What actually inspires a person to be Atheist?

1. 76

   m abdullah javedposted 8 years ago

   What actually inspires a person to be Atheist?

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2. 76

   always exploringposted 8 years ago

   I have wondered about this too. Is it something that happened in a church or possibly something someone did that was terrible, and that person supposedly was a church member? Or maybe God didn't answer a prayer, like a loved one died, etc. I have a friend who doesn't believe, yet he is a kind and loving person. Interesting topic....

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   1. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks Ruby. It's amazing that a person not only denies the existence of God but lives a happy and prosperous life like theist. There should be some sound reasons behind an atheist's beliefs.

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   2. 45

      Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      For many, at least for staying atheist, I think it is the "sound reason" problem. Not that they do not have reasons and logic for their "belief". Rather the opposite. They are hopelessly stuck in the one area of logic and reason. No balance.

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   3. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks Eric, then how come they manage their affairs as you know hope plays very crucial role here.

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   4. 45

      Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      A funny thing I learned along this road Muhammad. There are perfect reasons to be good to your fellow man. We need not look to the heavens to find kindness in our hearts. Love exists without belief.

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   5. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      That's true Eric, I admire the way you think, but how is that the love remains constant without a belief in God?

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   6. 45

      Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Personally I think God is inseparable from love. Belief requires a conscious decision to believe. But the love is already in our hearts whether we make that decision or not. Just as we are given life freely without request, so are we given love.

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   7. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      I think Eric that love is rejuvenated with a belief, if the heart is not an amalgamation of faith and love, the credibility of love itself loses its charm.

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   8. 75

      Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Ruby
      the question is excellent as it asks what inspires many atheists. After not believing in God they seem to get very very inspired about attacking religion.

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   9. 58

      jerrycarmanposted 5 years agoin reply to this

      It is believers not living up to Biblical standards and not believing what Christ taught in the Bible. That make an atheist and the church is full of them.

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      1. 76

         Castlepalomaposted 5 years agoin reply to this

         Only 3℅ of Christians go to church regular.
         
         Some may label me as agnostic, that's acceptable. Yet the extremes of atheist and fundamentalist Christian, do not sit well in balance for me.

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3. 69

   Aime Fposted 8 years ago

   Nothing "inspires" me to be an atheist, really, it's just what I believe.  I was a Christian when I was younger and nothing "happened" to me, I guess I just grew up and had a hard time seeing my Christian beliefs as really feasible.   The more I thought about it the more my mind was changed and now here I am.  I don't think I'm smarter than theists and I don't think I'm less open-minded than theists.  I'm just myself and I've come to my own set of beliefs just like everyone else has.  We're all different and we don't all think along the same lines or have the same views, and that's okay. 
   
   Yes, I live a happy life where I try to be a good person and make sure that my mark on the world is a positive one.  I have always been that way - whether I identified as a Christian or an atheist.  You find good groups of religious people and good groups of atheists, just as you find bad people in both groups as well.  It has more to do with the people themselves than what religion they do or don't follow.

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   1. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks Aime, your views and the life style as you said is no different than a theist, but you say you are atheist, I think you need to contemplate how good morals have become an obstinate part of your personality? What’s that driving force call?

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   2. 69

      Aime Fposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      I think most humans are inherently good, but I also credit my (agnostic and atheist) parents for teaching me great things. I value life and other people's lives, so for me it's common sense to act morally.

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   3. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      True Aime, could you please tell me where that common sense came from?

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   4. 72

      getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Muhammad, Contrary to what you are trying to imply, morals did not come from any gods or religions. Religions simply invented gods, then pretended that these imaginary beings were behind the premise of what was already instituted by human evolution.

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   5. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      It's a popular conscience that humans are not their own creator.God is not an invention rather he is an inner urge that's why at the time hardship we remember him.Morals are nothing but the functioning of organs,hand raised is sin if helped virtue.

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   6. 91

      Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Muhammad here you are just leading the question. You want it to point to your beliefs... Just because a certain feeling will point to some idea for some does not mean it is like that for all. You connect the two, it's a personal relationship...

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   7. 72

      getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      muhammad, speak for yourself but dont assume that everyone is as shallow as to think that since there are things we don't understand, we should insert a god, and usually one of someone else's imagination. Calling on God is a result of indoctrination.

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   8. 91

      Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      I wouldn't go that far. I still think you could come to an understanding yourself that resembles some concepts of god and then make a leap of faith and find what you are looking for in certain existing ideas without being 'indoctrinated'.

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   9. 72

      getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Some people have NO concept of a God. Therefore this would not apply to them, however, i can understand someone using this method, if they wanted to find something to comfort themselves. But some people simply dont have the need for a God.

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   10. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I more or less agree on that.

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   11. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       getrite, need for a God to live and need for air to breath, I think this need to be cleared, not to speak of any religious doctrines, just by convention we see right from the advent of man, God has always been an epicenter of human lives.

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   12. 0

       jonnycomelatelyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Muhammad, I see that you have constructed your own understanding of "God," and that satisfies your mind.  Please have the decency to realise that others, myself included, do not accept the existence of a god in reality.  Each mind thinks for itself.

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   13. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Yes Alan by all means I would like to realize, but what I am trying to emphasize is that if we don't need God it should be made clear because by convention we see God has always been part of human lives.

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   14. 72

       getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Muhammad, It is clear that your mind is stuck within the parameters of your indoctrination. It seems that no explaining can expand the parameters to let u see that there is no God required for humans to be good. U should try to breach the parameter

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   15. 69

       wrenchBiscuitposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       To answer your question to my comment: Faith may not necessarily require an immortal soul. Conversely, a soul can be lost and then found in the flesh.

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   16. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       @Muhammed religious practice and belief is closely related to custom. Poly vs Mono. Mono became more prevalent when sedentary for example. You make it a priori, but mostly it seems to follow from something else. What is not known, social needs, etc..

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   17. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Aime
       why do so many atheists develop an inspired anti religious fervour instead of just forgetting about the issue. I've rarely seen such inspired fervour to attack religion.

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   18. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       @Oztinato you do expose your religious beliefs in the public realm. In my country people discuss neither that much. Just now when we are more or less forced to live with more very religious immigrants and problems that arise again concerning rights.

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   19. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I'm doing my social duty and combatting attempts at cultural  genocide. Such genocide is rapidly leading to a tacky McCulture built on money, drugs and porn.

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   20. 69

       Aime Fposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Oh, probably because people like you come out with their fists up ready to throw punches.  I'm not anti-religion but I'm also not just gonna "forget about it" when people have such rude things to say about MY beliefs or try to force THEIRS on me.

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   21. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Aime
       I note you have avoided the issue of the cultural genocide of indigenous people. That is not an insult just a very pertinent observation

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   22. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       @sam,  I think religious practices and beliefs are not closely related to custom rather they define a definite custom, unhealthy and unrealistic understanding of that definition give rise to differences of beliefs.

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   23. 97

       Thomas Swanposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Oz, unless people are FORCED to not practice a religion or believe in a god, there is no "cultural genocide". It's just a transparent attempt at using an emotive word to demonize someone you disagree with + it cheapens the impact of actual genocides.

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   24. 60

       Link10103posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I'm still trying to figure out what atheists in the world are taking it upon themselves to care about the religious culture of native Americans and Tibetans...

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   25. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Oz and Thomas. This need to be probed that whether a Force factor exist in the religion or its just a misuse of the vested interest, and if there is a possibility then in what circumstances does this factor come into play?

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   26. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Peeps
       cultural genocide is occuring now in many indigenous cultures. There are many contributing factors to this. Atheist stereotyping of religion is definitely one of those contributing factors. Don't "wash your hands of it" by denying it.

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   27. 72

       Titen-Sxullposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       So the tiny portion of the world that are outspoken atheists, most of whom argue only against monotheism such as Islam and Christianity, are somehow responsible for the destruction of artwork, artifacts or religious buildings somewhere? Nonsense.

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   28. 69

       Aime Fposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Oz, cultural assimilation of indiginous people started long ago with European Christians. Not sure why you seem to think not respecting their culture is an atheist thing.

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   29. 80

       jlparkposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Oz, you go on about Cultural
       genocide + blaming atheists - yet, U seem 2 ignore that the religious missionaries to discovered countries caused both cultural + actual genocide - see the history of NZ + any other 'colonised' country. It's not atheists

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   30. 75

       Oztinatoposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       JL
       you're saying because past mistakes were made by some that makes it ok to repeat the same mistakes. That's plainly ridiculous

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   31. 69

       Aime Fposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       No one is saying it's okay.  What we're saying is that it's NOT something that stems from atheism as you seem to be claiming.

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   32. 75

       Oztinatoposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       New atheism movements are making a big contribution to attempts at eradicating all religion ie cultural genocide. Normal old atheism doesn't do that it just keeps to itself.

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   33. 97

       Thomas Swanposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       How are atheists eradicating religion? All I've seen you say on this is "atheists are stereotyping religion". Well religions stereotype other religions too. It's not an atheist thing. Every group stereotypes every other group.

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   34. 60

       Link10103posted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Neglected to actually give a specific incident of New Atheists committing cultural genocide.
       
       Again.
       
       Starting to sound awfully fake...

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   35. 97

       Thomas Swanposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       And if you look at how Africa and South East Asia have had their religious landscape transformed in the last century into Christians and Muslims, I wonder how many cultural traditions have vanished as a result. It's just how change happens though.

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   36. 72

       Titen-Sxullposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       It's like the "white guilt" method of shaming atheists. Try to convince them they are somehow tangentially responsible for atrocities taking place halfway around the world for ideological reasons that have nothing to do with them, or with atheism.

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       Ericdierkerposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Very interesting concept. This notion of guilt by similar thought is scary.. It certainly runs on all sides of important issues. Create a group and blame that group for problems. Racism without the race.

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   38. 92

       michelleonly3posted 7 years agoin reply to this

       No one is getting "saved" in here, We have all agreed nothing inspires an atheist... moving on.

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   39. 79

       anandnairkollamposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       This guy has raised this question just to shove his fist down others throats. He's too shallow. People are giving elaborate explanations here. But there's no point in replying to this person and wasting time. He doesn't want to understand others.

