Why are there a lot of cases of atheists choosing another way when being diagnosed with a critical illness?

Answer 1

"Gods strength is made perfect in weakness." Doesn't it
take a LOT of Pain to get a hard-headed man to turn to
God?

Answer 2

I don't know if there are a "lot" of cases. It's also been claimed that "there are no atheists in the trenches" during wartime, but I think all the atheists in the military would take exception to that.

When people are desperate, they may seek reassurance or solace by retreating into the illusions offered by religion. On the other hand, being diagnosed with a critical illness can also challenge one's illusion that all things happen for a reason.

Answer 3

Why are there a lot of cases of Christians choosing another way when being diagnosed with a critical illness?

Answer 4

LOL. Name your source. The old "No atheists in foxholes" yarn.

Incidentally, though, I know you believe you're making some kind of point - but try actually thinking about it. Why is it that so many people find Jesus in prison and rehab, or, supposing you're correct, when diagnosed with illness? Are you saying that Jesus is the god of human weakness, the god of slaves and cowards and hypocrites? Enthusiastic "Yes!", I suppose. "He saves all those who believe in His Name."

That's my whole problem with Xianity. All you have to do is believe, or pretend to believe. No other effort of any kind is required. Even good works come in a distant second - "All our righteousness is as filthy rags." It doesn't matter what sort of life you lead or what contributions you make to society - all that's required is belief in an antecedently absurd and incredible dogma. Your own "spiritual progress" is measured in terms of how complete your delusion is. It's a religion of lazy, morally bankrupt simpletons.

BTW - I'm NOT an atheist myself!

Answer 5

Because when one experiences a life changing, life shattering event it calls for a serious re-evaluation of ones beliefs. When that happens people are then open to and realise the need for God. No event is more life changing than having to face the certainty of ones own mortality and impending death.

Answer 6

For the same reason that a non vegetarian will try being one, or that someone who doesn't believe in alternative medicine will try acupuncture and/or homeopathy.
I guess is the need of trying every available option.

Answer 7

I really doubt that you can back that up with statistics from anywhere. Most atheists, stay atheists from everything I have seen. You are actually less likely to convert than the religious.

Answer 8

Had a little cancer scare recently. Didn't change my mind one little bit! In fact, the atheists I know who get ill (a friend with emphysema) aren't "turning" to god. They tuen to medical assistance and acceptance of the fact that none of us will get out of here alive.

Answer 9

hmmm...probably for the same reason there are so many cases of people becoming atheists under the same circumstances.
Seriously, I don't think there are many cases of that. It sounds good, but the reality is that it probably doesn't happen very much.

Answer 10

Excellent Question!

I think atheists have a last resort religion just incase they have a near death/critical illness experience. They feel like they should atleast try a religion to see if it brings them out of their situation. If it does, they then start to believe.

Answer 11

I do not necessarily think this is the case, maybe with Agnostics but not Atheists.