The Non-Prophets

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A Physicist Rejects the Idea that we Live In a Sim Universe Mar 15, 2025

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Mind Matters News, January 8, 2023 http://bit.ly/3kwt70G
The discussion explores physicist Marcelo Gleiser's argument against the possibility of reality being a simulation. The panelists express skepticism, noting that such claims often rely on unfalsifiable assertions rather than scientific evidence. They critique the logic behind simulation theory, pointing out its similarities to religious arguments—particularly the claim that "we can't prove we're not in a simulation," which mirrors arguments for the existence of God. Teo dismisses the theory as an infinite regress problem, arguing that if a simulation exists, it would require a simulator, which would also need a creator, leading to an endless cycle of simulated realities. August finds the idea intriguing but remains unconvinced without tangible evidence, likening it to the Fermi Paradox, where people speculate about extraterrestrial life without direct proof. Phoebe criticizes proponents of the theory for their lack of critical thinking, comparing it to conspiracy theories like lizard people running governments. The conversation shifts to implications of simulation theory on concepts like free will. August highlights how the idea could challenge autonomy, likening it to debates over determinism. Teo humorously introduces "theocentric theory," proposing that the universe revolves around himself, poking fun at the egocentric nature of some philosophical arguments. Jason performs an experiment by telling everyone to raise their arms, joking that their compliance proves his control over them. Ultimately, the panelists find simulation theory entertaining but unconvincing. They agree that without evidence, it remains speculative fiction rather than a scientific hypothesis.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.10.4 Phoebe Rose, Jason Sherwood, August and Mateo
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What is Pure and Authentic Faith? Mar 14, 2025

Show notes

The Times of Israel, By Gabriel Lamza, March 9, 2023, https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/what-is-pure-and-authentic-faith/
Faith is often presented as a virtue, a connection to the divine, or a means of understanding the world. However, in attempting to defend this notion, many religious arguments reveal their own contradictions. One such example is an article that claims the biblical phrase "made in God's image" refers to humanity’s ability to think independently. Yet, this directly contradicts the biblical narrative, which states that Adam and Eve lacked moral awareness until they ate from the Tree of Knowledge, thereby gaining the ability to discern good from evil. If humans were truly created with independent thought, then why was acquiring knowledge seen as an act of defiance? This contradiction exposes the apologetic gymnastics often required to reconcile faith with reason. The article further asserts that faith requires the complete submission of one’s reasoning to divine authority, essentially equating godliness with obedience rather than critical thinking. This idea undermines the initial claim that thinking is what connects humans to God. By its own logic, faith is not a tool of intellectual independence but rather a mechanism for suppressing thought. This is precisely why faith can be dangerous—when belief supersedes evidence, there is no limit to what one might justify in the name of faith. While many use faith for good, history is filled with examples of atrocities committed under divine justification. Adding to the confusion, the article includes a bizarre analogy involving a train and tiny horses, meant to illustrate how humans often misinterpret the unknown. Instead of accepting ignorance as an opportunity for further exploration, the author suggests that one should simply assume an unseen force—God—is at work. This highlights a common problem in religious thinking: the insistence that unanswered questions must default to divine intervention rather than admitting uncertainty. However, just as educating people on how engines work eliminates the need for "tiny horses," education and critical thinking remove the necessity of religious explanations for the unknown. Finally, the article claims that faith is a rational conclusion and that even the most logical individuals will ultimately arrive at it. However, this ignores the fact that many people leave religion precisely because of rational inquiry. The more one scrutinizes faith-based claims with logic and evidence, the more their foundations crumble. The argument that a professor cannot explain their 50 years of knowledge to a child is used to justify the supposed incomprehensibility of God, but this reasoning is flawed.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.10.3Kelley Laughlin, Lewis, Mateo, and Aaron Jensen
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How Religious Mythology Shapes Sexual Norms Mar 12, 2025

