On the same page as you, it is impossible to refute what you've said. I was certainly looking at the definition with bias from my own personal beliefs, interesting.
"as much as" were the key words there. You are right however, I cannot prove God exists, you cannot prove God does not exist. I cannot prove that ancient scriptures were not written by humans, you cannot prove that they were. We haven't really even defined what a human is; although maybe you feel that you have. Surely you acknowledge that you exist, therefor you came from something which came from something else. However you get from point A to B is your belief, is it not? There are plenty of non-religious albeit spiritual individuals out there seeking understanding in life, finding their own faith. I don't find this desire to understand to be a prison manufactured by greed driven individuals, but I also cannot say it is not possible. Truth be told there are scenarios where we both could both be right simultaneously. I certainly do see the symbolism in comparing media to religion, and I find it hard to argue that there have at least been plenty of individuals on this planet who have used religion to do just as you say.
Obviously we would have to agree on what your definition of God is. Then, if you are suggesting it is an actual being, pretty easy to disprove. Yes we have defined what a human is, both scientifically and medically. Yes we have proven that every written word known to man was written by humans. Yes we have proven humans evolved from lesser beings. I have no "beliefs". I have knowledge of many things, and am constantly seeking knowledge on pretty much everything else. After seriously spending a large chunk of my teenage years exploring different religions it became obvious that there is no possibility that Gods (as defined by most religions as the creator of the world, universe and all it's inhabitants) exist. Zero. Impossible.
I was but I'm well now. I'm no longer a Republican and I canceled my subscription to Playboy. Also, can't cuss in front of my wife. Are you having trouble with the Devil? Exorcisms performed here. $5
You say that every written word known to man was written by humans but Mormons dispute that. They believe in gold tablets inscribed by the angel Moroni.
uhoh. Now you've done it. Maris is about to spam you with 9000 copy+paste articles. Way to go Lanny....
It's the responsibility of those who propound a belief to provide evidence. Religious believers say that the point is to have faith instead. I made a conscious decision that I cannot accept a belief without evidence. I imagine those who call themselves Christian do not believe in divinity of Confucius, Buddha, Thor, Zeus etc. I extend disbelief to the monotheistic god of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.
Try looking at it this way. When did infinity begin? hint: it was a long long time ago. Now, when does infinity end? hint: it's not for a long long time. While you ponder that and before I go nuts thinking about it, I think I'll have some beer. If I err and think about it too much I'll go nuts and it'll take a short case before I gradually adjust for the moment anyhow.