Church & State, Atheism, and Capitalism (Show 012)
On last Sunday’s show Brandon and I talked to one of our new listeners. I don’t know his real name but he goes by “GhostDogAlpha†on TalkShoe.com. He seemed to be informed on Objectivism, but we couldn’t tell if he was just a libertarian that supported Ayn Rand. We hope to talk to him again and maybe we will find out.
The show started off with Eli, a Mormon listener, informing us that George Bush announced a national day of prayer. We talked about how this might not be the best use of power and how it might go against the separation of church and state. We then talked about what atheists do in the courtroom since they really can’t swear on the Bible. Lastly, we had a quick discussion about how the roads and police would be funded in a free capitalist society. Thank you to our listeners that called in! This was an exciting show.
To listen to this show and past ones just go to the TalkShoe.com page or search for “TalkObjectivism†in iTunes.
May 30th, 2007 at 2:32 pm
I’m pretty sure that in today’s courts, they drop the swearing on the Bible and simply take your word. At least, they do in juvenile court. As dramatized in Rand’s play Night of January 16th, the main character (an atheist woman) simply affirmed to tell the truth.
As for National Day of Prayer, it isn’t forced down anyone’s throats and a citizen can choose not to observe it, so I don’t think it’s crossing a line, really, because it’s inclusive of all world religions (I guess atheists should just…think deeply?).
May 30th, 2007 at 3:05 pm
Haha… I always think deeply! I was once called evil for telling someone that praying is worthless if you believed in fate (which they did). Religion and Reason never mix.
May 30th, 2007 at 8:05 pm
Thank you for expressing your position, Andrew. Mosley and I have a great discussion planned for the next episode that might affect your opinion, or at least make you think about it. Hope you listen in!
May 31st, 2007 at 1:10 am
Hey guys!
Thanks for the nice comments in your post. I’ll be happy to drop in on the show again if you would like.
BTW – I do most of my political blogging @ http://www.herdwatching.com and my personal stuff happens @ http://www.soulhuntre.com
Enjoy!
May 31st, 2007 at 9:55 am
Yes we would like it if you droped in the show again. You were a lot of fun to talk to!