Disclosing atheism

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The Santa/god comparison is a proxy for the religious/atheist comparison.

In what way?

The pp who keeps saying that there is no god just as there is no Santa is actually saying religion is based on Santa. It misses the point of the debate where belief is based on faith. It’s almost gaslighting. You can’t skip that step without losing credibility.

PP, I learned not to argue with these haters/trolls and my days are better for it. Of course you're right. But for some reason their whole lives revolve around trolling/hating on religion, there are two of them, and you'll be going in circles forever. Just drop it and let them think they've "won" (although from the perspective of having a fulfilled life they certainly haven't won).

Says the biggest hate/troll of them all.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The Santa/god comparison is a proxy for the religious/atheist comparison.

In what way?

The pp who keeps saying that there is no god just as there is no Santa is actually saying religion is based on Santa. It misses the point of the debate where belief is based on faith. It’s almost gaslighting. You can’t skip that step without losing credibility.

Isn’t belief in Santa based on faith?

This prompts a question that is rarely answered:

What could not be believed on faith?

If the answer is “close to nothing” then how is faith a path to truth?

Faith CAN be a path to truth, but it may not, as well. Don't think in terms of just religious faith, but faith that eventually the truth will out, or your dream will come true, whatever. Sometimes, if you wait long enough or work hard enough and or get lucky, your faith will pay off, e.g., siblings reunited after a lifetime apart.

Whether that happens with religion, at least in terms of everlasting life, we don't know, because no one has come back from the dead (except Jesus, if you believe that story). But it does seem that prayers are sometimes answered (sometimes, not) so that could encourage people to believe in religion. Also, prayer - form of meditation - can just feel good, whether your prayers are answered or not.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The Santa/god comparison is a proxy for the religious/atheist comparison.

In what way?

The pp who keeps saying that there is no god just as there is no Santa is actually saying religion is based on Santa. It misses the point of the debate where belief is based on faith. It’s almost gaslighting. You can’t skip that step without losing credibility.

PP, I learned not to argue with these haters/trolls and my days are better for it. Of course you're right. But for some reason their whole lives revolve around trolling/hating on religion, there are two of them, and you'll be going in circles forever. Just drop it and let them think they've "won" (although from the perspective of having a fulfilled life they certainly haven't won).

Only two?? Seems like a lot more than that! How would you know, anyhow?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:The Santa/god comparison is a proxy for the religious/atheist comparison.

In what way?

The pp who keeps saying that there is no god just as there is no Santa is actually saying religion is based on Santa. It misses the point of the debate where belief is based on faith. It’s almost gaslighting. You can’t skip that step without losing credibility.

Isn’t belief in Santa based on faith?

This prompts a question that is rarely answered:

What could not be believed on faith?

If the answer is “close to nothing” then how is faith a path to truth?

Faith CAN be a path to truth, but it may not, as well. Don't think in terms of just religious faith, but faith that eventually the truth will out, or your dream will come true, whatever. Sometimes, if you wait long enough or work hard enough and or get lucky, your faith will pay off, e.g., siblings reunited after a lifetime apart.

Whether that happens with religion, at least in terms of everlasting life, we don't know, because no one has come back from the dead (except Jesus, if you believe that story). But it does seem that prayers are sometimes answered (sometimes, not) so that could encourage people to believe in religion. Also, prayer - form of meditation - can just feel good, whether your prayers are answered or not.

So…”faith” is a hope.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

I think the point was that there are candidates who are atheist and qualified, trustworthy, and likable, but don't identify as atheists because they fear it would cause them to lose. So they identify as Christians as a way to help them win.

Sort of like the way candidates used to hide their homosexuality, but often don't anymore.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

I think the point was that there are candidates who are atheist and qualified, trustworthy, and likable, but don't identify as atheists because they fear it would cause them to lose. So they identify as Christians as a way to help them win.

Sort of like the way candidates used to hide their homosexuality, but often don't anymore.

how ethical is an atheist who lies about who they are to win an election? especially an atheist who pretends to believe in something they do not to gain political power? are their morals say or do anything to win? lie to voters?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

Thanks for saying it out loud! Everyone, there is your evidence.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

Thanks for saying it out loud! Everyone, there is your evidence.

talking to yourself again?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

Thanks for saying it out loud! Everyone, there is your evidence.

Candidates for political office aren’t owed anyone’s vote.

If people don’t like atheists, they probably won’t vote for an atheist.

If as pp claimed above that atheists often lie that they are religious to win elections and gain political power- can you blame voters for not trusting them?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

Thanks for saying it out loud! Everyone, there is your evidence.

Candidates for political office aren’t owed anyone’s vote.

