Theists & atheists, is what we're doing here valid?

Question

I saw an answer to a question earlier on that was critical of the debate that we're having here in R&S as it's technically against the Y/A guidlines.

I understand the point, but I don't think it's valid to point the finger just at atheists. There is a robust debate happening between many groups from different backgrounds.

I have learnt much from participating as I'm sure most of us, whatever our background, have.

The suggestion was made that a disscussion group would be more appropriate, yet somehow, the Y/A just works so much better, and I think that's why we're all here.

Personally, I think it's a wonderful example of how the internet can bring people together and spread a better understanding.

While many of us will continue to dig our heels in on our opinions, we are all creating a better understanding with, and of, each other. This can only be healthy in the global community that we live in.

Is this valid, or should all of us, from all sides, go elsewhere?

Answer 1

Sadly, I think for a lot of people, this forum is the only place where people feel comfortable sharing their views. It's relatively anonymous and somewhat liberating.

I would suspect there are many atheists that do not feel "free" to disbelieve likewise, Christians and Muslims, pagans, wiccans, etc. will find that their views are not always popular.

Some people seek answers, some validation only. Either way, this is a much better place to express our positions than on the street corner.

I like it the way it is.

Answer 2

It's valid when it doesn't resort to just insults and petty arguments... there's nothing "valid" about that in a debate. No one should point fingers at a group, as a whole. If one Atheist did something that ticks off 5 Christians, those 5 Christians should be mature enough to point out that it was just that one Atheist. Same with any other group.

As far as better understanding, yes, I have gained that... though I can't say it was all good. I think the understanding is more OF each other... and not so much as with each other. Very few on here will stop long enough to actually debate WITH a person. They usually just throw things AT them.

Yes, you do make a very good point. I think many of us get frustrated with how childish some people act and it seems in a place like this (as with any forum) people end up acting exactly like the other people they complain so much about.

Answer 3

Dear Missing,
I agree with you: this could be a first although perhaps not the last.
I think this is a valid place to learn from one another, even if what we learn is not what is explicitly stated. I would not want to go elsewhere.
I have learned if I avoid the trolls, and know they are representative of trolls, not Christians, or Mormons, or atheist or Pagan, or whatever else then I have the opportunity to connect with other people.
I happen to like a lot of you guys regardless of some of the outrageous statements made. Myself included. I still stand by my opinion in a singular truth, but it does not stand in the way of genuine affection and caring for those who participate on this site.
You happen to be one of my favorites ((((Missing)))) even though we do not see eye to eye. Although, I am not a tall person and orangutans aren't a tall hominid either. Maybe on somethings we could see eye to eye if we both make the effort to bridge the gap.
God Bless You for this delightful question.

Answer 4

I don't think that the debate is against Y!A rules as long as they are phrased as questions and answers. Any chance for educating (on any side) is a good thing, and that's all the validation we need to stay. I have learned a lot from the regulars here, and I've had a lot of fun in the process. It's a mixture of a bunch of different personalities and opinions, but it feels like home.

Answer 5

To answer your question: Yes, it is valid. And I do understand the rationale behind it.

Frankly, I doubt if many of us will be bothered. Insulting each other had always been the case in this forum - especially between the Christians and the Atheists, although the other religious sectors are becoming more active nowadays.

Asking us to change our ways now would be like asking a leopard to remove its spots.

However, here on Y!A, a lot goes and as long as we atheists are allowed to snipe at whoever we want (and vice versa), I doubt many of us care.

But that's just my opinion.

Answer 6

"Is it genuine that Atheist do no longer exist they have been made up by skill of the pagans i comprehend the pagan lower back to take over china?" in specific cases they only ask questions so pathetically uneducated that they warrant a visit to the psych-ward. "Is Atheism and demon of devil that tricks human beings to think of they're smarter without believing in a God?" here is yet another stable one. Are atheist's all secretly unfastened masons? I heard that they have got been all in contact in the 9/11 cover up and pushed for a waste much less conflict with Iraq. merely got here across this alluring question geared in the direction of atheists. i'm no longer able to even start to tell you the way somewhat ignorant this question is.

Answer 7

I've heard this called a battleground, and I've seen alot of sniping from all sides. Some of what I have said could probably be taken by some to be that. But on the whole, it's been great. I've learned alot simply from the reading. I'd like to think I might have along the way informed someone also. This works great the way it is, not in a group way.

Answer 8

I have seen many christians remark: "wow, I didn't know there were so many people who don't believe in God". I have learned reams about christianity, evolution, and various related topics.

By these counts I say, yes, it is valid. Information is being transmitted and received. I'll take the abuse with the good things. Anyone getting upset about people saying mean things on the internet is in for a rough time anyway.

Answer 9

We all have our own opinions and I feel as long as our answers aren't predjudice and at least respectful towards poeple with other beliefs we have the same right to be here as everyone else.

People who just come in here and start causing trouble on the other hand should grow up and get a hobby.

Answer 10

I believe it is valid. It gets people talking....gets information across from one side to the other. The open minded-people learn so who cares? I know i don't. I have fun conversing through questions here on Y!A!