This is another topic branching off from robinrohan's thread
What we must accept if we accept evolution.
The argument in that thread goes as follows:
A. The theory of evolution implies an entirely physical universe
B. If you accept that the universe is entirely physical, then you must also accept the following:
1. Materialism
2. Atheism
3. Determinism
4. Nihilism
Now any discussion about evolution seems to end up mired in obscure arguments about Judaeo-Christian mythology that, to a third-generation atheist like myself, are as interesting as watching paint dry on the Forth Bridge. So in this thread I'd like to ignore the theory of evolution and just ask the question:
If you accept that the universe is entirely physical, then you must accept ... [insert robinrohan's 4 noble truths].
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My answers to this question would be as follows:
1. Materialism
YES. By definition.
2. Atheism
YES. If the universe is entirely physical, then there's no room for supernatural beings.
3. Determinism.
NO. Not all physical processes are deterministic. The fact that an event has physical causes doesn't necessarily mean that the process that lead to it was deterministic. Therefore the question of whether humans have free will is still an open question even if you accept that the universe is entirely physical.
4. Nihilism
I'm not really sure what I'm being asked to accept here.
(a) That there is no supernatural being with a hidden plan? YES, I'd accept that definition. Clearly there aren't any supernatural beings.
(b) That human beings can't make objective judgements about moral issues? NO, I wouldn't accept that definition. How does it follow from an acceptance that the universe is entirely physical?
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