The evolution of religious beliefs. Mike Earl, however, does not believe in miracles or in free will. Buy the tape and judge for yourself. Earl argues that an act of free will is a miracle, and a miracle is a violation of natural law. Also, a successful argument against free will strips the theist of one of his most important defenses for the existence of god, since free will is blamed for the Problem of Evil.
Congregations pretend to worship god.
Preachers pretend to be god. If the preacher is charismatic enough, the congregation will actually worship the preacher. In The Platinum Rule Earl argues that morality is a function of principle, not divine authority. Earl believes a similar transition from authority to principle is taking place in the realm of moral understanding - although few people today recognize it as such. Noted author Eric Burns brings Gardner's brisk, satirical style, and penetrating wit to life in this new audiotape.