In Reply to: Re: can he explain posted by Perry on March 07, 2005 at 00:02:18:
There is research on prayer and faith based healing by credible scientists using empirical methodology. Improvement in illness has been demonstrated and replicated. Some studies compare the effects as similar to the placebo phenom.
I am not talking about organized religion and sham artistry. Many of these studies were carried out on ordinary people with no need for collecting money or spinning the facts. From what I have seen and read it still boils down to a question of each individual's confidence/ faith in the healing properties of such methods.
Interestingly , science generally does recognize that intense negative attitude can make a person ill. Perhaps the positive approach of seeking the Creator for help does actually make a difference. I have experienced a healing myself and I am a pessimist by nature and training. I don't know if I have the Doubting Tommy syndrome but the freaking, creepy fam dam sure cured me of buying any more fake deeds or Berg turds rolled up and passed off as God's good gold.
The circumstances under which I recovered were quite amazing to me and rather unexpected. My wife and friends saw it as a notable event and actually got on my case for my rather casual approach to the whole situation. I am thankful but I remain a pessimist. It is not a popular position but I get my own chair.
Sincerely Rocky Top