To the editor,
With the greatest respect for his profession and experience, Rev. Sand's definition of "a-theism" (as opposed to "atheism") that is offered in last Saturday's News, requires a clearer and more direct interpretation.
Most dictionaries define "theism: as:
1. A belief in one god
2. This god created everything
3. This god controls everything
The emphasis here, and the main point that distinguishes theism from other one-god "isms" is the control feature. Everything – animal, vegetable and mineral; spiritual, material and mental – is under constant control of this one god. From the creation and destruction of galaxies to "God sees the little sparrow fall," all is based solely on "his" decision.
A-theism is simply the denial of this belief.
To add to Rev. Sand's remarks about compassion and mercy, let's consider "moral imagination." This is described as imagining oneself in the position of one's adversary in a controversial situation and giving that serious consideration in one's final determination. Think what that could do for everything from international disagreements to family quarrels.
Richard Bennett
Woodburn
