[unspun]

The problem from this corner in looking at materialists is not their pervasiveness, but their dynamic of attaining influence. Most of the real world (even in the West) doesn't believe them and are more prone to ideas such as collective consciousness. That alone in place of materialism won't help much and in fact is a greater threat, due to likely greater acceptance. True, a few more people will be open minded about God, but even more will find a new Bahai so to speak. Actually, I believe much of the world already believes this, Oprah or not, and is looking for the rationale that collective consciousness theory offers.

From what we see in Scripture and other history, such movements, when not centered on the Gospel are very harmful and sad, and the more pervasive the more tragic.

[betty boop]

Actually, I believe much of the world already believes this, Oprah or not, and is looking for the rationale that collective consciousness theory offers.

If that is so, Brother Arlen, then likely people believe in something that collective consciousness theory doesn't say. And of course, that is a problem. But people can only believe according to their own "best lights." Many misunderstand the import of relativity theory; many more will probably misconstrue QM. Genuine understanding is key. And to "understand" means to "stand under" -- truth.

Which is why, as some Enlightenment wag (I forget who just now) put it, "If God did not exist, it would be necessary to create Him."