Reply #68: The Problem, Sir, Is Simple [View All]

And hinted at in my longer piece above.

You believe this, and so the matter really is not susceptible of discussion with you. It is not to me an article of belief that any diety communicates to the Pope. The rationalizations of this particular human being for his decisions, and for his exercise of the power held in his hands, have no more sacred character than those of any other human being to me. You seem to expect to be granted just the modicum of assent to your view to treat seriously for purposes of discussing this matter the idea that this individual receives particular communications from a diety, and further that, absent such a communication, his current opinion on some complex complex matter is absolutely right, as opposed to absolutely authoritative for those who allow their minds to be imposed on by his views.

"The worshiper is the father of the Gods."