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   40. 75

       Oztinatoposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Atheists
       the question is what inspires atheists. Check out hp and we can see how inspired they are to attack religion. Attacking religion =cultural genocide.

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   41. 60

       Link10103posted 7 years agoin reply to this

       So the cultural genocide is just a result of an overactive imagination, some weird denial of reality, and stereotypes. No specific incidents of new atheists eradicating culture from the planet, just that they say mean stuff you dont agree with.

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   42. 0

       JDWilhiteposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       It is ALL religion.  The only question that matters is who or what does one worship?

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4. 83

   Venkatachari Mposted 8 years ago

   There can be many reasons for it. A person may be thinking of himself as too much forward by being a non-believer. Scientific minded people also do not believe in spiritual things. They want proof for everything.
   People who undergo difficult times for longer durations in their life also tend to become Atheists by losing their faith in God. They think that if God is there and He should answer their prayers. Otherwise, there is no God.

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   1. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks venkar sir, the reasons sounds good that over the period of time the charm in the god-belief loses its shine and a person prefer to be atheist, why don't he think of searching for a new God?

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   2. 91

      Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Depends in what kind of god one believes. In the Spinoza and pantheistic sense there are no answers. Life just is and all is one etc. Hardship and happyness need eachother, it's not always a value judgement then.

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5. 85

   Annsaloposted 8 years ago

   
   
   1. There is zero proof of any of the thousands of gods.
   2. Logically none of it makes no sense.
   3. The bible was written by people, men to be more exact, who filled it with horrible things.
   4. I don't believe in Magic either which there seems to be a lot of in the bible.
   5. I have found ZERO reasons to need a god. I can be a good moral person without being threatened with burning forever.
   6. Too many contradictions. Look at this world. Does it look like there is some magical sky being protecting his children?
   7. If there were a proven god, I would choose not to worship it because it obviously failed in many ways.
   8. I'm quite happy so what is the point in pretending to believe in something that I have tried and have been unable to believe in?
   9. Why would I believe in a father who tells me to obey or he will cast me into a burning hell? If I said that to my children I would be considered abusive.
   10. When it comes down to it I just find more reasons to be an atheist than be a believer.

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   1. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks Ann, of the ten points I would like to know about the zero proof of God, don't you think that your existence itself is a proof of God? What do you say about the systematic happenings beneath the earth and in the heavens?

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   2. 85

      Annsaloposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      My existence is only proof my parents had sex. It's all science! And so is the rest you mentioned. Science is a wonderful thing! It pretty much proves everything religion fails to prove, with few exceptions.

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      Venkatachari Mposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Don't you ever wonder how science itself came into being? How did everything come into existence at the first place? What is the power behind each first creations or first-time happenings? Whether it is the egg or the hen and how did it come?

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   4. 85

      Annsaloposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Not really. I've been called an idiot once for not caring how we were created. Personally I see things as look toward the future and the present. We are here now. What we do w/ what we have now is so much more important than how we became.

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   5. 85

      Annsaloposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      I leave the science to scientists. Do I sit in awe at what the world is? Yes, but there is no point spending my life trying to figure out the beginning when I never know when the end is. More imp. to me to live for the now and the future, than past.

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   6. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Venkat has raised a valid point Ann, would like to hear from you.

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   7. 91

      Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Would the question be more then, how does something come from nothing or how do we cycle from the universe to a spark an back again. Then you can of course ask for the cause of the cause. It would be arbitrary where to start to say the least...

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   8. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Sam, that circular argument never stops,if one tries to find the cause of a cause and how does something came from nothing.if a student is not aware of the basics,for him every problem is a problem.So the basics have to be clear to know the truth

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   9. 0

      jonnycomelatelyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      I would say that cause cannot ever be fully understood by us finite human forms.  I agree with Annsalo, there is no point in dwelling upon the enigma.  Get on with life.   Cease trying to conscript others to your own understanding.  Be free.

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   10. 38

       ChristinSposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       All of this exactly Annsalo.  I am deeply moved by life itself and the process and find it freeing to not be constrained by the dogmas of others and to open my mind.

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   11. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Annsalo
       Do you agree that many atheists get excited and inspired by attacking religion?

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   12. 60

       Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Evil exists because without it there can be no good. Deal with it. All humans are a mixture of both good and evil. As is the biblical God. Deal with it. What YOU don't understand is what evil is exactly.

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6. 62

   LoisRyan13903posted 8 years ago

   It is possible that a person was raised in a non-believing family.  The chances of the child becoming a believer are very slim.  Not saying this happens all the time-I know of a few who became Christians even though they were raised non-believers.

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   1. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Lois, you mean to say the familial background plays an important role for a person to be theist or atheist, right? There are chances that he may become even a polytheist as it can be easily perceived if the family members happens to be polytheists?

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   2. 62

      LoisRyan13903posted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Yes both ways.  I know of some people who had parents with different beliefs like one Jewish and one Catholic, he had experience in both and leaned more for being Jewish

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   3. 72

      getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      But I think that if you were to take a survey, you would find that most atheists come from religious families.

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   4. 62

      LoisRyan13903posted 8 years agoin reply to this

      I will get back to you on that.  I have to get a random sample around my city of about 100.  The do some more samples of other areas and compare the results

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   5. 72

      getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Maybe this will help:
      "Nearly eight-in-ten adults who currently identify as religious “nones” were raised in a religion, while just 21% were raised religiously unaffiliated"
      Pew Research Center, May 12 2015
      http://www.pewforum.org/201

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      Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Well that just reflects society.

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   7. 60

      Link10103posted 8 years agoin reply to this

      ...was it supposed to represent something else?

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   8. 62

      LoisRyan13903posted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks.  And results may differ from area to area.  My reason is just one of many

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   9. 72

      getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      But this was an average of all areas in the US...taking into account all of the variations. However, I won't hold your feet to the fire any longer, as I understand human nature. Have a great day!

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   10. 62

       LoisRyan13903posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I myself working on my Psychology thesis. Am getting some sleep.

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   11. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       If, according to survey, the religious background is paving the way for someone to opt for atheism, than we need to look at that background itself. As we know the truth leads to the truth and light never leads to darkness.

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   12. 62

       LoisRyan13903posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Actually get is right on this.  Christian denomination makes up over 30% of world pop.  So it would make sense that many atheists would be raised by believing parents, but as you said what are the reasons?

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   13. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Lois I think Sam has pointed out some reasons, but I wanted to know what are the actual reasons that a person, being born and brought up in a religious atmosphere, tends to abandoned that and prefer to live a life of disbelief?

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   14. 62

       LoisRyan13903posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Oh you didn't specify that in your question.  Annasalo has some excellent points as well. Really can't add more except maybe when people hear about diff religions'gods they may get to wondering

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   15. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Lois l, from reasons behind inspiration to actual causes, many things have come up in our discussions so asked that. Yeah that's true Ann has excellently pointed out a few.

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   16. 72

       getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       muhammad, Religious beliefs just seem foolish to some people. It sometimes starts at an early age...especially for children with sharp critical thought & higher aptitudes.Its difficult for the lies of religion to enslave the minds of such individ

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   17. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I think the basic human nature supports the truth that's why we have universal values. It's not the question of enslaving of mind to religious dictates, its about the freedom of conscience to accept the truth to which human nature is compatible.

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   18. 72

       getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I hope u are not referring to your holy book as TRUTH, because that is not the truth, These books are no different than fairy tales. Objective truth is true, despite human's propensity for dishonesty.

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   19. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Yes truth means objective truth that was I meant,this refers to the human nature Alan,I firmly believe that the truth has been precisely synchronized with human likes and dislikes. As far the Book you are referring to,you can see my hubs to know.

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   20. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Lois
       do you see the constant attacks on religion by online atheists as inspiring?

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   21. 62

       LoisRyan13903posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Oz there is nothing about this question or the replies that show any attack on Christianity.  Most, if not all, in my response replied considerately.    And yes with the other questions that attack Christians inspires me to believe even stronger

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7. 72

   manatita44posted 8 years ago

   Just taking a shot in the dark here, Muhammad, but I believe that they are good and intelligent people who are at the point where they see the hypocrisy of things. They realise that doctrines can be used by others with malicious and bad intentions, and so they either challenge or strive to expose the system. No bad thing.
   
   The important thing for me is that deep down I feel that they are considerate; share our concerns for a more humane, kinder world, but are 'pissed' off' with those who pretend to know and do the opposite.
   
   They like doers, examples and hate talkers and those who are quick to quote but harbour bad taste. Just guessing. Those I know are all good people.

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   1. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks manatita, if someone is good at heart means by nature he is inclined towards a Divine force. If someone is able to make out the happenings to be good or bad, than why can't he be an ambassador of virtues with a faith in God?

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   2. 72

      manatita44posted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Some do, Mohammad. I have taught Spirituality for 33 years and some have turned up in my classes. They speak of God, but in abstract terms. It is religious Gods that they have problems with.

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   3. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      True. They have a problem with the perception of God it seems.

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   4. 72

      manatita44posted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Yes, Muhammad. Still, I know that like me you are accommodating. People must be allowed to have their own perceptions. I see murderers saying sorry and kissing their children. We are all a part of this Source called LOVE. So beautiful!

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      Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      What a wonderful exemplary exchange of ideas in faith.

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   6. 72

      manatita44posted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks Brother Eric.
      
      You're always so kind to me. God bless your noble Heart.

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   7. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      No doubt  manatita that every one should have freedom of perceptions, but since we dwell together, there has to be a source of mutual understanding of perceptions.

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   8. 91

      Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      But mutual understanding does not mean the same beliefs or doctrines...

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   9. 72

      manatita44posted 8 years agoin reply to this

      The Source remains One, M, the Absolute ...but in that One diversity exists. Noble ideal. I commend you. But why are we still fighting? Still so different? Our role is simply to be the best we can be, based on our own level of awareness. Om Shanti!

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   10. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Source may be different but human perceptions can't.Virtues have universal acceptance but different sources potray different forms.Differences arise when compulsion factor plays it's role in describing right n wrong living aside the Divine guidance.

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   11. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Do you believe your perception is pure and value free or that perceive based on what you actually know and learned. I can argue you see the world as you are, as you've learned. I'm not talking about the fact we both experience rain...

