There are people who live their life without religion and they are happy. I focus on treating others kindly and living my life to the fullest. Life doesn't have to be complicated. I enjoy reading books, working on art, gaining knowledge about other perspectives. I accept others, why can't they accept me as I am. I need some good arguments. I am not interested in religion or politics because it has caused many problems in my life. it's nonsense to me, not in my interest. Can someone support my argument. I say atheist and they get pissed off or stop talking to me.
2007-12-30 11:17:23 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
I am religious about the arts and science.
2007-12-30 11:18:46 · update #1
You smile and say, "I'm sorry, I was brought up to believe that religion and politics aren't fit topics for conversation, humor me and lets discuss art."
Then stick to it.
2007-12-30 11:26:40 · answer #1 · answered by justa 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Bro, I feel your pain. I'm a libertarian atheist myself (have been for about 20 years now). And while I'm actually quite knowledgeable about religion & politics (people with views like mine & yours almost have to be), and can defend my views in an argument, I really don't like talking about religion or politics with my friends or family. Most everyone has strong beliefs in both areas, and most people are not as tolerant as they think themselves to be when it comes to other, differing views.
Unfortunately, it's still somewhat taboo to be an atheist in this society. You say you're an atheist and religious people make all sorts of wild assumptions about you, like you're a communist or devil-worshiper. (More than a few of these stereotypes are gleefully propagated in churches.)
I've found that it's usually best to know someone for a while before telling them your religious or political beliefs (or lack thereof). People are less likely to reject you for your beliefs if they've gotten to know you as a person first. If they DO reject you anyway, well screw 'em. They're ignorant jerks who are not worth your friendship.
Of course, there's nothing wrong with simply refusing to discuss your beliefs. Unless someone says something grossly and profoundly ignorant that just cries out for a response, I usually just avoid the topic and change the subject. I am talking about real-life, though; online, I'm all for a good political or theological brawl. :-)
2007-12-30 20:29:37 · answer #2 · answered by R[̲̅ə̲̅٨̲̅٥̲̅٦̲̅]ution 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I can totally relate to this. You have to hang around people that are as open minded as you are. People that have strong beliefs can be very judgmental. They probably mean well (they are only trying to 'save' you) but they get caught up in their beliefs. Just stick to your guns and say "No comment" or "We'll just have to agree to disagree." If you give them nothing to fight with, they can't argue with you. I just switch the subject as soon as it comes up or I'll make a small, neutral comment and then let them talk away. At least if they think you're listening, they will back off a little bit. Just listen politely, nod your head, and say, "I can appreciate how you feel about XXX". You can always find points that you both agree on and just make comments about that but don't comment on things you disagree with.
2007-12-30 19:42:35 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Man, just be you. I"m a Christian, but I understand your point. When it comes down to it, beeing a good person and living a clear and happy life is all that matters. Being interested in religion and/or politics isn't a prerequisite for that. You seem like a good guy, just keep doing what you're doing.
2007-12-30 19:23:55 · answer #4 · answered by Deela 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I think they're right to try and 'save' you because they care
2007-12-30 20:32:30 · answer #5 · answered by jumbo 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