Wasn't that what befell those Jews who worshiped the Golden Cow? And isn't that what the Israelites were commanded to do with Canaanites and others tribes the Hebrew God detested? Doesn't the OT command Israelites to dash babies against the rocks and cut them to pieces, and to ravage the wives of their enemies?
Muslims also believe they are commanded by their god's own words in the Koran to spread Islam and to kill those who refuse. Ironically one of the five pillars of that sick religion is alms giving and other things preached by other Abrahamic religions that have the Golden Rule in them.
Hindus and the untouchable cast - lowest of the low in hindu society - flock to Christianity when presented - in the face of death from hindu. So where's your universal golden rule?
Christianity tolerated slavery all these centuries, so what's the difference?
Buddists in se asia - embracing communism and atheistism - kill(ed) hundreds of thousands - and your universal golden rule is where?
Buddhism is very much based on the Golden Rule. What people do with it is a different story. Some people profess to be Christians yet don't act Christ-like.
At any rate the issue was someone's comment about non-Christians despairing over their worthless lives...because they aren't Christians. I still say, hardly.
LOL, mixing your subjects a bit. In your example it was judgement directed by God - but then you don't believe in God. But your little misdirect still doesn't support your statement that man treats others by the golden rule because it is beneficial to him - but continues to show the opposite (if there is no God as you say).
Christianity tolerated slavery all these centuries, so what's the difference?
Christians also lead the fight to end slavery too - your point? BTW, untouchables in hindu society are not slaves - another significant difference.
Buddhism is very much based on the Golden Rule. What people do with it is a different story. Some people profess to be Christians yet don't act Christ-like.
But I thought you said it was something that people will DO. Now you are telling us that the golden rule is not so obvious - but is only philosophy?
I have read some of your post but not all. I have observed the back and forth from afar with only passing interest, if even that. I think I remember you saying you are an agnostic. If so, are you an agnostic who is still seeking or an agnostic who has grown tired of the subject and would rather leave things the way they are?
I ask because I have been where I think you are. My journey was from being indoctrinated in protestant Christianity by being taken to church multiple times a week from infancy to late teens, to an almost over night atheist in college,when I felt as if a great weight had been lifted from my shoulders, to an agnostic, the most intellectually honest approach, and finally to being a true sincere believer.
If any of that is of interest to you I will be happy to discuss it. If you are not interested that is fine. My offer is probably similar to betty boop’s reason for inviting you to this thread.