make up the weirdest thing imaginable, but you can't proof it doesn't exist anywhere in the universe. You can't proof unicorns don't exist, of fairies don't exist. Maybe they exist on some island where no one has ever been before. You can't proof green swans don't exist, because for that you have to collect all swans that exist, and check one by one if one is actually really green. But if you find one green swan anywhere, and check if it really green (by DNA or checking for paint) you can easily proof green swans exist: because look! I got one here in my hands. So basically, the one making the claim "green swans exists" has the burden of proof: you claim something, proof it. As long as no one has proven green swans, they don't exist. And the same goes for gods too.
Within Reason is exactly what I've been looking for. By allowing interviewees to express their positions wholly while being mildly challenged with common objections to their arguments, I feel like I can really understand the ideas better, especially when those ideas are ones I oppose. By pressing the guests only modestly, conversations flow smoothly, leading to greater clarity. It also seems to promote a more civil conversation, which is a breath of fresh air. Thanks Alex!
Are you serious? It is a waste of time, it also puts ridiculous unreasonable arguments on the same level as actual arguments and that is exactly what is actually what religious apologists LOVE, the second they smuggle in that JESUS rising from the dead could even remotely be a fact, all the Christians in the comments salivate. Debates with non fact religious should honestly be delegated to things humans haven’t proven time and time again with facts of the universe, proper history. This whole “every conversation is worth having” shit is getting old.
It would be great when the discussion revolved around facts and not fiction. The dragon in the garage is invisible is as useful as a topic as a dead human that is god or something else Please do not allow fantasy and pseudo-history in the conversation.
Hello Mike. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
@@EpicLemonMusic Sorry but without conversation challenging us to look further and just looking at the facts of today we would never grow as humanbeings we must be challenged to grow so your whole shut down people you dont agree with not only shuts down conversation it also shuts down growing.
Why I bet you'd appreciate an interview with Alex and RJ Reynolds, where the tobacco exec explains why his tobacco products are actually quite healthy. - If you prefer an unchallenged billboard, why not listen to Bill directly? Only when ideas, claims and assertions are probed, challenged and investigated by a competent interlocutor can they have any hope of earning some sense of credibility. Watching Alex serve up unchallenged softballs was a study in sleep inducing conversation. 😴
Thank you for these conversations, Alex! I love to see you speak with people on a human level with no disdain or hatred. I love hearing both sides be respectful. Thanks, Alex and William!
This is irresponsible, Christianity is terrorism and should be hated on
@@mikebrigandi_ Let's discuss the resurrection, Mikey-poo.
How do you think Christianity began without a resurrection?
@@20july1944 Christianity is a death cult and terrorism that promotes rape hatred and murder. Christianity must be banned
@@20july1944 It didn't. Please explain the resurrection and the Trinity in a clear and coherent manner. Thanks.
@@Crashawsome It's fine that you don't think there was a resurrection, but THEN
How did Christianity begin without a resurrection?
I love the interaction between you two.
It's contrasting in very many ways. Age and looks and accent and world view. Yet very respectful and kind all the way throug. I enjoyed it very much
One of the best discussions in the genre. A great interviewer, and a world-class interviewee.
I wouldn't call an interviewee who categorizes the mass slaughter of children on a regular basis as a mercy... "world class."
@@SnakeWasRightyeah but doesn't mean atheism solves anything either.
Who's gives shit about mass slaughter if you're an atheist? Who gives a shit about anything? It's only a bunch of molecules colliding that all came from nothing that will return to nothing. Nothingness galore
@@SnakeWasRightWhat Scripture are you referring to?
@@joverstreet24 I'm not referring to any scripture per se, I'm referring to Craig's excuses, of course it's the excuses for things in the Jewish and Christian scriptures. He says God commanded the Israelites to slaughter every last man woman and child on several occasions, as a "mercy."
@@SnakeWasRight You speak as if humans have some sort of intrinsic value and right to life outside of God. From where would you get this in a universe created by time +chance + matter?
The queen part was hilarious
Yeah, it was awkward af cuz Alex had been dissing the Queen right before hahaha
as an american it definitely seems odd to be offered condolences for the death of a monarch a month later almost as if it were on par with the death of a family member
@@user-md3wm7vu1f "As an American" is precisely why you find it odd. I'm Australian so we have more of a connection to the death of the Queen as we are in the commonwealth, yet we don't feel the way England feels toward it. It's simply just a cultural difference.
@@JonathanS344 I'm English and I feel total indifference to the Queen dying beyond sympathy of any elderly person dying.
@@user-md3wm7vu1f oh it's all weird.
The irony of Bill Craig coming on and immediately giving a sincere statement about how sorry he was that the queen died, thinking Alex was saddened by it and not realizing that Alex probably gave less than zero shits about the whole situation is just beyond hilarious.