Show notes

Strange But True: Ancient Egyptians were so into oral sex, they put it in their religion — and religious art, Salon, Matthew Rosza, January 29, 2023
Sex and morality have been tightly controlled by religion throughout history, shaping societal attitudes toward sexuality. The discussion begins with ancient Egypt, where gods were depicted engaging in acts like autofellatio as part of creation myths. While some assume ancient societies were more sexually open, the reality is that Egypt had conservative sexual norms comparable to their neighbors in Israel. The control of sex, particularly by religious institutions, has historically been a tool of power, reinforcing shame and guilt around natural human behavior. Victorian England is often blamed for sexual repression, but it’s argued that this is more a product of later interpretations than the reality of Victorian life.
The Victorians were far from prudish in private, as demonstrated by explicit personal writings, including Queen Victoria’s enthusiastic comments about Prince Albert. More broadly, history shows fluctuating attitudes toward sex, from the uninhibited Greeks and Romans to later societies that sought to regulate and repress it. Religion, particularly Christianity, often attempts to define acceptable sexual behavior, controlling it in ways that reinforce their broader authority. A notable aspect of ancient Egyptian sexuality is their exclusion of homosexuality from their records, raising questions about whether labeling and recognizing sexual identities make societies more tolerant or simply more aware of division. Regardless of historical shifts, the pattern remains: sex is a fundamental human drive, and societies continuously shape and reshape its role based on cultural and religious influences. Ultimately, the gods people create reflect their own desires and societal norms, further proving that human behavior, rather than divine decree, dictates morality.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.10.2 featuring Jason Sherwood, Aaron Jensen, Richard Firth-Godbehere and Scott Dickie.
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Why the moral panic over "grooming" is so effective at manipulating the right-wing mind Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

Salon, Matthew Rosza, January 30, 2023 http://bit.ly/3xcJxyH
This segment discusses the moral panic surrounding the term "grooming," particularly in relation to LGBTQ+ people, and how it is being weaponized by right-wing politicians, particularly in Florida under Ron DeSantis. Historically, moral panics have been used to demonize specific groups—examples include the witch hunts and the Nazis' rise to power. The latest iteration of this tactic is the banning of books and restricting discussions around LGBTQ+ topics in schools under the pretense of "protecting children." The panel critiques the effectiveness of this fear-based messaging, pointing out that invoking child safety is an emotional trigger that stirs public outrage, even when there's no factual basis. The term "grooming" is being misused to conflate LGBTQ+ identities with pedophilia, despite no evidence supporting such a connection. Instead of addressing actual risk factors for child abuse—such as poverty, lack of education, and inadequate mental health services—conservatives are using the "grooming" narrative as a political weapon. They also highlight the hypocrisy of these fearmongers, who ignore well-documented abuses within religious institutions like the Catholic Church. The discussion expands to how right-wing leaders, including DeSantis, use these tactics to rally their base by creating an "us vs. them" mentality, turning marginalized communities into scapegoats. The panel draws parallels to past laws in the UK, like Section 28, which banned "promoting" homosexuality, a vague and harmful policy that took over a decade to repeal. Ultimately, the panel argues that real child protection efforts should focus on economic stability, education, and community support rather than scapegoating LGBTQ+ people or banning books. The fear-mongering around grooming isn't about protecting kids—it’s about controlling the narrative and demonizing marginalized communities for political gain.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.10.1 featuring Jason Sherwood, Aaron Jensen, Richard Firth-Godbehere and Scott Dickie.
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Scientists Rethink Everything as Predictability Fades Mar 09, 2025

Show notes

Scientists sound alarm over troubling phenomena forcing them to 'rethink' everything 'Predictability has become more challenging'
The Cool Down, By Chelsea Cook, on February 14, 2025
https://www.thecooldown.com/green-tech/unpredictable-climate-patterns-shift/
In the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and rising climate change risks, scientists are sounding the alarm over how outdated models are failing to provide accurate forecasts for extreme weather events. Researchers are struggling to adjust their climate models in the face of shifting ocean currents, unprecedented flooding, and the overall volatility of weather. These challenges are making it difficult to prepare for natural disasters that are disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities.
Despite the urgency for enhanced research and preparedness, political pressures and budget cuts are undermining the very institutions needed to address these growing climate risks. Powerful corporations have consistently ignored or downplayed the significance of climate change, focusing on short-term profits rather than long-term solutions. This has led to a precarious situation where climate uncertainty looms large, and scientific institutions, underfunded and under attack, are struggling to guide us toward meaningful solutions. As one speaker highlights, "The chickens are coming home to roost," echoing a sentiment that the consequences of our current inaction will soon become unavoidable.
As these extreme weather events become more frequent and severe, it’s essential for policymakers to prioritize research and funding to better understand and mitigate the effects of climate change. However, this is increasingly difficult in a political climate where corporate interests are driving decisions, and scientific efforts are being hindered. In response to this urgent situation, there is a call for increased public involvement, from supporting climate-friendly policies to reducing individual carbon footprints through lifestyle changes. Yet, as discussed, the real key lies in corporate responsibility and the government's role in funding and protecting climate research. Until these larger systemic changes occur, the battle against climate change will remain a monumental challenge.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.9.4 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Infidel64, Aaron Jensen and AJ
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Lawsuit Threatens Section 504 Mar 08, 2025

