http://www.brianstevenson.com/blog/?p=3D19

You cannot argue with an Atheist
Published on Tuesday, January 3rd, 2006

You cannot argue with an Atheist. Period!

I've been spending several hours in alt.atheism and I'm learning several
things about Atheists:

1) Not all atheists are alike. Several have admitted to being "weak
atheists" as opposed to "strong atheists". The "weak" define themselves
as "not theists" and tend to be open to the idea of a god, but require
sufficient tangible proof. The "strong" atheist is more hardcore because
they believe that a god does NOT exist, period. They even go out of
their way to prove that it's impossible.

2) They're not stupid, in fact, they're very intelligent. One cannot
question their ability to reason. Their views are legitimate and
deserving of respect.

3) They have feelings. Of course, everyone has feelings, but too often
we'll classify a person before getting to know them. We might
unintentionally say offensive things because we've stereotyped them. We
tend to speak our minds about the stereotype rather than speak our minds
about the person.

4) It's possible for an "atheist" to respect a "theist". There are
strict rules that need to be followed, but for the most part, it's
possible.


My reply:
Small 'a' for atheist(s) unless it's the first word in a sentence.

You can discuss things with an atheist. If you come in to 'argue,'
you'll get your arse handed to you because you're immediately indicating
the victim(s) are in the wrong. Secondly, you've no coherant and
concise definition for the g-o-d letter string nor any objective
supporting evidence for your claims. Thirdly, christians utilize just
about every logical fallacy in the book. Objective supporting evidence
the universe was manufactured is what?

What I find highly amusing is the tactics Christians utilize are the
same ones a toddler utilizes about Santa Claus. Such is to be expected
from mental toddlers.

There's three ways to approach things. The first way is honest curiosity
where the theist is looking to understand some thing(s). As you found,
questions are answered honestly and in no uncertain terms.

Too bad Christians like yourself practice deception and dishonesty. So
much for Christian 'morality.' It's pretty sad when non-theists
routinely 'outchristian' the Christians.

The second way is to come in and talk about your superstition utilizing
internal verbage (voice. such indicated only apply to yourself). Then a
exploration can commence.

The third way is what you and most christians do/did. That's come in
and expecting your victims to 'roll over and play dead' and 'graciously'
accept the excrement spewed.

What a 'lovely' way to show your 'love' for other people, via abject
contempt, disrespect, and discourtesy.

It really would be nice if christians would utilize their brains for
something other than ear spacers and a hat rack. Won't happen though,
such is terrifying unknown territory. Tis best to keep hanging onto
that 'security blanket.'

There's no difference between christianity and the Hollywood version of
a African 'Witch Doctor.' It's both superstition.

It's not surprising you were utilizing a tract. A little thought would
have told you using something written by the clueless would fail. It
really must suck to be so insecure in your faith that you've got to go
out and bother folks with the christian idiocy. Then you, like most
christians, are terminal cowards when someone looks you in the eye and
asks you to clearly define your terms and provide objective supporting
evidence and deal with the begged questions and broken logic. You all
turn tail and run. I do have to give you credit, Brian. At least you
didn't mutter the usual Christian empty threats about Hell.

Sadly, once again the tale is about the 'Ugly Christian=AE.' Then
Christians can't figure out why they're met with suspicion and distrust.
Don't bother emailing me or put me on some mailing list. I would prefer
my response be put on your blog. Whether you reply to is, or not, is up
to you.
From his blog, he's a youth pastor. I wonder if this was all just to