On Credibility

As atheists we face an incredible amount of scrutiny.  We are always on the 'examination table' and we can never be shown as being deliberately untruthful.

Religions are built on a foundation of non-truth.  Their whole house of cards tumbles when presented with logic and factual information.  The very definition of faith is to accept without proof and we have an advantage here.  If we can keep chipping away at the mountain of faith, we can eventually reduce it to a grain of sand.  Preachers can spew lies, although they may believe them to be true, and get away with it every day.

We, on the other hand, do not have that luxury.  Our statements must always be factual and must never contain any exaggeration.

But, here's the problem we face.  The religious will defend their faith with any means necessary, including violence.  I'm not saying you will be attacked if you say something wrong but I do worry about the ever growing Muslim radical presence in America.  Great Britain is facing growing violence between Muslims and non-Muslims and it's entirely possible that the same sort of violence will cross the pond.

If you find yourself in a debate with a religious person, you must do two things. 

First and foremost, you must be absolutely certain your facts are correct when you present them. Your opponent will strike out at any mistake you make or, in the worst case, as with some violence that has been reported in England, you could be physically attacked for apostasy.

And, second, it's important to remain calm.  If you allow anyone to get under your skin, it's very easy to appear to have lost the argument.

Education and rational calm discourse are the rule of the day.

Walk the Path in Grace