Friday, March 7, 2008
Locke- GOD IS
“I grant the existence of God is so many ways manifest, and the obedience we owe him so congruous to the light of reason … without either knowing or admitting the true ground of morality; which can only be the will and law of a God, who sees men in the dark, has in hands rewards and punishments, and power enough to call to account the proudest offender.” (Page 29, chapter 3) Locke is apparently really gung-ho on not only the idea that God exists, but the “testimony” of it. He goes on about how obvious it is that God does exist, but morally it is up to you to accept it or not. It is known that there must be a God, according to Locke, because if you as mankind can think of any other way everything came about, then you must be incorrect. God makes sense, God is the truth, he is the only way to make things real and fit together. With this undoubtable evidence we should nonetheless give all due respect to this God who is what we are, what all creations are. God has the power to give and take to those deserving, and it is made clear that he can see everyone, he doesn’t miss a wink. Locke is so set on selling God, he does exist, no question about; now if you have morals you need to respect him-end of story. Locke to me seems like he could be God’s slave, and is under oath with his soul on the line. Locke is certain and uncompromising.
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2 comments:
Locke believes in God but does not believe that people are born with the idea of God (as Descartes believes). God is an idea that comes into the mind through external sources. And Locke definately believes, as you said, those who have morals come to accept the idea of God. I definately think that Locke is more logical than Descartes and makes more sense. However, there are plenty of people in the world today with that are not morally sound and believe in God.
Locke has more of a contemporary view on gods existence and thought. Like both of you said, the external forces act on us and shape our beliefs. After reading Locke's concepts, he makes Descartes look insane...i still don't understand Descartes.
Also, with Descartes it seems god's existence is either extreme, no in between. However with Locke there is no extremes just wherever you stand.
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