re: #257 Gus 802

My response would be that it could have been filled by a secular culture. However, since it hasn’t that really cannot be determined at this point.

Right, but it’s at least plausible, which is the point. You don’t actually NEED religion in order for all these positive things to occur. Ergo their argument is flawed.

Would there have been secularism without religions?

Well, yes, but the concept would have no meaning. It’s like saying “would darkness exist without light”. Of course it would - but nobody would even have a name for it. Similarly, we wouldn’t have the word “atheism” if we had never come up with theism, but people would still be atheists.

I hope that response makes sense …

Did early creationist ideas evolve into a greater curiosity for the sciences and later evolution?

Yes, they did, but I’m not sure I understand your point. You’re essentially asking “did ignorant people learn stuff”. Well, yeah, they did. So what?