That's not irony
@@christopherwilliams7905
I'm not one to cling religiously to dictionary definitions, but they are useful and show that in fact, it is almost the 'type specimen' of irony....
"a state of affairs or an event that seems deliberately contrary to what one expects and is often wryly amusing as a result."
Yeah, next he will come on and say how much he just enjoyed a steak....until he realises that Alex is a vega ... oh wait ... no, he likes steak now because it was just slightly too inconvenient not to pay to murder innocent animals.
@@christopherwilliams7905 I think there is some irony there, the person who thinks there is an afterlife is giving condolences for someones death, the person who thinks death is final is less effected. That is in direct opposition to how you would think it would go.
@taggartaa I could explain it being the exact opposite just as easy. It's definitely not irony. Even if what you say is true that's still not what irony is
One of the best conversations I've listened to. Both being respectful, while still not holding back on asking real questions.
Thank you Alex, i have been following you from the past three years, you have been such inspiration. I am Christian, obviously writing you from India, Manipur state. You have open my eyes in many ways through your sublime skills of questioning and analysis. You and William would always be my favourite ones.. once again thank you Alex...
i adore these conversations. being an atheist who was raised Catholic, there's always a lingering part of my mind that wants to cling to Christianity. so it is brilliant to hear two intelligent spokesmen for each side discuss these things. keep it up Alex 🙌
Keep the hope
Can I ask how you went from believing in the existence of discarnate interdimensional parasitic entities (i.e, demons) that harbour extreme malice towards human beings and are actively working for their destruction, to not beliveing in them? Interested in understanding how that happened.
This video is here, for example. A guy who was struggling with severe porn addiction receives a minor exorcism from a Protestant and has the demons that were burrowed into the energetic layers of his body soul composite cast out. How did you come to the conclusion that they no longer exist?
ua-cam.com/video/Ry0mU0flrJ4/v-deo.html
That lingering part is called echos of indoctrination. They will filling your head with garbage while it was still soft.
Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
I was surprised by Dr. Craig's response to the separation of church and state. Many Americans are ignorant on the Danbury letters and what the separation means and does. Furthermore, his stance on putting God on money, in the pledge, makes it trivial. I'm not religious, but I can appreciate that point of view, and even agree with it. I love this podcast! Well done, Cosmic😉
You are speaking of Dr. Craig, the guy is like a library of information, and at his age it is quite astounding.
@@damminers49 Even Muhammed Hijab -- a Muslim Apologist -- calls William a juggernaut. That right there tells you of the respect that an intellectual man of Jesus Christ has from various societies and peoples of thought across the social sphere.
P.S. When it comes to true Discipleship, Yahweh wants people to use their brains. Not accept things blindly.
That's a false definition of "faith" that people cooked up over the years. We have to use our minds.
If I'm not mistaken, I believe the phrase "In God We Trust" was placed on American currency some time during the Cold War as a way of distinguishing the United States from the godlessness of the Soviet Union.
@@scottbuchanan9426 it was 1956
The queen-intro and Alex being casually nervous is so humorous it kills me! lol
He's trying SO HARD to not smirk lmao
Alex on the Inside: #PACKWATCH #RIPBOZO REST IN PISS YOU WONT BE MISSED
And his subtle facial expressions LOOLLLL
@@coalgolem4697 nah even if he dislikes the monarchy he never said anything about being glad the queen died
yes...he has no reverence for anything
This is what the world needs. Two people of opposing views who can have a civil and friendly conversation. Whether you are friendly and kind to your fellow human is far more important than whether you have a faith or not.
Again Alex, incredible work. You said how you didn't push back and how you allowed Dr. Craig to speak his ideas in full, and I can't commend you enough for that. Most will butt in and change the conversation to suit the needs of what the host thinks the audience wants to hear. But it is indeed the entire thought of the guest we do want to hear, otherwise there's no point to the long form content at all. So please, keep up the fantastic work
The lack of pushback was quite disappointing since Dr. Craig is intellectually quite shallow - by his own admission no less. Why does he get to say that feeling warm and fuzzy makes it *rational* to believe in magic and, more than that, a very, very specific kind of magic over all other kinds of magic, with no pushback?
Those are not ideas worth listening to. That is the deliberate naivete of a man who wants to believe things with no evidence to them because he is promised eternal life.
I agree, multiple assertions on the consensus of biblical scholarship (some which are nonsense) went unchallenged.
@@mikolmisol6258 Jesus is attracted to you.
@@mikolmisol6258 you are obviously just a bitter person who can’t comprehend an intellectual conversation lol
@@mikolmisol6258 you disagree with Alex, Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris and various other well known atheists that William Lane Craig is a formidable debater and intellectual?
