<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/">
	<channel>
		<title><![CDATA[Freethought Forums - All Forums]]></title>
		<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Freethought Forums - http://freethoughtforums.com]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 May 2013 07:25:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<generator>MyBB</generator>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Conversing with people you disagree with]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-157.html</link>
			<pubDate>Tue, 21 May 2013 23:02:19 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-157.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Religion is becoming an increasingly important aspect of<br />
politics. The religious beliefs of people have always directed political<br />
outcomes, but there is a new emphasis on placing one's beliefs at the forefront<br />
of political action. This goes for both atheists and theists. As a result, new<br />
arguments, conversations, and legislative bills are causing increased conflict.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
I'm writing this post as a guide to approaching<br />
conversations with others of different beliefs, as the norms of interaction<br />
seem to be ineffective at best, and often have a polarizing effect. I have been<br />
on both of the far ends of the theist-atheist spectrum over the course of my<br />
life, and have discussed and argued about religion for years in person, through<br />
video chat, and through writing. This post represents "Best<br />
practices" for engagement by both sides, though the voice will often be<br />
from an atheist's perspective.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
1) The most important thing to do when engaging is to focus<br />
on what the other person fears - not simply what they feel strongly about or<br />
are prepared the most/least to argue. In my experience, theists are often<br />
afraid of being dismissed, relegated to silent corners, and persecuted - both<br />
in the immediate, and by society at a whole in the future. Atheists are most<br />
afraid of finding out that they have the facts wrong, that they can't come up<br />
with answers, and that their general anxiety about some topics might indicate<br />
that they are wrong about matters of life-changing importance. <br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Very few theists I've met feel comfortable to the point that<br />
they're unconcerned with the symbols and words of their religion disappearing<br />
from the public eye. Those who are tend to have had a very secular upbringing<br />
with personal religious observance.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Very few atheists I've met feel comfortable to the point<br />
that they don't feel a need to know where the universe came from and aren't<br />
occasionally worried about something happening to them after death. Those who<br />
are tend to have always been surrounded by an atheistic worldview.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
2) You must be willing to admit your own fears in order for<br />
the door to real conversation to open. If you do not have any fears related to<br />
the topic at large, you must at least be able to demonstrate that you can<br />
understand those fears. Few people will ever be convinced by someone that they<br />
feel is either too arrogant or too stupid to understand the fears associated<br />
with the topic.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
3) Stick to what the other person believes. Arguing against<br />
an atheist by bringing up infamous atheists or things other atheists have said<br />
will be ineffective and upsetting. The same goes for arguing against a theist<br />
by bringing up infamous theists or things that other theists believe. Common<br />
errors of this type include bringing up intelligent design, the origin of the<br />
universe, the bible, and abortion.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Note about the bible: It seems obvious to many atheists that<br />
the bible should be the primary object to attack - especially if a theist<br />
references it. This is incorrect. What matters is what the theist believes to<br />
be the case - regardless of the source. Even if you show that the construction<br />
of the documents that were later collected into what is called "the<br />
bible" provides many problematic issues for a theist, the theist's beliefs<br />
might still remain - and you'll have wasted a lot of time.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
When a theist asks for someone to disprove the bible,<br />
they're often really asking for reasons why their beliefs should be shaken.<br />
Theistic beliefs really aren't grounded in the bible itself - it's more of a<br />
symbol of their web of beliefs. The theist might even believe that the bible is<br />
really the key; but I have never met a theist whose mind was changed once s/he<br />
abandoned the bible as a source for a belief. Often, something else shakes the<br />
person's sense of certainty, and their own research afterward leads them to<br />
reject the bible as a source of information.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Note about abortion: Atheists' views on abortion span the<br />
full spectrum from "all life is sacred" to "all life can be<br />
thrown away". Moreover, the position of "all life can be thrown<br />
away" is often thought by theists to be a sort of checkmate - proof of<br />
atheists' immorality and idiotic beliefs. However, there are many atheists who<br />
provide detailed and convincing arguments that show such expendability to be<br />
part of a larger, highly ethical worldview.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