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   12. 72

       manatita44posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       By Source I meant the Absolute, M, the Perennial Entity from which all spring and live. The lute has its own sound, and the piano also. Both are necessary. Don't change, but Love this world. All are God's children; His play, not ours. Om Shanti!

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   13. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       @Muhammed following Manatita: Source would be the same, perception and interpretation isn't but would also be part of  all. The One that is the many is in a sense the All. In that sense our idea about right and wrong is a reductio of what really is.

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   14. 72

       manatita44posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Yes, yes, Sam. Much wisdom there. There is only the Orange in the Yogi's world, only Oneness, but it has a rind, skin or peel, flesh, seeds, juice ...all playing their essential role in this tree of Life. Hari Om Tat Sat!!

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   15. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       sam / manatita..so in that case our ideas of right and wrong should have uniformity.

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   16. 72

       manatita44posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Muhammad, sameness and destruction are one. I like curries, another like rice and peas; one daughter likes music and another law. Perhaps you like Islam and another Judaism. Diversity is God's law, or should we all agree with you?

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   17. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I am with you manatita that diversity of color and culture is the essence of life and it is God's law, but I am just trying to understand in what sense does God appreciate diversity about Himself?

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   18. 72

       manatita44posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       You're such a nice guy. Why torture yourself? An easier way is to remain in the radiance of the Heart; to leave the intellect behind. It can only cause confusion. A child is very simple. Pray, serve, Love ...be like the child.

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   19. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Manita
       why does their inspiration turn into anti religious fervour almost like some kind of cult?

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   20. 72

       manatita44posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       It is a subtle form of Ego, my good Friend, Oztinato. We actually mean well. We feel it is our duty to help or change the world, but God does not need this. He simply asks us to transform our own lower nature, into the Light Divine.

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8. 72

   getitriteposted 8 years ago

   Religion just seems silly to some people. It doesn't matter if one comes from a religious family or not...watching adults talk to imaginary characters, and read stories from a book of ancient fairy tales just seems absurd. There comes a time when it becomes obvious that this stuff is just ancient foolish ritualistic nonsense...with absolutely no basis in reality. Then being told that you will be punished for not believing, well that just confirms that this is a fraud. No one should have to be threatened into believing anything. Bullies make empty threats, but the truth should stand on its own.

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      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks getrite, I wonder how come a person realises the "stuff to be ancient foolish ritualistic nonsense"  so precisely but fail to know what actually the truth is? And how to be wise enough to resort to realistic form of religious practices?

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   2. 72

      getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Who cares if we don't know what the actual truth is. That doesn't mean that we can just make up stuff...or believe in someone else's made up stuff. The fact of the matter is that neither you nor I know anything about the existence of a god.

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   3. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Knowing the truth is the biggest urge of humans, that's why they have a unique intellect that distinguishes them from rest of the creatures. As far relying on other's stuff, its a Divine arrangement for us to know the truth, same as we get educated.

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   4. 91

      Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Keep in mind it always seems to be subjective truth. In this field we can nearly never get past that. This is what makes it different from natural sciences and good it is like that, otherwise it would devalue faith entirely.

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   5. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Sensible approach Sam.

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   6. 75

      Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Getrite
      if it's only just a silly thing why is there such anti religious fervour online? Surely that reveals the true inspiration of many atheists

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   7. 72

      getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Oz, so u are alleging that atheists are dishonestly hiding the real reason for their inspiration. And that our true inspiration is just hatred? So, I ask, what is the INSPIRATION for the hatred? Why would someone hate your wonderful religion?

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   8. 45

      Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Get, I like how you reframed it. Certainly limited to a small group of individuals. But I wonder what does inspire an atheist to hate a religion like Christianity. Clearly the hate does exist in small circles. But why?

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   9. 0

      PeterStipposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Eric, many people confuse criticism on religion with hatred. Richard Dawkins who criticises religion a lot does not hate religion.
      People who are criticised do not always like this, especially if it touches a profound emotion.

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   10. 45

       Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Just take Getitrite, he probably even professes that he does not hate religion but his words most surely evidence that he does. Some hate.

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   11. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I think worthy of hate is evil but not the one who indulges in healthy criticism

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   12. 72

       getitriteposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Eric, I feel no obligation to embrace ancient dogmas, based on nothing but ancient human ignorance. If u prefer to label that as HATE, then go right ahead. I simply challenge your implausible assertions - which, until now, have enjoyed carte blanche.

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   13. 45

       Ericdierkerposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Get, even in this seemingly fairly innocuous comment there just is the vibe of vitriolic anger and hate. It is very interesting. Not one of your empirical deals. But it exists nevertheless. It goes to the heart of this question. Why and what inspires

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   14. 72

       getitriteposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       My hostility is toward the BS that I allow  others to control my mind, by demanding that I accept dishonesty as truth. I have no respect for dishonesty, and I feel sorry for those who cant escape the mind control that compels them to be dishonest.

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   15. 45

       Ericdierkerposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Well at least you admit to it. What did my personal faith ever do to you.

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   16. 72

       getitriteposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Eric,
       Your personal faith is not bothering me. It's when it is brought to a public forum. Then Im gonna tell u what I think of it. It's a simple observation to see that ur beliefs are based on nothing but indoctrination. U just refuse to accept that

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   17. 45

       Ericdierkerposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Interesting. Can't believe in God, but you believe you can read my mind and know my personal faith through the internet.

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9. 79

   Say Yes To Lifeposted 8 years ago

   Most people believe in at least one god.  In most cases, that is the way they were raised, and it never occurred to them to question it.  I was brought up that way; what changed me is having my life threatened by inadvertently joining a cult.  Leaving was easy enough; what came much harder was the slow realization that the real culprit was Christianity itself, not that particular sector.
   Cults tend to have 3 traits; they are exclusive (believing they're the only ones with the Truth), secretive (corrupt governments), and authoritarian (followers must obey without question).  Christianity itself fits all three descriptions.  They believe they're the only true religion, and even then, you must be in the "right" denomination.  Their bloody history is well known, exposing their corruption.  And followers are NEVER to question its teachings.  As for the existence of God - it's strange that an all-powerful, ever-present Being would be so indifferent regarding how His name was used.  When my life was falling apart, He could have easily fixed it, but that didn't happen.  Then I read some of the writings of Elie Wiesel, Holocaust survivor, who had a similar, but far more drastic, experience.  This is what led me to conclude either there is no God, or if there is, He is nothing like the way Christianity depicts Him.

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      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      I think Yoleen the solution lies in another form of traits, that everyone should believe what his / her inner conscious direct. The path to be followed should be void of ambiguities and  confusions, it has to inculcate a sense of satisfaction.

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   2. 0

      jonnycomelatelyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      " ...that everyone should believe what his / her inner conscious direct."
      With respect Muhammed, your words here...they do not seem to equate with your admonitions, desiring that others accept your version of God.

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   3. 76

      m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Absolutely not Alan, there is no question of any version, what inner conscience reveals restrict to that person, no one is entitled to coerce for that matter, its all about an individual's freedom to follow the conscience.

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      Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Alan it seems like you are saying it is a bad thing that one desires others to accept their version of God. What an interesting notion. Why would that be bad? Especially in a case like Muhammad where he does it without condemnation of others.

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   5. 0

      jonnycomelatelyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Eric, his entire conversation here presumes his superior knowledge of "truth."  We have seen Christians just as presumptive.   He questions why we are atheist.  His reasoning is one of the reasons.  He wants you and me converted.

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   6. 79

      Say Yes To Lifeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Actually, I believe Muhammad's motives are sincere. Most people have an innate sense of right and wrong, and desire to do what's right. That must be where the concept of God comes from. We err when we force that concept into a mold and manipulate.

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   7. 75

      Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Yoleen
      have you ever noticed how many atheists get really inspired by a sort of anti religious fervour?

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   8. 79

      Say Yes To Lifeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

      Some become enraged due to bad experiences. As a result, they launch an anti-Christian crusade. I am not angry, because I'm aware the leaders in my church taught me the best they knew how. There's a lot of good in Christianity, but it's not perfect.

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10. 60

    Link10103posted 8 years ago

    Being atheist isn't something anyone particularly aspires to be, it's more or less a natural result of being objective about what most religions attempt to sell you.

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks Link. Being objective leads to truth and it's a common belief, then how come the natural result of objectivity leads to disbelief?

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    2. 60

       Link10103posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Because there isn't any truth in something you personally cannot show to someone else, regardless of who they are, nor is there truth in something that people can't agree on and who may quite literally attempt to kill in order to get converts.

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    3. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Truth is something for which you need to resort to just a reminder, rest of the things follows thereafter. It is as if you are relating a color of an object before the one who has eyes. The heart knows the truth, you need to be just cautious enough.

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    4. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       There are different philosophical sides to the color argument actually. The ones that see color as an abstract thing of itself (that exists in a truth realm) and the ones that more or less only see it as a property or predicate to a certain subject.

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    5. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Sam, that which can be perceived is a reality, the realm of truth encompass the fathomable, to be very specific the human conscience support the fact that the reality is reality by all means, neither it can be denied nor wrongly interpreted.

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    6. 0

       jonnycomelatelyposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       In this thread, Muhammad, it seems you are trying to confirm your beliefs in your own mind.  You seem to be using others, trying to "convert" them to your understanding, in order to justify your beliefs.

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    7. 60

       Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Do not assume everyone you talk to on here is a human being. Many profiles are actually computer programs designed to confuse and confound you. Welcome to the machine

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    8. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Link
       many atheists seem incredibly inspired to relentlessly attack religion in a kind of "anti religious fervour" .

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    9. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I for instance normally enjoy philosophy. Here I click section Religion & Phil..But it's just religion, theology and then some paranormal and pseudo stuff. So these are the only discussions and often not that interesting.Will leave...

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    10. 75

        Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Philosophy evolved out of religion. Without respecting and acknowledging religion we cant appeciate  philosophy. Instead such people will use it for political purposes and hidden agendas.

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    11. 60

        Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

        @ oz- excellent point made there. I would personally rephrase it to say that science explains how we got here and religion explains why we are here. Philosophy is merely exploration of thought. Thoughts can become beliefs. Belief can become reality.