You and the channel have grown so much! Thank you, excellent content.
I'm not a believer, but I watch such content because I enjoy hearing both sides of any intellectual discussion on biblical history. During the discussion, I developed a newfound respect for William Lane Craig after hearing his thoughtful and insightful answers to tough questions. Alex is always fantastic. Beautiful discussion.
As a Christian, much respect, Alex, I love your content. What an open mind you have. Praying for you, brother!
👍
Loved this! What a good discussion. Love that these aren’t debates, but feel like intellectual pursuit. Keep it up man!
Logan Hello. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers. Kind Regards, Bluewolf.
Perfect having this on a Sunday
I felt like praying in hospital I was worried about surviving the night and wracked with guilt about past issues with family. I still found it difficult to pray to a higher power as the people I really wanted to talk to were alive
So what?
I appreciate WLC much more in this sort of format, rather than in formal debates. I was a bit underwhelmed by his criticism of higher standards of evidence for extraordinary claims, but I appreciated his honesty and overall thoughtful output in this conversation.
I feel like Alex consistently explains my own thoughts better than I could have. I love that each party genuinely listens to the other side and answers to the best of their ability. It's really a breath of fresh air.
As a person who's been in a handful of life-threatening situations, I've never really felt any compulsion to pray to anyone or anything. Usually, there's just a profound sense of quiet acceptance and me going, "Oh. So that's it then?" in my mind.
The whole "no atheists in fox-holes" idea seems something felt and propagated by people who already had a religious predilection from environment and upbringing or who have some deep-rooted fear of dying.
Dying, however, is not very scary when you realize you go unconscious every night as you go to sleep and that there's a non-zero chance you might never wake up again, yet most people don't balk at the thought of sleeping.
Now, pain? That I'm scared of. Upon reflection, I think most people will find that the real struggle over death is tied to all the excruciating ways in which you could die or loss of all your worldy attachments. Not permant unconsciousness. Why would you fear permanent unconsciousness? It's no worse on you than all the time before you were born, or all the time you spend in deep sleep every day.
👍
I think it depends on whether or not you grew up in a religious framework. Obviously growing up secular or atheist would not result in someone’s V praying in a tense situation.
@Bryce Gladwin
Yeah. That was kinda my point. This obviously also connects with the whole "god-shaped hole" argument, too, when people make the argument that most people "need" religion.
It's very difficult to appraise because many needs and behaviors are generated by circumstance. Most people in today's society would probably feel very disconnected and troubled without the internet, computers, and/or smartphones. That doesn't mean we, as a species, have "internet and computer-shaped holes in our hearts"
@@hian ha! I like that example you used there.
As a new atheist, former Christian of 26 years, I agree with you completely. Also, that sleep analogy is quite helpful
These conversations are not just a commendable display of respectfulness, but also an invaluable source of enlightenment.
Again I'm grateful to Alex's to hold this level of discussion which is bereft of any bad acting. Always a great time listening with you and Dr. Craig
Fantastic interview. Didn’t previously know either of these people, but I’m quite impressed how the interviewer, who obviously had an opposite viewpoint than the guest, asked very good questions in a very respectful manner. And the guest gave some impressively thorough and obviously well-researched answers. Kudos to both for a very intriguing, civilized interview.
Now this is the content I’ve subscribed for
Wonderful conversation. Alex is so thoughtful and respectful in these conversations and able to set his ego aside, which must be challenging. It's a refreshing change from many like conversations I've seen.
Oh William,you know the reason why we the colonists left away from Britain......It was because of the Monarchy run state affairs.
Long Live the Democratic Republic
Alex picks his targets - firmly contending with WLC, John Lennox, Stephen C Meyer would damage his reputation and status and he knows it so he treads carefully.
@@Matthew24.4 or maybe he is genuinely curious and seeking the truth. Maybe he chooses to interview Christian apologists and philosophers that he genuinely respects even if he disagrees with them.
One thing i would like to say is respekt to Alex for his great manners, patience, empathic analysis and general likeable character. I enjoy listening to this very much....
Recent credible science on the shroud of Turin in contrast to the 1988 carbon study, points to a burial cloth of a crucified man. How the negative image was imparted on the cloth points to a phenomenon akin to a resurrection that we only now are beginning to understand.
@@jonathannidock5770 true. Just a look at the photonegativ should make clear to anyone that this can't be the work of a forgery. The photonegativ image is so extraordinary that it must raise the question how it was made and why we don't have a similar image of anyone else in history
I loved your sincerity "I haven't challenged you as much as I expected" as you were fascinated by Craig's way of presenting his arguments. Your attitude is quite rare when people with opposite views discuss. Thank you Alex
This was an excellent conversation. Always refreshing to see a sincere skeptic.
