Is it "insulting" to refer to god as "mythical"?

[Anonymous]

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Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Oh, it doesn’t have to be repeated we get it loud and clear that you want special treatment for your beliefs and don’t care about others. You made that very clear.

Is the statement all religions are myths offensive?

Is the statement ‘all religions are myths except for blank” offensive? Or only unless your religion is in the blank spot?

Whenever you lose an argument you come back to this. We're going in circles now.

Nobody is demanding special treatment for any religion.

We're demanding RESPECT for all living religions. Sing it with me. RESPECT. We're asking you to stop with the dumb and childish insults.

And yes, you've been told many times that calling any or all living religions "myths" is disrespectful and insulting. How many more times does this need to be repeated? Can you not grasp this simple logic of democratic exchange, or are the tenets of respectful modern discourse beyond your understanding?

What is a “living” religion? It has been posted here that plenty of people believe in things you call myths.

In addition, plenty of people believe all religions are myths. Do they not deserve the same respect? Why do they have to be quiet?

For the record, if the word “myth” is so problematic I will drop it. How should you prefer I express my beliefs on religion here?

Why don’t you just say it : you don’t want to see the point because you want to keep offending people.

A normal, non-bigoted person would quickly grasp the difference between thinking something is a myth and actually saying that, virtually or in person, to somebody’s face.

kinda like someone saying to your face that you're going to go to hell if you don't accept jesus?

Who told you you are going to hell if you don’t accept Jesus?

family member

Ok, so you have a family member that is a jerk. Have any other Christian people told you to your face you are “going to hell?”

It sounds like you have a family member who is awful, and that happens.

But you do realize that you can’t judge every Christian negatively because of your family member? What your family member said is their opinion. It’s not the opinion of every Christian. And because no other Christian has said that to you- it’s not the action of every Christian.

I can’t imagine what kind of dysfunctional society would exist today if we judged millions of people based on the actions of one person. You realize you are allowing one jerk to influence your entire worldview, right?

NP. It is not one random Christian. This is central to the worldview of many sects (Christian and not). There will always be people who say this to you. People will say it causally - not so much “you are going to hell” but rather “only through Christ can you be saved and go to heaven in the afterlife.” It’s ok. It’s their belief system. But please believe us when we tell you this is not one isolated person somewhere. It is part of what makes family dynamics so hard for me and many others. I don’t want that message for my kids just like you don’t want your atheist family members telling you kid that religion is a myth. But it’s the truth of what family members believe whether they share it rudely or not and so we have to deal with it.

The view of atheism is that God doesn’t exist. That’s exactly like Christianity in saying something that is in opposition to other people’s beliefs.

The thing to do is realize people think differently and be ok with it. We all have different beliefs. It’s the way the world works. That doesn’t invalidate our personal beliefs.

There is absolutely no reason to be constantly upset and worried because human beings all have different beliefs. If you are secure in your own beliefs- then that is that.

The problem is within you if you can’t accept that people have different beliefs.


Religion exists. Atheism exists. We choose what we think makes sense for us and then live our lives. We can’t make and don’t want to make everyone think like us.

Atheism says when we die we cease existing. We become nothing. Do you not think that thought is upsetting and depressing and scary for people who are not atheist? Somehow that is completely dismissed in this argument. Atheism is telling people something they are uncomfortable with, just like when Christianity tells people they “will go to hell.” Each belief tells people that have different beliefs something they don’t like/believe in. But you don’t consider that.

[Anonymous]

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Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Let’s take any dearly held belief. Let’s drop religion for the moment and take up something else. Like LGBT rights. Lots of people - good morally upstanding people - were very uncomfortable with the idea of accepting gay marriage. Some folks (and I remember these conversations) felt that equating heterosexual marriage with gay marriage was somehow disrespectful of their own (straight) marriage. There was pretty no way to get across the idea that these should both be legally recognized in the same way without stepping on an emotional landmine for some folk.

This feels sort of similar. You shut down conversation by saying “that is disrespectful so we can’t discuss how a living religion is like a myth.” Difference is that people going about practicing their religion on their own does not affect me and I have zero reason to get them to engage in such a discussion. So, I don’t generally participate in these “debates” because all it does is upset people with no real potential outcome. Unless of course the religious (like the conservative majority on the court) try to impose their religion on the rest of us. Suddenly, one does feel like you need to get a larger share of the population to see that their baseline is a set of “myths” that non believers should not have to live under.

To extend your analogy: we all (95% of posters here?) agree that gay marriage is a good thing. I have a gay child and my child and I are both Christian. And we all (95% of posters here?) agree the current SC pretty much sucks. Are we good on that much, at least?

But only a boor (per the moderator) and an idiot starts an argument by insulting the other side. Let's say, to continue your analogy, by calling people who disagree with you "cavemen" or some other insult. Posters here have told you that "myth" is insulting and you don't get to decide that it isn't.

Calling religion a "myth" is your own caveman behavior. Your pretension that you're on your own mini-crusade to convert people to atheism is narcissistic and, unfortunately, you're truly laughable. Not if you really intend to persuade people. As opposed to just insulting them for fun, or whatever your sick little troll game is about. You're persuading nobody, in fact you're driving them further into their own corner, so it's pointless and counterproductive. It's also based on a (probably deliberate) misunderstanding of what people of faith--like me--believe, for example many of us are pro-choice.

So I don't actually gaf that you're acting like a douchebag for atheism. Well actually I want a liberal SC too, so I kind of resent your douchebaggery. But you should know that's what your douchebaggery and boorishness is hurting the cause we both support.

Just to correct the record. I am the poster you are responding to. However, I have not been an active participant on this thread and I certainly have not been involved in calling religions myths. As I said, I don’t see much value.

All I was trying to do is to offer up that sometimes one has to “offend” to break through. Perhaps people are trying to do that. I gave my own example for why one might feel it’s worth having this discussion. And with that, I am off this subthread.

What astounding egotism, narcissism, and stupidity.

You are, or you approve others being, on a crusade to convert DCUM’s Episcopalians, liberal Catholics, Jews, Muslims and Hindus—because your insults don’t discriminate—to atheism. And you think you can do this by “offending” them.

