A large majority of people on this earth believe in one or more deities that created the universe and influence what happens on earth in general and to individuals in particular. Other than this general belief, the thousands of religions vary in many respects and individuals argue endlessly, and sometimes violently, about which of the religions is the "true" one.
Nevertheless, believers in vastly different religions, say Christians and Buddhists, basically respect each others' beliefs although they may try to make converts. Christians in particular seem intent on converting others to the "right" religion.
Atheists, the small minority that doesn't believe in a deity, are generally despised by the believers and sometimes attacked and even killed for their disbelief. Even under the best circumstances they are often accused of immorality, communism, being devil's helpers and worse. In particular, they are seldom respected for their lack of belief, as others are for merely having the wrong belief. So what are they to do?
Basically, most atheists keep their mouths shut. That's the safest thing to do, but with homosexuals gradually getting the courage to come out of the closet, some atheists are also getting bolder.
Unfortunately, some of the outed atheists make it clear that they think everyone believing in a deity is stupid. Atheist Websites are sprinkled with cartoons carrying that message. It is wrong and it makes further discussion impossible. It may make you feel better about your own (presumed) superiority but it doesn't achieve anything. DON'T DO IT!!!
It is OK, although seldom successful, to discuss and explain your lack of belief with others, but don't expect them to change their minds. Acquiesce in the realization that people are mostly what they are.
In the opinion of prominent but more moderate atheists, religionism is a hard-wired delusion that is part of the human make-up. Some Darwinists think that religion "genes" helped mankind to become the most-developed kind of lfe on earth because it promoted group adhesion and submission to strong leadership. Whatever. The facts are what they are.
Maybe atheism is part of the Darwinian progression to a superhuman. If so, go forth and multiply!
skip to main |
skip to sidebar
Sometimes it helps me to clarify my thoughts by writing them down. You may, or may not, be interested in the questions I wrestle with on occasion. Basically I feel like a normal person living in an asylum for the delusional that is being run by the patients. But who am I to say I am the normal one? Is that a delusion also? Delusion: an erroneous belief that is held in the face of evidence to the contrary
No comments:
Post a Comment