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Salient: Victoria University Students' Paper. Vol. 25, No. 8. 1962.

God—The Unknown

God—The Unknown

It has been said that the only true wise man is the agnostic. One who admits that he does not know enough of the world to pass a conclusive judgment on the existence, or non-existence, of gods.

The atheist, and theist, it follows, are fools. For both claim knowledge of the universe, superior to that claimed by their fellow men.

Are these statements true? Does it follow that all churchmen ate fools, or that such eminent philosophers as Russell, Huxley etc. are also fools?

Any discussion on the existence, or non-existence of gods must ultimately end in stalemate. No theist can produce conclusive evidence that gods exist. No atheist can prove their non-existence, although the arguments put forward by both sides are many.

Usually the young theist relies on the argument that, if God did not make the world, who did? But this is countered by the theory that inert matter in the world was energised by an electrical storm. The theist then moves a major piece and asks, 'What caused this storm, and what made this electric energy, if it was not God?" "Ahh," is the answer. "But if God made everything, what made God?" Here the theist is stumped. But he can say "He was always there!"

Result:—Stalemate.

Some think that the best answer to an atheist's prayer is in a Presbyterian Minister's sermon, in which it is stated, "God is what you make him!"

From this it may logically be conceived that a water tap maybe called "God," hut we all know what a water tap is, and how it works. If, however, we were to show a tap to a native, and demonstrate its use, it is quite feasible that he might call the tap a "god." After all, he cannot see the link between the tap, and the stream from which it draws water. To him. an object which produces a never ending supply of water from nowhere is an object to be adored.

cartoon

cartoon

cartoon

From this, we may take the step to the statement, "God is what you make him."

The hydrogen Bomb has acquired the status of a God in many civilised households. In the bomb, many people see the end or the salvation of humanity. People realise that if the power harnessed in the bomb were to be used against mankind, the human race might reach its end. If this energy were? to be used to better mankind it could lead the world onto a whole new realm of discoveries.

A true atomic age.

It is true that we not openly worship this God, Nuclear Power but is held in esteem so high that it has attained the stature of a God, whether benevolent or not.

All of which leads to this con elusion. Whatever one's views an on the existence they must be right. For gods, or lack of gods exist solely in the minds of people this belief can be called faith superstition or ignorance. None o these outlooks can be ridiculed.

F. S. Davies.

Among the most twisted of the 300 students who attended Friday Night's hop organised expertly by the International Club, were two young cabaret artistes, recently released from the Male Ballet. Lybelia Chrighton Lavinia Smurd and her equally charming partner executed with great gusto three well-known songs.

Vic's King and Queen of the Twist are now Mr L. Hunin, and his delightful and petite partner, Miss Wendy Harker.

The club can be proud of this dance, and I think, will he assured of a good turnout at any of their future functions. The next is an Indonesian Evening, on the 24th June

F. S. S.D.