This is actually pathological.

I keep coming back to this. At least one atheist here is on a crusade to save America by converting people to atheism.

By, wait for it, insulting people of faith.

Unbelievable narcissism. And yes, futile boorishness.

I hate to break it to you, but no one really cares what you believe or not. Some people just like to call out blatant falsehoods and ignorance.

Frankly, no one would comment on Christianity at all if certain religious groups weren't trying to force their "Christian" beliefs on everyone else.

[Anonymous]

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Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Oh, it doesn’t have to be repeated we get it loud and clear that you want special treatment for your beliefs and don’t care about others. You made that very clear.

Is the statement all religions are myths offensive?

Is the statement ‘all religions are myths except for blank” offensive? Or only unless your religion is in the blank spot?

Whenever you lose an argument you come back to this. We're going in circles now.

Nobody is demanding special treatment for any religion.

We're demanding RESPECT for all living religions. Sing it with me. RESPECT. We're asking you to stop with the dumb and childish insults.

And yes, you've been told many times that calling any or all living religions "myths" is disrespectful and insulting. How many more times does this need to be repeated? Can you not grasp this simple logic of democratic exchange, or are the tenets of respectful modern discourse beyond your understanding?

What is a “living” religion? It has been posted here that plenty of people believe in things you call myths.

In addition, plenty of people believe all religions are myths. Do they not deserve the same respect? Why do they have to be quiet?

For the record, if the word “myth” is so problematic I will drop it. How should you prefer I express my beliefs on religion here?

Why don’t you just say it : you don’t want to see the point because you want to keep offending people.

A normal, non-bigoted person would quickly grasp the difference between thinking something is a myth and actually saying that, virtually or in person, to somebody’s face.

kinda like someone saying to your face that you're going to go to hell if you don't accept jesus?

Who told you you are going to hell if you don’t accept Jesus?

family member

Ok, so you have a family member that is a jerk. Have any other Christian people told you to your face you are “going to hell?”

It sounds like you have a family member who is awful, and that happens.

But you do realize that you can’t judge every Christian negatively because of your family member? What your family member said is their opinion. It’s not the opinion of every Christian. And because no other Christian has said that to you- it’s not the action of every Christian.

I can’t imagine what kind of dysfunctional society would exist today if we judged millions of people based on the actions of one person. You realize you are allowing one jerk to influence your entire worldview, right?

NP. It is not one random Christian. This is central to the worldview of many sects (Christian and not). There will always be people who say this to you. People will say it causally - not so much “you are going to hell” but rather “only through Christ can you be saved and go to heaven in the afterlife.” It’s ok. It’s their belief system. But please believe us when we tell you this is not one isolated person somewhere. It is part of what makes family dynamics so hard for me and many others. I don’t want that message for my kids just like you don’t want your atheist family members telling you kid that religion is a myth. But it’s the truth of what family members believe whether they share it rudely or not and so we have to deal with it.

The view of atheism is that God doesn’t exist. That’s exactly like Christianity in saying something that is in opposition to other people’s beliefs.

The thing to do is realize people think differently and be ok with it. We all have different beliefs. It’s the way the world works. That doesn’t invalidate our personal beliefs.

There is absolutely no reason to be constantly upset and worried because human beings all have different beliefs. If you are secure in your own beliefs- then that is that.

The problem is within you if you can’t accept that people have different beliefs.

Religion exists. Atheism exists. We choose what we think makes sense for us and then live our lives. We can’t make and don’t want to make everyone think like us.

Atheism says when we die we cease existing. We become nothing. Do you not think that thought is upsetting and depressing and scary for people who are not atheist? Somehow that is completely dismissed in this argument. Atheism is telling people something they are uncomfortable with, just like when Christianity tells people they “will go to hell.” Each belief tells people that have different beliefs something they don’t like/believe in. But you don’t consider that.

Yes. Some people are drawn to religion because they fear the unknown/uncertainty. This has absolutely been discussed before.

[Anonymous]

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Anonymous wrote:

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Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Oh, it doesn’t have to be repeated we get it loud and clear that you want special treatment for your beliefs and don’t care about others. You made that very clear.

Is the statement all religions are myths offensive?

Is the statement ‘all religions are myths except for blank” offensive? Or only unless your religion is in the blank spot?

Whenever you lose an argument you come back to this. We're going in circles now.

Nobody is demanding special treatment for any religion.

We're demanding RESPECT for all living religions. Sing it with me. RESPECT. We're asking you to stop with the dumb and childish insults.

And yes, you've been told many times that calling any or all living religions "myths" is disrespectful and insulting. How many more times does this need to be repeated? Can you not grasp this simple logic of democratic exchange, or are the tenets of respectful modern discourse beyond your understanding?

What is a “living” religion? It has been posted here that plenty of people believe in things you call myths.

In addition, plenty of people believe all religions are myths. Do they not deserve the same respect? Why do they have to be quiet?

For the record, if the word “myth” is so problematic I will drop it. How should you prefer I express my beliefs on religion here?

Why don’t you just say it : you don’t want to see the point because you want to keep offending people.

A normal, non-bigoted person would quickly grasp the difference between thinking something is a myth and actually saying that, virtually or in person, to somebody’s face.

kinda like someone saying to your face that you're going to go to hell if you don't accept jesus?

Who told you you are going to hell if you don’t accept Jesus?

family member

Ok, so you have a family member that is a jerk. Have any other Christian people told you to your face you are “going to hell?”

It sounds like you have a family member who is awful, and that happens.

But you do realize that you can’t judge every Christian negatively because of your family member? What your family member said is their opinion. It’s not the opinion of every Christian. And because no other Christian has said that to you- it’s not the action of every Christian.

I can’t imagine what kind of dysfunctional society would exist today if we judged millions of people based on the actions of one person. You realize you are allowing one jerk to influence your entire worldview, right?

