The theoretical fruits of deliberate oversimplification through idealization are not to be denied... Reality in all its messy particularity is too complicated to theorize about, taken straight. The issue is, rather (since every idealization is a strategic choice), which idealizations might really shed some light... which will just land us... diverting fairy tales.
Daniel DennettIn the long run I certainly hope information is the cure for fanaticism, but I am afraid information is more the cause than the cure.
Daniel DennettI don't myself need that role for God. My view is that creation itself, the universe itself, is the most wonderful thing deserving awe and respect. And that satisfies me as my substitute for God.
Daniel DennettReligion is defined as social systems whose participants avow a supernatural agent or agents whose approval is to be sought.
Daniel Dennett