While US congressmen are discussing measures to protect Internet freedom worldwide, most American don't know that the US itself has a global spying system called "the Echelon" that monitors all telephone conversations, e-mails and others communication methods of users worldwide.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Mike Aus and Gary Williams Speak About Houston Oasis
Houston Oasis President Gary Williams shares the story of his journey to freethought, and some background on the founding of Houston Oasis. Houston Oasis is a community grounded in reason, celebrating the human experience.
Mike Aus is a graduate of The Clergy Project and is the Executive Director of the Houston Oasis.
Mike Aus is a graduate of The Clergy Project and is the Executive Director of the Houston Oasis.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
String Theory - Lawrence Krauss and Brian Greene
Professors Lawrence Krauss and Brian Greene discuss Brian Greene's introduction into the field of String Theory and the educational reasons to how he came to study and popularise the subject with physics in general.
Theoretical Physics requires tailor made mathematics to describe the mechanism of reality as probed and observed by Experimental and Observational Physicists.
Theoretical Physics requires tailor made mathematics to describe the mechanism of reality as probed and observed by Experimental and Observational Physicists.
Kenneth Miller - Evolution vs Intelligent Design FULL
Cell biologist and author Kenneth Miller discusses the scientific theory of evolution and the recent legal battles to teach intelligent design in schools. Kenneth R. Miller is a biology professor at Brown University. Miller is particularly known for his opposition to creationism, including the intelligent design movement. He has written two books on the subject. The first, Finding Darwin's God: A Scientist's Search for Common Ground Between God and Evolution, argues that a belief in evolution is compatible with a belief in God. In Only a Theory, his second on the subject, explores ID and the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District as well as its implications in science across America.
01. Introduction
02. Books on Biology and Evolution
03. Miller
04. Mike Huckabee
05. The Evolution Debate in U.S.
06. Intelligent Design Drama in Dover
07. Fish to Tetrapod Transition
08. Dover Trial Verdict
09. Religion Masquerading as Science
10. The Scientific Soul of the U.S.
11. Intelligent Design a Scientific Failure
12. Evolution Is Not Random and Accidental
13. Design of the Human Genome
14. Q1: Rejection of Science in America
15. Q2: Danger of Brain Drain
16. Q3: Carbon Dating and Creationism
17. Q4: Transitional Species
18. Q5: Continuing Process of Evolution
Location:
Chautauqua Institution
Chautauqua, NY
Event Date:
08.18.08
Speakers:
Kenneth Miller
01. Introduction
02. Books on Biology and Evolution
03. Miller
04. Mike Huckabee
05. The Evolution Debate in U.S.
06. Intelligent Design Drama in Dover
07. Fish to Tetrapod Transition
08. Dover Trial Verdict
09. Religion Masquerading as Science
10. The Scientific Soul of the U.S.
11. Intelligent Design a Scientific Failure
12. Evolution Is Not Random and Accidental
13. Design of the Human Genome
14. Q1: Rejection of Science in America
15. Q2: Danger of Brain Drain
16. Q3: Carbon Dating and Creationism
17. Q4: Transitional Species
18. Q5: Continuing Process of Evolution
Location:
Chautauqua Institution
Chautauqua, NY
Event Date:
08.18.08
Speakers:
Kenneth Miller
Monday, February 25, 2013
The Collapse of Intelligent Design
The Collapse of Intelligent Design: Will the Next Monkey Trial be in Ohio?
Kenneth R. Miller's presentation on Intelligent Design.
Recorded January 3, 2006 in Strosacker auditorium.
Kenneth R. Miller is the Professor of Biology Royce Family Professor for Teaching Excellence at Brown University.
Kenneth R. Miller's presentation on Intelligent Design.
Recorded January 3, 2006 in Strosacker auditorium.
Kenneth R. Miller is the Professor of Biology Royce Family Professor for Teaching Excellence at Brown University.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Michael Shermer: Why Darwin Matters
Michael Shermer, the founding publisher of Skeptic Magazine, argues Why Darwin Matters: Evolution, Intelligent Design and the Battle for Science and Religion in this talk presented by the Division of Biological Sciences and the Helen Edison Lecture Series at the University of California, San Diego.
Series: Helen Edison Lecture Series [5/2009] [Public Affairs] [Science] [Show ID: 15584]
Series: Helen Edison Lecture Series [5/2009] [Public Affairs] [Science] [Show ID: 15584]
The Bible as Fan Fiction
Jenn looks at the Bible as just fan fiction.
The Atheist Experience TV Show Atheist Experience #800: The Bible as Fan Fiction
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-Host: Jen Peeples
Show date: 2013-02-10
The Atheist Experience is a weekly cable access television show in Austin, Texas geared at a non-atheist audience. The Atheist Experience is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin.
The Atheist Community of Austin (http://www.atheist-community.org) is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop and support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing and friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of state-church separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists and to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.
DVDs of the Atheist Experience can be purchased via our products page (http://www.atheist-community.org/products/).
The Atheist Experience TV Show Atheist Experience #800: The Bible as Fan Fiction
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-Host: Jen Peeples
Show date: 2013-02-10
The Atheist Experience is a weekly cable access television show in Austin, Texas geared at a non-atheist audience. The Atheist Experience is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin.
The Atheist Community of Austin (http://www.atheist-community.org) is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop and support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing and friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of state-church separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists and to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.
DVDs of the Atheist Experience can be purchased via our products page (http://www.atheist-community.org/products/).
Saturday, February 23, 2013
Archimedes' Secret (BBC Documentary)
This is the story of a book that could have changed the history of the World. To the untrained eye, it is nothing more than a small and unassuming Byzantine prayer book, yet it sold at Christies for over $2m. For faintly visible beneath the prayers on its pages are other, unique, writings - words that have been lost for nearly two thousand years.
The text is the only record of work by one of the world's greatest minds - the ancient Greek, Archimedes - a mathematical genius centuries ahead of his time. Hidden for a millennium in a middle eastern library, it has been written over, broken up, painted on, cut up and re-glued. But in the nick of time scientists have saved the precious, fragile document, and for the first time it is revealing just how revolutionary Archimedes' ideas were. If it had been available to scholars during the Renaissance, we might have reached the Moon over a hundred years ago.
The trail begins in the tenth century, when a scribe made a unique copy of the most important mathematics that Archimedes ever developed. For 200 years the document survived, but the mathematics in it was so complex that no one paid it any attention. So when one day a monk was looking for some new parchment - an expensive commodity at the time - to write a new prayer book, the answer seemed obvious. He used the Archimedes manuscript. He washed the Greek text off the pages, cut them in half, rebound them, and turned the Archimedes manuscript into an everyday prayer book. As he piously wrote out his prayers, he had no idea of the genius he was obliterating.
Several hundred years later, the Renaissance was under way. Scientists were beginning to grapple with new concepts, working out how mathematics could be used to explain the World around them. Little did they know that many of the problems they were just encountering Archimedes had already solved more than a thousand years before. So, tragically, they had to do that research all over again, setting back the development of science and technology immeasurably.
Then in 1906, in Constantinople, the document mysteriously turned up in a monastic library. An opportunistic scholar called Johan Ludwig Heiberg identified the text as Archimedes' writings. Although the Greek text was very faint, Heiberg was able to decipher some of it. What he found astonished him, and made the front page of the New York Times. He revealed that Archimedes' manuscript contained something called 'The Method', which showed not only Archimedes' final proofs, but for the first time revealed the process of how he went about making his discoveries.
BBC Documentary
The text is the only record of work by one of the world's greatest minds - the ancient Greek, Archimedes - a mathematical genius centuries ahead of his time. Hidden for a millennium in a middle eastern library, it has been written over, broken up, painted on, cut up and re-glued. But in the nick of time scientists have saved the precious, fragile document, and for the first time it is revealing just how revolutionary Archimedes' ideas were. If it had been available to scholars during the Renaissance, we might have reached the Moon over a hundred years ago.
The trail begins in the tenth century, when a scribe made a unique copy of the most important mathematics that Archimedes ever developed. For 200 years the document survived, but the mathematics in it was so complex that no one paid it any attention. So when one day a monk was looking for some new parchment - an expensive commodity at the time - to write a new prayer book, the answer seemed obvious. He used the Archimedes manuscript. He washed the Greek text off the pages, cut them in half, rebound them, and turned the Archimedes manuscript into an everyday prayer book. As he piously wrote out his prayers, he had no idea of the genius he was obliterating.