NP. It is not one random Christian. This is central to the worldview of many sects (Christian and not). There will always be people who say this to you. People will say it causally - not so much “you are going to hell” but rather “only through Christ can you be saved and go to heaven in the afterlife.” It’s ok. It’s their belief system. But please believe us when we tell you this is not one isolated person somewhere. It is part of what makes family dynamics so hard for me and many others. I don’t want that message for my kids just like you don’t want your atheist family members telling you kid that religion is a myth. But it’s the truth of what family members believe whether they share it rudely or not and so we have to deal with it.

The view of atheism is that God doesn’t exist. That’s exactly like Christianity in saying something that is in opposition to other people’s beliefs.

The thing to do is realize people think differently and be ok with it. We all have different beliefs. It’s the way the world works. That doesn’t invalidate our personal beliefs.

There is absolutely no reason to be constantly upset and worried because human beings all have different beliefs. If you are secure in your own beliefs- then that is that.

The problem is within you if you can’t accept that people have different beliefs.


Religion exists. Atheism exists. We choose what we think makes sense for us and then live our lives. We can’t make and don’t want to make everyone think like us.

Atheism says when we die we cease existing. We become nothing. Do you not think that thought is upsetting and depressing and scary for people who are not atheist? Somehow that is completely dismissed in this argument. Atheism is telling people something they are uncomfortable with, just like when Christianity tells people they “will go to hell.” Each belief tells people that have different beliefs something they don’t like/believe in. But you don’t consider that.

Beautiful!. I have just been reading a book by Rollo May called "The Cry for Myth." He speaks of secular myths and religious myths - but defines "myth" as "a way of making sense of a senseless world." I just don't see why so many people on here get so upset about this.

[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:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Oh, it doesn’t have to be repeated we get it loud and clear that you want special treatment for your beliefs and don’t care about others. You made that very clear.

Is the statement all religions are myths offensive?

Is the statement ‘all religions are myths except for blank” offensive? Or only unless your religion is in the blank spot?

:roll: Whenever you lose an argument you come back to this. We're going in circles now.

Nobody is demanding special treatment for any religion.

We're demanding RESPECT for all living religions. Sing it with me. RESPECT. We're asking you to stop with the dumb and childish insults.

And yes, you've been told many times that calling any or all living religions "myths" is disrespectful and insulting. How many more times does this need to be repeated? Can you not grasp this simple logic of democratic exchange, or are the tenets of respectful modern discourse beyond your understanding?

What is a “living” religion? It has been posted here that plenty of people believe in things you call myths.

In addition, plenty of people believe all religions are myths. Do they not deserve the same respect? Why do they have to be quiet?

For the record, if the word “myth” is so problematic I will drop it. How should you prefer I express my beliefs on religion here?

Why don’t you just say it : you don’t want to see the point because you want to keep offending people.

A normal, non-bigoted person would quickly grasp the difference between thinking something is a myth and actually saying that, virtually or in person, to somebody’s face.

kinda like someone saying to your face that you're going to go to hell if you don't accept jesus?

Who told you you are going to hell if you don’t accept Jesus?

family member

Ok, so you have a family member that is a jerk. Have any other Christian people told you to your face you are “going to hell?”

It sounds like you have a family member who is awful, and that happens.

But you do realize that you can’t judge every Christian negatively because of your family member? What your family member said is their opinion. It’s not the opinion of every Christian. And because no other Christian has said that to you- it’s not the action of every Christian.

I can’t imagine what kind of dysfunctional society would exist today if we judged millions of people based on the actions of one person. You realize you are allowing one jerk to influence your entire worldview, right?

NP. It is not one random Christian. This is central to the worldview of many sects (Christian and not). There will always be people who say this to you. People will say it causally - not so much “you are going to hell” but rather “only through Christ can you be saved and go to heaven in the afterlife.” It’s ok. It’s their belief system. But please believe us when we tell you this is not one isolated person somewhere. It is part of what makes family dynamics so hard for me and many others. I don’t want that message for my kids just like you don’t want your atheist family members telling you kid that religion is a myth. But it’s the truth of what family members believe whether they share it rudely or not and so we have to deal with it.

The view of atheism is that God doesn’t exist. That’s exactly like Christianity in saying something that is in opposition to other people’s beliefs.

The thing to do is realize people think differently and be ok with it. We all have different beliefs. It’s the way the world works. That doesn’t invalidate our personal beliefs.

There is absolutely no reason to be constantly upset and worried because human beings all have different beliefs. If you are secure in your own beliefs- then that is that.

The problem is within you if you can’t accept that people have different beliefs.

Religion exists. Atheism exists. We choose what we think makes sense for us and then live our lives. We can’t make and don’t want to make everyone think like us.

Atheism says when we die we cease existing. We become nothing. Do you not think that thought is upsetting and depressing and scary for people who are not atheist? Somehow that is completely dismissed in this argument. Atheism is telling people something they are uncomfortable with, just like when Christianity tells people they “will go to hell.” Each belief tells people that have different beliefs something they don’t like/believe in. But you don’t consider that.

Yes. Some people are drawn to religion because they fear the unknown/uncertainty. This has absolutely been discussed before.

You missed the point. Your beliefs are telling people something that they don’t believe in and are threatening, scary, and uncomfortable to them. Just like you say Christianity makes you feel.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

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Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Let’s take any dearly held belief. Let’s drop religion for the moment and take up something else. Like LGBT rights. Lots of people - good morally upstanding people - were very uncomfortable with the idea of accepting gay marriage. Some folks (and I remember these conversations) felt that equating heterosexual marriage with gay marriage was somehow disrespectful of their own (straight) marriage. There was pretty no way to get across the idea that these should both be legally recognized in the same way without stepping on an emotional landmine for some folk.

This feels sort of similar. You shut down conversation by saying “that is disrespectful so we can’t discuss how a living religion is like a myth.” Difference is that people going about practicing their religion on their own does not affect me and I have zero reason to get them to engage in such a discussion. So, I don’t generally participate in these “debates” because all it does is upset people with no real potential outcome. Unless of course the religious (like the conservative majority on the court) try to impose their religion on the rest of us. Suddenly, one does feel like you need to get a larger share of the population to see that their baseline is a set of “myths” that non believers should not have to live under.

