Are atheists and agnostics actually looking for answers here?

Question

For example, if you ask for a reasoned defense of theistic faith, and you get one, will you choose that for the winning answer?

Answer 1

I haven't seen a good answer yet, that wasn't just faith and preaching. It would be refreshing to hear from someone without a soapbox to stand on. I always pick the best, most thought-out answer to my questions.

Answer 2

Atheist here,

Yes, I come here to learn. Sometimes I participate just for fun or mere entertainment, but I've learned from either believers or non believers. The lessons don't always come in a direct answer, but sometimes from what can be implied in the answer (or even questions). Other questions / answers are just worth it for their fun factor. I'm not the kind that "makes questions" though, I participate by answering.

Even if I don't believe, I can accept a well based religions answer as best answer. Some religious people actually answer instead of just doing a "cut & paste" or telling they'll pray for you, some believers know how to answer to a non-believer, some know the whole "God did it! Praise god! Hallelujah!" thing won't answer anything to a non believer.

Answer 3

This is a good place to hone your thinking, and craft answers to questions that come your way in the "flesh meets flesh" world no matter which side you represent.

The scripted answers found here are not scripture, to be sure, but they represent the myriad of thinkers and non-thinkers that inhabit our world. Amid all the trash talk there may be something of value that comes out. Sifting through it, however is a daunting task. But patience is a virture and if you enjoy the banter then type away.

Answer 4

No favorites in choosing Best Answer for me.
.
Maybe you could ask the "Christians" same question.

From what I have noticed, the "Christians" are the ones who tend to stay in their own group not the atheists and agnostics in choosing Best Answer.

Answer 5

The answer that teaches me the most wins, usually. Sometimes also just the most funny one wins.

I had a lot of theist answers which actually taught me things. Not to change my faith, but it showed me how their religion works, thinks and acts. Those things can be valuable.

Answer 6

I will admit, I have those I like getting answers from, but if I ask a question specifically of a particular religious group, I will try to choose an answer from that group.

Answer 7

I choose answers based on a variety of factors. My last three (of four) "best answers" were given to Christians.

I don't agree with their doctrine, but if I believe their answer best suits the intent of the question, they get chosen.

I am an atheist, not an anti-theist.

Big difference.

Answer 8

Yes, I have picked best answers that are the complete opposite of my personal beliefs. If they write a good answer that's intelligent and makes a good point, I will pick it as Best Answer even if I don't agree with what they say.

Answer 9

I'm sure, but they probably wouldn't admit it. I ate chicken for the first time yesterday and it was the most delicious, most juicy, tasty, satisfying thing in the whole wide world after being a vegetarian for over six years!

Answer 10

I would absolutely choose it as the best answer. I do not come here just to find people who agree with me. I come here to learn different aspects of things, and question my own beliefs.

Answer 11

Yes