If atheism is based on logic and reason, why do atheists so readily indulge in ad hominem attacks?

Question

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ad_hominem

I didn't ask about Christians. Why bring up Christians?

Answer 1

I don't believe that atheism is based on anything, I think its just a word for people who don't believe in any gods to use to separate themselves from the theists. As for your question, lots of people are jerks, what do you expect?

Answer 2

First, you're unfairly generalizing.
Second, if an ideological set is based on a logical premise it doesn't preclude those who support it from being illogical because the premise of that set doesn't dictate the practice of that ideology. In fact, atheism has no controlling document or authority structure because it is simply an absense so there is no reason to even believe that behavior should be consistent in any way. Any athiest organization or "church" is purely for the entertainment of the "followers" who would be a set who normally enjoy the raising the ire of those who they can stir up.

This lack of behavioral practice is unlike religion which explicitly describes behaviors to which the followers must adhere. Why is it acceptable for Christians to kill if it is against the 10 commandments? or Why don't Christians execute all those who work on the Sabbath? It is Old Testament law (Exodus 31:15), and Jesus said that one ought to be more righteous than the Pharisees. (Matt 5:17-20)

Answer 3

Few things ever done by man were ever based on logic and reason, religion and atheism included. As for the ad hominem attacks, well its more fun to shout abuse at the religiously deluded than argue till you are both blue in the face. A True believer is never going to change their mind so whats the point in arguing. Thanks for 'ad hominem' and thank god(or not) and my dictionary for teaching me some Latin.

Answer 4

Using blanket statements like that may make you a target for an ad hominem argument.

It's funny that you bring up "Logic". How about some of you xians not use strawmen to rebut arguments

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Straw_man_argument

Answer 5

hmmm, now i dont speak for all atheists but i dont need to attack ad hominem. i think youre generalizing. i know enough about the christian faith to attack them well within their own terrotory.

i dont think most people attack the individual for their beleifs. although i can see why. some people see christians as people who willingly pass ignorance and hatred t otheir families (especially children)

. if religion was a disease you guys would be willing carriers, actively trying to infect others.

now im not SAYING christianity is a disease but it can be seen that way.

Answer 6

Well, seeing as we are using terrible generalizations here, I'm compelled to say christians are more guilty of that then anyone else!

Then again, seeing as not ALL atheists are guilty of your accusation, it kinda blows your whole arrogant question away now, doesn't it. Oh, not including the fact I haven't attacked you.(stating observable facts is NOT an attack, much to the incomprehension of many xtians)

;)

Answer 7

Atheists aren't the only ones, Christians do to. And all Atheists don't use them. Generalization is also faulty logic, and you use it in this question.

Answer 8

Wrapping logical thought in contrived labels does not alter the fact that logic is what it is. Provable fact and knowledge. Faith is not logic. I am not disputing that faith can be a wonderful thing, but it is not logic as the word is defined.

Answer 9

How do you know that everyone who answers your questions are atheists. On an open board without a declaration of what their belief is you cannot be sure; which makes your question a generalization.

Answer 10

It looks like you are now whining because I demonstrated that your prior questions were completely illogical and based on your own ignorance.

cry me a river, son.