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    12. 75

        Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Joshua
        Hawking agrees with Godels Incompleteness Theorem which proves science can NEVER answer all questions. Philosophy and religion are the only means we have of understanding the whys

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11. 80

    dashingscorpioposted 8 years ago

    
    
    A person who is an atheist doesn't have to be talked into it or taught to be one they simply don't believe there is a God or Devil or that the bible and other religious doctrine are (historical facts).
    Where as churches have "Sunday School" there are no "Atheist Schools" for children. Essentially {everyone is born an atheist}.
    Many convert to religious beliefs due to parental indoctrination or association with others who share a particular faith. In other instances people turn to religion as a last resort after difficult struggles.
    Faith means believing what you are told without proof.
    If someone for example doesn't believe that God invented foreign languages because man was building a tower from earth to heaven and he wanted to confuse them... or Adam lived to be 937 years old, Noah had his first son after he was 500 years old, Samson killed 1000 men with the jawbone of a donkey, the world is only several thousands years old and not billions of years old, Jacob wrestles with God and wins, these are things atheists disbelieve using basic logic.
    Having faith means letting go of what logic tells you and just believe.
    "I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul."
    - William Ernest Henley
    Even in the bible Luke 17-21 states the following
    "... the kingdom of God is (within you)."

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       True dashingscorpio...I think difference between blind belief and, faith, has to be made clear. Even in our relationship and worldly affairs there are loads of things that we believe to be true, doesn't ask for any logic for there certification.

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       Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Wow - Luke 17:21 is very interesting. Of the different versions: Among you, within you, and in your midst. Is the "you" all of us? Is the you just us individually? Is the Kingdom in our individual hearts or is it in the communal - or both?

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    3. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Excellent Eric. In the Quran 30:30 & 75: 14-15, the same subject has been described, that man is well aware of his self and returning back to his nature is a desired turning.

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    4. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Dashing
       is this what inspires many atheist to conduct inspired crusades against religion?

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12. 91

    Sam Shepardsposted 8 years ago

    Coming from a Catholic nation that is actually more or less atheistic now. Many get baptized and do the Communion rite at age 12, because that is what people here always did, but then it more or less ends. Churches are empty and the influence of the Church in daily life and religion on people is at a serious low. Churchs being sold or rented for parties.
    
    There is not really something that inspired people to be atheist. (in the '60's parents and grandparents where fed up with the doctrine, but younger generations are free to choose now). It is that nothing really inspires them to be "believers" now that family and society is not forcing it anymore. Not being cast out for not believing in "the god" or church doctrine.
    
    For some reason the religious people I do encounter often in fierce debates seem to belief that man is inherently bad. And just place all the nice words like light and good on the god side and then argue that when someone doesn't believe in god he can't have the properties of the god side. Which is just logical hocus pocus. Since people create the dualism with concepts and categorizing the world into parts good and bad. I wouldn't say man is inherently good either, I just think it is a false distinction, it's a mental construct to make life fit. This is probably also why some non-believers are inclined to lean to some Eastern traditions that are less dualistic (emphasis on some). Which seems to spark a lot of remarks about how hypocritcal some atheists are.
    
    The Judeo-Christian tradition is very Platonic in ideas. A lot of post-modern philosophy is very Heideggerian which seems to meld better with some Eastern ideas such as Zen, Advaita Vedanta etc. So I think people could reach more atheists they relate ideas more to mysticism and sufism instead of the traditional collective doctrines and laws.
    
    In my opinion this is a good thing. Now there is room for people to actually find meaning and question their view on life. This opens the way for a new search for meaning. It can be spiritual or religious, it can be more philosophical, it can be of course nothing at all. But I really doubt that nothing at all would be the end of it. People are inclined to find meaning and 'spiritual' nourishment or some kind of view that makes life work for them and offers consolation or motivation, it doesn't always have to have a god or traditional god concept.

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    1. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Many people also just don't care. Live the world as it comes, make money and watch netflix, buy cars,... Which is for me the same as a person who goes to church because it always was like that, but never questions or reads different views...

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       Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Very interesting. It seems man is inclined toward looking for some resolution of the unknown. I wonder if we are inspired or driven. Both the theist and the atheist are looking.

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    3. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       For me philsophy and other questions became more prominent when 'all' was 'achieved'. I have a good life, but most 'normal' things don't offer me value. Questions and possible ideas make it more valuable. Understanding and connecting.

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    4. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Sam
       scientific reasons aside surely no one could deny the intense emotional fervour many atheists practice online against religion. Isn't that their true inspiration?

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    5. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I think you'll see reaction as soon as you make it more than your personal belief or opinion or when state it as a basis for  action in the world. You'll enter the realm of political opinion more or less. That will always see fierce attack...

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13. 84

    gmwilliamsposted 8 years ago

    
    
    There are many things which inspires a person to become an Atheist:
    (1) Growing up in an oppressive, repressive religious environment where strict conformity, obedience, & submission to religious dictates are required & any form of questioning is frowned upon or at its worst thought of as analogous to blasphemy. 
    (2) The nebulous quality of several organized religions, particularly the more conservative, fanatical, & fundamentalist factions where machinations aren't addressed in a logical, forthright matter with no conclusive, substantive evidence.  Everything is explained cryptically.
    (3) Being inculcated w/the premise that the physical world is inferior to the spiritual world.  Many religions expound that the physical world is a necessary evil which must be endured  & tolerated at best &/or should be avoided at the worst while the spiritual world is better, truer, & more superior in scope. There are religions that teach God isn't the master of the physical world but Satan is. 
    (4) Being inundated w/teachings that normal, physical desires are wrong &/or debased.  Many religions view sex & the issue of sexuality as an utter necessary, animalistic evil which is supposedly preordained only for generative purposes only, never for pleasure.  Many religions have a disdain for the body, viewing & teaching that it is abjectly inferior to the soul.
    (5) Growing up in an Atheist environment which logic, questioning, individuality & reason are normative aspects of life. If a child grows up in an Atheistic environment, chances are that h/she will be an Atheist as h/she is inculcated to believe & think that way.
    (6) The unhealthiness & fear generated by religion.  Many religions instill fear to their followers through negative reinforcement.  This results in people never leading full lives but lives based upon narrow precepts lest they will go to perdition if they stray from the particular narrow religious path.
    (7) The sense of powerlessness generated by religion.  Religions teach that humans are nothing & should relay upon a deity to give them substance.  Also religions also teach that religious authorities are more powerful/next to God than they are.

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Thanks gm , it seems, from all those points, the human conscience has no role to play, a person seems to be quite receptive to positive and negative religious shades, I think a person can be judgmental to accept the truth.

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       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Grace
       do you think that this turns into intense anti religious fervour? Is this what truly inspires many atheists?

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14. 86

    M. T. Dremerposted 8 years ago

    I've always described atheism as a conclusion, rather than an equivalent to religion. In other words, an atheist doesn't look through a list of beliefs and say "Atheism sounds like a good choice." It's more like walking outside and seeing that your car is wet. You didn't see the rain, but you conclude that it did rain and go about your day.

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    1. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Interesting definition Dremer, do you see any possibility of a "beginning" to the "conclusion" ?

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    2. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       M T
       sounds very scientific but can you see the enormous inspiration to attack religion on hp? Many atheists seem to get excited and inspired by anti religious fervour wouldn't you say?

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    3. 86

       M. T. Dremerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       MAJ - I suppose the beginning of said conclusion is the moment you realize there are religions other than your own.
       OZT - HP is pretty mild on both sides of this debate. If people are excited it's because HP gives a platform from which to speak.

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    4. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       M T
       there are certain atheist hubbers trying to make a living out of anti religious hubs. The vicious insulting anti religious hubs etc are ubiquitous and undeniably prominent

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    5. 86

       M. T. Dremerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       They can't be that prominent, considering they've never made it onto the home page or newsletter. And, no offense to HP, but nobody is going to make a living off of those kinds of articles.

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    6. 45

       Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Hey Oz send us a list of such infamous articles -- it would be interesting to see

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15. 60

    MichaelMcNabbposted 8 years ago

    I was inspired to become an atheist (note lowercase a) because there are no gods to which I would attribute the creation of the universe.  All of the gods imagined so far are pathetic even on human terms, much less on the scale we associate with the creator of the universe.  Think about it carefully, a jealous god, what a pathetic creature that would be.

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       McNabb just wanted to know how did you conclude that there are no gods to attribute the creation? I would be interesting to know your findings on that.

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    2. 60

       MichaelMcNabbposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Muhammad my point was clear to those who allow themselves to understand.

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    3. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Michael
       do you now get inspired attacking religion online as do many other atheists? I've rarely seen such incredible inspiration to attack.

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16. 52

    C Cazzellposted 8 years ago

    Nothing "inspires" an atheist to be an atheist, they just are. Just as those that subscribe to a religion staunchly cling to their ideas, so does the atheist. Usually atheists believe in science, evolution, and some sort of philosophical thought. Many religious texts do not support some scientific and evolutionary facts, which causes atheists to disregard them. However, many religious people do believe in science, evolution and philosophy, having a liberal view of their chosen religious texts.
    Unique ideas are what challenge us, creating a better world. Religious and non-religious people sharing their ideas peacefully will also help get us to a better place.

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    1. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Cazzell you have added an important point to our discussion, that is lack of scientific approach of religion, what does it infer then? Religion should encompass scientific and evolutionary facts or it should get merged in science?

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    2. 52

       C Cazzellposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Religious text could incorporate some scientific ideas, but many people would be unhappy at the idea of it. However scientific law was not known when these texts were written.

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    3. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       C
       we see a lot of inspiration by atheists when it comes to attacking religion don't you think? It's very prevalent all over the net.

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    4. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       In the discussion of scientific and Divine interpretations, is it necessary to demarcate the idea of being humans & Divine? As humans are with limitation of senses, how come their findings can challenge the all encompassing Divine, just a thought

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17. 82

    The Indexerposted 8 years ago

    In my case it was horror at what religion turns people into. As soon as you start saying that your religion is the correct one you immediately drive a wedge between your co-religionists and those who belong to other religions - you think that you are right and everyone else is wrong.
    
    This can lead to unspeakable violence - as has happened with Christianity in the the past and other religions now - perpetrated by people who think that people who have different beliefs have no right to live. It can also lead to Evangelism, with the awful practice followed my many Chrisitans (in particular) of insisting on the rightness of their beliefs and the wrongness of anyone else's.
    