Several hundred years later, the Renaissance was under way. Scientists were beginning to grapple with new concepts, working out how mathematics could be used to explain the World around them. Little did they know that many of the problems they were just encountering Archimedes had already solved more than a thousand years before. So, tragically, they had to do that research all over again, setting back the development of science and technology immeasurably.
Then in 1906, in Constantinople, the document mysteriously turned up in a monastic library. An opportunistic scholar called Johan Ludwig Heiberg identified the text as Archimedes' writings. Although the Greek text was very faint, Heiberg was able to decipher some of it. What he found astonished him, and made the front page of the New York Times. He revealed that Archimedes' manuscript contained something called 'The Method', which showed not only Archimedes' final proofs, but for the first time revealed the process of how he went about making his discoveries.
BBC Documentary
Calling Sodomites 'Gay' Is An 'Abuse Of The Language'
Pastor Rick Scarborough says that gays are really "sodomites" and should be called such before warning that pedophiles will eventually be referred to as "happy people."
John Waters debates Church and State with questions from Michael Nugent
John Waters debating about Church and State, at the Trinity College Dublin Forum on All faiths and None on 20 February 2013, with questions from Atheist Ireland chairperson Michael Nugent
Friday, February 22, 2013
Socialization vs. Indoctrination
Tracie describes the difference between socialization and indoctrination. With creat Christian callers.
The Atheist Experience TV Show Atheist Experience #799: Socialization vs. Indoctrination
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-Host: Tracie Harris
Show date: 2013-02-03
The Atheist Experience (http://www.atheist-experience.com) is a weekly cable access television show in Austin, Texas geared at a non-atheist audience. The Atheist Experience is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin.
The Atheist Community of Austin (http://www.atheist-community.org) is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop and support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing and friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of state-church separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists and to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.
The Atheist Experience TV Show Atheist Experience #799: Socialization vs. Indoctrination
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-Host: Tracie Harris
Show date: 2013-02-03
The Atheist Experience (http://www.atheist-experience.com) is a weekly cable access television show in Austin, Texas geared at a non-atheist audience. The Atheist Experience is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin.
The Atheist Community of Austin (http://www.atheist-community.org) is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop and support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing and friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of state-church separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists and to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.
Steven Pinker: The Decline of Violence
Since the horrendous massacre of children and teachers in Newtown, CT last year, gun control and the second amendment have been frequent topics of the national conversation. Point of Inquiry would be remiss if we didn't add our signature long-form interview style to the discussion. To that end, we interviewed Steven Pinker whose recent book suggests that we are, contrary to popular belief, living in the most peaceful time in humanity's existence.
Steven Pinker is professor of psychology at Harvard University. Steven Pinker is the author of eight books, including How the Mind Works, The Blank Slate, The Language Instinct and most recently The Better Angels of our Nature: Why Violence has Declined. He is a two-time Pulitzer-prize finalist, one of Time's 100 Most Influential People and one of Foreign Policy's top 100 Global Thinkers.
Also featured is an interview with Tom Di Liberto, meteorologist at NOAA and winner of the 2013 America's Science Idol contest.
This episode was recorded live at the 2013 AAAS Annual Meeting in Boston and was produced by Adam Isaak. The event was sponsored by the Center for Inquiry and the National Science Foundation.
Steven Pinker is professor of psychology at Harvard University. Steven Pinker is the author of eight books, including How the Mind Works, The Blank Slate, The Language Instinct and most recently The Better Angels of our Nature: Why Violence has Declined. He is a two-time Pulitzer-prize finalist, one of Time's 100 Most Influential People and one of Foreign Policy's top 100 Global Thinkers.
Also featured is an interview with Tom Di Liberto, meteorologist at NOAA and winner of the 2013 America's Science Idol contest.
This episode was recorded live at the 2013 AAAS Annual Meeting in Boston and was produced by Adam Isaak. The event was sponsored by the Center for Inquiry and the National Science Foundation.
A Conversation with Matt Dillahunty
Matt Dillahunty is a former Christian and host of the popular TV show, "The Atheist Experience." He speaks across the United States for the cause of rationalism, and he joins Seth Andrews to discuss his apostasy, his work with TAE and more. Plus your calls and emails.
The Thinking Atheist Radio Podcast
Show date: February 19, 2013
NOTE: Due to technical issues, we experienced portions of slight audio distortion in portions of the show. Thanks for your patience. The issue is being resolved.
The Thinking Atheist Radio Podcast
Show date: February 19, 2013
NOTE: Due to technical issues, we experienced portions of slight audio distortion in portions of the show. Thanks for your patience. The issue is being resolved.
Robertson Dismisses "Nutty," "True Believer" Climate Scientists
Pat Robertson labels climate change scientists as "nutty" and "true-believers"
The 700 Club on CBN
The 700 Club on CBN
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Video Games Were Responsible For Sandy Hook Massacre
The Mormon Glenn Beck explains that it was video games that are responsible for Adam Lanza's massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
Video from February 2013
Video from February 2013
None of the supernatural claims about Jesus were novel
Don shows how none of the supernatural claims about Jesus were novel.
The Atheist Experience TV Show Atheist Experience #798: Nothing New Under the Son
Host: Russell Glasser
Co-Host: Don Baker
2013-01-27
The Atheist Experience (http://www.atheist-experience.com) is a weekly cable access television show in Austin, Texas geared at a non-atheist audience. The Atheist Experience is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin. The Atheist Community of Austin (http://www.atheist-community.org) is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop and support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing and friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of state-church separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists and to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.
DVDs of the Atheist Experience can be purchased via our products page (http://www.atheist-community.org/products/).
The Atheist Experience TV Show Atheist Experience #798: Nothing New Under the Son
Host: Russell Glasser
Co-Host: Don Baker
2013-01-27
The Atheist Experience (http://www.atheist-experience.com) is a weekly cable access television show in Austin, Texas geared at a non-atheist audience. The Atheist Experience is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin. The Atheist Community of Austin (http://www.atheist-community.org) is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop and support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing and friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of state-church separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists and to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.
DVDs of the Atheist Experience can be purchased via our products page (http://www.atheist-community.org/products/).
QI - Illness with Ben Goldacre
QI - Season 9 - Episode 9 - Illness - XL
QI Master - Stephen Fry
Bantermeisters - Alan Davies, Jo Brand, Andy Hamilton and Ben Goldacre
QI Master - Stephen Fry
Bantermeisters - Alan Davies, Jo Brand, Andy Hamilton and Ben Goldacre
Can you believe in both science and religion? Michael Nugent
Atheist Ireland chairperson Michael Nugent debating at University College Cork Philosophical Society on 18 February 2013 against the motion "That you can believe in science and religion."
The proposer of the motion was Dr Frank Peters, a Christian and a lecturer in the Physics Department of University College Cork. You can see his speech here.
Can you believe in both science and religion? Michael Nugent debating at UCC
The proposer of the motion was Dr Frank Peters, a Christian and a lecturer in the Physics Department of University College Cork. You can see his speech here.
Can you believe in both science and religion? Michael Nugent debating at UCC
A Rabbi's Take on the Pope's Retirement
Pope Benedict XVI last week announced his resignation from the Papal Seat in Rome. What's a rabbi have to say about the Pope and the Vatican? It raises a number of questions that have been troubling Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald, Director of NJOP.
Rabbi Buchwald searched through the Talmudic tomes, as well as Google, and he has concluded that according to Jewish law, there is no precedent of a High Priest or head of the Sanhedrin, the head of the Supreme Court of Israel, resigning. They usually died in office. What does that mean in terms of Pope Benedict? If it were according to Jewish law, he would have to serve out his terms until the end of his day. However, if he felt he was unable to complete the duties of the job or was incompetent (the High Priest, for example, would need to be able to perform sacrifices in the Holy Temple and they required a great deal of labor) he could be replaced. It says in the Code of Jewish Law that you are not allowed to appoint someone to be the head of the Sanhedrin who is very advanced in age. Pope Benedict became the Pope at age 77. Is that considered an advanced age nowadays? Perhaps not.
That book also explains that an older person may not be a very happy, forthcoming or optimistic individual. Also, to be appointed to the Sanhedrin, the person must have children, since parenting prepares you for showing compassion. It was up to Pope Benedict to decide if he could no longer perform all of his tasks, and it seems that he has decided that he cannot. We wish the Catholic Church well and hope that the next Pope will be a kind person who showers his blessings on all of humanity and on the Jewish people.
