Over to You
My aim is simply to air some things I have written hoping doing so will encourage you to get into a discussion with me.
Some of my writing is controversial. Some will provoke not just disagreement, but misunderstanding, however hard I strive for clarity. Two pieces I think may be original. Certainly I have derived them from no-one else.
The first is to be found in the section Religion? Here I argue that the modern acceptance of belief in the supernatural by both Christians and members of the other main religions results in a terrible distortion of the religions they think they are defending.
The second grows out of my reflections on the Buddhist tradition and its teaching on “rebirth.” This is explored in the Buddha Way section and in the poem “This I see is Certain”. In this poem I explore the idea that we are “reborn” constantly in that we initiate consequences and affect the consciousness of others through our actions and intentions. This means fragments of who we are live on and are “born again” in each other even as our individual consciousness dies.
My critique of the “pro-life” stance is hardly original, though again I came up with the idea that we need to see that there is a distinction between a potential person and an actual person over thirty years ago when I wrote my first paper on the subject in Bristol. I have subsequently found that others, in particular Professor Peter Singer have developed the same distinction quite independently of me or of I with him. I think the line taken on abortion, sex and birthcontrol by the last three popes is a terrible catastrophe. If you do not agree please send me your arguments and see if you can change my mind.
I think I have an open mind which can be influenced or changed through presenting me with reasoned argument and accurate observation, so please do not hesitate. Browse and react. Comments both positive and negative will be equally appreciated and all comments will be responded to. Fill in a comment box or e mail me directly.
Why the title? I only did it to annoy, and to attract attention. See the poem: Perhaps.
johnbaxter@getshot.co.uk
John