Show notes

Yes, there is a lawsuit that could eliminate Section 504
khou.com, By Texas And Several Other States Could End It, on February 15, 2025
https://www.khou.com/article/news/verify/section-504-lawsuit/285-643af794-fb84-4b84-a3fd-d8060ec5db71
The Texas Attorney General, Ken Paxton, filed a lawsuit challenging the inclusion of gender dysphoria under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination in federally funded institutions. The lawsuit aims to remove gender identity protections, particularly under the Biden administration's recent changes, arguing that Section 504 itself is unconstitutional. The outcome could affect many individuals across Texas and beyond, impacting access to essential services like education, healthcare, and public accommodations, which rely on these nondiscrimination protections. If Section 504 were struck down, it could remove protections for individuals with various disabilities, not just those affected by gender dysphoria. These protections ensure equal access to services, such as wheelchair ramps, classroom accommodations, medical device use, and more. Beyond the LGBTQ+ community, many people with disabilities, such as diabetes, autism, or visual impairments, rely on these rights for their day-to-day lives. The potential loss of these protections could harm vulnerable populations, particularly in public institutions, like schools, hospitals, and other government-funded services. The broader implication is that removing these protections could set a dangerous precedent for dismantling anti-discrimination laws, affecting millions who benefit from them. The legal and political trends surrounding this lawsuit reflect a growing shift in how disability rights and LGBTQ+ protections are framed. Those opposing gender identity protections often view them as part of a broader "woke" agenda, but the consequences of dismantling these protections could affect many individuals across various communities. With a polarized political climate, where personal interests and ideological lines blur, there's a significant risk that broader legal protections could be weakened, jeopardizing the rights of marginalized groups. The lawsuit is further complicated by the current political and judicial environment, where a more conservative Supreme Court has been inclined to reverse precedents and interpret laws based on tradition rather than established legal frameworks. If this lawsuit succeeds, it could lead to the elimination of vital protections, not just for transgender individuals, but for many others who rely on Section 504 for equality and access to necessary services.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.9.3 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Infidel64, Aaron Jensen and AJ
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Utah Law Allows Nazi, Confederate Flags in Schools—But Not Pride Flag Mar 06, 2025

Show notes

New Utah law would allow for Nazi and Confederate flags to be shown in schools but not Pride flag NewsBreak
NewsBreak, By The Independent, on February 14, 2025
https://www.newsbreak.com/share/3812118394569-new-utah-law-would-allow-for-nazi-and-confederate-flags-to-be-shown-in-schools-but-not-pride-flag
This proposed bill in Utah, which bans the display of Pride Flags while allowing the display of Nazi and Confederate flags under certain educational circumstances, has ignited strong criticism. Lawmakers argue that banning Pride Flags maintains a neutral space, while allowing the historical display of Nazi and Confederate flags could aid in teaching about World War II and the Civil War. Many, particularly from the LGBTQ+ community, have condemned the proposal as discriminatory and harmful. The situation highlights the ongoing struggles surrounding LGBTQ+ rights, as some people push back against displaying any symbols that represent marginalized identities.
The bill's controversial nature extends beyond flags, revealing deeper concerns about ideology control and the suppression of certain groups. Critics point out that such policies perpetuate a dangerous narrative that harms the LGBTQ+ community, especially those already facing high rates of discrimination and suicide. The discussion then shifts to broader concerns about the government's role in controlling public symbols and speech, with some arguing that the true agenda is to reinforce conformity and suppress those whose existence challenges entrenched worldviews.
The impact on LGBTQ+ students, particularly those from transgender communities, is seen as potentially devastating. With suicide rates higher among these groups due to discrimination, critics argue that such bills could exacerbate an already harmful environment. Moreover, the narrative around biological sex versus gender identity is being distorted in public policies, as seen in recent executive orders attempting to define gender in simplistic, scientifically inaccurate terms.
In response, community members are encouraged to actively resist such policies, engage in public discourse, and stand against the normalization of oppressive ideologies. By demanding that LGBTQ+ history, such as the Stonewall riots, be included in education, they hope to challenge the selective suppression of identities while holding space for the celebration of all cultures, including those historically marginalized.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.9.2 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Infidel64, Aaron Jensen and AJ
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Police Arrest Leader of 'Zizian' Cult Linked to U.S. Killings Mar 04, 2025

