Big Think

Shaan Batra commented on Richard Dawkins Imagines a World Without God on October 30, 2009, 11:53 AM

Do you believe it is possible to believe in a God, while throwing away the doctrines of classical religion? Einstein himself arguably held such a belief.

Shaan Batra commented on Richard Dawkins on Canning Bill O’Reilly on October 30, 2009, 11:48 AM

Well I am a big fan of O'Reilly AND of science and I watched your interviews with him, Mr. Dawkins. I can see where you are coming from. Bill was not engaging you in the most constructive debate. But I don't think that was his intention. I kind of understand how Bill works a little after watching him these past few years. He probably viewed you as an influential individual propagating a viewpoint that he disagreed with and to some extent, felt worried and aggravated a large number of his viewers. He approached you as he would approach an influential senator that was making decisions that Bill thought was not in the best interests of his viewers (please bear in mind that many of his viewers are conservatives and of course, devout Christians). I understand you were probably looking for a more intellectual debate, in which each of you would present clear and logical arguments for or against the existence of God. But you must understand that that is not the way Bill works. His first and primary goal is to "look out for his viewers" as he says (and I sincerely think he is honest in that). And, naturally, many of his viewers would believe that the case for the existence of God must be made. Also, please bear in mind that Bill attempted to make a concession when he argued to "at least present the alternative in class." He does not intend to force his faith upon people. I think it is a reasonable request. His intention is not bad in that he is actively keeping his viewers in mind.

Shaan Batra commented on Howard Bragman on Success Stories on May 23, 2009, 6:07 PM

Who writes these titles and summaries? It has nothing to do with Dick Cheney, but about how celebrities have managed their image.

Shaan Batra commented on Dean Baker on the First 100 Days of Barack Obama on May 7, 2009, 3:24 PM

I disagree. "Reining in Wall Street" doesn't do anything for the economy. "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" right? No. Steps must be taken to combat the system, putting controls in place and having proper regulatory oversight, WIHTOUT interfering with the capitalist system that drives economic growth and job creation. In my opinion, it was a system failure, not a Wall Street failure. Wall Street is still a crucial element in the growth of companies and in the preservation of wealth.