4) Focus on the big questions first. It is tempting to get<br />
into the details of arguments - especially when you are highly informed about a<br />
subject - whether scientific or doctrinal in nature. However, the most<br />
convincing arguments are also the most easy to understand. They are more<br />
difficult to refute, and easier to remember. However, simple arguments that do<br />
not focus on precise issues should be avoided.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
For example:<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Avoid: The world is so complex and beautiful that there must<br />
be a creator. Can't you feel it?<br />
<br />
<br />
- This has many variations and uses many examples, but is a<br />
very broad argument that quickly falls into arguing over highly specific<br />
information. Moreover, it's a claim about a "creator" - which is<br />
better served by an argument about the existence of the universe itself. Still<br />
more importantly, the argument appeals to emotion and sense of wonder, rather<br />
than logic.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Avoid: There is too much evil in the world. Doesn't it feel<br />
wrong that a god would let that happen?<br />
<br />
<br />
- Again, there are many variations on this, and the argument<br />
ultimately boils down to arguing over details about how and why religious<br />
entities operate. It appears to appeal to logic, but too much information is<br />
missing to make a judgment. Ultimately, this is another emotional argument.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Use: It doesn't make sense to me that the universe simply<br />
came into being. Something had to start the process and organize it, or else I<br />
don't understand why the universe doesn't just stop existing and why there are<br />
scientific laws.<br />
<br />
<br />
- This addresses one topic very clearly - the origin and<br />
organization of the universe. It seems that there should be a logical answer to<br />
this question.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Use: It doesn't make sense to me that good people live in a<br />
world so full of hardship even though they seek guidance. If there is a god and<br />
it wants people to be happy and praise it, why do good people's prayers go<br />
unanswered, and why isn't there more obvious guidance on how we should live our<br />
lives? It doesn't make sense to me that god expects people to wait for signs,<br />
and then have to interpret them. I wouldn't do that to my kid.<br />
<br />
<br />
- This addresses one topic very clearly - and isn't set on a<br />
broad issue like the origin (or degree of) evil in the universe. It seems that<br />
there should be a logical answer to this question.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Ultimately, I went from wanting to be a minister to being an<br />
atheist because the questions I couldn't answer related to atheism were<br />
scientific in nature, and the questions I couldn't answer related to god were<br />
personal in nature. Science may yet have answers for questions about the universe<br />
in the future - but I went for years without answers about my relationship with<br />
god. And if god wanted a relationship (if god is a thinking, acting thing at<br />
all), then it only made sense that I should have received some answers.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
In the end, I couldn't go on believing something that I not<br />
only had no explanation or evidence for, but I had every reason to think<br />
shouldn't be the case - a human-like god that didn't communicate. After I<br />
discarded that belief, I realized that there wasn't really a reason to believe<br />
anything related to religion.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
5) Let the other person have their personal reaction to<br />
arguments without judgment. A theist may be presented with many compelling<br />
arguments, but still believe what they believe. Religious beliefs are not just<br />
a matter of facts - they are a matter of psychological programming, social<br />
acceptance, and much more. Beliefs are very hard to change, much less discard.<br />
There was nothing that anyone could have done to make me change my mind when I<br />
was a theist - becoming an atheist was a gradual and personal process that I<br />
experienced. There are atheists who have experiences that lead them to become<br />
theists - and no arguments can speed up or slow down their path.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
6) Most importantly, show constant respect for the person<br />
that you do not understand and do not agree with. Insults, dismissals,<br />
badgering, and pressuring all shut down conversations and the process of<br />
self-discovery. You may be tempted to push someone because you feel that their<br />
beliefs are harming them, that they could have a better life with different<br />
beliefs, or that their beliefs are harming others - but any negative action<br />
will only create new problems. The more pressuring and attacking you do, the<br />
more conversations become arguments, and the more that arguments start to feel<br />
like team sports - and team sports only result in injuries and polarization.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Religion is becoming an increasingly important aspect of<br />
politics. The religious beliefs of people have always directed political<br />
outcomes, but there is a new emphasis on placing one's beliefs at the forefront<br />
of political action. This goes for both atheists and theists. As a result, new<br />
arguments, conversations, and legislative bills are causing increased conflict.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