Rabbi Buchwald searched through the Talmudic tomes, as well as Google, and he has concluded that according to Jewish law, there is no precedent of a High Priest or head of the Sanhedrin, the head of the Supreme Court of Israel, resigning. They usually died in office. What does that mean in terms of Pope Benedict? If it were according to Jewish law, he would have to serve out his terms until the end of his day. However, if he felt he was unable to complete the duties of the job or was incompetent (the High Priest, for example, would need to be able to perform sacrifices in the Holy Temple and they required a great deal of labor) he could be replaced. It says in the Code of Jewish Law that you are not allowed to appoint someone to be the head of the Sanhedrin who is very advanced in age. Pope Benedict became the Pope at age 77. Is that considered an advanced age nowadays? Perhaps not.
That book also explains that an older person may not be a very happy, forthcoming or optimistic individual. Also, to be appointed to the Sanhedrin, the person must have children, since parenting prepares you for showing compassion. It was up to Pope Benedict to decide if he could no longer perform all of his tasks, and it seems that he has decided that he cannot. We wish the Catholic Church well and hope that the next Pope will be a kind person who showers his blessings on all of humanity and on the Jewish people.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Can you believe in both science and religion? Frank Peters
Frank Peters, a Christian and a lecturer in the Physics Department of University College Cork, debating at UCC Philosophical Society on 18 February 2013 for the motion "That you can believe in science and religion."
Can you believe in both science and religion? Dr Frank Peters debating at UCC
Can you believe in both science and religion? Dr Frank Peters debating at UCC
President Obama Is Our Enemy
Bryan Fischer explains that he prays for President Obama because Jesus commanded Christians to pray for their enemies and those that persecute them.
Video from Focal Point on AFA Channel, February 2012
Video from Focal Point on AFA Channel, February 2012
Atheist Experience #797: Viewer Calls
The Atheist Experience TV Show Atheist Experience #797: Viewer Calls Host: Matt Dillahunty Co-Host: Martin Wagner 2013-01-20 Matt and Martin take viewer calls.
The Atheist Experience (http://www.atheist-experience.com) is a weekly cable access television show in Austin, Texas geared at a non-atheist audience. The Atheist Experience is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin.
The Atheist Community of Austin (http://www.atheist-community.org) is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop and support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing and friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of state-church separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists and to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.
DVDs of the Atheist Experience can be purchased via our products page (http://www.atheist-community.org/products/).
The Atheist Experience (http://www.atheist-experience.com) is a weekly cable access television show in Austin, Texas geared at a non-atheist audience. The Atheist Experience is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin.
The Atheist Community of Austin (http://www.atheist-community.org) is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop and support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing and friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of state-church separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists and to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.
DVDs of the Atheist Experience can be purchased via our products page (http://www.atheist-community.org/products/).
This Administration Is Rubbing The Aborted Babies In The Face Of Every Single American
Mat Staver says that Obama administration's contraception mandate is no different than what Floyd Corkins did when he attacked the Family Research Council headquarters.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Monkey Trial - Documentary
Scopes went on trial for teaching Darwin's theory of evolution in a public school classroom in Dayton, Tennesee
The Scopes trial
Evolution in US schools
Philip Johnson, Christian creationist
Lawrence Levine
William Jennings Bryan
Documentary video by PBS American Experience
The Scopes trial
Evolution in US schools
Philip Johnson, Christian creationist
Lawrence Levine
William Jennings Bryan
Documentary video by PBS American Experience
Michael Shermer on Spoonbending
Ever since the 1970s, spoonbending (and the bending of other cutlery, metal bars, and the like) has been held up as physical evidence for telekinesis, a form of PSI in which thoughts alone can allegedly be employed to alter the physical environment. In this episode, Michael Shermer attends a seminar on spoonbending and discovers the power of group think to actually bend metal!
Monday, February 18, 2013
Five-Year-Old Children Can Stop Tornadoes
"Prophet" Cindy Jacobs' husband Mike reveals that their five-year-old daughter "rebuked" tornadoes
Astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson Explains Asteroids and Meteors
Neil DeGrasse Tyson gives a short lesson on "Asteroids 101" with the help of his solar system tie during an apperance on the PBS NewsHour
Astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson Explains Asteroids and Meteors...With His Tie
February 15, 2013
Astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson Explains Asteroids and Meteors...With His Tie
February 15, 2013
First nominee for the 2013 Golden Crocoduck
Adnan Oktar uses the pen name Harun Yahya. Adnan Oktar/Harun Yahya is a Muslim creationist.
The Golden Crocoduck is awarded every year for the biggest breach of the ninth commandment in pursuit of the creationist cause. Voting is in September, and the winner is announced on October 28, the feast day of St. Jude Thaddeus, patron saint of lost causes
SOURCES
SOURCES
On the changed morphology of the coelocanth:
"Patterns, trends, and rates of evolution within the Actinistia"
Richard Cloutier, Environmental Biology of Fishes,1991
"Major histocompatibility complex class I genes of the coelacanth"
Latimeria chalumnae
Betz et al., Proc. Nati. Acad. Sci., 1994
On the morphological and genetic differences between modern and late pleistocene wolves:
"Megafaunal Extinctions"
and the Disappearance
of a Specialized Wolf Ecomorph
Jennifer A. Leonard et al., Current Biology, 2007
There were too many illustrations in The Atlas of Creation to highlight in this short video, but I did look at a few in detail, and they all showed clear evidence of evolution.
See also "The rapid evolution of the tuatara", Nature 27 March 2008, which shows the tuatare has a very high rate of genetic evolution, despite being thought to have changed very little.
"The Origin and Early Evolution of Turtles" -- Olivier Rieppel and Robert R. Reisz, Annual Review of Ecology and Systematics, 1999 belies The Atlas of Evolution claim about the non-evolution of turtles.
"Evolution of the Freshwater Eels", Aoyama and Tsukamoto, Naturwissenschaften, 1997, shows how eels evolved in Indonesia and diversified worldwide.
The Golden Crocoduck is awarded every year for the biggest breach of the ninth commandment in pursuit of the creationist cause. Voting is in September, and the winner is announced on October 28, the feast day of St. Jude Thaddeus, patron saint of lost causes
SOURCES
SOURCES
On the changed morphology of the coelocanth:
"Patterns, trends, and rates of evolution within the Actinistia"
Richard Cloutier, Environmental Biology of Fishes,1991
"Major histocompatibility complex class I genes of the coelacanth"
Latimeria chalumnae
Betz et al., Proc. Nati. Acad. Sci., 1994
On the morphological and genetic differences between modern and late pleistocene wolves:
"Megafaunal Extinctions"
and the Disappearance
of a Specialized Wolf Ecomorph
Jennifer A. Leonard et al., Current Biology, 2007
There were too many illustrations in The Atlas of Creation to highlight in this short video, but I did look at a few in detail, and they all showed clear evidence of evolution.
See also "The rapid evolution of the tuatara", Nature 27 March 2008, which shows the tuatare has a very high rate of genetic evolution, despite being thought to have changed very little.
"The Origin and Early Evolution of Turtles" -- Olivier Rieppel and Robert R. Reisz, Annual Review of Ecology and Systematics, 1999 belies The Atlas of Evolution claim about the non-evolution of turtles.
"Evolution of the Freshwater Eels", Aoyama and Tsukamoto, Naturwissenschaften, 1997, shows how eels evolved in Indonesia and diversified worldwide.
In the BIBLE: God's Totally Not Gay
In this episode, we take a peek into what the bible has to say about homosexuality, and some of the implications of those statements.
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Michael Nugent debates theist author David Glass on radio
Atheist Ireland chairperson Michael Nugent debating with theist author David Glass about Glass's book 'Atheism's New Clothes: Exploring and Exposing the Claims of the New Atheists' on RTE Radio 1's God Slot on Friday 8 February 2013.
Michael Nugent debates theist author David Glass on RTE Radio 1 God Slot
Michael Nugent debates theist author David Glass on RTE Radio 1 God Slot
Is faith compatible with reason?
Debate: Is faith compatible with reason? BBC The Big Questions ask.
Amongst those taking part are:
Will Storr, author of Heretic, Adventures with the Enemies of Science;
Robert Griffiths, author of Slaying the Dragon;
Christina Biggs from Christians in Science;
past-life regression therapist Andrea Foulkes;
Journalist Oliver Thring;
Julia Manning MP.
BBC One 10 February 2013 in Cardiff, UK.
The Big Questions: Is faith compatible with reason?
Amongst those taking part are:
Will Storr, author of Heretic, Adventures with the Enemies of Science;
Robert Griffiths, author of Slaying the Dragon;
Christina Biggs from Christians in Science;
past-life regression therapist Andrea Foulkes;
Journalist Oliver Thring;
Julia Manning MP.
BBC One 10 February 2013 in Cardiff, UK.