Show notes

Police arrest apparent leader of cult like 'Zizian' group linked to multiple killings in the US

AP News, By Michael Casey And Mcasey, on February 17, 2025
https://apnews.com/article/zizians-killings-border-patrol-bf599db6b9ec354c68ed5ff4d5701b84
Police Arrest Leader of 'Zizian' Cult Linked to U.S. Killings Police arrest apparent leader of cult like 'Zizian' group linked to multiple killings in the US AP News, By Michael Casey And Mcasey, on February 17, 2025
https://apnews.com/article/zizians-killings-border-patrol-bf599db6b9ec354c68ed5ff4d5701b84
This story outlines the troubling rise of the Zizans, a group that originally emerged from a more intellectual online community, before devolving into violent actions. In 2016, a figure named Jack Lasoda, writing under the pen name "Ziz," began publishing a blog combining radical ideas such as rationalism, anarchism, ethical veganism, and others, which led to the formation of a group known as the Zizans. Over time, they became more extreme, culminating in a series of violent incidents including the blocking of exits at an event and the brutal attacks that followed, one of which involved a landlord being severely injured and another resulting in a murder. The story takes a particularly chilling turn in 2022, when Ziz faked her own death, which was publicly reported, only to reemerge later. The group's violent spree continued into 2023, with members involved in a murder and a deadly police confrontation. Despite arrests in 2025, doubts persist about whether the group has truly been dismantled, or if they are merely regrouping for future actions. As this unfolds, the discussion turns to the radicalizing effects of online spaces, with commentators questioning the responsibility of social media platforms in preventing such transformations. One speaker suggests that while private messages and personal privacy must be protected, platforms still bear some responsibility to curb violent rhetoric. This leads into a broader examination of how individuals, even those who seem far removed from radicalization, can fall victim to it through selective media consumption and echo chambers. The conversation expands further into the dynamics of fringe movements, especially those combining anarchism, transhumanism, and radical identity politics, with reflections on how such movements form and what makes them turn dangerous. The discussion emphasizes that any movement, regardless of its ideological leanings, can become a breeding ground for extremism if it creates an "us versus them" mentality. Finally, the issue of transparency in law enforcement and the role of skepticism is raised, underscoring the need for constant self-reflection and critical thinking in preventing the spread of dangerous ideologies. It is suggested that, in addition to skepticism, society needs more rebels willing to challenge authority to avoid the kind of radicalization that leads to violence and societal harm.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.9.1 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Infidel64, Aaron Jensen and AJ
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Church Bans Woke Meal from Communion Mar 02, 2025

