Archive for Thursday 18th July 2002 - A quick look at the big question

Since life is short, let us go straight to the basic question in philosophy. Is there a god behind the universe?

That will always be a mystery. It seems to be part of life's game that you have to find the answer for yourself. Here are some of the options: I. Atheism. Many people get through life well and happily, doing good to their fellow creatures, without the need to recognise any god. A well-known example is Ludovic Kennedy. He is godless and against religion, but he is an honest man, and I would trust him as much as any bishop.

2. Mystical atheism. This is common in eastern religions. They say that an ultimate god is beyond all knowing. So it is no use trying to think about it. Our existence is a divine mystery, and we should revere the spirit of life in all its forms.

3. The philosopher's god. In any story about how the universe began, you have to start somewhere. So Plato began with a Creator, a formless being who dwells blissfully amid true perfection. He was kind enough to make this world as well as he could, and to set it going. Then he sat back to enjoy the show. Philosophers are meant to see the beauty of creation and, through it, to come nearer to the mind of the Creator.

4. A personal friend. Many of us cannot believe in atheism, and the philosopher's god is too impersonal to be of interest. So other options come up, but they will have to wait till next week.

John Michell