Here's a question: (America, atheist, quote, God)

[Clintone]

Okay so, judging by the various Republican party presidential candidates' repeated statements about the importance of God in their lives, it would seem that believing in God is important to many Americans. Presidential candidates will tend to pay attention to what Americans want to hear and modify their speeches accordingly.

Here's a question though, and it might be something everyobody can hopefully agree is a valid question. Hopefully voters more likely to vote for presidential candidates who state they have a belief in God may enlighten the rest of us. Now, the President of the U.S. has control over the armed forces and can begin wars, as Busch did, with only slow-moving congress to eventually catch up and determine whether or not it was a good idea. The President can also launch nuclear warheads.

What process do you use to determine the difference between presidential candidates who hear the voice of God, and who are schizophrenic?

[looking4answers12]

Originally Posted by Clintone

What process do you use to determine the difference between presidential candidates who hear the voice of God, and who are schizophrenic?

I believe in God, but I've wondered myself how people determine the difference between people who believe they've had a "religious experience" and true schizophreanics.

I wonder this of both believers and non-believers.
I don't get the impression that all atheists believe all religious people are mentally ill (although I know SOME to believe it).

Sorry, I know I am probably veering the topic into a slightly different directly. Could my MY mental illness. I'll claim ADD today.

[pamelaBeurman]

Let's face it, most of them are nuttier than a fruitcake.

[Vic 2.0]

Originally Posted by Clintone

What process do you use to determine the difference between presidential candidates who hear the voice of God, and who are schizophrenic?

I'd use the same criteria that psychologists use. There's much more to being schizophrenic than claiming to hear the voice of God.

Schizophrenia - Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment of Schizophrenia - NY Times Health Information

Interestingly enough, this gives all the more reason to refuse to vote for candidates who don't seem to be thinking logically, as the inability to do this is also a symptom. I'd urge anyone to carry this phrase into the voting booth: "Vote sensible, not schizophrenic!"

[june 7th]

Thread closed pending moderator consideration.