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Old 11-16-2010, 04:54 PM   #405
onetwo_threefour
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But again, most atheists, myself included, have no problem with others believing in God, it is the overt enforcement of those beliefs on broader society through the mechanism of religion that is objectionable. While I may disagree with a belief in God, I don't condemn anyone for it. I do object to the organization of believers into clubs that try to coerce the rest of society into their club or exterminate the opposition.

I would expect the same courtesy for my political beliefs from you. If I were a Communist, I would expect you to allow me to hold that belief system, but if I started to organize a group to change society in that direction, I shouldn't be surprised if some people who disagree with my beliefs raise some objections.

I think this is a fundamental point that people like calgaryborn miss when they argue about militant atheists. Outspoken atheists generally object to the effects of religion on society moreso than the effects of faith on the individual, although certain outspoken atheists do have something to say about that as well. In my opinion it is perfectly valid to point out objections to the effects of religion, or faith-based initiatives. I also think it is valid for an individual to judge others based on their stated beliefs, but that kind of judgment is definitely open to question. If I told you I was a communist, you might immediately jump to a judgment about my education, my background, my level of intelligence, my credulity, or any of a number of other things. You may or may not be right but we pass judgment on these things all the time with respect to other people.

(No I'm not a Communist)
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