Week 8 Discussion Board

Consider
auspicious timing, the Chinese zodiac, and speculation about the future in the
“Lucky You” Power Point. A rationalist might look over our shoulder, and draw
the conclusion that “Religion is simply organized superstition.” You are to
read the provided 750-word article by Austin Cline, consider two opposing
theses, select the thesis with which you most agree, and can sufficiently
defend. Then you will construct an argument. 1-2 paragraphs will suffice. Be
sure to consider the concepts, and demonstrate an understanding of how the two
might or might not be related; how the two might be contrasted and compared.
Organize your thinking, being mindful of critical thinking and clear,
persuasive writing.

So
where does superstition come into the picture? Or, in some sense can religion
be thought of as organized or “advanced” superstition–while a bit
more sophisticated than earlier magic, “religion” might still be
considered by some as a more primitive and pre-scientific way of viewing reality
and ascribing meaning to the events and exigencies of life? This is the issue
facing us in Discussion Board #3. Read the Austin Cline piece below (approx 750
words), and follow the instructions, which entails constructing an argument. 

Consider
two opposing theses, select the thesis with which you most agree, and can
sufficiently defend. 1 – 2 paragraphs will suffice. Be sure to consider the
concepts, and demonstrate an understanding of how the two might or might not be
related; how the two might be contrasted and compared. Organize your thinking,
being mindful of critical thinking and clear, persuasive writing.

 

1.  Read  Religion vs Superstition page 1 – Attached –
There are 2 pages to read (do not read page 3) Religion vs Superstition page 1.pdf


2.  Read  Religion vs Superstition page 2 – Attached –
There is 2 pages here 

Religion vs Superstition page 2.pdf


3.  Read
the Austin Cline piece 750 words

http://atheism.about.com/od/religionnonreligion/a/superstition.htm#


4.  View
– Lucky You – Twenty seven page Powerpoint slide

LUCKY YOU.pdf

5.  Answer
the questions on Religion vs Superstition page 1. There is 1 question with two parts that
must be answered in an argument form.