Why do atheists spend so much time discussing a so called non-entity?

1. 67

   bstiltner77posted 10 years ago

   Why do atheists spend so much time discussing a so called non-entity?
   
   I would love a genuine answer to this question. I realize the tendency will be for some to make an attempt to toss out a few philosophical statements and for others to pose a question about my own personal beliefs. However, my question is based upon a personal belief that God has placed eternity in every person's heart...in the sense that we all innately have a conscious awareness of the existence of God. It is for this reason that I believe many Atheists occupy their time in forums, writing books, posing questions, and engaging in arguments. Nevertheless, I would love to hear from you!

   replyreport
2. 85

   jlongrcposted 10 years ago

   Atheists/agnostics see their finite experience on Earth being tarnished by people that are narrow-minded and believe they possess absolute knowledge.  Furthermore, they see people that deserve better wasting their finite life worrying about imaginary things that are more often hurtful than useful.

   replyreport
   1. 67

      bstiltner77posted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Interesting perspective...If what you are saying is true, I wonder if those who hold such a position recognize that the claim of "God does not exist" is equally a claim of absolute knowledge. Very thought provoking...thanks!

      replyreport
   2. 84

      M. T. Dremerposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Atheists do not claim certainty there is no god. They state that evidence suggests there is no god. They see the chances as 99:1 unlike agnostics who see it as 50:50. Theists claim with certainty that god does exist.

      replyreport
3. 0

   Motown2Chitownposted 10 years ago

   Some discuss the issue because it can be interesting, because they can come to a better understanding of another person's point of view, because they like to argue, because they're trying to keep us from living what they feel is a delusion.  Some discuss it in response to others who ask them questions - for the same reasons noted above.
   
   In essence, it's an interesting topic.  It is entirely a fictional one for the atheist, in that god does not exist and therefore nothing related to him has ultimate value.  BUT,  fiction isn't uninteresting.  That's what I think.  I'm not an atheist, so I can't assure you that what I've said is the truth of it, but I've known quite a few with whom I've engaged in some of the most fascinating God conversations that I've ever had.
   
   That's my take. 

   replyreport
   1. 67

      bstiltner77posted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Great perspective... The kind of insight I was looking for.

      replyreport
4. 84

   M. T. Dremerposted 10 years ago

   Most of the time, I discuss god (as an atheist) because someone asks me a question about my atheism. Questions like, what if atheists are wrong? Where do atheist's morals come from? Or what about miracles? My ultimate goal, as an atheist, is to spread awareness of what my beliefs really are. We're one of the least trusted groups in America and are often portrayed as the villainous enemies of Christianity. I would very much like to dispel those stereotypes. In order to do so, however, a discussion must happen with theists, who are the most likely to hear and spread those stereotypes. It's kind of like, if I was gay, that would not define who I was, but because so many people don't understand it, I would spend a great deal of time explaining, and defending, that part of me. Acceptance of the LGBT community is getting considerably better as time passes, and my hope is that acceptance of atheism will follow a similar track.

   replyreport
   1. 67

      bstiltner77posted 10 years agoin reply to this

      M.T. Dreamer....well spoken. Admittedly, you and I disagree on nearly every point of belief; however, I greatly respect those who are able to engage in sincere conversation.

      replyreport
5. 0

   Deepes Mindposted 10 years ago

   From my perspective, there are some that find it to be an interesting topic of discussion because it allows them to gain more understanding of how others believe. There are also those who are truly seeking evidence for God because religion is so prevalent in today's society. Of course, you have those who debate because they like to stir things up because they get a kick out of seeing believers get angry to the point to where they act in a manner that is outside of what their religion teaches. Of course, as someone else stated, they think that believers are delusional and are trying to help them get past what is seen as a delusion.

   replyreport