To extend your analogy: we all (95% of posters here?) agree that gay marriage is a good thing. I have a gay child and my child and I are both Christian. And we all (95% of posters here?) agree the current SC pretty much sucks. Are we good on that much, at least?

But only a boor (per the moderator) and an idiot starts an argument by insulting the other side. Let's say, to continue your analogy, by calling people who disagree with you "cavemen" or some other insult. Posters here have told you that "myth" is insulting and you don't get to decide that it isn't.

Calling religion a "myth" is your own caveman behavior. Your pretension that you're on your own mini-crusade to convert people to atheism is narcissistic and, unfortunately, you're truly laughable. Not if you really intend to persuade people. As opposed to just insulting them for fun, or whatever your sick little troll game is about. You're persuading nobody, in fact you're driving them further into their own corner, so it's pointless and counterproductive. It's also based on a (probably deliberate) misunderstanding of what people of faith--like me--believe, for example many of us are pro-choice.

So I don't actually gaf that you're acting like a douchebag for atheism. Well actually I want a liberal SC too, so I kind of resent your douchebaggery. But you should know that's what your douchebaggery and boorishness is hurting the cause we both support.

Just to correct the record. I am the poster you are responding to. However, I have not been an active participant on this thread and I certainly have not been involved in calling religions myths. As I said, I don’t see much value.

All I was trying to do is to offer up that sometimes one has to “offend” to break through. Perhaps people are trying to do that. I gave my own example for why one might feel it’s worth having this discussion. And with that, I am off this subthread.

What astounding egotism, narcissism, and stupidity.

You are, or you approve others being, on a crusade to convert DCUM’s Episcopalians, liberal Catholics, Jews, Muslims and Hindus—because your insults don’t discriminate—to atheism. And you think you can do this by “offending” them.

This is actually pathological.

I keep coming back to this. At least one atheist here is on a crusade to save America by converting people to atheism.

By, wait for it, insulting people of faith.

Unbelievable narcissism. And yes, futile boorishness.

I hate to break it to you, but no one really cares what you believe or not. Some people just like to call out blatant falsehoods and ignorance.

Frankly, no one would comment on Christianity at all if certain religious groups weren't trying to force their "Christian" beliefs on everyone else.

^^^ Found the atheist crusader.

Don't blame me. The moderator called you a boor first (https://www.dcurbanmom.com/weblog/2023/07/03/update070323). There's also an atheist who impersonated another atheist on this thread and the moderator had to delete those two posts.

You atheists are a lovely bunch!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

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Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

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Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Oh, it doesn’t have to be repeated we get it loud and clear that you want special treatment for your beliefs and don’t care about others. You made that very clear.

Is the statement all religions are myths offensive?

Is the statement ‘all religions are myths except for blank” offensive? Or only unless your religion is in the blank spot?

Whenever you lose an argument you come back to this. We're going in circles now.

Nobody is demanding special treatment for any religion.

We're demanding RESPECT for all living religions. Sing it with me. RESPECT. We're asking you to stop with the dumb and childish insults.

And yes, you've been told many times that calling any or all living religions "myths" is disrespectful and insulting. How many more times does this need to be repeated? Can you not grasp this simple logic of democratic exchange, or are the tenets of respectful modern discourse beyond your understanding?

What is a “living” religion? It has been posted here that plenty of people believe in things you call myths.

In addition, plenty of people believe all religions are myths. Do they not deserve the same respect? Why do they have to be quiet?

For the record, if the word “myth” is so problematic I will drop it. How should you prefer I express my beliefs on religion here?

Why don’t you just say it : you don’t want to see the point because you want to keep offending people.

A normal, non-bigoted person would quickly grasp the difference between thinking something is a myth and actually saying that, virtually or in person, to somebody’s face.

kinda like someone saying to your face that you're going to go to hell if you don't accept jesus?

Who told you you are going to hell if you don’t accept Jesus?

family member

Ok, so you have a family member that is a jerk. Have any other Christian people told you to your face you are “going to hell?”

It sounds like you have a family member who is awful, and that happens.

But you do realize that you can’t judge every Christian negatively because of your family member? What your family member said is their opinion. It’s not the opinion of every Christian. And because no other Christian has said that to you- it’s not the action of every Christian.

I can’t imagine what kind of dysfunctional society would exist today if we judged millions of people based on the actions of one person. You realize you are allowing one jerk to influence your entire worldview, right?

NP. It is not one random Christian. This is central to the worldview of many sects (Christian and not). There will always be people who say this to you. People will say it causally - not so much “you are going to hell” but rather “only through Christ can you be saved and go to heaven in the afterlife.” It’s ok. It’s their belief system. But please believe us when we tell you this is not one isolated person somewhere. It is part of what makes family dynamics so hard for me and many others. I don’t want that message for my kids just like you don’t want your atheist family members telling you kid that religion is a myth. But it’s the truth of what family members believe whether they share it rudely or not and so we have to deal with it.

The view of atheism is that God doesn’t exist. That’s exactly like Christianity in saying something that is in opposition to other people’s beliefs.

The thing to do is realize people think differently and be ok with it. We all have different beliefs. It’s the way the world works. That doesn’t invalidate our personal beliefs.

There is absolutely no reason to be constantly upset and worried because human beings all have different beliefs. If you are secure in your own beliefs- then that is that.

The problem is within you if you can’t accept that people have different beliefs.

Religion exists. Atheism exists. We choose what we think makes sense for us and then live our lives. We can’t make and don’t want to make everyone think like us.

Atheism says when we die we cease existing. We become nothing. Do you not think that thought is upsetting and depressing and scary for people who are not atheist? Somehow that is completely dismissed in this argument. Atheism is telling people something they are uncomfortable with, just like when Christianity tells people they “will go to hell.” Each belief tells people that have different beliefs something they don’t like/believe in. But you don’t consider that.

Yes. Some people are drawn to religion because they fear the unknown/uncertainty. This has absolutely been discussed before.

Atheist people are drawn to nothingness after death because they fear the unknown/uncertainty of what happens after death. If they keep repeating to themselves that after death they will cease to exist- that’s how they deal with it.

