Well, I think you hit the nail on the head. It is a hopeless debate. He's trying to bolster faith-based arguments by finding rational explanations, which negates the whole faith aspect. I will spend my time elsewhere. Thanks Warren!
PS - I was shocked to find Shermer's book "Why Smart People...
I understand the dictionary definition, but I guess I didn't ask my question very well.
I should explain that this subject came up in a debate I was having with a New Age friend, who said he believes that there are other dimensions full of energy, and that's where ghosts & spirits come from...
What does "energy" mean?
I understand energy when the type is understood by its context: kinetic energy, potential energy. But I confess I have no idea what type of energy is referred to when people just discuss "energy" with no clear context. Is there such a thing as "energy" all by itself?