The Big Questions: Is faith compatible with reason?
Missouri Bill Redefines Science, Pushes Intelligent Design
"Each year, state legislatures play host to a variety of bills that would interfere with science education. Most of these are variations on a boilerplate intended to get supplementary materials into classrooms criticizing evolution and climate change (or to protect teachers who do). They generally don't mention creationism, but the clear intent is to sneak religious content into the science classrooms, as evidenced by previous bills introduced by the same lawmakers. Most of them die in the legislature (although the opponents of evolution have seen two successes)."*
How do you sneak creationism into classrooms? Why, you call it "intelligent design" and redefine science, of course! Rick Brattin is sponsoring a bill in Missouri aiming to do that, with unbelievable stipulations and redefinitions of words and terms. Ana Kasparian and John Iadarola (Host, TYT University) break it down.
How do you sneak creationism into classrooms? Why, you call it "intelligent design" and redefine science, of course! Rick Brattin is sponsoring a bill in Missouri aiming to do that, with unbelievable stipulations and redefinitions of words and terms. Ana Kasparian and John Iadarola (Host, TYT University) break it down.
Get Them While They're Young
Religion is unapologetic in its targeting of children, seeking to capture the minds of our youngest and most impressionable and mold them into their own theological cookie cutters. Seth Andrews' video of the same name addresses this issue briefly.
In this show, we explore many of the tactics used by Christianity and other religions to attract children, to indoctrinate them and to brand them with specific worldviews.
We also speak with Edwin Kagin, National Legal Director for American Atheists and founder of Camp Quest, a secular camp that provides a superstition-free alternative for kids and their parents.
TTA Podcast 95
Show date: February 12, 2013
LINKS: Sophia Investigates the Good News Club
In this show, we explore many of the tactics used by Christianity and other religions to attract children, to indoctrinate them and to brand them with specific worldviews.
We also speak with Edwin Kagin, National Legal Director for American Atheists and founder of Camp Quest, a secular camp that provides a superstition-free alternative for kids and their parents.
TTA Podcast 95
Show date: February 12, 2013
LINKS: Sophia Investigates the Good News Club
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Atheism Is Funny
Part 2 in the series "Atheism Is Funny" made by a Christian.
By the Christian Brian Price, valueoftruth.org. If you can stand to watch this pice of shit you will find, that Brian Price dos not understand "atheist" or biological evolution.
Please read: Voices for Evolution is a project of the NCSE to collect the full diversity of organizations and perspectives in support of teaching evolution in the public schools.
This video i nomineed to Golden Crocoduck 2013
Watch Is it time for all religions to accept evolution?
By the Christian Brian Price, valueoftruth.org. If you can stand to watch this pice of shit you will find, that Brian Price dos not understand "atheist" or biological evolution.
Please read: Voices for Evolution is a project of the NCSE to collect the full diversity of organizations and perspectives in support of teaching evolution in the public schools.
This video i nomineed to Golden Crocoduck 2013
Watch Is it time for all religions to accept evolution?
Sophia Investigates The Good News Club
Do you think children should be told they are evil and deserve to die? This is what the Good News Club teaches -- in Public Elementary Schools, no less.
In 2001, a conservative Supreme Court overthrew a New York public school's policy of excluding adult-led religious proselytizing groups like The Good News Club from operating in its schools, turning the Establishment Clause on its head. Since then the Good News Clubs have been on a tear, and now can be found in well over 3000 public elementary schools across America.
The Clubs, which are sponsored by an organization called the Child Evangelism Fellowship, are designed to indoctrinate very young children in a very specific and deeply fundamentalist version of the Christian faith -- one that endorses Biblical "inerrancy" and creationism, and emphasizes obedience at all costs. By operating in public schools, the Clubs deceive small children into thinking that their school supports this particular form of the Christian religion. Kids who attend the Clubs have said that the religion of the Good News Club "must be true, because they teach it in school, and they don't teach things in school that aren't true."
The introduction of such proselytizing Clubs sows division in formerly harmonious school communities, weakening support for public education as a whole. Good News Clubs are coming to a school near you. Catch the documentary first.
Please visit Katherine Stewart's website for more information on her book, "The Good News Club: The Christian Right's Stealth Assault on America's Children
"
Or these websites with lots of information on what you can do to combat these clubs in general, or if they come to your school.
http://www.goodnewsclubs.info
In 2001, a conservative Supreme Court overthrew a New York public school's policy of excluding adult-led religious proselytizing groups like The Good News Club from operating in its schools, turning the Establishment Clause on its head. Since then the Good News Clubs have been on a tear, and now can be found in well over 3000 public elementary schools across America.
The Clubs, which are sponsored by an organization called the Child Evangelism Fellowship, are designed to indoctrinate very young children in a very specific and deeply fundamentalist version of the Christian faith -- one that endorses Biblical "inerrancy" and creationism, and emphasizes obedience at all costs. By operating in public schools, the Clubs deceive small children into thinking that their school supports this particular form of the Christian religion. Kids who attend the Clubs have said that the religion of the Good News Club "must be true, because they teach it in school, and they don't teach things in school that aren't true."
The introduction of such proselytizing Clubs sows division in formerly harmonious school communities, weakening support for public education as a whole. Good News Clubs are coming to a school near you. Catch the documentary first.
Please visit Katherine Stewart's website for more information on her book, "The Good News Club: The Christian Right's Stealth Assault on America's Children
"Or these websites with lots of information on what you can do to combat these clubs in general, or if they come to your school.
http://www.goodnewsclubs.info
Examining the Existence of a Historical Jesus
David Fitzgerald Skepticon 3 "Examining the Existence of a Historical Jesus".
Filmed and edited by Rob Lehr of Hambone Productions
Please visit Skepticon.org Purchasing calenders and making donations enable us to keep Skepticon 3 free to the public. If you liked the videos and/or the event, please consider donating or purchasing merchandise.
Filmed and edited by Rob Lehr of Hambone Productions
Please visit Skepticon.org Purchasing calenders and making donations enable us to keep Skepticon 3 free to the public. If you liked the videos and/or the event, please consider donating or purchasing merchandise.
It Makes No Sense To Have Jerry Sandusky As You Scout Master
Matt Barber and Mat Staver continue to rail against possible changes to the ban on gay Boy Scouts and scout leaders, asserting that gay men define themselves by the fact that they "sexually crave sex with other males."
Video from Liberty Counsel, February 2013
Video from Liberty Counsel, February 2013
Friday, February 15, 2013
Activate Your Activism
This was my presentation to the North Texas Secular Convention at UT Dallas 2013/02/09. They had me on at 9:00am on a Saturday morning, so when I started, there was hardly anyone there at first. There were maybe twice as many people by the end.
The World Needs Shabbat
Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald is often heard saying that the world never needed Shabbat more than it needs it today in the 21st century. We all live such a frenetic lifestyle. We get no real rest. With technology the way it is today, people are seemingly working 24/7. We truly need Shabbat.
Shabbat is even becoming fashionable. When touring in New York a few years ago, Madonna announced that she will no longer give concerts on Friday night, and therefore promoted Shabbat to her fans. Last week, the US Postal Service announced that they would be discontinuing Saturday delivery. What will we do without mail on Shabbat? We'll survive. More and more people are overwhelmed with the abundant media in their lives. Rabbi Buchwald believes that it will be to the benefit of all humankind for people to take Shabbat more seriously. He wishes luck to the US Postal Service following their recent announcement.
Shabbat is even becoming fashionable. When touring in New York a few years ago, Madonna announced that she will no longer give concerts on Friday night, and therefore promoted Shabbat to her fans. Last week, the US Postal Service announced that they would be discontinuing Saturday delivery. What will we do without mail on Shabbat? We'll survive. More and more people are overwhelmed with the abundant media in their lives. Rabbi Buchwald believes that it will be to the benefit of all humankind for people to take Shabbat more seriously. He wishes luck to the US Postal Service following their recent announcement.
Pope Betty the First
America's Best Christian, Mrs. Betty Bowers, declares she is out of the running to take Pope Benedict XVI's place as the head of a cult called "Roman Catholicism" that worships a goddess called Mary.
Steve Harvey Hate Speech Against Atheists
Steve Harvey guilty of hate speech against atheists. Also, apparently, of a complete lack of understanding of Evolutionary theory.
Steve Harvey: "Why we still got monkies?"
Larry King Interview with Joy Behar
Steve Harvey: "Why we still got monkies?"