[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:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

There are multiple posters. The reason why we call the ancient religions "myths" is because there is no evidence those gods existed. There was no evidence when people worshipped those gods either. It was a "faith".

There is no evidence that your god exists either - which is why you have "faith".

If you can’t understand the difference between acknowledging “faith” is a thing vs. insulting someone by saying their faith is in a “myth” then there’s no hope for you.

You just want to insult people. You’re a boor.

There is no evidence that the Christian/Muslim/Jewish gods exists, right? That's why people who believe he exists have faith, right?
Similarly, there is no evidence that the Roman/Greek/Norse gods exist. People who believed they exist also had faith.

A "myth" is just a traditional story - sometimes about the god(s). You're reading too much into it.

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/myth
myth noun ˈmith
1a
: a usually traditional story of ostensibly historical events that serves to unfold part of the world view of a people or explain a practice, belief, or natural phenomenon

[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:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Let’s take any dearly held belief. Let’s drop religion for the moment and take up something else. Like LGBT rights. Lots of people - good morally upstanding people - were very uncomfortable with the idea of accepting gay marriage. Some folks (and I remember these conversations) felt that equating heterosexual marriage with gay marriage was somehow disrespectful of their own (straight) marriage. There was pretty no way to get across the idea that these should both be legally recognized in the same way without stepping on an emotional landmine for some folk.

This feels sort of similar. You shut down conversation by saying “that is disrespectful so we can’t discuss how a living religion is like a myth.” Difference is that people going about practicing their religion on their own does not affect me and I have zero reason to get them to engage in such a discussion. So, I don’t generally participate in these “debates” because all it does is upset people with no real potential outcome. Unless of course the religious (like the conservative majority on the court) try to impose their religion on the rest of us. Suddenly, one does feel like you need to get a larger share of the population to see that their baseline is a set of “myths” that non believers should not have to live under.

To extend your analogy: we all (95% of posters here?) agree that gay marriage is a good thing. I have a gay child and my child and I are both Christian. And we all (95% of posters here?) agree the current SC pretty much sucks. Are we good on that much, at least?

But only a boor (per the moderator) and an idiot starts an argument by insulting the other side. Let's say, to continue your analogy, by calling people who disagree with you "cavemen" or some other insult. Posters here have told you that "myth" is insulting and you don't get to decide that it isn't.

Calling religion a "myth" is your own caveman behavior. Your pretension that you're on your own mini-crusade to convert people to atheism is narcissistic and, unfortunately, you're truly laughable. Not if you really intend to persuade people. As opposed to just insulting them for fun, or whatever your sick little troll game is about. You're persuading nobody, in fact you're driving them further into their own corner, so it's pointless and counterproductive. It's also based on a (probably deliberate) misunderstanding of what people of faith--like me--believe, for example many of us are pro-choice.

So I don't actually gaf that you're acting like a douchebag for atheism. Well actually I want a liberal SC too, so I kind of resent your douchebaggery. But you should know that's what your douchebaggery and boorishness is hurting the cause we both support.

Just to correct the record. I am the poster you are responding to. However, I have not been an active participant on this thread and I certainly have not been involved in calling religions myths. As I said, I don’t see much value.

All I was trying to do is to offer up that sometimes one has to “offend” to break through. Perhaps people are trying to do that. I gave my own example for why one might feel it’s worth having this discussion. And with that, I am off this subthread.

What astounding egotism, narcissism, and stupidity.

You are, or you approve others being, on a crusade to convert DCUM’s Episcopalians, liberal Catholics, Jews, Muslims and Hindus—because your insults don’t discriminate—to atheism. And you think you can do this by “offending” them.

This is actually pathological.

I keep coming back to this. At least one atheist here is on a crusade to save America by converting people to atheism.

By, wait for it, insulting people of faith.

Unbelievable narcissism. And yes, futile boorishness.

I hate to break it to you, but no one really cares what you believe or not. Some people just like to call out blatant falsehoods and ignorance.

Frankly, no one would comment on Christianity at all if certain religious groups weren't trying to force their "Christian" beliefs on everyone else.

^^^ Found the atheist crusader.

Don't blame me. The moderator called you a boor first (https://www.dcurbanmom.com/weblog/2023/07/03/update070323). There's also an atheist who impersonated another atheist on this thread and the moderator had to delete those two posts.

You atheists are a lovely bunch!

Dude, I didn't even post on this thread until recently. There really are multiple posters here.

[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:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

There are multiple posters. The reason why we call the ancient religions "myths" is because there is no evidence those gods existed. There was no evidence when people worshipped those gods either. It was a "faith".

There is no evidence that your god exists either - which is why you have "faith".

If you can’t understand the difference between acknowledging “faith” is a thing vs. insulting someone by saying their faith is in a “myth” then there’s no hope for you.

You just want to insult people. You’re a boor.

There is no evidence that the Christian/Muslim/Jewish gods exists, right? That's why people who believe he exists have faith, right?
Similarly, there is no evidence that the Roman/Greek/Norse gods exist. People who believed they exist also had faith.

A "myth" is just a traditional story - sometimes about the god(s). You're reading too much into it.

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/myth
myth noun ˈmith
1a
: a usually traditional story of ostensibly historical events that serves to unfold part of the world view of a people or explain a practice, belief, or natural phenomenon

No scientific evidence can prove or disprove God. Yes, religion is based on faith. Atheism is based on the faith there is no God. We all have different ways of living our lives. That should be enough to end this thread.

[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:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Oh, it doesn’t have to be repeated we get it loud and clear that you want special treatment for your beliefs and don’t care about others. You made that very clear.

Is the statement all religions are myths offensive?

Is the statement ‘all religions are myths except for blank” offensive? Or only unless your religion is in the blank spot?

Whenever you lose an argument you come back to this. We're going in circles now.

Nobody is demanding special treatment for any religion.

We're demanding RESPECT for all living religions. Sing it with me. RESPECT. We're asking you to stop with the dumb and childish insults.

And yes, you've been told many times that calling any or all living religions "myths" is disrespectful and insulting. How many more times does this need to be repeated? Can you not grasp this simple logic of democratic exchange, or are the tenets of respectful modern discourse beyond your understanding?