I'm writing this post as a guide to approaching<br />
conversations with others of different beliefs, as the norms of interaction<br />
seem to be ineffective at best, and often have a polarizing effect. I have been<br />
on both of the far ends of the theist-atheist spectrum over the course of my<br />
life, and have discussed and argued about religion for years in person, through<br />
video chat, and through writing. This post represents "Best<br />
practices" for engagement by both sides, though the voice will often be<br />
from an atheist's perspective.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
1) The most important thing to do when engaging is to focus<br />
on what the other person fears - not simply what they feel strongly about or<br />
are prepared the most/least to argue. In my experience, theists are often<br />
afraid of being dismissed, relegated to silent corners, and persecuted - both<br />
in the immediate, and by society at a whole in the future. Atheists are most<br />
afraid of finding out that they have the facts wrong, that they can't come up<br />
with answers, and that their general anxiety about some topics might indicate<br />
that they are wrong about matters of life-changing importance. <br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Very few theists I've met feel comfortable to the point that<br />
they're unconcerned with the symbols and words of their religion disappearing<br />
from the public eye. Those who are tend to have had a very secular upbringing<br />
with personal religious observance.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Very few atheists I've met feel comfortable to the point<br />
that they don't feel a need to know where the universe came from and aren't<br />
occasionally worried about something happening to them after death. Those who<br />
are tend to have always been surrounded by an atheistic worldview.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
2) You must be willing to admit your own fears in order for<br />
the door to real conversation to open. If you do not have any fears related to<br />
the topic at large, you must at least be able to demonstrate that you can<br />
understand those fears. Few people will ever be convinced by someone that they<br />
feel is either too arrogant or too stupid to understand the fears associated<br />
with the topic.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
3) Stick to what the other person believes. Arguing against<br />
an atheist by bringing up infamous atheists or things other atheists have said<br />
will be ineffective and upsetting. The same goes for arguing against a theist<br />
by bringing up infamous theists or things that other theists believe. Common<br />
errors of this type include bringing up intelligent design, the origin of the<br />
universe, the bible, and abortion.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Note about the bible: It seems obvious to many atheists that<br />
the bible should be the primary object to attack - especially if a theist<br />
references it. This is incorrect. What matters is what the theist believes to<br />
be the case - regardless of the source. Even if you show that the construction<br />
of the documents that were later collected into what is called "the<br />
bible" provides many problematic issues for a theist, the theist's beliefs<br />
might still remain - and you'll have wasted a lot of time.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
When a theist asks for someone to disprove the bible,<br />
they're often really asking for reasons why their beliefs should be shaken.<br />
Theistic beliefs really aren't grounded in the bible itself - it's more of a<br />
symbol of their web of beliefs. The theist might even believe that the bible is<br />
really the key; but I have never met a theist whose mind was changed once s/he<br />
abandoned the bible as a source for a belief. Often, something else shakes the<br />
person's sense of certainty, and their own research afterward leads them to<br />
reject the bible as a source of information.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Note about abortion: Atheists' views on abortion span the<br />
full spectrum from "all life is sacred" to "all life can be<br />
thrown away". Moreover, the position of "all life can be thrown<br />
away" is often thought by theists to be a sort of checkmate - proof of<br />
atheists' immorality and idiotic beliefs. However, there are many atheists who<br />
provide detailed and convincing arguments that show such expendability to be<br />
part of a larger, highly ethical worldview.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
4) Focus on the big questions first. It is tempting to get<br />
into the details of arguments - especially when you are highly informed about a<br />
subject - whether scientific or doctrinal in nature. However, the most<br />
convincing arguments are also the most easy to understand. They are more<br />
difficult to refute, and easier to remember. However, simple arguments that do<br />
not focus on precise issues should be avoided.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
For example:<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Avoid: The world is so complex and beautiful that there must<br />
be a creator. Can't you feel it?<br />
<br />
<br />
- This has many variations and uses many examples, but is a<br />
very broad argument that quickly falls into arguing over highly specific<br />
information. Moreover, it's a claim about a "creator" - which is<br />
better served by an argument about the existence of the universe itself. Still<br />
more importantly, the argument appeals to emotion and sense of wonder, rather<br />
