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May. 3rd, 2005 10:20 amBelieving in God is like believing in a teapot orbiting Mars(?) (seen posted by ![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
kadath. You may need a "day pass" to Salon.)
You might find the above article offensive or extreme. I would concede that some spiritual traditions (if not belief programming) are not an unqualified "waste of time." They might be a waste of time for ME but not someone else, or have valuable elements. However, I'd say there is absolutely no need to 'respect' any article of faith, ritual or tradition by leaving it unexamined/unquestioned. Also, I think Dawkins attributes ills to religion that have other major roots, but it's kind of a chicken/egg thing. I'm going to refrain from other comment on the article. (Except to say that I like how he points out that a feeling of awe or reverence for nature does not invalidate nor is it incompatible with being atheist.)
I think everyone is aware that I am an atheist. I do not and will not call myself an agnostic. I don't require anyone to respect my "belief system" - frankly I don't think it constitutes one. Respect (or don't) the choices made by the person.
Screening all comments, probably to remain hidden, because this subject has always gotten touchy. Don't assume you're the 'target' because this issue comes up with a LOT of people with whom I interact, from Catholics I can't offend at work by merely mentioning my atheism, to people I think are excessively credulous about certain alternative medical treatments (I do think some have been shown useful).
kadath. You may need a "day pass" to Salon.)You might find the above article offensive or extreme. I would concede that some spiritual traditions (if not belief programming) are not an unqualified "waste of time." They might be a waste of time for ME but not someone else, or have valuable elements. However, I'd say there is absolutely no need to 'respect' any article of faith, ritual or tradition by leaving it unexamined/unquestioned. Also, I think Dawkins attributes ills to religion that have other major roots, but it's kind of a chicken/egg thing. I'm going to refrain from other comment on the article. (Except to say that I like how he points out that a feeling of awe or reverence for nature does not invalidate nor is it incompatible with being atheist.)
I think everyone is aware that I am an atheist. I do not and will not call myself an agnostic. I don't require anyone to respect my "belief system" - frankly I don't think it constitutes one. Respect (or don't) the choices made by the person.
Screening all comments, probably to remain hidden, because this subject has always gotten touchy. Don't assume you're the 'target' because this issue comes up with a LOT of people with whom I interact, from Catholics I can't offend at work by merely mentioning my atheism, to people I think are excessively credulous about certain alternative medical treatments (I do think some have been shown useful).