What is a “living” religion? It has been posted here that plenty of people believe in things you call myths.

In addition, plenty of people believe all religions are myths. Do they not deserve the same respect? Why do they have to be quiet?

For the record, if the word “myth” is so problematic I will drop it. How should you prefer I express my beliefs on religion here?

Why don’t you just say it : you don’t want to see the point because you want to keep offending people.

A normal, non-bigoted person would quickly grasp the difference between thinking something is a myth and actually saying that, virtually or in person, to somebody’s face.

kinda like someone saying to your face that you're going to go to hell if you don't accept jesus?

Who told you you are going to hell if you don’t accept Jesus?

family member

Ok, so you have a family member that is a jerk. Have any other Christian people told you to your face you are “going to hell?”

It sounds like you have a family member who is awful, and that happens.

But you do realize that you can’t judge every Christian negatively because of your family member? What your family member said is their opinion. It’s not the opinion of every Christian. And because no other Christian has said that to you- it’s not the action of every Christian.

I can’t imagine what kind of dysfunctional society would exist today if we judged millions of people based on the actions of one person. You realize you are allowing one jerk to influence your entire worldview, right?

NP. It is not one random Christian. This is central to the worldview of many sects (Christian and not). There will always be people who say this to you. People will say it causally - not so much “you are going to hell” but rather “only through Christ can you be saved and go to heaven in the afterlife.” It’s ok. It’s their belief system. But please believe us when we tell you this is not one isolated person somewhere. It is part of what makes family dynamics so hard for me and many others. I don’t want that message for my kids just like you don’t want your atheist family members telling you kid that religion is a myth. But it’s the truth of what family members believe whether they share it rudely or not and so we have to deal with it.

The view of atheism is that God doesn’t exist. That’s exactly like Christianity in saying something that is in opposition to other people’s beliefs.

The thing to do is realize people think differently and be ok with it. We all have different beliefs. It’s the way the world works. That doesn’t invalidate our personal beliefs.

There is absolutely no reason to be constantly upset and worried because human beings all have different beliefs. If you are secure in your own beliefs- then that is that.

The problem is within you if you can’t accept that people have different beliefs.

Religion exists. Atheism exists. We choose what we think makes sense for us and then live our lives. We can’t make and don’t want to make everyone think like us.

Atheism says when we die we cease existing. We become nothing. Do you not think that thought is upsetting and depressing and scary for people who are not atheist? Somehow that is completely dismissed in this argument. Atheism is telling people something they are uncomfortable with, just like when Christianity tells people they “will go to hell.” Each belief tells people that have different beliefs something they don’t like/believe in. But you don’t consider that.

Yes. Some people are drawn to religion because they fear the unknown/uncertainty. This has absolutely been discussed before.

Atheist people are drawn to nothingness after death because they fear the unknown/uncertainty of what happens after death. If they keep repeating to themselves that after death they will cease to exist- that’s how they deal with it.

No, I don't think about death at all. I'm too busy living this life.

And it's pretty clear what happens to people when they die. They become worm food.

[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:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Oh, it doesn’t have to be repeated we get it loud and clear that you want special treatment for your beliefs and don’t care about others. You made that very clear.

Is the statement all religions are myths offensive?

Is the statement ‘all religions are myths except for blank” offensive? Or only unless your religion is in the blank spot?

Whenever you lose an argument you come back to this. We're going in circles now.

Nobody is demanding special treatment for any religion.

We're demanding RESPECT for all living religions. Sing it with me. RESPECT. We're asking you to stop with the dumb and childish insults.

And yes, you've been told many times that calling any or all living religions "myths" is disrespectful and insulting. How many more times does this need to be repeated? Can you not grasp this simple logic of democratic exchange, or are the tenets of respectful modern discourse beyond your understanding?

What is a “living” religion? It has been posted here that plenty of people believe in things you call myths.

In addition, plenty of people believe all religions are myths. Do they not deserve the same respect? Why do they have to be quiet?

For the record, if the word “myth” is so problematic I will drop it. How should you prefer I express my beliefs on religion here?

Why don’t you just say it : you don’t want to see the point because you want to keep offending people.

A normal, non-bigoted person would quickly grasp the difference between thinking something is a myth and actually saying that, virtually or in person, to somebody’s face.

kinda like someone saying to your face that you're going to go to hell if you don't accept jesus?

Who told you you are going to hell if you don’t accept Jesus?

family member

Ok, so you have a family member that is a jerk. Have any other Christian people told you to your face you are “going to hell?”

It sounds like you have a family member who is awful, and that happens.

But you do realize that you can’t judge every Christian negatively because of your family member? What your family member said is their opinion. It’s not the opinion of every Christian. And because no other Christian has said that to you- it’s not the action of every Christian.

I can’t imagine what kind of dysfunctional society would exist today if we judged millions of people based on the actions of one person. You realize you are allowing one jerk to influence your entire worldview, right?

NP. It is not one random Christian. This is central to the worldview of many sects (Christian and not). There will always be people who say this to you. People will say it causally - not so much “you are going to hell” but rather “only through Christ can you be saved and go to heaven in the afterlife.” It’s ok. It’s their belief system. But please believe us when we tell you this is not one isolated person somewhere. It is part of what makes family dynamics so hard for me and many others. I don’t want that message for my kids just like you don’t want your atheist family members telling you kid that religion is a myth. But it’s the truth of what family members believe whether they share it rudely or not and so we have to deal with it.

The view of atheism is that God doesn’t exist. That’s exactly like Christianity in saying something that is in opposition to other people’s beliefs.

The thing to do is realize people think differently and be ok with it. We all have different beliefs. It’s the way the world works. That doesn’t invalidate our personal beliefs.

There is absolutely no reason to be constantly upset and worried because human beings all have different beliefs. If you are secure in your own beliefs- then that is that.

The problem is within you if you can’t accept that people have different beliefs.

Religion exists. Atheism exists. We choose what we think makes sense for us and then live our lives. We can’t make and don’t want to make everyone think like us.

