Should an atheist be allowed the full rights of a citizen in America?

Answer 1

Yes, considering the First Amendment of the Constitution gives American citizens the freedom of religion.

Answer 2

yes, isn't the world trying to get rid of prejudice? Just because someone has different beliefs then why should they suffer. An athiest may be right, there is no proof that god actually exists. I am athiest and my views are the same as most people my age, in fact I think my views are clearer because they aren't clouded by religion. So if I was in america my views prevent me from being a citizen. Thats like saying that because someone is buddhist they aren't allowed to be a citezen.... thats stupid everyone is allowed a view!

Answer 3

Of course. That's one of the biggest liberties given in America that other countries don't have the fortune of having - freedom of religion (or lack thereof =P). It's a great feat. I mean, think of all the countries where people are persecuted for having different beliefs. How barbaric. America has come a long way in terms of tolerance, denying atheists full rights would just hinder our progress and push us ten steps back. No thanks.

Answer 4

If they are a citizen of the United States, why does religion matter? All citizens should have full rights regardless of race, gender, religion, country of origin, sexual orientation, hair color, eye color, or any other factor. The only ones who should not have full rights are convicted criminals.

Honestly, I don't understand the basis for your question. Freedom of religion also means freedom to decide not to follow a religion.

Answer 5

Art IV Sec 3 of the US Constitution says "no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States" thereby suggesting the founders did not intend to condition full citizenship on religious belief.

The more interesting question is whether believers should be allowed to serve in all capacities since they might suffer conflicts between their religious duties and their duty to uphold the Constitution.

Answer 6

If they are a citizen they are entitled to every right guaranteed by the Constitution, and it doesn't matter if they worship their belly button or a cat named Fred.

And to the person who feels it is "moreso than bigoted, biased hypocritical religious folks," I am a Christian, and I totally support and am willing to defend your right to not believe in anything, even if I don't agree with it. That's what the separation of church & state is all about.

Answer 7

Was the Atheist born in America? If yes, then yeah.. If they were born somewhere else, then they should try to get a greencard... and then apply.

All Americans should have the same rights, no matter their race, sex, or religion (or lack thereof). This goes for gay people to, who am I to say he doesn't have the right to be married? It's an American right. So, the bottom line is this: We have freedom of religion. This applies to the right not to have a religion.. no matter who doesn't like it.

Answer 8

This has got to be one of the most ignorant questions I have ever seen. It cannot even be taken seriously. America was found by people escaping religeous persecution. The last thing we need is a religeous led government. Look how well it's working for Arabs.

Answer 9

Many Atheists live in America and have had full rights their entire lives. Sometimes we even see them praying, not sure who to but I've seen some pray. Maybe it was that famous good luck God.

Answer 10

"Should?"

They do. Citizenship and rights have nothing to do with religion.

Unless you are suggesting that atheists rights be taken away from them because of their beliefs. You will have to go through me to do that.

ps: There is no such thing as 'Separation of Church and State. That's another liberal based myth.