    In other words, religion is a destructive force in the world - it destroys lives and it destroys people's ability to think and argue rationally.
    
    Religion is also unnecessary - you can lead a perfectly moral life without following a set of rules laid down centuries before for a world that no longer exists.
    
    In short, the world would be a happier and safer place if all religion disappeared tomorrow.

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    1. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       You may be right John but I wonder how come human lives be without a definite form of morals? Forget about the world, it is impossible to control even a tiny society without definite set of rules and regulations & a country without a constitution

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    2. 82

       The Indexerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       muhammad, You talk about social control  - this has much to do with why politics and religion have often gone hand in hand. The promise of rewards and threats of punishment are powerful tools in the hands of governments of all persuasions.

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    3. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       @Muhammed what are your thoughts about sharia law?

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    4. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       John
       does this turn into an obsessive inspiration to destroy all religion? Is that what drives many online atheists?

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    5. 60

       BibiLuzarragaposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I agree with John Welford, "the world would be a happier and safer place if all religion disappeared tomorrow"-Consuelo D Luzarraga (Bibi.)

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    6. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Consuelo and Welford - Visualization of a world without any religion would be interesting

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    7. 60

       Louis Rabaudposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Unfortunately in life, there are two topics of arguments that no one can win. One is politics and the other is religion. There is always one who knows best...!

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    8. 60

       Damian10posted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Most of what you say is difficult to argue with, however, we are not all so judgmental.  If we are to go by the Bible we are not supposed to judge.  We are sinners ourselves so how can one not be tolerant of another.  Mine is strong due to Him only.

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18. 97

    Thomas Swanposted 8 years ago

    I was born an atheist and I stayed that way because nothing inspired me to become religious.

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       So realistic Thomas. Then what actual are the causes for staying like that, it's been so long I think.

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    2. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       @Muhammed You could asked him why he hasn't bought a giraffe yet... You should ask for causes that would urge him to change... That's the logical way of leading the argument. You are leading him from your own not being able to understand why...

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       Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Perhaps no one forced Thomas to be religious. Perhaps he found a philosophy of his own that has allowed him to function in this world without believing in a power greater than himself. Shall religious people correct him, or shall God come on down?

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       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Thomas
       but what really really inspires you? Is it the relentless attacks on religion?

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    5. 97

       Thomas Swanposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Muhammad, I stayed an atheist (agnostic) because nothing caused me to change. The evidence wasn't there. The emotional need to invent evidence probably wasn't there either.

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       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Thomas
       are you now inspired by athiems desire to destroy religion?

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    7. 97

       Thomas Swanposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Oz, I'm inspired to provide people with scientific evidence about how religious beliefs are formed and maintained; such that they can make their own informed decisions. In this eventuality, I think the decision not to believe will become popular.

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    8. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Thomas, I think the knowledge based on human endeavors has to be differentiated from the Divine one. Science can prove a particular Divine event but all the tenets and prerequisites of faith can't be judged on the bases of man-made disciplines.

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    9. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Thomas
       have you stopped to consider the effects of trying to eradicate religion? Cultural genocide of indigenous culture for example. Tibetan religion? Science doesn't do that ignorance does.

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    10. 97

        Thomas Swanposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Oz, I wouldn't be eradicating religion. We should all have the right to live in blissful delusion if we choose. I'd merely be giving people all they need to know about how the delusion works. Then, to quote John 8:32, the truth will set you free!

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    11. 0

        PeterStipposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Exactly what I was thinking. You do not need "inspiration" to become an atheist. I too was born an atheist and stayed that way. I simply did not find the God theory plausible.

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    12. 76

        m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Thomas and Peter Srip, between blissful delusion and plausible theory of God do we have anything that can be convincing to our souls, as the state of satisfaction is one of its prime requirements?

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    13. 0

        PeterStipposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        Muhameadyou call atheism blissful delusion? Between believing in a god or gods and not believing there is something called agnosticism.
        Personally I'm inspired by science and the beauty of nature and the universe not to believe in god or gods.

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    14. 45

        Ericdierkerposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        Peter it is really cool getting into both. I do not open one door and say this is the only door. I check out the other door and inspect, observe and analyze and feel. What a closed mind when we say "Science precludes God"

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    15. 0

        PeterStipposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        As an artist I work in a field where spiritual awareness is a must. I meditate and use more then my 5 senses. I don't rationalise everything but use my intuition. I do not need a God to comunicate to. Nature is full of amazing stuff and I love it.

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    16. 75

        Oztinatoposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        Peter
        the terms spiritual, meditation, art and nature worship are all firmly rooted in religious traditions. Even the concept of a non personal God is endemic to both Hinduism and Bhuddism as well as many indigenous and alternative religions.

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    17. 0

        PeterStipposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        true Oztinato, science,religion and art where once the same thing. But not anymore. You can practise meditation, art and herbalism without being a shaman or using the God/Gods concept.

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    18. 75

        Oztinatoposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        Peter
        the god concept is and has always been very fluid. Non personal enlightenment concepts and nature worship are defiantly religious. We can claim they're not but " its six of one half a dozen of the other "

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    19. 0

        PeterStipposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        I agree with you Oz, like the Gaia concept. But I do not see nature/universe as a consciente being with a masterplan or goal. If you think nature has a conscience (perhaps on another level) then I consider them to be religious. (not a bad thing)

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19. 82

    Discordzrocksposted 8 years ago

    Something bad that happens to them when in religion.

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20. 60

    Louis Rabaudposted 8 years ago

    The various sufferings which are happening in life all around the world to-day, make people think; as whether really there is a God who allowed all these horrible things to take place. This kind of allegation is most of the time comes from the unbelievers or people who are Christians and believers of course, but they don't actually know the words of God as it should be. Everything one needs to know is in the Holy Bible.  Unfortunately! for the unbelievers, they will never know the truth. Whereas, for those who believe, they do have a chance. Sadly, many had lost their faith because allegations of this kind. And many are searching for concrete proof for the existence of God. And many put their everyday life first and God comes second. Which at the end, they lost the faculty to recognize the Truth when they see it. Which proved that their faith is not real. They are not regarded as good Christians. Here again! How could someone says that he loves God and hates his brother? Padre Pio, now St.Pio, once said, '' If you knew the power of suffering, you will never give it up! Which means, that suffering is good for our soul. And Jesus also told us about sufferings. He said to the crowds and his disciples the following: '' If you would like to be the follower of mine, renounce yourself, take up your cross and follow me!''  What Jesus and Padre Pio tried to tell us here, that Christianity is Suffering! And Suffering is the Cross and the Cross is the Key to the Kingdom of Heaven. Without the Key no one will be able to enter the kingdom of God. Why is it so difficult to enter the kingdom of Heaven? Only because we are all sinners. We can give God money in exchange for our sins. Sufferings, repentance, sacrifices and prayers are the only solutions. The sin that leads many souls to hell is the sin of the flesh. So, if men want this world to change or to stop sufferings, men need to change their way of life. Or as long as men continue to sin, sufferings will never stop. As long as men continue to sin, God won't stop sufferings. He made man is a free agent. But with that freedom comes the burden of choice. And it's up to man himself to decide what he wants. Good or evil! He can't have it both. It has to be one or the other. A man can't serve two masters. He will love one and will hate the other! Which means that one can't be good and evil at the same time.
    Thank you:
    Dr. Louis G Rabaud, Ph.D.

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       Say Yes To Lifeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       If all countries did that, there would be no place for the Syrian refugees to go to.

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       Link10103posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Kinda just sounds like:
       
       "You don't understand it like I do, unfortunately".
       
       Which basically translates to you saying your understanding is correct, while any others that differ are wrong.
       
       Those 30,000 denominations truly come as no surprise...

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Nice explanation Dr Louis, i think you need to explain the logic behind the test and trials, and also the mater of destiny, there elaboration will help us understand the actuality of the faith that is being professed.

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    4. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       You could have started and ended with because I believe these things and atheists don't. You just create duality again here. Good, bad, sad they don't know the truth,...

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    5. 60

       Ivan Todposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       The judeo/christian bible, when closely examined, reveals itself as THE greatest example ever on the effectiveness of properly applied terrorist techniques bar none. It has generated the longest lasting stockholm effect EVER with over 2bln victims.

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21. 66

    cfinposted 8 years ago

    People are atheist by default. Therefore nothing inspires them to be atheist.

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       Annsaloposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       True. We are all born without belief and in reality EVERYONE is an atheist when it comes to most of the possible gods.

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    2. 60

       Link10103posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Even theists are atheists outside of their specific religion.
       
       It's like the epitomy of irony for atheist haters...

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    3. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       cfin, if we speaks of a default mode than there is another possibility of belief, how do you justify it, please let me know

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    4. 79

       Say Yes To Lifeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I believe cfin meant the only reason people practice any particular religion is because they were taught to do so. Like speaking a language, you can't practice or believe something you know nothing about.

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    5. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Yoleen if we believe as you said it means that a person follows the dictates, then how come he find his own ways as far his intellectual and material development is concerned. Why his one aspect is subjected to dictates and other one is not?

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    6. 79

       Say Yes To Lifeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I don't understand what you mean, but what I meant is that people are Christian / Muslim / Buddhist / or none of the above based on how they're raised. If they change religions later, it's only because they were exposed to it.

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    7. 66

       cfinposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       We are born ignorant. We are born without any knowledge of religion or lack thereof. So as a default, we are all atheist. Some are inspired to be religious. But you can't be inspired to be what you are born as.

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    8. 45

       Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Interesting notion. The concept of "what is being inspired" is not so clear cut. It seems to entail something more than merely motivated. "Divinely inspired" has a good ring to it.

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    9. 69

       wrenchBiscuitposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       cfin, Perhaps you should speak for yourself. I was not born ignorant, and neither will I die in such a condition.

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        Link10103posted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Then you are the sole exception apparently Wrench.
        
        Aren't you special...

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    11. 69

        wrenchBiscuitposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Yes, I am special. But I am not the sole exception. Neither am I afflicted with a low self-esteem that makes me contemptuous of those above my station, or who command a talent that I do not possess.

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    12. 60

        Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Rock On Ronnie!