Atheism says when we die we cease existing. We become nothing. Do you not think that thought is upsetting and depressing and scary for people who are not atheist? Somehow that is completely dismissed in this argument. Atheism is telling people something they are uncomfortable with, just like when Christianity tells people they “will go to hell.” Each belief tells people that have different beliefs something they don’t like/believe in. But you don’t consider that.

Yes. Some people are drawn to religion because they fear the unknown/uncertainty. This has absolutely been discussed before.

Atheist people are drawn to nothingness after death because they fear the unknown/uncertainty of what happens after death. If they keep repeating to themselves that after death they will cease to exist- that’s how they deal with it.

No, I don't think about death at all. I'm too busy living this life.

And it's pretty clear what happens to people when they die. They become worm food.

That’s your opinion, which you are welcome to express and live your life by. You must know that the billions of other human beings on earth are entitled to their own opinion, too? Or do you think your opinion is what everyone else must accept as their opinion?

[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:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Oh, it doesn’t have to be repeated we get it loud and clear that you want special treatment for your beliefs and don’t care about others. You made that very clear.

Is the statement all religions are myths offensive?

Is the statement ‘all religions are myths except for blank” offensive? Or only unless your religion is in the blank spot?

Whenever you lose an argument you come back to this. We're going in circles now.

Nobody is demanding special treatment for any religion.

We're demanding RESPECT for all living religions. Sing it with me. RESPECT. We're asking you to stop with the dumb and childish insults.

And yes, you've been told many times that calling any or all living religions "myths" is disrespectful and insulting. How many more times does this need to be repeated? Can you not grasp this simple logic of democratic exchange, or are the tenets of respectful modern discourse beyond your understanding?

What is a “living” religion? It has been posted here that plenty of people believe in things you call myths.

In addition, plenty of people believe all religions are myths. Do they not deserve the same respect? Why do they have to be quiet?

For the record, if the word “myth” is so problematic I will drop it. How should you prefer I express my beliefs on religion here?

Why don’t you just say it : you don’t want to see the point because you want to keep offending people.

A normal, non-bigoted person would quickly grasp the difference between thinking something is a myth and actually saying that, virtually or in person, to somebody’s face.

kinda like someone saying to your face that you're going to go to hell if you don't accept jesus?

Who told you you are going to hell if you don’t accept Jesus?

family member

Ok, so you have a family member that is a jerk. Have any other Christian people told you to your face you are “going to hell?”

It sounds like you have a family member who is awful, and that happens.

But you do realize that you can’t judge every Christian negatively because of your family member? What your family member said is their opinion. It’s not the opinion of every Christian. And because no other Christian has said that to you- it’s not the action of every Christian.

I can’t imagine what kind of dysfunctional society would exist today if we judged millions of people based on the actions of one person. You realize you are allowing one jerk to influence your entire worldview, right?

NP. It is not one random Christian. This is central to the worldview of many sects (Christian and not). There will always be people who say this to you. People will say it causally - not so much “you are going to hell” but rather “only through Christ can you be saved and go to heaven in the afterlife.” It’s ok. It’s their belief system. But please believe us when we tell you this is not one isolated person somewhere. It is part of what makes family dynamics so hard for me and many others. I don’t want that message for my kids just like you don’t want your atheist family members telling you kid that religion is a myth. But it’s the truth of what family members believe whether they share it rudely or not and so we have to deal with it.

The view of atheism is that God doesn’t exist. That’s exactly like Christianity in saying something that is in opposition to other people’s beliefs.

The thing to do is realize people think differently and be ok with it. We all have different beliefs. It’s the way the world works. That doesn’t invalidate our personal beliefs.

There is absolutely no reason to be constantly upset and worried because human beings all have different beliefs. If you are secure in your own beliefs- then that is that.

The problem is within you if you can’t accept that people have different beliefs.

Religion exists. Atheism exists. We choose what we think makes sense for us and then live our lives. We can’t make and don’t want to make everyone think like us.

Atheism says when we die we cease existing. We become nothing. Do you not think that thought is upsetting and depressing and scary for people who are not atheist? Somehow that is completely dismissed in this argument. Atheism is telling people something they are uncomfortable with, just like when Christianity tells people they “will go to hell.” Each belief tells people that have different beliefs something they don’t like/believe in. But you don’t consider that.

Yes. Some people are drawn to religion because they fear the unknown/uncertainty. This has absolutely been discussed before.

Atheist people are drawn to nothingness after death because they fear the unknown/uncertainty of what happens after death. If they keep repeating to themselves that after death they will cease to exist- that’s how they deal with it.

No, I don't think about death at all. I'm too busy living this life.

And it's pretty clear what happens to people when they die. They become worm food.

Atheists say you become worm food after death.

So as a Christian- are you telling me I have no choice? I am worm food, and that is it for every human on earth?

[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:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

Oh, it doesn’t have to be repeated we get it loud and clear that you want special treatment for your beliefs and don’t care about others. You made that very clear.

Is the statement all religions are myths offensive?

Is the statement ‘all religions are myths except for blank” offensive? Or only unless your religion is in the blank spot?

Whenever you lose an argument you come back to this. We're going in circles now.

Nobody is demanding special treatment for any religion.

We're demanding RESPECT for all living religions. Sing it with me. RESPECT. We're asking you to stop with the dumb and childish insults.

And yes, you've been told many times that calling any or all living religions "myths" is disrespectful and insulting. How many more times does this need to be repeated? Can you not grasp this simple logic of democratic exchange, or are the tenets of respectful modern discourse beyond your understanding?

What is a “living” religion? It has been posted here that plenty of people believe in things you call myths.

In addition, plenty of people believe all religions are myths. Do they not deserve the same respect? Why do they have to be quiet?

For the record, if the word “myth” is so problematic I will drop it. How should you prefer I express my beliefs on religion here?

Why don’t you just say it : you don’t want to see the point because you want to keep offending people.

A normal, non-bigoted person would quickly grasp the difference between thinking something is a myth and actually saying that, virtually or in person, to somebody’s face.

kinda like someone saying to your face that you're going to go to hell if you don't accept jesus?

Who told you you are going to hell if you don’t accept Jesus?

family member

Ok, so you have a family member that is a jerk. Have any other Christian people told you to your face you are “going to hell?”