Thank you Alex for this fascinating discussion with Dr. Craig. I really appreciate your civil, good-faith approach, and how you apply your deep curiosity to better understanding (if not necessarily agreeing with) your guest’s perspective. I also appreciate your letting your guest flesh his ideas out without unnecessary interruptions. Keep delivering this sort of great content!
You didn't miss a voice of reason at all?
@@Bluewolf- True answers for what?
run along simp
@@user255 The purpose of life, why we are on this earth, the fundamental matters of belief, Where did we come from, where are we going, the spirit, reality, Who created this world/this universe... such kind of things...
@@Bluewolf- What evidence there is to support the view that they have got these issues right?
Well done Alex. I’ve followed you for a number of years and have always appreciated your demeanor and respectfulness. I am a Christian and truly wish you well on your continued endeavors.
Also, you could play a young Paul in a Beatles film.
i don't think he would even think about playing the beatles. the beatles who preached there is no Jesus or God in 1968 in America all most getting kicked out of the U.S by apologies preventingit they are 100% atheist.
I'm really enjoying conversations over debate. People actually discuss topics instead of trying to win "crowd points"
This Within Reason project is great and I cant wait to see more! I really hope you include other God-centric beliefs in your discussions, particularly (admittedly an interest of mine) Hindu Advaita .
Thanks again for your work!
Alex should bring on David Bentley Hart, I think he's referenced his works previously and he'd be good at bringing in both Christianity and Vedanta.
Namaste and love from a Hindu from India! 🙏🇮🇳☮️☮️ I must admit that I am extremely sympathetic to Advaita (particularly the Advaitic pluralism of Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi) even though I lean more towards the panentheism of Ramanujacharya. I hope that peace and love will prevail in the world!
Stick to western civilization, you dont need hindu stuff
I'd like to see this. Hopefully they would touch on the disgusting doctrines of karma and reincarnation and the inherent racism and tremendous human suffering they have caused. Maybe it would stop all the white middle class people, who spit on and repudiate their own culture and spiritual heritage and look to the incoherent religions of the east, dead in their tracks once they realise the implications of such beliefs.
Hi Jen! Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
Between their two discussions, it seems like the blossoming of a pretty cool friendship!
I've never heard of this guy until today. He seems very kind and very intelligent so far.
That was a remarkable discussion, as a person of faith I came to see William speak but I have such high respect for the way Alex holds himself and never invests too heavily on a stance and keeps an amazing balance between open mindedness and skepticism. Really great to see such a healthy discussion from two opposing view points in such a respectful and well spoken way. Thank you to the both of you for your insights on such an interesting topic
Give yourself some credit too for watching atheistic content. I think these open conversations are crucial for maintaining peace and reducing harmful stereotypes from both sides as much as possible. I've heard so many atheist saying that theist only believe because they are brainwashed ignorant people, and theist saying that atheists do not believe merely because of their ego and so on. When reality cannot be much further from the truth, and such stereotypes only work to harm relationships between the groups.
It's up to you mate, but I like it when the video is as much split screen as possible, cos I like seeing the other guys reactions to what's being said
Bobby! Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
Get that sweet Wes Anderson symmetry going on
Excellent civil conversation. We need more of this across the whole spectrum of our differences .
Hello Megginson. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
Always want your conversations with Dr Craig to be longer! Great conversation, fascinating discussion point.
I had to turn it off after 30 minutes.
I think I'm actually allergic to WLC.
Are you Muslim ?
WLC is unabashedly an Apologist. What is apologetics? It is not apologising. It is not saying “I’m sorry, I should not have said that thing. Rather it is saying things you should be ashamed of, but aren’t. Apologists are defenders of the faith, who make up whatever ever excuse is necessary to rationalize or justify every instance where their religious doctrine is inadequate, inconsistent, immoral or factually false, or to simply obfuscate, distort, dismiss and ignore all the evidence against said doctrine. In other words, Apologists are professional liars.
@@thinboxdictator6720 Out of interest do you like dark things? And do you shy away from holsome things?
@@Francoisdp82 hahaha 🤣
It's probably because I used to watch debates a lot and I can't stand nonsense.
I've heard him mangle logic so many times, that I seriously couldn't listen to his voice anymore.
That doesn't mean he's somehow an exception with that, from other apologists,but his voice is just really annoying/specific/recognizable and with that connection my brain made,it became unbearable.
I didn't hear him in a long time, that's why I could listen to him for half an hour (or whatever time he talked in first half hour of this video) , before the "allergy" returned.
14:00 ritualistic prayer is super helpful for me. A lot of times when I don't know what to say or feel very bad, I like having the words to say
Thank you for this. I was a Christian many years ago, bible college, ordination etc etc. I have moved away from the Christian faith. But as I age I am revisiting the bible and the message it communicates. Again, thank you.
