Developing A Universal Religion/Looking For A Purpose

According to biologist Richard Dawkins, life has no purpose! This approaches the metaphysical idea of determinism which presumes every effect has a cause, so that life is simply a chemical consequence of cosmic chaos. Dawkins asserts that ethics, morality and religion are simply 'successful aspects' of the selfish gene He favours The Universal Declaration of Human Rights approach, which is roughly the naked pursuit of happiness principle enshrined in the constitution of the USA.

However, from the previous two chapters survey, it seems we could conclude that, for religion to be effective an 'ultimate goal' is needed before one can make any decision rationally. Furthermore, to evolve a moral code or religion of universal significance we need a purpose of universal significance. We therefore seek a purpose that applies beyond our culture, our species and our planet—one that is ubiquitous, timeless, consequential and fundamental, immediately recognizable as worthy of unfettered support, one that is eternally compelling, able to attract and hold followers for many generations to come.

This chapter looks for such a purpose. If one can be found it should rectify two shortages: one, provide a basis for the rationale used when making moral decisions, and two, provide a solid foundation upon which a logical future universal religion might be built should this eventually be deemed desirable.


 * 1) /Can We Adopt The Universe's Purpose?/
 * 2) /Can We Use Life's Purpose?/
 * 3) /Learning And Purpose/
 * 4) /What Purpose Can We Use?/
 * /Summary/