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    13. 85

        Annsaloposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        NO ONE is born with any religious belief!!! We are ALL born ignorant to almost everything except mom's nipple, and even that sometimes!

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    14. 60

        Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

        I would go beyond that, Annsalo, to say that we are all born knowing the truth and spend the rest of our lives trying to wake up our parents, while our children try to wake us up

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    15. 45

        Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Annsalo, how would one empirically prove your position. Is knowledge only that which can be communicated through language? The only thing we really know about the youngest mind is that it does not think yet as we do.

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    16. 85

        Annsaloposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        I would say considering all the parts of the world without religion is proof. None of use believed anything until taught. I didn't. I don't think there is anyone who can prove they did.

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    17. 45

        Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Annsalo, you are right, proof is absent. Science just has not yet developed far enough to know what an infant believes. I do understand that that part of the brain where belief comes from is active in an infant. We just don't know what about.

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    18. 60

        Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Eric, science alone will NEVER be able to answer that question. What did you think about as an infant? REMEMBER

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    19. 45

        Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Joshua it is quite funny that you say "science will never". Will man ever learn to stop limiting the possibilities of knowledge?

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    20. 66

        cfinposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Ronnie be trippin', yo!

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    21. 60

        Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

        be careful taking my words out of context, Eric. I wrote that science ALONE will never... What good is having all of the knowledge in the universe if there is no CONSCIOUS user to direct it? That would make you a robot. What animates you?

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    22. 75

        Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        Cfin
        many of them get awfully inspired to attack religion online. Is Dawkins inspired?

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    23. 88

        MizBejabbersposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        I relate to what Ronnie WrenchBiscuit said. I was born with a feeling, not a knowledge. I tried to find it in church. I've been accused of being an atheist because I left the church, but I still believe that we are all part of a universal creation.

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    24. 60

        Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

        @MizB You are most correct. Now understand this: the bible is not about THE God, but about the 'God' of humanity. All humans creations of that God and many humans are literal children of that God.

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    25. 56

        RedRyuposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        This is trivially true. A chair is an atheist as well, that doesn't mean anything.

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22. 86

    sparksterposted 8 years ago

    I think a lot of it is due to classic science and psychology, both of which are now becoming outdated. Also, the way that certain discoveries have been suppressed. I do believe that quantum physics and transpersonal psychology are very close to figuring this out and it appears very much related to belief systems. Skepticism and lack of evidence is pushed on society through mainstream channels and open-mindedness and free thought are discouraged.  Quantum science is indicating that we as observers create our own reality - call it God-consciousness, the Collective Unconscious, the Oversoul or the Superconscious or whatever. The name doesn't matter, it's been uncovered by mamy great geniuses throughout time. Parapsychology and Mesmerism also prove it yet Anomalous psychology and parascience attempt to explain it (badly) whereas transpersonal psychology is almost the same thing and is taken more seriously. From the Holy Spirit to Panpsychism and on to animal magnetism, orgone energy, aether and even biocentricity, it all suggests the same thing - that consciousness is universal (the Holy Spirit).

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23. 88

    Virginia Allainposted 8 years ago

    For me, it became harder and harder to believe in a God who was the punitive deity so many fundamentalist groups supported. Although I grew up in a church-going family, I came to realize that organized religions just didn't make sense.
    I'm in my 60s now and totally turned off by how religion rules the lives of people I know (and tries to rule the government too).

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       That something startling Virginia, the aspect need to be dealt in detail as how an organized religion does not make any sense?

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       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Virginia
       the question is about inspiration. Does attacking religion inspire many atheists? It certainly seems to on the net.

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       Louis Rabaudposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Hi! Virginia!
       Sorry to intrude! A good religion is very demanding. Specially Christianity. The Congregation founded by Jesus Himself. Another word for Christianity is Suffering. But there is no obligation to it. It's your choice.

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    4. 60

       Ivan Todposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       People didn't develop and evolve to the highest order of earthly life just to "suffer" at the will of an E.T. Mankind has been subjugated by religion and it has stunted our psychological and social growth. If we must have religion make it Humanism.

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24. 60

    sacredknowledgeposted 8 years ago

    The lack of knowledge. Science itself proves the existence of God. This is the secret that mainstream Scientists already know, but choose to keep it from the masses.
    
    However, the truth is in plain sight, and NON ONE is stopping an Atheist from finding out.

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    1. 60

       Link10103posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       So...scientists know but shun the truth from everyone.
       
       Yet the truth is visible and available to all.
       
       So the scientists are idiots then?

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    2. 60

       sacredknowledgeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Link
       
       Pretty much most of them are. Dr. John Hagelin and Dr. David Hawking can explain more on how we have the evidence for the existence of an intelligent designer.
       
       Dr. John Hagelin is a Quantum Physicist by the way.

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    3. 85

       Annsaloposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I always find it funny when someone clings to the FEW scientists who agree with the concept of a god, while ignoring the majority who disagree with the concept. And by plain site do you mean all the ppl dying,kids starving, countries being wiped out?

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    4. 60

       sacredknowledgeposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Ann,
       
       But the majority of science knows that something is out there. They just choose to protect their credentials and reputation. This is why many Atheists Scientists are coming out denouncing Atheism.

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    5. 69

       wrenchBiscuitposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Once a majority agreed with slavery. Once a majority supported the war in Iraq. MVC's kill over 40,000 annually in the U.S., but the majority still drive automobiles. Golly Gee, just hit me in the head with a hammer! Go with the majority? No thanks!

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    6. 60

       Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       That is exactly why America is NOT a democracy, Ronnie. America is a republic. And science DOES prove the existence of God. You have to get into quantum mechanics to discover that and who God really is.

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    7. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Lack of knowledge is caertainly a cause but the real inspiration comes from attacking religion in a crusader manner. This is all over hp and the net.

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    8. 72

       getitriteposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Scientific theories are at odds with religion. There is no evidence supporting the existence of a god. Unless you have some groundbreaking new evidence, then you have nothing to support your assertions, thereby making them mere whimsical conjecture.

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    9. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Getrite
       try reading about Kurt Godels God Theorem. Godel was Einsteins persinally anointed successor. This is denied only by atheists.

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    10. 0

        PeterStipposted 8 years agoin reply to this

        This is a conspiracy statement without proof.
        I could also say :
        Scientist knows of the existence of a country ruled by elves on the North Pole but choose to keep it a secret from the masses being afraid for their reputation!!!

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    11. 60

        Damian10posted 7 years agoin reply to this

        Sacred,
        They would have to disregard all history and archaeology including the Tel Dan Inscription, The Pilate Stone, Writings of Tacitus ( a Non Christian ), not to mention all of the prophesy in the Bible.  How exactly does one do that?

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25. 60

    Joshua 33posted 8 years ago

    A lack of understanding the true nature of God
    
    Over the centuries, many have used knowledge for inappropriate reasons. So many have been lied to and misled and even abused by clergy, that some people find it easier to decide there is no God.

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    1. 60

       Link10103posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       What exactly is preventing the people that think they know the truth from being lied to and misled as well?

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    2. 60

       Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       The pursuit of truth itself. What are you up to, Link? How much truth do you have to share with us?

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    3. 60

       Link10103posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       So the pursuit of truth makes you immune from being lied to and misled?
       
       Does that apply to anyone, or just to those that agree?

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    4. 60

       Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       No. I am just as lied to and misled as everyone else.
       
       For instance, I am now having a conversation with some sort of abstract object named Link10103

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    5. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Joshua, Link, let us settle down on one issue, let us discuss what is the right way of knowing the truth, is it possible by own self or do we need an external agency to know what the truth is?

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    6. 60

       Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       In my humble opinion, Muhammad, there are as many ways of knowing truth as there are observers of truth. The truth that I know is the truth that I have explored. What is absolutely true is that all that exists is now. Right now.

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    7. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Joshua, Does that truth put you always in a state of satisfaction?

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    8. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Many seem to gain a weird inspiration from attacking religion. No one can honestly deny this.

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    9. 57

       OutWestposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       so true Joshua.  so many atheists have an impression of what they think God is, as compared to what some believers believes God to be

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26. 72

    Titen-Sxullposted 8 years ago

    - Lack of empirical evidence for the supernatural or god(s) and thus lack of justification for belief
    
    - Lack of well-reasoned logical arguments for the supernatural or god(s)
    
    - The fact that organised religion, particularly fundamentalist strains of it, tends to hold back moral and societal progress sometimes engaging in harmful, bigoted or discriminatory actions (ie female circumcision, terrorism, discrimination or violence against homosexuals, etc). This fact suggests that there is no benevolent God handing down good moral precepts via religion.

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    1. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Titen
       but what really "inspires" them is  to relentlessly attack religion. Certain atheists spend 99% percent of their online time doing it. They must be very inspired

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    2. 72

       Titen-Sxullposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       See that final paragraph about the way religions hold back society? If the world would be a better place with less religion, or at least less fundamentalism, & there's no good reason to believe in God then it's worth arguing against religion/thei

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    3. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       That's what the atheist inspiration is? Destroying religion equals cultural genocide for indigenous people. What about Tibetan culture?

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    4. 83

       Philanthropy2012posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       @Oztinato,
       
       What inherent value is there in culture?
       
       If something amounts to culture it must necessarily be protected? What about bad culture?
       
       Could the value of Tibet not remain or manifest otherwise, without religion?

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    5. 45

       Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       That is a cool question as to the intrinsic value or a set doctrine. Does Tibet already live in my home. Extinction of an idea? Can there be a cultural obliteration of a concept? Are the precepts of a "religion" and physical manifestations important?

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    6. 75

       Oztinatoposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       DK
       to try to eradicate entire religious cultures is the preoccupation of materialists, boors and facists. In many temples in China men are paid to pretend to be monks for tourists. Hollowing out religion is perverse.

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27. 52

    N S Nandalposted 8 years ago

    Discovery of pain and misery who makes them worst to us, and how we come out from that state, answer to these questions drag a person to become an agheist

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    1. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       But this about what really inspires them. There is only one answer: many of them get really inspired about attacking religion with stereotypes

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    2. 91

       Sam Shepardsposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       A lot of people on these forums are also digital stereotypes. Some see less or no attack, others will get a lot of flack you'll often see why just from reading what and how they write.