Larry King Interview with Joy Behar
Thursday, February 14, 2013
WikiLeaks: The Secret Life of a Superpower
Richard Bilton uncovers a struggle at the heart of US diplomacy between the ideals of freedom and spreading democracy, and the ruthless demands of American security and narrow self-interest. He examines what the WikiLeaks cables reveal about America's conflicted dealings with Egypt's deposed dictator Hosni Mubarak, and shows how US diplomats in Cairo missed warning signs that revolution in Egypt was coming. And he details the moral tension in US diplomacy brought about by America's controversial War on Terror. Using the cables, Richard uncovers the moral compromises made by America's diplomats over the repatriation of Guantanamo Bay prisoners, and he shows the secret US efforts to block investigations into alleged CIA rendition and abuse.
BBC - WikiLeaks: The Secret Life of a Superpower (Episode 1)
Originally aired March 21, 2012 on BBC Two.
--
In the second of two programmes about American diplomacy and the leaked US embassy cables, Richard Bilton examines what the cables reveal about how America handles its enemies and rivals.
WikiLeaks: The Secret Life of a Superpower (Ep. 2)
Originally aired March 28, 2012 on BBC Two.
BBC - WikiLeaks: The Secret Life of a Superpower (Episode 1)
Originally aired March 21, 2012 on BBC Two.
--
In the second of two programmes about American diplomacy and the leaked US embassy cables, Richard Bilton examines what the cables reveal about how America handles its enemies and rivals.
WikiLeaks: The Secret Life of a Superpower (Ep. 2)
Originally aired March 28, 2012 on BBC Two.
How to be a "Perfect" Skeptic
D.J. Grothe presents his advice on how to be a "perfect" skeptic (or does he?). Grothe is a public speaker and writer on issues at the intersection of belief and scientific skepticism, and is president of The James Randi Educational Foundation. He hosts the radio show and podcast "For Good Reason".
Filmed March 2012 at the skepticism conference QED in Manchester, UK.
Filmed March 2012 at the skepticism conference QED in Manchester, UK.
How to Ruin Christmas
Rebecca Watson Skepticon 3 "How to Ruin Christmas"
Filmed and edited by Rob Lehr of Hambone Productions
Filmed and edited by Rob Lehr of Hambone Productions
A Priest Ridicules Creationist
Canon David Jennings, Theologian, Leicester Cathedral
When an informed member of the faith from which you draw literal ideas of 'science' tells you you're completely wrong then your argument is an Epic Fail.
When an informed member of the faith from which you draw literal ideas of 'science' tells you you're completely wrong then your argument is an Epic Fail.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
I'm Not Racist, I Even Want Dr. Ben Carson To Run For President
Bryan Fischer explains that he is totally not racist because he likes Alan Keyes, Herman Cain, and wants Dr. Ben Carson to run for president.
Video from Focal Point on AFA Channel, 2013
Video from Focal Point on AFA Channel, 2013
The Achievements of Religion - with Seth Andrews
Special guest, Seth Andrews, (the moving force behind thethinkingatheist), to appear at the very last minute. Many thanks to Seth. As ever, he was a wonderful contributor to the show.
MSS - No 45 - (Part 1 of 2)
Also on the show were c0nc0rdance (and later on thunderf00t).
The main topic was for discussion was "The achievements of religion". But we began with a discussion about Seth's new book and his busy schedule; moving onto the teaching of religion to children and whether that constitutes child abuse.
MSS - No.45 - (Part 2 of 2) In this Part of the show we are joined by thunderf00t.
The Magic Sandwich Show, number 45. 10th Februar 2013
MSS - No 45 - (Part 1 of 2)
Also on the show were c0nc0rdance (and later on thunderf00t).
The main topic was for discussion was "The achievements of religion". But we began with a discussion about Seth's new book and his busy schedule; moving onto the teaching of religion to children and whether that constitutes child abuse.
MSS - No.45 - (Part 2 of 2) In this Part of the show we are joined by thunderf00t.
The Magic Sandwich Show, number 45. 10th Februar 2013
Islam is Demonic, Not a Religion
Televangelist Pat Robertson reiterates his belief that Islam isn't a religion.
The 700 Club on CBN
The 700 Club on CBN
Failed Stars
If you get enough hydrogen together in one place, gravity pulls it together to the point that the temperature and pressures are enough for fusion to occur. This is a star. But what happens when you don't have quite enough hydrogen? Then you get a failed star, like a gas giant planet or a brown dwarf.
Astronomy Cast Ep 290 Failed Stars
Astronomy Cast Ep 290 Failed Stars
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Open Creationist Meets Stealth Creationist
Exchange between Texas State Board of Education Chair Barbara Cargill, R-The Woodlands, and state Sen. Donna Campbell, R-New Braunfels.
Video by Texas Freedom Network
Video by Texas Freedom Network
At The Time Of The Founding, Homosexuality Was A 'Crime Against Nature'
Mat Staver and Matt Barber say there is no way that there is a constitutional right to gay marriage because at the time the Constitution was written, homosexuality was a crime punishable by death.
The Amazing Atheist Meets William Lane Craig on CNN
The crazy Christian William Lane Craig faces "TJ" Kirk aka The Amazing Atheist on CNN.
Mark Hutchins, civil and human rights activist.
CNN News Room, 2-11-2013
Mark Hutchins, civil and human rights activist.
CNN News Room, 2-11-2013
200 years of homeopathy
Dr Simon Singh, Richard Saunders, James Randi and Dr Ian Musgrave appear on Today Tonight to express the view of science on Homeopathy.
Video from Today Tonight, Australia
Video from Today Tonight, Australia
Monday, February 11, 2013
Scientology leader's niece speaks out
Jenna Miscavige Hill talks to CNN's Piers Morgan about her uncle, David Miscavige. Piers Morgen interview.
Jenna Miscavige appears on "Piers Morgan Live" to discuss her book, "Beyond Belief: My Secret Life Inside Scientology and My Harrowing Escape." She answers to Piers that her uncle, David Miscavige is indeed "evil."
Jenna Miscavige on Piers Morgan Tonight, Februar 5, 2013
Jenna Miscavige appears on "Piers Morgan Live" to discuss her book, "Beyond Belief: My Secret Life Inside Scientology and My Harrowing Escape." She answers to Piers that her uncle, David Miscavige is indeed "evil."
Jenna Miscavige on Piers Morgan Tonight, Februar 5, 2013
Hindu pilgrimmage
Great hindu religion
Ganges River, Allahabad, India
Hinduism 2013
CBS news, Sunday Morning, 2-10-2013
Ganges River, Allahabad, India
Hinduism 2013
CBS news, Sunday Morning, 2-10-2013
Michael Nugent debates theist author David Glass on God Slot
Atheist Ireland chairperson Michael Nugent debating with theist author David Glass about Glass's book 'Atheism's New Clothes: Exploring and Exposing the Claims of the New Atheists' on RTE Radio 1's God Slot on Friday 8 February 2013.
Michael Nugent debates theist author David Glass on RTE Radio 1 God Slot
Michael Nugent debates theist author David Glass on RTE Radio 1 God Slot
Is faith compatible with reason?
Amongst those taking part are Will Storr, author of Heretic, Adventures with the Enemies of Science; Robert Griffiths, author of Slaying the Dragon; Christina Biggs from Christians in Science; the past-life regression therapist Andrea Foulkes; Julia Manning MP.
Is faith compatible with reason?
BBC One 10 February 2013
Is faith compatible with reason?
BBC One 10 February 2013
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief
The Pulitzer Prize-winning author Lawrence Wright discusses his book, "Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief"
The Colbert Report - Wednesday February 6, 2013
The Colbert Report - Wednesday February 6, 2013
Does atheism poison everything? [2010]
A debate was held on atheism with Christopher Hitchens, author of 'god Is Not Great', and David Berlinski, author of 'The Devil's Delusion'. Mr. Berlinski argued the positive of the resolution "Atheism poisons everything" and Mr. Hitchens argued the negative. After their exchanges the authors responded to questions submitted by members of the audience before their closing statements. This event was hosted by the Fixed Point Foundation at the Sheraton Hotel in Birmingham, Alabama
Christopher Hitchens vs David Berlinski - Does atheism poison everything? [2010]
[00:21] Intro
[02:47] David Berlinski opening
[15:13] Christopher Hitchens opening
[27:40] David Berlinski rebuttal
[31:46] Christopher Hitchens rebuttal
[38:43] David Berlinski recap
[41:50] Christopher Hitchens recap
[45:18] Q&A start
[57:49] Christopher Hitchens closing statement
[1:01:31] David Berlinski closing statement
[1:05:13] Moderator closing statement
September 7, 2010.