It sounds like you have a family member who is awful, and that happens.

But you do realize that you can’t judge every Christian negatively because of your family member? What your family member said is their opinion. It’s not the opinion of every Christian. And because no other Christian has said that to you- it’s not the action of every Christian.

I can’t imagine what kind of dysfunctional society would exist today if we judged millions of people based on the actions of one person. You realize you are allowing one jerk to influence your entire worldview, right?

NP. It is not one random Christian. This is central to the worldview of many sects (Christian and not). There will always be people who say this to you. People will say it causally - not so much “you are going to hell” but rather “only through Christ can you be saved and go to heaven in the afterlife.” It’s ok. It’s their belief system. But please believe us when we tell you this is not one isolated person somewhere. It is part of what makes family dynamics so hard for me and many others. I don’t want that message for my kids just like you don’t want your atheist family members telling you kid that religion is a myth. But it’s the truth of what family members believe whether they share it rudely or not and so we have to deal with it.

The view of atheism is that God doesn’t exist. That’s exactly like Christianity in saying something that is in opposition to other people’s beliefs.

The thing to do is realize people think differently and be ok with it. We all have different beliefs. It’s the way the world works. That doesn’t invalidate our personal beliefs.

There is absolutely no reason to be constantly upset and worried because human beings all have different beliefs. If you are secure in your own beliefs- then that is that.

The problem is within you if you can’t accept that people have different beliefs.

Religion exists. Atheism exists. We choose what we think makes sense for us and then live our lives. We can’t make and don’t want to make everyone think like us.

Atheism says when we die we cease existing. We become nothing. Do you not think that thought is upsetting and depressing and scary for people who are not atheist? Somehow that is completely dismissed in this argument. Atheism is telling people something they are uncomfortable with, just like when Christianity tells people they “will go to hell.” Each belief tells people that have different beliefs something they don’t like/believe in. But you don’t consider that.

Yes. Some people are drawn to religion because they fear the unknown/uncertainty. This has absolutely been discussed before.

Atheist people are drawn to nothingness after death because they fear the unknown/uncertainty of what happens after death. If they keep repeating to themselves that after death they will cease to exist- that’s how they deal with it.

No, I don't think about death at all. I'm too busy living this life.

And it's pretty clear what happens to people when they die. They become worm food.

That’s your opinion, which you are welcome to express and live your life by. You must know that the billions of other human beings on earth are entitled to their own opinion, too? Or do you think your opinion is what everyone else must accept as their opinion?

I DGAF what you believe. I do GAF about "Christians" pushing their beliefs on everyone else.

[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:It’s a myth and there is no evidence any of them are true.

^^^ Typical. Instead of addressing the question of whether calling God/Gods a "myth" is insulting, here's an atheist hammering on the reductive, analysis-free, childish insults.

Maybe off topic, but it’s a concise statement that isn’t childish or insulting. Nothing wrong with it.

DP.

It's like me calling you "childish." No explanation, no rationale, just random ad hominems. Even if it's true.

You don’t need extra, flowery words when stating basic facts: “there is no evidence”.

So say "there is no evidence" and people of faith will nod and say you're right, it's about faith. Calling it a "myth" is another level of rudeness.

It's the same thing. There is no evidence = it's a myth. All myths rely on "faith".

No, "myth" is insulting. It's putting peoples' faith on par with Santa Claus, as OP's gotcha in her OP clearly tried to do.

As we've all learned in the past few years, if we didn't know it before: if somebody tells you they're insulted, then it's insulting. You don't get to decide whether somebody else should be insulted by your words or deeds.

I think it’s more on par with Zeus, Odin, etc. Gods who people worshipped.

True, the Greek pantheon of gods were very real to them, and it was a religion. As was the Roman's religion which had many if the same gods by different names. True, these religions have fallen out of favor now, but the American Indians belived in the "great spirit in the sky" and the "happy hunting grounds" (heaven). These are no less respectable beliefs than the monotheistic religions that came out of the middle east.

I was referring to the Greek, Roman, Norse myths when I said all myths rely on “faith”. No evidence = myth.

So you're doubling down on the "no evidence" = "myth" false equivalence.

Again, what matters is context. If the people you're talking to are insulted by the word "myth," or by you comparing their beliefs to the Greek pantheon, then don't do it. If you want to refer to the Greek pantheon by itself and you're confident you're not talking to people who still believe it (are there?) then go ahead and refer to the Greek pantheon as myths--without thinking you're cute by dragging things people actually do believe into it.

This is so basic it shouldn't have to keep being repeated.

There are multiple posters. The reason why we call the ancient religions "myths" is because there is no evidence those gods existed. There was no evidence when people worshipped those gods either. It was a "faith".

There is no evidence that your god exists either - which is why you have "faith".

If you can’t understand the difference between acknowledging “faith” is a thing vs. insulting someone by saying their faith is in a “myth” then there’s no hope for you.

You just want to insult people. You’re a boor.

There is no evidence that the Christian/Muslim/Jewish gods exists, right? That's why people who believe he exists have faith, right?
Similarly, there is no evidence that the Roman/Greek/Norse gods exist. People who believed they exist also had faith.

A "myth" is just a traditional story - sometimes about the god(s). You're reading too much into it.

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/myth
myth noun ˈmith
1a
: a usually traditional story of ostensibly historical events that serves to unfold part of the world view of a people or explain a practice, belief, or natural phenomenon

No scientific evidence can prove or disprove God. Yes, religion is based on faith. Atheism is based on the faith there is no God. We all have different ways of living our lives. That should be enough to end this thread.

So many incorrect and false things in so few sentences.

Atheists don’t have “faith” there is no god. That is ludicrous. Atheists simply do not believe because there is insufficient evidence. Do you have “faith” that the things you don’t believe in don’t exist? Of course you don’t. You know those things are unfalsifiable and you just logically don’t believe in them.

When we speak of evidence, we are not speaking solely of scientific evidence. There are many kinds of evidence, and there is insufficient of any of it for us to believe.

And you don’t get to decide when the thread ends.