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    3. 60

       Damian10posted 7 years agoin reply to this

       NS
       
       Not always though.  For a year and a half I have had MS and I can honestly say that all it has done is shown me more and more that I am blessed.  I just become more humbled.

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28. 69

    wrenchBiscuitposted 8 years ago

    I have given this particular question much thought over the years , and I have decided that an atheist could very well be a soulless, physical entity. This would explain why they don't believe, as they are functional biological machines only created to perform certain tasks. I am reminded of the tragic tale of the replicants in the 1982 movie "Blade Runner".
    
    It has always been the popular notion among theists to assume that everyone is created with an immortal  soul. But we can understand that the world is full of haves, and have not's. People are born blind, deaf, crippled, and crazy. And many who are considered "normal" still cannot compose like Thelonius Monk, theorize like Einstein, or lead like Tecumseh, or Malcolm X. To suggest everyone has a soul seems to go against the natural order.
    
    I have known about God, or a divine force since before I could speak. What I have learned through various religions over the years has only reinforced what I already knew, or revealed the foolishness of religious fanatics.

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    1. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Ronnie, If soul is believed to be immortal than why is that we have states of satisfaction and confusion? Why is that we tend to appreciate the good and condemn the bad. I think the soul is being missed with its link to the very nature.

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    2. 69

       Aime Fposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       What about those who believed before but then became atheists? Did they lose their soul? Or those who started to believe late in life, did they randomly gain one?

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    3. 69

       wrenchBiscuitposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       A soul may not necessarily be a prerequisite for morality. Neither do physical emotions preclude, or affirm the presence of an immortal soul.

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    4. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Ronnie, If morality can be depicted through life means the soul has a say, if a person is dead, so is an end to morality, I think the characters of a person make him either mortal or immortal, and soul has a definite say here.

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    5. 0

       PeterStipposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       ????!!!!!????
       What is a soul in the first place?

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    6. 60

       Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       A soul is a memory file. It is a collection of memories. The souls of your ancestors are contained in your DNA and memories you collect are passed down to your children through your DNA. If you have no children, your death is your completion.

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    7. 0

       PeterStipposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I do not think memories are past on through the DNA. I do not remember what my grandfather did when he was a kid.
       I think what you are is more a comination of DNA and personal experience.

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    8. 60

       Joshua 33posted 8 years agoin reply to this

       @ Peter the question was about what a soul is... Not a spirit. If you would like to know about your grandfather, ask him...
       
       Hint hint...

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29. 58

    jerrycarmanposted 8 years ago

    It is the way other believers act in society it will make anybody an atheist.

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       Ericdierkerposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       I wish that were not the case but it is probably true. I just cannot imagine choosing something so important because of other people. But I guess many people live that way.

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       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Jerry
       does this inspire many atheists to take up a cross for anti religious sentiments? Many seem truly inspired in this cause

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    3. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Jerry, if the attitude of other believers is a cause for the disbelief then what are the chances of accepting the positive attitudes of the believers?

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    stuff4kidsposted 8 years ago

    Common sense, moral philosophy, anthropological, historical and scientific research are a pretty safe bet at getting a good result.

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    1. 75

       Oztinatoposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Amanda
       all theses things Evolved out of religion. Anthroplogy alone proves this emphatically. All science originally evolved out of religion as well.

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       jgshorebirdposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Littlejohn, Oztinato is wrong. Mankind needs to unshackle itself from the Gods. Science is the opposite of faith.

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       What are the ways of unshackling from God jgshorebird?

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    jun gohainposted 8 years ago

    A person is inspired to be a atheist due to various reasons. Most importantly the society,the society influences a lot in ones life. He/she may hear various opinions from other atheist and slowly it creates thoughts in his mind. Moreover he/she may be inspired from his experiences or you can say his parents. For example , if parents are very devoted but always they faces problems in their lives. The child will start a feeling of disbelief in the almighty.
    A short answer

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       gohain, in both the cases the intellect of a person seems to be under influence. if it is true, then how come he remain an atheist, why not other thoughts inspire him to go for that?

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32. 0

    haniffaiza48posted 8 years ago

    when a person gets confused by different religious ideologies and beliefs,he chooses to be an atheist.but it's not good.he should be gripped to some religion

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33. 0

    PeterStipposted 8 years ago

    I've never been religious, from birth on I was an atheist. So in a way nothing really inspired me to be an atheist. I simply am. There is no motive, it's simply that I do not believe in the God theory. To me the existence of a God sounds alien.
    Why do we need a God in the first place ?
    I can understand that there was a time that we needed a God to explain how the world worked. God created deseases, plagues and earthquakes. He sent rain and thunder, let people die and gave life.
    Now we know the real causes of deseases,plagues and earthquakes. We can predict the weather and understand how life comes into being and why we die. All the reasons we once had to have need for a God became obsolete with modern science.
    I know what's right and what's wrong without ever having read a holy book. I've never read the book of law of my country either but I know I'm in trouble when I steal something.(and get caught)
    All in all I've never felt attracted to the God theory, it was to simplistic for me.

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       OutWestposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       from birth? lol  But science reveals God's character.  It does not deny it

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    2. 0

       PeterStipposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Every baby,child is an atheist because it has never learned the concept of an existence of a god just as it never has heard about the president of the United States.  Everybody is born an atheist

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       OutWestposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       i would say a baby is neutral.  being unaware either way.  are you saying atheism is not a choice?

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       Link10103posted 7 years agoin reply to this

       If someone doesn't have the concept of a god, then they're atheist.
       
       That IS the neutral position.

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    5. 57

       OutWestposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       An atheist is choosing not to believe.  Are you saying you do not make a decision about not believing.  Then maybe you need to choose

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       Link10103posted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Again, people who lack concepts of God's, like babies, are by default atheists (aka, neutral). In their case, there is no choice.
       
       I make the decision not to believe because there is nothing that exists to make me believe without being dishonest.

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    7. 57

       OutWestposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       I guess i just see it 3 ways.  Atheists make a conscious decision not to believe for whatever reason. The second is neutral.  True neutral because the person/baby is unaware of  there being a choice.  And third is believing.

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    8. 60

       Link10103posted 7 years agoin reply to this

       The true neutral stance is to say "I don't/can't know for certain". You don't take the stance that a God exists, but you don't assert that one doesn't either.
       
       Which is what Agnostic Atheism is.

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    9. 0

       PeterStipposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       I agree with Link. True Neutral is Neither Atheist nor Believer, you're agnostic. A Baby/child is an Atheist without actual choice, there is no God concept.

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    10. 57

        OutWestposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        As if a baby can make the decision. Lol

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    11. 97

        Thomas Swanposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        If someone doesn't believe in a god, they're an atheist. All people are born atheists because no-one is born believing in gods. Later, some people choose to not believe. They're atheists too because they don't believe in gods either.

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    12. 57

        OutWestposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        that's your belief

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    13. 60

        Link10103posted 7 years agoin reply to this

        No, West, that's not a belief, otherwise we would all believe in the same God at birth with no exceptions.
        
        You seem to stop caring when you disagree with something, saying "that's just your belief" doesn't automatically make it wrong you know.

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        Titen-Sxullposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        Atheism is defined as disbelief or lack of belief in god(s). Now in addition to that we have anti-theism, which are atheists who actively believe the world would be a better place without theism. That is who most believers complain about.

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    15. 57

        OutWestposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        If you think a baby consiously chooses to be an atheist in that they are aware there is a choice as uou and i know then i say that is what you believe to be true. Makes me
        Laugh how you need to be right instead of acknowledging a persons point

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    16. 69

        wrenchBiscuitposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        I find it amusing that people keep insisting that babies don't beliece in God. I've known God since before I was born. A lack of perception only proves that one is either blind, or an empty vessel.

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    17. 72

        Titen-Sxullposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        Technically all children do start out as atheists from birth, God beliefs are pressed onto people later. This is why they correspond so strongly to the culture and religious climate where you were born rather than being universally the same.

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    18. 45

        Ericdierkerposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        Really interesting. Atheist = browbeaten into a way. Believer = enticed. "you must!" = rebellion. I love = enticement. I think we say "don't believe", that must be taught also.

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    19. 60

        Link10103posted 7 years agoin reply to this

        West, you are the only person to have asserted that babies are making an active choice to be atheist, due to whatever misconception you have about what atheists really are.
        
        Are you even reading what's being said?

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    20. 0

        PeterStipposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        Ronnie, you are a miracle. remembering the concept of God the first second you saw the light.
        correction. before you saw the light you saw the light.

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    21. 69

        wrenchBiscuitposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        Peter, I also remembered I was hungry.

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    22. 97

        Thomas Swanposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        "If you think a baby consiously chooses to be an atheist" .... No-one is saying they choose. Atheism is the lack of a belief in gods. Babies are not born believing in gods, therefore they lack belief, therefore they're atheists. It's not a choice.

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        Oztinatoposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        How utterly ridiculous!
        All early prehistoric peoples were once babies and they formulated theories about God before any books were written etc. Think about it.

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    24. 0

        PeterStipposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        If babies right out of the whomb believe in a God/Gods then I guess other animals believe in God too.

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    25. 97

        Thomas Swanposted 7 years agoin reply to this

        "All early prehistoric peoples were once babies and they formulated theories about God" - While they were babies? Those are some intelligent babies!

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34. 54

    Oya SA Ysovproverposted 8 years ago

    In terms of maturity levels and higher planes of consciousness, Atheists are 75% whole - i.e.: wh-o-l-e - h-o-l-y - holy.
    Theists and all religionists are only 12% - 25% on the way to be whole.
    
    It’s not a question of inspiration, it’s a ‘Matter’ of evolution.
    It’s a ‘Matter’ of the evolution of the soul in consciousness.
    As humans beings we are both the ’fodder’ & the ‘matter’, evolving from ‘the ugly duckling’ into 'a beautiful swan’ or 'the beautiful swan'.
    
    A new born baby has much to learn, say - (gurgle) - & do in it’s first 12 months of life - is that super human intelligence or the revelation of a higher evolved consciousness - which is either tamed or killed off by families & their belief systems in culture, religion & tradition?
    
    The skin cells we shed evolves & turns to dust. Dead flesh evolves & becomes part of the food chain. Even a concrete building doesn’t stay the same, it evolves into decay over a period of time.
    