Credit to C-SPAN: http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/DoesAt
Christopher Hitchens vs David Berlinski - Does atheism poison everything? [2010]
[00:21] Intro
[02:47] David Berlinski opening
[15:13] Christopher Hitchens opening
[27:40] David Berlinski rebuttal
[31:46] Christopher Hitchens rebuttal
[38:43] David Berlinski recap
[41:50] Christopher Hitchens recap
[45:18] Q&A start
[57:49] Christopher Hitchens closing statement
[1:01:31] David Berlinski closing statement
[1:05:13] Moderator closing statement
September 7, 2010.
Credit to C-SPAN: http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/DoesAt
Crap Cakes, THAT'S in the BIBLE?
In this series, I take a look at passages in scripture that for one reason or another don't seem to jive with reality. Join me in our first episode as we see what the chefs behind the Pearly Gates have put on the menu.
Colour Change Chemistry
In this video myles shows the traffic light experiment which uses indigo carmine and the blue bottle reaction which uses Methylene blue
Learning Space with CosmoQuest Feb 6 2013
Streamed live on Feb 6, 2013
Links mentioned in the show:
http://galileoscope.org/
http://teachingwithtelescopes.org/
http://www.telescopes4teachers.org
http://astronomerswithoutborders.org/
Fischer: Obama Is An Antichrist
Bryan Fischer declares that President Obama is an antichrist.
Focal Point on AFA Channel, 2013
Focal Point on AFA Channel, 2013
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Support documentary Film about James Randi
A film about The Amazing Randi that will show how easily our perceptions are fooled – by magicians, con men, and even documentaries.
Justin Weinstein
AN HONEST LIAR. The Amazing Randi Story
Justin Weinstein
AN HONEST LIAR. The Amazing Randi Story
Muslims aim to impose Sharia law in London
Islamists try to impose Sharia law in East London. CNN's Dan Rivers reports on a continent-wide issue.
British Muslims aim to impose Sharia law in East London
British Muslims aim to impose Sharia law in East London
Christians Cannot Participate In Interfaith Prayers To "Counterfeit Gods"
Bryan Fischer praises a church for reprimanding its pastor for participating in the interfaith service following Sandy Hook because prayers to "counterfeit gods" were offered.
Focal Point at AFA Channel, February 2013
Focal Point at AFA Channel, February 2013
Space Bubble Baths and the Free Universe
How can you create a universe from nothing? Well if you calculate the total matter of the universe it is positive. If you calculate the total energy of the universe it is negative because of gravity. Gravity has negative energy. When you add the two together what do you get? Zero, so it takes no energy to create a universe. Universes are for free. A universe is a free lunch.
Michio Kaku -- We have found the Higgs boson. So then the next question is what's next? Well the Large Hadron Collider, this machine that is 27 miles in circumference, costing 10 billion dollars is big enough to create the next generation of particles. So the Higgs boson in some sense is the last hurrah for the old physics, the old physics of what is called the standard model, which gives us quarks and electrons. The new theory is going to take us into dark matter. Now we know dark matter exists. Dark matter is invisible, so if I held it in my hand you wouldn't see it. In fact, it would go right through my fingers, go right through the rock underneath my feet and go all the way to China. It would reverse direction and come back from China all the way here to New York City and go back and forth.
So dark matter has gravitational attraction, but it is invisible and we are clueless as to what dark matter really is. The leading candidate for dark matter today is called the sparticle. The sparticle is the next octave of the string. Now look around you. Everything around you, we think, is nothing but the lowest vibration of a vibrating string, the lowest octave in some sense, but a string of course has higher octaves, higher notes. We think that dark matter could in fact be nothing but a higher vibration of the string. So we think that 23% of the universe, which is the dark matter's contribution to the universe, comes from a higher octave of the string. Now the standard model which we have ample verification of only represents four percent of the universe. So the universe of atoms, protons, neutrons, neutrinos - that universe only represents four percent of what there is. 23% is dark matter, which we think is the next vibration up of the string and then 73% of the universe is dark energy.
Dark energy is the energy of nothing. It's the energy of the vacuum. Between two objects in outer space there is nothing, nothing except dark energy, dark energy, which is pushing the galaxies apart. So when people say if the universe is expanding they say two things, what's pushing the galaxies apart and what is the universe expanding into. Well what's pushing the galaxies apart is dark energy, the energy of nothing. Even vacuum has energy pushing the galaxies apart. And then what is the universe expanding into? Well if the universe is a sphere of some sort and we live on the skin of the sphere and the sphere is expanding what is the sphere expanding into? Well obviously a bubble, a balloon expands into the third dimension even though the people living on the balloon are two dimensional.
So when our universe expands what does it expand into? Hyperspace, a dimension beyond what you can see and touch. In fact, string theory predicts that there are 11 dimensions of hyperspace, so we're nothing but a soap bubble floating in a bubble bath of soap bubbles and so in some sense the multiverse can be likened to a bubble bath. Our universe is nothing but one bubble, but there are other bubbles. When two bubbles collide that could merge into a bigger bubble, which could be the big bang. In fact, that is what probably the big bang is or perhaps a bubble fissioned in half and split off into two bubbles. That could be the big bang. Or perhaps the universe popped into existence out of nothing. That is also a possibility.
And so the universe could essentially be nothingness, which was unstable and created a soap bubble Now you may say to yourself well that can't be right because that violates the conservation of matter and energy. How can you create a universe from nothing? Remainder of transcript - http://bigthink.com/ideas/49273
Directed / Produced by Jonathan Fowler & Elizabeth Rodd
Michio Kaku -- We have found the Higgs boson. So then the next question is what's next? Well the Large Hadron Collider, this machine that is 27 miles in circumference, costing 10 billion dollars is big enough to create the next generation of particles. So the Higgs boson in some sense is the last hurrah for the old physics, the old physics of what is called the standard model, which gives us quarks and electrons. The new theory is going to take us into dark matter. Now we know dark matter exists. Dark matter is invisible, so if I held it in my hand you wouldn't see it. In fact, it would go right through my fingers, go right through the rock underneath my feet and go all the way to China. It would reverse direction and come back from China all the way here to New York City and go back and forth.
So dark matter has gravitational attraction, but it is invisible and we are clueless as to what dark matter really is. The leading candidate for dark matter today is called the sparticle. The sparticle is the next octave of the string. Now look around you. Everything around you, we think, is nothing but the lowest vibration of a vibrating string, the lowest octave in some sense, but a string of course has higher octaves, higher notes. We think that dark matter could in fact be nothing but a higher vibration of the string. So we think that 23% of the universe, which is the dark matter's contribution to the universe, comes from a higher octave of the string. Now the standard model which we have ample verification of only represents four percent of the universe. So the universe of atoms, protons, neutrons, neutrinos - that universe only represents four percent of what there is. 23% is dark matter, which we think is the next vibration up of the string and then 73% of the universe is dark energy.
Dark energy is the energy of nothing. It's the energy of the vacuum. Between two objects in outer space there is nothing, nothing except dark energy, dark energy, which is pushing the galaxies apart. So when people say if the universe is expanding they say two things, what's pushing the galaxies apart and what is the universe expanding into. Well what's pushing the galaxies apart is dark energy, the energy of nothing. Even vacuum has energy pushing the galaxies apart. And then what is the universe expanding into? Well if the universe is a sphere of some sort and we live on the skin of the sphere and the sphere is expanding what is the sphere expanding into? Well obviously a bubble, a balloon expands into the third dimension even though the people living on the balloon are two dimensional.
So when our universe expands what does it expand into? Hyperspace, a dimension beyond what you can see and touch. In fact, string theory predicts that there are 11 dimensions of hyperspace, so we're nothing but a soap bubble floating in a bubble bath of soap bubbles and so in some sense the multiverse can be likened to a bubble bath. Our universe is nothing but one bubble, but there are other bubbles. When two bubbles collide that could merge into a bigger bubble, which could be the big bang. In fact, that is what probably the big bang is or perhaps a bubble fissioned in half and split off into two bubbles. That could be the big bang. Or perhaps the universe popped into existence out of nothing. That is also a possibility.
And so the universe could essentially be nothingness, which was unstable and created a soap bubble Now you may say to yourself well that can't be right because that violates the conservation of matter and energy. How can you create a universe from nothing? Remainder of transcript - http://bigthink.com/ideas/49273
Directed / Produced by Jonathan Fowler & Elizabeth Rodd
Friday, February 8, 2013
Obama Is Arrogant For Believing He Knows Better Than God
Bryan Fischer says President Obama is filled with arrogance and pride for believing that he knows better than God on issues like abortion and gay marriage.
Focal Point on AFA Channel, February 2013
Focal Point on AFA Channel, February 2013
Atheist movement grows in U.S.