The Quran allows marriage and sexual relationship with prepubescent girls who you married (Quran 65:4) and their prophet married Aisha at 6 and consumated the marriage with her when she was 9. So absolutely, do check out islam if you want to puke.
@el queso feta hell no
You should better get yourself a proper scientific education especially about evolution and cosmology! Then you will no longer be able to believe all that supernatural nonsense! We are nothing but a species of apes man nothing more nothing less!!! So ALL religions and ALL their silly but also cruel doctrines can ALL be thrown right in the trash!!!
What was wrong with the message?
I'm glad to hear your mind has reopened on that. Good on you!
What a fantastic way to talk with this guy! Ive hesdd William on a good few debates so far and though its fun to see his view ve destroyed by many of the other leaders, seeing this sincere approach with no anger, overtalking, etc was such a breath of fresh air. Both of you provided fascinating perspectives.
Specifically what arguments of Dr Craig have been destroyed?
@@EdithBromfeld None
@@markfry4304 Yep, these atheists simply lie.
who has he ever been destroyed by? lol
@@nostaljosh Christopher Hitchins. Biola University video
Catholic here, and I love you Alex and all your work! Really admire your openness and kindness. I wish more of my fellow Christian apologists engaged with your level of charity.
Catholicism is the original; that's why all oppose it.
@@sgsupreme17 huh?
@@danielkim672 what don't you understand, I can further explain.
@@sgsupreme17 just explain that thought. Who is all? Does people that oppose the Catholic Church make a distinction between that and Protestants?
@@danielkim672 the more than two thousand denominations.
This is just an exceptional interview/debate. Dr. Craig is without a doubt exceptional in both his knowledge and delivery... having said that, you, Alex, are an exceptionally worthy opponent. You have the ability to draw from your guests their best answers and I believe that is because you are not superficial... you lead through logical steps to literally force the guest to give it his or her best shot!!
Is this a joke? Are you genuinely that dense? Craig demanded that the viewers and Alex argue with him with the stipulation of believing Jesus resurrection was an indisputable fact. He used nothing besides bad faith arguments the whole video and Alex didn't do anything to push against him or question his claims. Absolutely pathetic.
Alex always on the quest for truth. Never on the quest to be right and win and beat people. Be more like Alex, my friends.
Jesse! Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
Jesse. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
You can tell just how excited WLC was to hear about Alex's plane story
Okay...?
Yeah, a little too gleeful there, Low Bar Bill.
@@utubepunk How should he have reacted? It was only a dream.
45:20
No, WLC. The idea of historical resurrections to 1st century Jews was not unknown.
1 Kings 17 - Elijah raises a young boy from the dead.
2 Kings 4 - Elisha raises another young boy.
2 Kings 13 - A dead body is thrown onto the bones of Elisha and comes back to life.
Edit: He even said it twice. And Alex was impressed by it.
And the idea that the creed quoted by Paul in Corinthians coming about “so soon” after the death of Jesus being strong is not good. As a modern example: It’s been just over 2 years since the events in Washington of Jan 6. We can rewatch dozens of videos taken that day. There’s hundreds of court records about it. But I hear outright falsehoods about that day constantly coming from people defending those who participated.
Whoops.
Thanks for the clarification.
I agree, seems like a false claim, but pretty sure he has something to say to this objection, i doubt he just ignores this. But i would have loved this objection to appear in the discussion
@@thecriticon7819 He probably does have a response. But why does he say these things that are obviously not true if you believe in the Bible?
Obviously Craig and christians are familiar with those narratives. They do not apply because there are crucial distinctions to be made between resuscitation and resurrection. Those people, as Lazarus, were brought back to life (resuscitated) and died again later. Jesus’ account on the other hand is totally different. It is associated with the concept of an afterlife, and implies a more permanent and transformative change beyond mere physical restoration, like the resurrection of the dead that Jews expected to happen only in the end of times.
Also, about the creed not applying despite originating so soon after the events, we’d have to dismiss the entire history of mankind by such standards. The reason you can dismiss the false statements about Jan 6 is that you have have evidence against them being true. It also comes from history, and it’s not the case concerning the resurrection narrative.
Thanks
I have actually had a similar dream of dying in a plane. The entire universe was collapsing into itself, all the planets were hurling towards the tiny plane and I knew I was going to die.
In that moment, I reset my brain to my fundamentalist Christian upbringing and started praying as well. I woke up weeping.
It was simultaneously the most vividly beautiful and surreal dream I have ever experienced while also being absolutely heartbreaking. All the dreams and nightmares I have had since then have felt trite and silly in comparison.