If people don’t like atheists, they probably won’t vote for an atheist.

If as pp claimed above that atheists often lie that they are religious to win elections and gain political power- can you blame voters for not trusting them?

You are an admitted bigot!

Replace the word atheist with any faith, race, or gender and re~read your words.

Bigot!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

Thanks for saying it out loud! Everyone, there is your evidence.

Candidates for political office aren’t owed anyone’s vote.

If people don’t like atheists, they probably won’t vote for an atheist.

If as pp claimed above that atheists often lie that they are religious to win elections and gain political power- can you blame voters for not trusting them?

You are an admitted bigot!

Replace the word atheist with any faith, race, or gender and re~read your words.

Bigot!

So you think people should lie about who they are when running for public office?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

Thanks for saying it out loud! Everyone, there is your evidence.

Candidates for political office aren’t owed anyone’s vote.

If people don’t like atheists, they probably won’t vote for an atheist.

If as pp claimed above that atheists often lie that they are religious to win elections and gain political power- can you blame voters for not trusting them?

You are an admitted bigot!

Replace the word atheist with any faith, race, or gender and re~read your words.

Bigot!

Also a pp above stated that atheists lie and say they are Christian when running for public office. I didn’t state that.

If a person doesn’t tell voters who they really are and hides things about themselves- they are lying to voters and the general public. I don’t think it’s bigotry to point that out.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

LOL. No. Look at Trump. He's none of those and many believers voted for him.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I don’t see the atheists here trying to genuinely engage with the mission of Christians.

What is "the mission"?

+1 also, do you expect people of other religions to engage with the Christian "mission"?

The mission of Christianity is to spread the good news. Did you go to Sunday school? It is fundamental to the very essence of Christianity. World history has been shaped by this mission. To ignore this fact is to to ignore reality. It is what it is. To genuinely engage in discussion with Christians is to accept what they have been taught over and over again throughout time. You cannot genuinely engage with a Christian in debate if you ignore this about them. No matter how frustrating it is.

Sorry, but I can't really believe that Christians expect people of other religions and no religion to engage with them if it only can mean becoming a Christian. Seems to me that in the US people are taught to respect other religions but not taught to expect others to convert to their religion. Slowly, that respect is being extending to people who do not practice any religion.

We might be arguing past each other. I am talking about those who wish to not insult Christians. You would start by respecting what they believe, nothing more. And I didn’t say that Christians “expect” others to concert.

Are you saying that "spreading the good news" is not related to people who are not Christians becoming Christians?

No I am not saying that. I am saying that is where they are coming from if you would like to understand them so as not to insult them.

I think I understand - you are saying Christians (I used to be one) believe they are doing something good and others who don't share that belief should not express it, to avoid insulting Christians. Is that right?

Not quite. In OP’s situation, I would’ve answered the question the neighbor asked. “What church do you go to?” “Oh, I don’t go to church.” And then see what the neighbor says. Perhaps the neighbor lets it drop because the conversation was getting too personal for that particular social gathering. If the neighbor pushed it, then I would disclose that I was atheist. The neighbor should then respectfully engage in normal conversation and not pass judgment, just as the atheist did.

From the OP:
"...they asked me about my faith, where I go to church etc."

Seems like Christian pp is expecting people to place protecting religious beliefs over expressing their (non)belief. I disagree, but think I can understand how a religious person would feel this way. They are accustomed to it and feel threatened by such a change. It's relatively rare and recent that people would openly express their atheism as OP did.

Atheists no longer "know their place" like women and gays before them.

So atheists have had to struggle for civil rights? No.

Atheists (here) have terrible personalities and are too sensitive, while seeing everything as an attack. They aren’t fighting for rights. Get over yourself.

Atheists as a percentage of American society: 20-29%
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irreligion_in_the_United_States#

Atheists as a percentage of congress, executive branch or supreme court: < 0.2%
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/01/04/faith-on-the-hill-2021/

You don't think we struggle for civil rights?

americans vote for people who are qualified, trustworthy, and likable. It’s not the voter’s fault so few atheist candidates are qualified, trustworthy, or likable.

I think the point was that there are candidates who are atheist and qualified, trustworthy, and likable, but don't identify as atheists because they fear it would cause them to lose. So they identify as Christians as a way to help them win.

Sort of like the way candidates used to hide their homosexuality, but often don't anymore.

how ethical is an atheist who lies about who they are to win an election? especially an atheist who pretends to believe in something they do not to gain political power? are their morals say or do anything to win? lie to voters?

More honest than the religious extremists on the SCOTUS who LIED to get the chance to force their beliefs on others.