    I see all religions/world religions, their followers, theists etc, as still in the child development stages of infancy, i.e. 0-2 yrs old, where everything has to be repeatedly explained & simplified, where adults have to be told in writing how to behave/how not to behave. THB - (The Holy Bible) - or Quran etc, is the machinations of part drama & a movie mix,  part entertaining stories of magic, miracles, mysteries & myths & part ‘true entertainment of factual news of historicity.
    with much entertainment. There are family gatherings & large PR celebrity events, with supporting Acts in the performing artistry of dance music, musical instruments, poetry & song.
    
    ‘Atheists’ are the ‘higher echelons’ of society, because they have ‘aspired’ to evolve themselves & move on to satisfy the subconsciousness of the soul rather than continue to satisfy the ego & pride of the psyche. Whether they got there by bad or good experiences is irrelevant, they graduated & got there is what counts. They do not need to be told by a book or a god to ‘love thy neighbour as thyself’, not to steal, not to kill, not to lie, not to ‘covet’ thy neighbours ’spouse’ etc,
    
    Atheists are no longer the suckling babes or dependents reliant upon a book or a god, because that part of an Atheists life has past.
    
    
    ThanQ!

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       What is the progress of that journey of evolution, and how do they satisfy their subconsciousness of the soul are the points demand an explanation from you Oya

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       Oya SA Ysovproverposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Being true to oneself is key witness to our lives. ‘When you know the truth, the truth will set you free’. When you are free, the soul's need to belong to &/or attend a church, group or religion becomes less justifiable & a more satisfactory

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35. 69

    Taylor Pecaposted 8 years ago

    I became an atheist because I was sent to a Catholic school since kindergarten, and one day, after years of doubting the incredulous stories we were taught in religion class (straight from the Bible), I woke up and realized it was all bull. In my opinion, religion is an outlet for a weak mind or a brainwashed cave we shove children into before their minds are developed enough to make the decision on their own. I don't knock people who believe in a god(s), however, I have always seen it as something that causes hate, war, imbalance, and most importantly a prevention of scientific developments. So, that said, I was "inspired" to become an atheist because even when I was a little kid, I thought the Bible stories were very far-fetched. My mother was a Christian, but she never really believed in God. She always told me not to call myself an atheist, because people will judge me (or think I'm a Satanist or whatever they want to call me), but I did anyway for two main reasons. 1) I didn't care what people thought, I was proud of my beliefs just as any religious person might. 2) A was NOT a Christian, and I find Christian practices and beliefs very silly, and I did not want people to think me a silly person. I'm sorry if my opinion offends you in any way, but I was asked my opinion, and here it is. I have no hate for religion, just simply a disbelief. Thanks for reading!

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36. 92

    Chriswillman90posted 8 years ago

    A different view of a world I was raised in. I'd like to believe in a higher power however I'm an agnostic and need concrete evidence especially as science continues to advance rapidly.

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    womenshealthguideposted 8 years ago

    
    
    They don't want to do anything, laziness

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38. 62

    bayartsposted 8 years ago

    Each person's belief system is based on that individual's perspective according to his or her own experiences, responses and reactions to life.  No person outside of that realm can define or even explain  why people choose to believe what they believe.  One may be "inspired" to become an atheist.  It is possible.  However, I suggest the answer lies in a process of elimination.  When things do not coincide with the truth, when inconsistencies and observations of hypocrisy in the religious system appear, then people are more likely to seek an alternative.

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       m abdullah javedposted 8 years agoin reply to this

       Stacy, if hypocrisy in religious system is compelling to seek an alternative than why not one ends with a faith better than that? If not does it mean that there is nothing like truth in the world?

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39. 59

    bilaskhanposted 8 years ago

    When a person think about the world deeply then may become Atheist.

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       Shehzad Mukhtarposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Exactly

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    Shaan.Sposted 7 years ago

    What all things makes you a non-atheist ???
    
    There is reason for anything.. !!! Not believing anything blindly can make anyone an Atheist.
    
    For almost everyone Religion just happens when you are a kid... You are born with that. What makes you an atheist is when you start asking questions. It can ofcourse make you one of the most wanted criminal according to any religion.
    
    Be a good person... Rather than being in some particular so called groups.

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41. 69

    generation359posted 7 years ago

    For me, it was the sense of abandonment and betrayal.
    
    I lost my faith soon after I was diagnosed with severe depression, and by that time, I'd been dealing with similar feelings for close to six months. I just don't understand why, if God loves me so much, that I had prayed every night and turned up empty - that he would leave me to ache like that. I prayed for just one time where I could say "I'm fine" and mean it. When you see people praying to God for something like "Get me out of finals" and seeing their prayers answered... it really does some serious damage to one's faith.

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       Louis Rabaudposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Eliza! why you think Jesus endured so much sufferings and died on the cross.He did it for us sinners as a role model. He knows what you're going through. Here again, why stop something which is good for your sole?

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    2. 76

       m abdullah javedposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Eliza, your detachment reveals your intense attachment, if it is so then why don't you continue your search for the truth instead of abandoning the process of searching and abiding by the truth?

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42. 0

    Yash Daivposted 7 years ago

    To put up a very practical answer, I believe, one incident is enough to trigger atheism. Lets say for instance, a person who was wishing for a miracle in a (life or death?) situation. It is just this human tendency, to rely on forces unseen, worship and then expect returns. Whenever this doesn't happen - an atheist is born. This strictly my opinion. I love what people have said other wise

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       m abdullah javedposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Yash you mean to say if miracle doesn't happen a person becomes atheist, it means those who are sticking to their religions are doing so because they have seen the miracles, isn't it?

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    2. 0

       Yash Daivposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       No no, not all religious people have seen miracles that would be absurd. But yes, if a person, some person, is hoping for some miracle and if it doesn't happen then he/she tends to blame god. Dont you feel so?

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       m abdullah javedposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       More than miracle I think Yash, comfort of the heart matters a lot as it pertains to every day of life.

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       Ericdierkerposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Interesting. Today my young son and I examined some bugs in nature. We enjoy the science and classify insects and look at defenses and impact. But we look for and find the miracle in them. Miracles are everyday - just look.

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    5. 0

       Yash Daivposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Muhammad - comfort of the heart, certainly yes
       
       But what Eric says is true as well
       
       We just need a context to put everything in place I think!

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       m abdullah javedposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Yash, If it is that context, it need to be constant and a source of inspiration.

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43. 91

    goatfuryposted 7 years ago

    Reality.  A better question would be:  what inspires someone to pick one particular religion out of literally thousands of the variations and suggest that their particular sect is the one that's right?

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       Ericdierkerposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Maybe revelation. Could it actually be the touch of the hand of God that inspires some believers?

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    Stella Kayeposted 7 years ago

    Realising the lack of respect that the world's religions have for one another is all the inspiration anyone needs to become an atheist. Atheists are appalled by the constant conflict brought about by religion and are happy to play no part in it. However one could argue that this is more a disillusionment with humanity than with God.

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       Ericdierkerposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Hey Stella it is really cool that Christians disagree with Christians and Atheists disagree with atheists. Constantly looking and reaching for more is so human and it is great we get that by questioning each other.

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    RedRyuposted 7 years ago

    There is no simple answer to this question.
    
    Limiting it down seems to dumb down what could be a multitude of reasons.
    
    I would say inspire is not a good word to use here since I find inspire to be more related to thinking of new ideas. Maybe in one way you could call it inspire but I find it to be a bad word to use for this question.
    
    Like I said, there a number of reasons. They don't find the idea of religion to be likely. Bad experiences with religion from one way or another. Being raised in a household that doesn't support it.
    
    Those are just a few examples but more or less, it's not a simple answer to something like this.
    
    You could flip this around on religious folk and it would also be not as simple.

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46. 57

    Beege215eposted 7 years ago

    I am not an Atheist, but I am also not a theist.  I do not believe in the rights and rituals of organized religion.  God and religion are two very different things.   Religion is a Man made thing.  To be for God and against religion is to me a very intelligent place to be. Religion has rules, rites, and rituals that are so unnecessary when you are reaching out to God. To me it does not matter what words you use when you speak to God, It matters only that you speak.  When you listen to God, you listen with your heart.  Saying a particular "prayer" before meals, or before bed is a religious thing. And most humans become inured to the actual meaning, they just speak the words from memory.  Because some man said they must use that "prayer".  Religion is a man's control over man, woman and child, bringing fear and confusion about God.  Mystery of religion sort of thing.  There needs to be no mystery.  Come to think about it a bit more and I guess I am an atheist.  But I am a Deist and I like God just fine.

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       Scotty Davidsonposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Geez reading your comment even almost makes me believe in God.

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       skperdonposted 7 years agoin reply to this

       Beege215e I like your spirit! Being true to your self is the spirit of atheism itself.

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47. 58

    Barbara Gabrielliposted 7 years ago

    Having religion forced down your throat when you believe differently that someone else.

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48. 57

    OutWestposted 7 years ago

    There is no inspiration.  If they were inspired they would not be atheists.  Of course why they find nothing inspiring in this life, world or universe is more curious

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49. 61

    Allen_BOYposted 7 years ago

    The simple annoyance of being "too" sure that there is one

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    Damian10posted 7 years ago

    I had read on here about one incident triggering atheism but I would contend that one incident could also trigger faith and belief.
    
    Way back in 1967 my Dad was taken sick with Hodgkins Lymphoma.  The hospital and the doctors gave up on him and he was sent home to die.  I was a year old at the time.  He went down to 80 lbs, was very weak and was bed ridden.  I cannot tell you how many times he received the last rites ... numerous times.  All that we had left was prayer.  So we prayed and prayed.  Dad was sick for two years and it looked like he would not make it.  Before I could walk or talk I learned to pray.  Eventually, Dad got better and even went back to work.  God had a different plan in mind.  He lived another 15 years and my parents always did their best to pay it forward.  So for me faith is as real as it ever gets.  God loves us in fact so much that He gave us Jesus.  Why He would show a wretch and knucklehead like myself His amazing power is beyond me.   I only get more and more humble as I come to the realization of His love.  I am a Christian.  I can only pray for anyone who has not found God.  He is right there whether we know it or not.
    
    God bless you guys ... Believers and Non believers alike.

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