Christ is king 👑
There was a imam who would write the name of Jesus on a piece of paper and give it to people who are experiencing nightmares and they would experience remediation.
@@joshuafollowsJesusChrist There was a shaman who would perform rain dances for his tribe when they needed rain and they would have their crops saved by rainfall.
if you just yell Jesus's name super super loud!!!!! it fixes this sort of thing. yay!
@@lVideoWatcherl I don't think you realize, Muslims don't jeopardize their reputation over something that doesn't work.
I’m honestly surprised to hear someone as respected as WLC appears to have no issue embracing Pascal's Wager
the guy literally admitted he lowers his standards until he can get to his preferred conclusion...
Did the OP forget the “/s”?
Wow, Jef -- isn't the possibility of your future happiness worth being open-minded?
@@nagranoth_ If you're in a burning building with only a 1% chance of survival, you're rational to take it.
@@20july1944 Nothing Jef said inferred him not having an open mind.
I'm a theist... I appreciate Alex...very reasonable, erudite and humble
Alex, in an online world filled with proponents aiming solely to win arguments, I commend and thank you for engaging in conversations that clearly show we can have uplifting and loving discussions without total agreement. Even in 2023, it's possible to lead with intellect rather than emotions. Kind regards, a Christian.
Alex, you have grown on me over the years. I appreciate your approach as a Christian.
Joshua. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
I’m a Christian thank you for allowing us to come up to your platform and just talk 🫡🫡🫡🫡 God bless you bro
I'd be very interested to see you do a podcast with Religion for Breakfast or Esoterica, I know your content is more theology than religious studies, but I think an interdisciplinary podcast would be pretty dope, your comments here on ritual made me think of religion for breakfast, and the dostoevsky part of the conversation made me think of Esoterica. I think a podcast discussing the anthropological/sociological side of religion would be super interesting to hear, since most of your content is more in the philosophy/theology/ethics area.
What's the difference between theology and religious studies? Genuinely curious.
@@howlrichard1028 Theology is the study of God. It’s more like philosophy but with a direction towards God as an interest.
Religious studies is the study of religion. It’s more anthropological and directed towards the phenomenon of religion within culture and people.
@@howlrichard1028 it's pretty much what Noah said, Religion for Breakfast has a video that goes a bit more in depth into the kinds of questions RS academics would research, you can find it looking up "religion for breakfast religious studies" its also just a great channel in general if you're interested in an academic study of religion everywhere from ancient egypt to topics like how covid affected religiosity
Another distinction is that theology is usually done through the lens of religious belief, whereas religious studies is more academic in nature and is agnostic towards the truth of any particular religion.
@@zacharyshort384 Not exactly.
Theology tries to explain in a philosophical way what God's essence is according to different religions.
Theo = God
Logos = Study
Theology = The study of God
You don't have to be religious in order to be considered a theologian. In fact there are atheistic theologians (possibly even CosmicSkeptic could be considered one of them) who try to explain what God's nature is according to different religions but who don't necessarily believe in any religion particularly. Similarly, one can be considered a theologian of Islam and be a Christian.
Religious studies on the other hand tend to be more sociological. They ask questions such as "which part of the world believes in Buddhism?", "why do different people believe different religions?", "why do people even believe in religions at all?", "how did religions come to be?", etc. These are sociological (and at times, psychological) questions rather than the philosophical ones that theology tries to answer.
You sir Alex are one of the most intelligent, thoughtful, respectful young men I have heard in discourse...much regard to you.
Great conversation! I’ve heard Dr Lane many times and never found him convincing but this was the first time I thought he was interesting. well done Alex!
Eugene. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
I really like the conversational tone and focus on the big picture as opposed to technical objections in there conversations. I hope you can get more great guests like this on.
Hello De Rossi. Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
I love the relationship you have with WLC 💖 And that you ask Dr. Craig honest questions! So good to see.
The Pharisee Paul was a relentless persecutor of the Jesus-Jews because they proclaimed the crucified Jesus to be the resurrected Jewish Messiah. Then Paul had a miraculous encounter with the Christ deity on the road to Damascus. Sometimes it takes a miraculous encounter to become a believer.
Yes. I had to have one. Now I am not just a believer but i know
First time I've ever listened to William Lane Craig carefully. I realize I've dismissed him too casually in the past. I so much appreciate your ability to let your intellectual opponent make their points without jumping too hastily into the conversation. Bravo.
Did you watch the previous video of the two of them?
You didnt dismiss him too casually at all. His argument assumes much and fails to show how those assumptions are justified on any rational basis. As if it needs to be repeated, the bible is not a history book. And there are zero contemporaneous accounts of the jesus characters life and times.
