over religious views? It's really interesting how many of the questions are about religion and Atheist vs. Christians. So, I've come up with a theory about why Atheist takes such an interest in Christians and vice versa. Here it comes: They just can't understand how someone can/can't believe!
And when most people don't understand something they take an interest in solving the "mystery". I mean, how many of you Atheist can't possibly understand some of the things Christians believe in, or just believing in a God? An Christians, how many of you just can't picture NOT believing at all? Strange, huh? So if there is such a fundamental difference between religious and non-religious people in how they think; does it still have to be so hard understanding and respecting other peoples views/beliefs? (Not my own opinion, just the general idea of all Q&A i experience here.)
2007-09-10 03:42:47 · 18 answers · asked by Victoria T 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I think you're partially right, but it's important to add that the atheists' motivation also includes the fact that those with those illicit religious beliefs have such power over the direction of institutions that affect all of us.
I'd also amend what you've written to point out that atheists do understand why people believe in gods, we're just frustrated with the fact that the world is that way. The believers, for the most part, don't understand, of course, but it's not a mirror image kind of thing.
2007-09-10 03:46:00 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 2⤋
I've wondered about that myself. I think perhaps the answer lies in the fact that we are instinctively threatened by that which is "different." I've also considered the idea that people who feel such a strong need to persuade others to their own point of view are a little lacking in imagination, and perhaps unwilling (or a bit immature and unable) to see things from any perspective but their own.
When I get it figured out, I'll write a book and make my fortune, or something; just between you, me, and the fencepost, I don't much expect to be getting royalty checks any time soon ;-)
Shalom!
2007-09-10 10:47:56 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Nice thought but only partially correct. Many atheists were Christians at one time and bought into it hook, line, and sinker. There are also a few atheist who have converted. So there is understanding of the both sides.
Christians have a religious imperative to spread the good news, so their motivation *should be* to lead everyone to salvation.
Atheists on the other hand are fighting morality in legislation, and myths being taught as an alternative to science. There are of course a few that can't stand to see people living their lives in delusion - or passing that delusion to others.
2007-09-10 10:52:10 · answer #3 · answered by Pirate AM™ 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I think you're basically right. I also think that, when you're dealing with something as intangible as spiritual beliefs, there's a great deal of comfort in associating with people who share yours, whatever they may be. It's a kind of "gosh, if all of these great people believe the same way, I must be right". That, unfortunately, leads to a demonization of those who hold some other belief.
This, by the way, is as true for believers as it is for atheists. The conclusion "you don't believe what I do, so you must be stupid or evil" is all too common. See alt.politics, too.
2007-09-10 10:47:32 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
Squabbling over religious views is a waste of time;
DO this:
Create Your Relationship with Our Creator
and have UnConditional Love and Peace in Your Life.
2007-09-10 10:48:09 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
When I was a Christian - that was probably part of the reason I bickered with atheists... I really wanted to understand what was going through their minds!
As an unbeliever, I pester Christians to help them understand the folly of their ways...
2007-09-10 10:49:49 · answer #6 · answered by vérité 6 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Yup .... it is a very interesting subject :D ..... I can't understand it when I was a christian on why so many people are so brainwashed. I can't understand now when I am an atheist.
2007-09-10 10:47:35 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
People squabble about things that matter. They argue about politics, sexuality, education. Why would religion be any different? I don't understand why it would get special treatment. Nobody gets worked up over "why do people argue about education."
2007-09-10 10:46:48 · answer #8 · answered by Laptop Jesus 3.9 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
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2007-09-10 10:46:14 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Not much difference between them at all, once examined as behavior, as opposed to words.
2007-09-10 10:50:26 · answer #10 · answered by Jack P 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