CNN's "I Am America" series looks at diversity.
CNN's Carol Costello reports on the growing number of Americans who don't believe in God.
CNN, 2-7-2013,
CNN's Carol Costello reports on the growing number of Americans who don't believe in God.
CNN, 2-7-2013,
A Full Moon Is When 'Satan Chooses to Activate His Influence and Control Over People'
Bryan Fischer says there are more mental health problems when there is a full moon because that is when Satan activates his control over people.
AFA Channel, February 2013
AFA Channel, February 2013
The Homosexual Agenda "Will Eradicate Us"
Matt Barber and Steve Crampton of Liberty Counsel claim that if the Supreme Court strikes down DOMA, gay activists "will eradicate us."
Liberty Counsel February 2013
Liberty Counsel February 2013
Kim Jong-il vs. Jesus H. Christ
One will have you tortured for not accepting his divinity. The other is the son of the Eternal Father. Actually, either one of those describe both of these guys.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Skeptic Bible Study: Word of God?
If we're to believe that the Creator wrote a book, shouldn't it contain an accurate understanding of how Creation operates?
Seth Andrews: Deconverted (atheist podcast)
Did you become DeConverted? How did it happen? How did you feel? Would you ever go back to religion?
Seth Andrews shares parts of his own story, and he also shares the stories and perspectives of others who have traveled the path from religion to reason.
It's a show about losing faith...and gaining so much more.
Your calls and email
TTA Podcast 94
Show date: February 5, 2013
Seth Andrews shares parts of his own story, and he also shares the stories and perspectives of others who have traveled the path from religion to reason.
Eat Human Feces! "And thou shalt eat it as barley cakes, and thou shalt bake it with dung that cometh out of man, in their sight. And the LORD said, Even thus shall the children of Israel eat their defiled bread among the Gentiles, whither I will drive them." Ezekiel 4:12-13
It's a show about losing faith...and gaining so much more.
Your calls and email
TTA Podcast 94
Show date: February 5, 2013
The Prefailure of Apologetics
Why religious apologetic arguments fail before the skeptic can even respond.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Cargill: The universe isn't expanding
Board member Barbara Cargill is bullish on the "new and improved" Earth Science standard which strikes the phrase "the concept of an expanding universe that originated 14 billion years ago" and replaces it with more nebulous wording that, says Cargill, "leaves it up to [students and teachers] to discuss how many billions of years".
QI - Bible
British tv-show QI B04 - Bible
With Jeremy Hardy, Barry Cryer and Jeremy Clarkson.
BBC Quit Interesting
With Jeremy Hardy, Barry Cryer and Jeremy Clarkson.
BBC Quit Interesting
Atheist SuperBowl Commercial
Church Of Scientology commercial TV Ad pays $8 million during Super Bowl
Ad by the Church of Scientology.
Ad by the Church of Scientology.
Lesson of 9/11 is to Ban Gay Marriage
End Times author Jonathan Cahn says if "we go this route" towards legalizing same-sex marriage, then it shows that Americans did not receive God's message from 9/11.
Watch
Debunking 9/11 conspiracy theorists at ground zero
9/11 Conspiracy Road Trip
Psychology of Conspiracy Theories
Watch
Debunking 9/11 conspiracy theorists at ground zero
9/11 Conspiracy Road Trip
Psychology of Conspiracy Theories
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Barbara Cargill on Evolution
Texas State Board of Education Chair Barbara Cargill says new science textbooks should teach "other side" of evolution.
Michael Nugent discusses Alain de Botton's Ten Commandments for atheists
Atheist Ireland chairperson Michael Nugent discusses Alain de Botton's Ten Commandments for Atheists with George Hook on Newstalk Radio, on Monday 4 February 2013
Michael Nugent discusses Alain de Botton's Ten Commandments for Atheists with George Hook
Michael Nugent discusses Alain de Botton's Ten Commandments for Atheists with George Hook
Why Oppose Gay Marriage?
He keeps his cards very close to his chest, week to week on his excellent show/podcast "Unbelievable?", so I can't say whether the views of those involved are representative of his, or of those of Premier Christian Radio!
http://media.premier.org.uk/unbelievable/5b65157c-9f68-46e1-8ee8-b46b63d96902.mp3
http://media.premier.org.uk/unbelievable/5b65157c-9f68-46e1-8ee8-b46b63d96902.mp3
Weekly Space Hangout Feb 1, 2013
This week we talk about activities at the Science Online Conference, the anniversary of the Columbia disaster, stuff on the Sun, and a storm on Saturn.
We are joined by: Amy Shira Teitel, Nicole Gugliucci, Alan Boyle, Thad Szabo, and Scot Lewis.
Hosted by Fraser Cain.
We are joined by: Amy Shira Teitel, Nicole Gugliucci, Alan Boyle, Thad Szabo, and Scot Lewis.
Hosted by Fraser Cain.
Former atheist now born again Christian
A former atheist who now is a born again Christian talks with The Magic Sandwich Show.
Part 1 of 2
Part 2 of 2
On the show this week were:
Danihc (Daniela Halley)
AronRa
c0nc0rdance
thunderf00t
The Magic Sandwich Show - Number 44 - 27 January 2013
Part 1 of 2
Part 2 of 2
On the show this week were:
Danihc (Daniela Halley)
AronRa
c0nc0rdance
thunderf00t
The Magic Sandwich Show - Number 44 - 27 January 2013
Monday, February 4, 2013
Is religion evil?
An interview with renowned atheist Richard Dawkins on whether religion is a force for good or evil.
AlJazeera English
Special Programme - Dawkins on religion
AlJazeera English
Special Programme - Dawkins on religion
Hiram Sasser "Fair & Balanced" on Jesus portrait
Group wants portrait of Jesus at Ohio Middle School taken down
Fox News channel, 2-3-2013
Jesus Portrait In Ohio's Jackson Middle School To Stay Despite Outcry Over Unconstitutionality Huffingtonpost
Fox News channel, 2-3-2013
Jesus Portrait In Ohio's Jackson Middle School To Stay Despite Outcry Over Unconstitutionality Huffingtonpost
Jackson Outcry Jesus portrait
Jason Frazer, 10 TV News
Hurston Hall
Travis Hall
Jesus Portrait In Ohio's Jackson Middle School To Stay Despite Outcry Over Unconstitutionality Huffingtonpost
The Religious Right vs Every Woman on Earth
The Religious Right vs Every Woman on Earth Skepticon 4 Rebecca Watson
During filming, if a powerpoint slide is just a reiteration of what the speaker is saying, without any new information, I do not cut to it. If you are screaming, "What the fuck is on the projector!"... This is the answer.
During filming, if a powerpoint slide is just a reiteration of what the speaker is saying, without any new information, I do not cut to it. If you are screaming, "What the fuck is on the projector!"... This is the answer.
Teaching Creationism is Child Abuse
The last thing we want to do is water down the teaching of biology because some people don't recognize that evolution happened.
Transcript:
It amazes me that people have pre-existing notions that defy the evidence of reality. But that they hold onto them so dearly. And one of them is the notion of creationism, or. in fact, Senator Marco Rubio, who's presumably a reasonably intelligent man and maybe even educated, was asked what's the age of the Earth, and ultimately, either because he actually believed it or he was trying to appeal to some constituency, had to argue that it's a big mystery, that somehow we should teach kids both ideas, that the Earth is 6,000 years old and that it's 4.55 billion years old, which is what it is.
If you think about that, somehow saying that, well, anything goes, we shouldn't offend religious beliefs by requiring kids to know - to understand reality; that's child abuse. And if you think about it, teaching kids - or allowing the notion that the earth is 6,000 years old to be promulgated in schools is like teaching kids that the distance across the United States is 17 feet. That's how big an error it is.
Now you might say, look, a lot of people believe that, so don't we owe it to them to allow their views to be present in school? Well, as I've often said, the purpose of education is not to validate ignorance but to overcome it. Fifty percent of the people in the United States, when we probe them each year with the National Science Foundation, think that the sun goes around the Earth, not that the Earth goes around the sun. When we asked the question - we provide the question: The Earth goes around the sun and takes a year to do it; true or false? Almost every year, 50 percent of the people get that wrong.
Now, does that mean in schools we should allow the anti-Galilean and Copernican idea that the sun goes around the Earth to be taught? Absolutely not. If, in fact, the very fact that people don't know that, and the very fact that enough people are willing to somehow believe that Earth is 6,000 years old, means we have to do a better job of teaching physics and biology, not a worse job.
