Atheist, what would make discussions about religion fun and enjoyable?

Question

Christians, how can we make talking about faith more relaxing and fun, so that people not of our faith don't feel like they need to put up a wall? Share your experiences, atheist or christian.

Answer 1

An HONEST debate with Christians, But you see we cant get that here

Answer 2

I would agree that working on the assumption that Atheists somehow don't understand or know how to lead an upright life grows tiring. As an Atheist, I find it sad when people ask why I would not want to lead a good life, as though my parents didn't use the correct parenting manual. Try to get the heart of why people believe what they believe. I'm sure that Christians each have deeply personal reasons for their beliefs and Atheists do as well.

I would approach this as a fun, intellectual discussion, not one where the person would feel imposed on or attacked. There is nothing I can't stand more than when I encounter what my husband has dubbed the "passive-aggressive conversion".

Keep it light, keep it open, and above all do not take offense to what is said in true discussion.

Answer 3

I think that discussions about religion ARE fun and enjoyable as long as the people taking part do not take themselves and their religions too seriously. And there are many christians and muslims and buddhists around here who are relaxed and don't cry blasphemy for every trifle. Heck, there are even people around who mock atheists! I think that's pretty cool and gives me a good license to mock them back.

Of course it's getting difficult when the braindead fundies take over, those who cannot stand a good joke, and throw their silly threats of hell at everyone. On the other hand, that's fine mocking stuff again.

Answer 4

Not taking everything so seriously all the time, and discussions without egos and sense of cherishment getting in the way... some people like to rip the Buddha and from our perspective we could just lose our minds if we want to, but we understand the Buddha's empty of inherent existence and probably had a good sense of humor himself... the world knows His Holiness the Dalai Lama doesn't get all riled up about things. I believe in being respectful, but it never hurts to lighten up a notch.

I'll never forget His Holiness being asked a question about money and if he ever wished he had any... so he ripped a hilarious joke about the "Om mani padme hum" mantra (which shocked the pants off of people who get worried about "blasphemy") and said that if the monks are in a hurry in the morning prayers and say it really really fast it sounds like "money money money"... (paraphrased, his way of telling it was WAY funny).

Just my opinions... a lighter atmosphere, less contracted around our egos is so much nicer.

_()_

Answer 5

Don't attack, mock or intentionally insult other religions or people who believe something different. Don't try to shove your beliefs down anyone's throat. Just offer information and your opinions and ask sincere questions and be respectful. If everybody did this places like R&S would be a lot more civilized and enjoyable.

Answer 6

I would like to be able to have a civil debate with believers about the existence of God. Everytime there's a discussion here it ends up with something like "prove it" or "the bible says". I don't want to hear what the bible says, I want to hear what believers have to say and what they truly think of their religion. I would like believers to be able to talk freely without feeling that their faith is being threatened. Atheists should be able to express their opinion freely without being called sinners or imps of the devil. Both sides of the arguement should be able and willing to respect the others.

Answer 7

I think the stereotypes about atheists not having any morals, ability to love, or just being rebellious really need to go.

I tire of hearing that everyone believes in God. This is simply not true.

I tire of the assumptions that I don't believe because I'm angry, or because I don't want to answer to a higher authority.

Answer 8

An icebreaker exercise or experience where both sides see the insanity of being human, in a humorous way. When people are playing, anxiety disappears.

Answer 9

The whole world recognizing it for the mythology that it is. Then we can talk about it like we do Zeus, Apollo, Osiris, or Thor.

Answer 10

I think that people could lay off the "you're going to Hell if you don't do what I say" crap that so many people like to preach. First of all, it's rude. Second of all, it's sheer nonsense.