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Originally Posted by Arch Enemy
Since you are making the argument that morals, ethics and compassion without God are meaningless, you are making the argument that atheists, in comparison with Christians, are meaningless people leading a meaningless existence . . . one without morals, ethics or compassion.
Then you admit that a universe without God is not meaningless.
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No, I'm
not saying atheist are meaningless
people. They are subject to the same laws of our country. They have a sense of right and wrong. It is most practical for them to work within the norms of social behavior. He has to adopt the set common to society to get along with others. Belief in God is not a requirement for ethical behavior. "Meaningful" implies intent, not just involuntary evolved animal instinct. So in that sense yes, a "meaningless" existence would follow.
These are not absolutes for the atheist though. As you have questioned, "why are morals so different across cultures? ". They're different because legal systems and norms of society are subject to change and ethics shift with them. Whatever works best is right.
God introduces absolutes to the equation. It brings a set of absolute moral laws by which right and wrong are judged. The Christian is compelled to love, patience, and seeking the welfare of others even when it may bring harm to the Christian.
Since evolution teaches that life is the product of purely natural and utilitarian properties, survival of the fittest, natural selection --- the value of man is lowered in contrast to a man who is made in the image of God.