Atheism over theism?

Atheism over theism?
How is atheism any better then theism, what does it actually resolve? :?

Re: Atheism over theism?
How is atheism any better then theism, what does it actually resolve? :? religion breeds hate, bigotry, wars, racism, violence. It supresses free thought necessary for progress.

Re: Atheism over theism?
How is atheism any better then theism, what does it actually resolve? :? religion breeds hate, bigotry, wars, racism, violence. It supresses free thought necessary for progress. For argument's sake, for the moment, let me concede your point. Still, my questions was: How/what "better" has atheism provided, what has it actually solved? The reason why I ask is because I have found nothing to show that atheism(s) is any better then the theisms of the world in their net effect/result on human affairs? :?:

Re: Atheism over theism?
How is atheism any better then theism, what does it actually resolve? :? religion breeds hate, bigotry, wars, racism, violence. It supresses free thought necessary for progress. For argument's sake, for the moment, let me concede your point. Still, my questions was: How/what "better" has atheism provided, what has it actually solved? The reason why I ask is because I have found nothing to show that atheism(s) is any better then the theisms of the world in their net effect/result on human affairs? :?: Let me borrow a quote from an atheist to explain Atheism. The indestructible foundation of the whole edifice of Atheism is its philosophy, materialism, or naturalism, as it is also known. That philosophy regards the world as it actually is, views it in the light of the data provided by progressive science and social experience. Atheistic materialism is the logical outcome of scientific knowledge gained over the centuries. But Materialism liberates us, teaches us not to hope for happiness beyond the grave but to prize life on earth and strive always to improve it. Materialism restores to man his dignity and his intellectual integrity. Man is not a worm condemned to crawl in the dust, but a human being capable of mastering the forces of nature and making them serve him. Materialism compels faith in the human intellect, in the power of knowledge in man's ability to fathom all the secrets of nature and to create a social system based upon reason and justice. Materialism's faith is in man and his ability to transform the world by his own efforts. It is a philosophy in every essence optimistic, life-asserting, and radiant. It considers the struggle for progress as a moral obligation, and impossible without noble ideals that inspire men to struggle, to perform bold, creative work. Modern materialism - or naturalism - is linked with the everyday experience of people. It believes in experiment as the basis of knowledge, and neglects no sphere of reality. It advances itself as an ideological weapon for use in progress. It is in social life that man develops his mind and emotions, will, and conscience, and puts meaning and purpose into life. He does not closet himself in solitary prayer and dream of death as a door opening unto eternal bliss. A materialist lives a full social life and is inspired by progressive ideals; he is concerned with the problems and joys of life, not death. He is deeply involved with shaping his life as a useful member of society and contributing what he can to its progress. Malabo pa rin bro? The world is in a situation where the believers outnumbers the non-beliver. I might be wrong though. In this world of progress, non-believers outnumbers the believers. People are not proclaiming it to avoid rejection and persecution. Non-believers, FYI are still pressured, persecuted and isolated in most countries. This is maybe why you can't see what atheism has brought forth in this world.

Thanks. By far, this is the best response I've had on forum from any atheist. In mid-stream of graduate studies, I began this thread of discussion with the hope putting out some of the ideas I had from my thesis subject - "Christian theism confronting atheism." Believe it or not, I'm not on an atheist hunt, for I hold to people's democratic freedom of belief. However, if Christianity, and religion in general, can be subjected to question I don't see why irreligious views can't also be questioned. So ... in reality I'm seeking serious and honest, yet respectful, mutual engagement with those who aren't afraid to have their outlooks/perspectives deeply challenged? Until about 12 or so years ago I held to a deistic (sliding in into atheistic) evolutionary outlook on life/world (never had a religious upbringing). Yet I left it for some of the same reasons you left Christianity/Religion, plus some other reasons. Thus, from my philosophical/theological position, I'd like to examine your last response? Take care ... :shock:

This is an old topic but I thought I'd chime in just in case. I don't believe that either ideal can resolve issues. While each viewpoint (atheism / theism) could be argued to be more benefitial to society, in the end it comes down to the people that believe them. There have been many people throughout history that have proudly proclaimed that religion was the reason for their success. This is true for those that have fed the hungry and those that tortured thousands of innocent people. These two examples are not dependant upon religious belief. One is a person helping his community, and the other is a psychopath bent on destruction. The fact that they are both practitioners of the same ideal is hardly a relevant factor. So your answer lies in the people. Neither religion nor its absense ever saved anyone from anything but the actions of men have shaped our world.

View Full Version: Atheism over theism?