@@zapkvr0101the New Testament is a history book as much as any other book. History is built off of written records established by eyewitness accounts and (if you are lucky) verified by people who knew eyewitnesses. Explain to me how the New Testament is not a history book.
@@Messianic-Gentile NOT CORRECT. Not even close. Stop begging the question
@@zapkvr0101 elaborate
As an atheist, im glad you had Mr William Lane Craig on. We may not see eye to eye but i do respect him for the theological academic he is. William is a truly kind and brilliant man.
I’m praying for you. Thank you for being open to listening. I used to be like you till i was screaming at God that I just had to know. He showed me by raising me 3 inches above my body and feeling His indescribable love
Try and remember that this is not a debate, and that is why the discussion is a bit more loose than I think some are expecting. They are examining each other, not fighting each other.
A debate doesn't have to be fight but it should be a discussion.
This wasn't a discussion but felt more like a WLC fan podcast because Cosmic barely engaged even when WLC just droned on with lots of word salad nonsense.
Huge fan! I am a Christian but love the curiosity and discussion that Alex provokes. Well spoken, clearly articulated ideas, excellent questions, respectful approach and in all, an excellent fellow.
Do you believe that Alex will be destined for hell because of his non-belief? Or do you believe that even non-Christians can go to heaven?
I absolutely love the mutual respect that occurs in the conversations with Dr. Craig.
Dr. Craigs remarks on the late Queen were savagely hilarious given Alex’s position on that subject hehe too funny.
man I love how you can make WLC chuckle, you two definitely have a cool friends vibe. keep these conversations going!
Hi Kevin! Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
Alex, just discovered your podcast. Can't thank you enough for sharing your thoughts and views. I really appreciate your respect for your guests, and your commitment to intellectualism, no matter how ridiculous they may be. Keep up the great work!!
Maybe I misunderstood what Craig said, and maybe Craig misspoke - but at 34:30 mins, Craig said words to the effect of,
'if the events are highly improbable, we can still claim they occurred if they are expected in a paradigm'.
He literally just argued that the resurrection occurred because the Christian hypothesis says it occurred, and the Christian hypothesis occurred because the resurrection occurred.
Poor logic from him, using the analogy of a cancer patient with an immediate need for treatment to that of a real 'miracle'..
Sigh
At the very least, it seems to be an argument for Jesus' ressurection based on the presupposed existence of a miracle working father deity.
o.o
He's always been a joke, self-reinforcing circular reasoning, in my opinion.
Smile, Laugh more dear Alex. It was nice seeing your reactions to the answers. You two should hang out more😃
Yeah, that "urge" to pray in moments of crisis or despair never really went away for me. But to have someone use that as an argument is just silly. It's alot like going to a domestic abuse victim and saying "see, when he hits you you immediately assume it's something you did wrong, therefore it's true that you *_did_* do something wrong and it's your fault". Deeply ingrained habits and emotions are some of the hardest things to rid yourself of. But those leftover shadows of my christian self do nothing to prove the god he believed in and feared.
I like the broadly friendly tone of this conversation. Both sides are making an effort to avoid gotcha questions, both also successfully asked questions which illuminated the positions of the other without resorting to combativeness.
Alex, thanks for this interview. Thank you for your respect and integrity. I am a Christian and I enjoy WLC, I also feel that you are genuine, thoughtful, and honest. I think it’s important to push Christian scholars on these claims but you never make anyone feel stupid or uneducated. You are a good man and a asset to the Christian and Skeptic communities.
AGREED ! ✌
*Hi Alex, as Christians we enjoy your pofcasts*
Keep up these fantastic conversations!
I wasn't expecting to like WL Craig, but he seems incredibly kind and very understanding of the relevant questions; willing to engage in good faith. I am so enjoying this discussion.
Not you again 🤢🤢🤮
Im afraid you would not like WLC as he thinks the problem of evil is a failed argument, you might get a bit upset
@@JohnSmith-fz8ek I know that's what he thinks, but that doesn't mean I can't like him.
@@lauraj8429 I'm just going by how you have previously acted towards people that have disagreed with you
@@JohnSmith-fz8ek Sure
As a Christian I enjoy to watch Alex’s videos he is really intelligent !
Again, great breathing space you give to your guests, Alex! Interesting to see people's ideas unfolding freely, without them having to justify every word along the way.
Have a look at: ''e risale english''. Just write it exactly in a search box. Pops up at the top of your search. It will give you the true answers.
CosmiSkeptic coming out with banger after banger.
He just seems to have so much more energy and drive since he switched up his diet.
@@garythefishable It's not the diet dichotomous "switch" insinuation, but the clear diagnosis of GI issues with a direct name and treatment options that he is likely treating with enzymes/drugs/avoiding-certain-trigger-foods/etc. He said his body is not good at digesting beans for protein and the beans (and probably wheat) cause him IBS so in order to not rely on non-solid protein shakes he has to eat some meats (not sure which, and probably with digestion boosting enzymes).