The last thing we want to do is water down the teaching of biology because some people don't recognize that evolution happened. Evolution is the basis of modern biology and, in fact, if a lot of people don't believe it, it only means we have to do a better job teaching it. So once again, I repeat, the purpose of education is not to validate ignorance, but to overcome it. And to overcome a situation where a United States Senator can speak such manifest nonsense with impunity is vitally important to the healthy future of our society.
Technology and biotechnology will be the basis of our economic future. And if we allow nonsense to be promulgated in the schools, we do a disservice to our students, a disservice to our children, and we're guaranteeing that they will fall behind in a competitive world that depends upon a skilled workforce able to understand and manipulate technology and science.
Directed / Produced by Jonathan Fowler & Elizabeth Rodd
Transcript:
It amazes me that people have pre-existing notions that defy the evidence of reality. But that they hold onto them so dearly. And one of them is the notion of creationism, or. in fact, Senator Marco Rubio, who's presumably a reasonably intelligent man and maybe even educated, was asked what's the age of the Earth, and ultimately, either because he actually believed it or he was trying to appeal to some constituency, had to argue that it's a big mystery, that somehow we should teach kids both ideas, that the Earth is 6,000 years old and that it's 4.55 billion years old, which is what it is.
If you think about that, somehow saying that, well, anything goes, we shouldn't offend religious beliefs by requiring kids to know - to understand reality; that's child abuse. And if you think about it, teaching kids - or allowing the notion that the earth is 6,000 years old to be promulgated in schools is like teaching kids that the distance across the United States is 17 feet. That's how big an error it is.
Now you might say, look, a lot of people believe that, so don't we owe it to them to allow their views to be present in school? Well, as I've often said, the purpose of education is not to validate ignorance but to overcome it. Fifty percent of the people in the United States, when we probe them each year with the National Science Foundation, think that the sun goes around the Earth, not that the Earth goes around the sun. When we asked the question - we provide the question: The Earth goes around the sun and takes a year to do it; true or false? Almost every year, 50 percent of the people get that wrong.
Now, does that mean in schools we should allow the anti-Galilean and Copernican idea that the sun goes around the Earth to be taught? Absolutely not. If, in fact, the very fact that people don't know that, and the very fact that enough people are willing to somehow believe that Earth is 6,000 years old, means we have to do a better job of teaching physics and biology, not a worse job.
The last thing we want to do is water down the teaching of biology because some people don't recognize that evolution happened. Evolution is the basis of modern biology and, in fact, if a lot of people don't believe it, it only means we have to do a better job teaching it. So once again, I repeat, the purpose of education is not to validate ignorance, but to overcome it. And to overcome a situation where a United States Senator can speak such manifest nonsense with impunity is vitally important to the healthy future of our society.
Technology and biotechnology will be the basis of our economic future. And if we allow nonsense to be promulgated in the schools, we do a disservice to our students, a disservice to our children, and we're guaranteeing that they will fall behind in a competitive world that depends upon a skilled workforce able to understand and manipulate technology and science.
Directed / Produced by Jonathan Fowler & Elizabeth Rodd
Are you a Fat Atheist? Penn Point
Penn can't stand it when people label atheist with being fat! Penn is an atheist and fat, who cares?
Penn Jillette.
Penn Jillette.
The Unreliable Birth Story of Jesus
An Atheist Reads the Bible 9. Narrated by dprjones & DarkMatter2525.
Sunday, February 3, 2013
How Cindy Jacobs And Her Prayer Warriors Saved The Global Economy
Christian Prophet Cindy Jacobs reveals how, back in 2008, she and her band of global prayer warriors prevented the economy from collapsing.
Peter Atkins "Science as Truth"
Peter Atkins on woo and faith
There's a good deal more in this essay that I could not include. Some discussion of why real scientists tend to scorn the paranormal or supernatural might be of interest to my atheist or skeptical viewers.
Quote of the week: Peter Atkins on woo and faith
There's a good deal more in this essay that I could not include. Some discussion of why real scientists tend to scorn the paranormal or supernatural might be of interest to my atheist or skeptical viewers.
Quote of the week: Peter Atkins on woo and faith
President Obama's Christian Faith is a "Total Sham"
Bryan Fischer is not convinced by President Obama's claims to be a Christian.
Video from Focal Point on AFA Channel, 2013
Video from Focal Point on AFA Channel, 2013
Saturday, February 2, 2013
You Don't Have To Go Down in My Basement
You Don't Have To Go Down in My Basement, Skepticon 4 Dan Barker
Glenn Beck: "Smear Machine" has Destroyed my Reputation
Once upon a time, Glenn Beck was widely admired but now he is viewed as crazy ... and it just shows how much the nation has lost its way.
"The Harbinger" Making Waves on Capitol Hill
End Times messianic rabbi Jonathan Cahn on TBN says he is working with members of Congress to reverse God's judgment on America.
Cahn: "The Harbinger" Making Waves on Capitol Hill
Cahn: "The Harbinger" Making Waves on Capitol Hill
Bible Slavery: TOTALLY DIFFERENT
Whether you're a believer or non-believer, when confronting bible slavery, don't let anyone throw up this ridiculous smokescreen that says that the slavery instituted in the old testament was so completely different to, say, pre-civil war US slavery. The usual tactic is to throw facts and rules about Israelite indentured servitude around, to throw you off the scent of a Yahweh-mandated form of slavery EVERY BIT as bad as anything we've seen in recent centuries. This line of argument is so prevalent that I'm confused as to whether its proponents actually believe it or not; but either way, this video is my attempt to inject a bit of reality into this very important area of discussion.
The god of the bible mandated oppressive life-long slavery of foreigners - pretty much a concise description of one of the worst forms of human rights abuses the world has ever had to grapple with. It's as simple as that.
No, I don't hate God for mandating slavery, and no I don't believe that God is evil for mandating slavery. I don't believe that THIS god, the absurd god of the bible, is even extant, let alone worthy of any adjectives beyond that! This god's inhumane and ridiculously cruel commands say nothing about the god that they are ascribed to, simply because they are so obviously ascribed to a god by the men in whose image this god was made.
Deal with it folks; your god is the brainchild of some particularly awful humans. The bible simply and clearly gets this very easy human rights question utterly wrong.
Abandon it, and keep looking for answers. You'll be ever so glad you did.
Video by Non Stamp Collector
The god of the bible mandated oppressive life-long slavery of foreigners - pretty much a concise description of one of the worst forms of human rights abuses the world has ever had to grapple with. It's as simple as that.
No, I don't hate God for mandating slavery, and no I don't believe that God is evil for mandating slavery. I don't believe that THIS god, the absurd god of the bible, is even extant, let alone worthy of any adjectives beyond that! This god's inhumane and ridiculously cruel commands say nothing about the god that they are ascribed to, simply because they are so obviously ascribed to a god by the men in whose image this god was made.
Deal with it folks; your god is the brainchild of some particularly awful humans. The bible simply and clearly gets this very easy human rights question utterly wrong.
Abandon it, and keep looking for answers. You'll be ever so glad you did.
Video by Non Stamp Collector
Atheism: A personal relationship with reality
Recuting atheists on the highway. San Diego pastor encourages the debate.
Report on the billboard in California with the message "Atheism: A personal relationship with reality" sponsored by the San Diego Coalition of Reason and the American Atheists.
Joe Little, Lemon Grove
Debbie Allen, San Diego Coalition of Reason
Pastor Chris Clark, East Clairemont Southern Baptist Church
Video from January 30, 2013
Report on the billboard in California with the message "Atheism: A personal relationship with reality" sponsored by the San Diego Coalition of Reason and the American Atheists.
Joe Little, Lemon Grove
Debbie Allen, San Diego Coalition of Reason
Pastor Chris Clark, East Clairemont Southern Baptist Church
Video from January 30, 2013
Friday, February 1, 2013
Tax Exemption For Clergy Is Not Good Enough
Waitress (Chelsea Welch) was fired by Applebee's because she exposed a cheap pastor (Alois Bell, of Truth in the World Deliverance Ministries Church).
Another Christian show the real face of Christianity.
The Ed Show, Ed Schultz, MSNBC, 1-31-2013,
Tax Exemption For Clergy Is Not Good Enough, So Pastor Screws Hard Working Waitress!
Another Christian show the real face of Christianity.
The Ed Show, Ed Schultz, MSNBC, 1-31-2013,
Tax Exemption For Clergy Is Not Good Enough, So Pastor Screws Hard Working Waitress!
Atheist Billboard - San Diego, CA
Report on the billboard in California with the message "Atheism: A personal relationship with reality" sponsored by the San Diego Coalition of Reason and the American Atheists.
January 30, 2013
January 30, 2013
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