Show notes

Church bans non-alcoholic wine and gluten-free bread from holy communion - NewsBreak
NewsBreak, By George Lithgow, on February 9, 2025
https://www.newsbreak.com/share/3798407634101-church-bans-non-alcoholic-wine-and-gluten-free-bread-from-holy-communion
The Church of England has reaffirmed a long-standing doctrinal stance that only wheat-based bread and fermented grape juice—meaning traditional wine—are valid for Holy Communion. This ruling explicitly excludes non-alcoholic wine and gluten-free bread, creating accessibility issues for those with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or individuals who abstain from alcohol for health, religious, or personal reasons. While the church recognizes the challenges this presents, it maintains that the theological integrity of the sacrament requires adherence to these specific elements.This decision is grounded in traditional Christian theology, which emphasizes the symbolic nature of the Eucharist.
According to the Church of England, the bread used must be wheat-based, as it represents the body of Christ, just as it was at the Last Supper. Similarly, fermented grape wine is considered essential, as it aligns with biblical accounts of Christ's words and actions. Deviating from these elements, the church argues, could compromise the sacrament’s sacred nature.For individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, this presents a significant barrier to fully participating in the central rite of Christian worship. While some branches of Christianity have made accommodations by offering low-gluten alternatives, the Church of England holds firm on the necessity of wheat content in the bread. The ruling suggests that those unable to consume gluten should receive only the wine, a partial participation that some may find exclusionary.The refusal to allow non-alcoholic wine similarly impacts those who abstain from alcohol for health or personal reasons. Many Christian denominations, particularly in the Protestant tradition, have adopted grape juice as an alternative to accommodate recovering alcoholics and others who avoid alcohol.Critics argue that this ruling reflects an outdated rigidity that prioritizes dogma over inclusivity. They contend that maintaining the spirit of the Eucharist—sharing in the body and blood of Christ—should take precedence over strict adherence to specific physical ingredients.This decision highlights the broader tension within religious institutions between tradition and modern accommodation. The Church of England has struggled in recent years with issues of inclusivity, and this ruling adds another layer of debate over how to balance doctrine with accessibility. While some parishioners may see this as a reaffirmation of sacred tradition, others may view it as an unnecessary obstacle that alienates members of the faith.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.7.4 featuring Scott Dickie, Stephen Harder, Helen Greene and The Ejector Seat
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Bible Reading in Public Schools Sparks Controversy Mar 01, 2025

Show notes

Bill introduced to require Bible reading in all public schools, sparking constitutional questions - NewsBreak
NewsBreak, By LAURA GUIDO, on February 7, 2025
https://www.newsbreak.com/share/3794686379971-bill-introduced-to-require-bible-reading-in-all-public-schools-sparking-constitutional-questions
Idaho lawmakers are considering a bill that would require daily Bible readings in public schools, specifically from the King James Version (KJV) or New King James Version (NKJV). Introduced by Representative Jordan Redman and backed by the Idaho Family Policy Center, the legislation mandates that an occupied classroom in every school district read the Bible sequentially each morning, completing the entire book over ten years. The bill’s proponents argue that this has historical merit, as Bible readings were common in public schools before the 1960s. However, opponents point out that such a law would be a clear violation of the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause, which prohibits government endorsement of religion. Critics argue that this initiative is not just unconstitutional but also fundamentally ineffective in fostering faith, as passive, mandatory exposure to scripture without discussion or interpretation is unlikely to inspire genuine belief. The comparison is made to literature classes—no teacher would require students to read To Kill a Mockingbird without analysis or engagement. The plan, which dictates a rigid reading schedule, would subject students to some of the Bible’s more controversial and inappropriate content, such as violent passages or sexually explicit themes, raising concerns about age appropriateness and teacher preparedness. Some skeptics suggest that the plan could backfire, as forcing students to sit through lengthy, archaic passages from the KJV—a version known for its difficult language—may bore them into disinterest. There is also the issue of Christian exclusivity, as the law would not require readings from other religious or philosophical texts, effectively promoting one religious tradition in a public education setting. Even within Christianity, the KJV is not universally accepted, with many denominations—including Catholics—not considering it a primary translation. The bill’s opt-out clause, which requires parental permission, is also controversial. Critics argue that default participation assumes that Christianity is the norm and that non-Christian students must actively excuse themselves, which could ostracize them. Furthermore, precedent from cases like Abington School District v. Schempp has already determined that mandatory Bible readings in public schools are unconstitutional, reinforcing the argument that this legislation would not stand up to legal scrutiny. There is broader concern that this is part of a larger effort to push Christian nationalism, using historical precedent as justification. However, as critics point out, historical precedent does not inherently validate a practice—slavery, segregation, and other outdated societal norms were once common but are now rightfully condemned. The push to integrate religious teachings into public institutions appears to be less about historical tradition and more about maintaining ideological control in an increasingly secular society. Ultimately, this bill is viewed by opponents as a blatant attempt to erode the separation of church and state, forcing religious doctrine into public education under the guise of tradition. Supporters claim it is a benign acknowledgment of America's Christian heritage, but the reality is that it privileges one religious group at the expense of everyone else. With significant legal hurdles and widespread opposition, this legislation is likely to face strong challenges, both in the courtroom and in public discourse.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.7.3 featuring Scott Dickie, Stephen Harder, Helen Greene and The Ejector Seat
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