@garythefishable Except that this was recorded several months ago. But I suspect you haven't even watched the video you are commenting under.
How respectful an interview. Truly well done.
William Lane Craig has a very warm and appealing manner; nevertheless, note the circularity when he's asked about the resurrection: miracles are not hard to accept, he says, if we believe in the first place that God exists. Because a God who made the universe would of course be capable of a miracle as petty as a resurrection. In other words, miracles make sense *as long as you believe in the ultimate miracle,* which is the idea of the omnipotent Creator God! Quite a leap, and Alex might have interjected at the point to observe this.
I'm sorry but maybe you are thinking that way because you are coming from the worldview that assumes or find it 'naturally incredible' that He exists. But for someone to whom the question 'why is there something rather than nothing' is sufficient to say that existence in itself is a miracle, it's not a leap at all. If God exists, He would not be a miracle, He would actually be the source behind order and why science can even be done. Sorry for firing ideas but I think that stating that 'God is a miracle' comes from our worldview and is in itself circular. I appreciate your comment by the way. Even though this is Alex's channel, you are surrounded by Christian comments :D It's kinda weird and funny.
Likewise, Dr Craig starts with the assumption of some causor or moral origin and then makes a leap at the end that that cause or origin is the God of the bible, which is demonstrably false when information about the god of the bible from various historical sciences is considered.
People lie all the time, in contrast, people never come back from the dead, so just go for the most probable explanation
The funny part is, if people did start coming back, we'd have to reassign the probability that Jesus was resurrected, but it would also make it mundane and no longer a divine miracle.
How would you know that spirits don't resurrect dead bodies?
Alvin Plantinga would be amazing here. I know Alex is a fan. There aren't many clips of him just speaking with people, but he seems very interesting and has a perfect radio voice
YES
@@bootswith_defir apparently he's 90, so...time's a-wastin
@@a.i.l1074 This would be absolutely gold, but unfortunately I'm not sure if Plantinga does interviews anymore (at least I heard something similar somewhere).
Great conversation. WLC is an amazing communicator, and so is Alex.
A beautiful and deeply humane conversation ❤
Civil discourse exemplified! Thank you Alex and Dr. Craig
Wow... it is amazing to see a learned skeptic, who is rational enough to have a civilised interview with a person he doesn't agree with. And even admitting that the arguments against his own views are stronger than he expected.
A breathe of fresh air compared to the likes of antagonistic skeptics like matt dillahunty, who keeps cutting people off mid-conversation with his all mighty "mute" button.
34:13 It's not about God wanting us to believe in Him "so badly" - He has a perfect balance of evidence while also designing existence in a way that you have to seek Him. If He made Himself obviously known to humanity, which He obviously has the power to do, then we would never develop a true loving and faithful relationship with Him because we would all follow Him out of fear rather than love & faith.
Relationships with a spouse here on Earth are supposed to represent how we are supposed to love God. Nobody wants to be forced to love or trust anyone. True love is a beautiful thing.
Loved listening to this, thanks for sharing!
Observe how Craig modifies the phrase "Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence" to "Extraordinary events require extraordinary evidence" (33:40) and then disputes the premise. This is not an innocent mistake on his part, as I have seen him employ the same rhetorical tactic when confronted with the same question. However, it might be considered acceptable if one believes in an exception to the 8th commandment for the sake of Jesus.
Exactly, I'm also having a hard time being charitable to misinterpretations of the phrase by absolutely every apologist ever.
No matter what your faith is but to be able to carry out an intellectual and civil discussion is great to hear and learn from.
Civil conversation? Yes, it was.
Craig arguments boil down to = it's true because me believing that it was true (without evidence) while doing my under doctorate studies (plug book) studying the stories that say it's true (without evidence) made me come to conclusion that it is true (plug book) because of all the evidence, the evidence being the stories that don't have any evidence that anything in them are true.
How you come to the conclusion this was an intellectual discussion, I have no clue.
@@PDVism
It's obvious... Alex is speaking.
This really was not intellectual, just an unchallenged presentation of Low Bar Bill's various beliefs with no evidence to them.
I find it curious that most of you guys at the comment section seem to respect/admire Alex’s intellect and thoughts, while at the same time being so dismissive of Dr. Craig’s thoughts as if they weren’t respectable positions. Alex clearly considers them to be worth considering and highly regards Craig as a philosopher. You don’t need to agree with the guy (Alex certainly does not), but labelling Craig as delusional or his arguments as silly seems quite naive. It should drive you to question your own grasp of the topics being discussed.
@@brunoarruda9916
I totally agree.