mattnewport comments on What big goals do we have? - Less Wrong

10 Post author: cousin_it 19 January 2010 04:35PM

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Comment author: byrnema 19 January 2010 07:33:58PM *  3 points [-]

We're the product of evolution, yes? That's what I meant by 'designed'.

When I drive to the store, I have a reason: to buy milk. I also have a reason to buy milk. I also have a reason for that. A chain of reasons ending in a terminal value given to me by evolution -- something you and I consider 'good'. However, I have no loyalty to evolution. Why should I care about the terminal value it instilled in me? Well, I understand it made me care. I also understand that the rebellion I feel about being forced to do everything is also the product of evolution. And I finally understand that there's no limit in how bad the experience can be for me as a result of these conflicting desires. I happen to be kind of OK (just angry) but the universe would just look on, incuriously, if I decided to go berserk and prove there was no God by showing there is no limit on how horrible the universe could be. How's that for a big goal?

I imagine that somebody who cares about me will suggest I don't post anything for a while, until I feel more sociable. I'll take that advice.

Comment author: mattnewport 19 January 2010 07:43:36PM *  7 points [-]

However, I have no loyalty to evolution. Why should I care about the terminal value it instilled in me?

Why would you feel differently about God? It always struck me that if God existed he had to be a tremendous asshole given all the suffering in the world. Reading the old testament certainly paints a picture of a God I would have no loyalty to and would have no reason to care about his terminal values. Evolution seems positively benevolent by comparison.