than logic.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Avoid: There is too much evil in the world. Doesn't it feel<br />
wrong that a god would let that happen?<br />
<br />
<br />
- Again, there are many variations on this, and the argument<br />
ultimately boils down to arguing over details about how and why religious<br />
entities operate. It appears to appeal to logic, but too much information is<br />
missing to make a judgment. Ultimately, this is another emotional argument.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Use: It doesn't make sense to me that the universe simply<br />
came into being. Something had to start the process and organize it, or else I<br />
don't understand why the universe doesn't just stop existing and why there are<br />
scientific laws.<br />
<br />
<br />
- This addresses one topic very clearly - the origin and<br />
organization of the universe. It seems that there should be a logical answer to<br />
this question.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Use: It doesn't make sense to me that good people live in a<br />
world so full of hardship even though they seek guidance. If there is a god and<br />
it wants people to be happy and praise it, why do good people's prayers go<br />
unanswered, and why isn't there more obvious guidance on how we should live our<br />
lives? It doesn't make sense to me that god expects people to wait for signs,<br />
and then have to interpret them. I wouldn't do that to my kid.<br />
<br />
<br />
- This addresses one topic very clearly - and isn't set on a<br />
broad issue like the origin (or degree of) evil in the universe. It seems that<br />
there should be a logical answer to this question.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
Ultimately, I went from wanting to be a minister to being an<br />
atheist because the questions I couldn't answer related to atheism were<br />
scientific in nature, and the questions I couldn't answer related to god were<br />
personal in nature. Science may yet have answers for questions about the universe<br />
in the future - but I went for years without answers about my relationship with<br />
god. And if god wanted a relationship (if god is a thinking, acting thing at<br />
all), then it only made sense that I should have received some answers.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
In the end, I couldn't go on believing something that I not<br />
only had no explanation or evidence for, but I had every reason to think<br />
shouldn't be the case - a human-like god that didn't communicate. After I<br />
discarded that belief, I realized that there wasn't really a reason to believe<br />
anything related to religion.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
5) Let the other person have their personal reaction to<br />
arguments without judgment. A theist may be presented with many compelling<br />
arguments, but still believe what they believe. Religious beliefs are not just<br />
a matter of facts - they are a matter of psychological programming, social<br />
acceptance, and much more. Beliefs are very hard to change, much less discard.<br />
There was nothing that anyone could have done to make me change my mind when I<br />
was a theist - becoming an atheist was a gradual and personal process that I<br />
experienced. There are atheists who have experiences that lead them to become<br />
theists - and no arguments can speed up or slow down their path.<br />
<br />
<br />
 <br />
<br />
<br />
6) Most importantly, show constant respect for the person<br />
that you do not understand and do not agree with. Insults, dismissals,<br />
badgering, and pressuring all shut down conversations and the process of<br />
self-discovery. You may be tempted to push someone because you feel that their<br />
beliefs are harming them, that they could have a better life with different<br />
beliefs, or that their beliefs are harming others - but any negative action<br />
will only create new problems. The more pressuring and attacking you do, the<br />
more conversations become arguments, and the more that arguments start to feel<br />
like team sports - and team sports only result in injuries and polarization.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[An agnostic atheist who once wanted to be a minister]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-156.html</link>
			<pubDate>Tue, 21 May 2013 23:01:16 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-156.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I'm near thirty years old, from the Midwest, and wanted to be a minister when I was in my early twenties. After digging into the bible and its history and encountering some personal issues with my girlfriend at the time, I just became unable to believe anymore. Simply put, I was doing everything I could to try to get answers to moral questions, and there wasn't a hint of a response.<br />
<br />
I've maintained friendships with theists of all types ever since, and have hosted conversation groups to get people to move past the common antagonistic arguments, talk about their experiences, and enjoy some activities together. It has been far more productive than the debates I used to host, though not nearly as effective as I'd hoped.<br />
<br />
Those are the basics about me. Any questions?]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I'm near thirty years old, from the Midwest, and wanted to be a minister when I was in my early twenties. After digging into the bible and its history and encountering some personal issues with my girlfriend at the time, I just became unable to believe anymore. Simply put, I was doing everything I could to try to get answers to moral questions, and there wasn't a hint of a response.<br />
<br />
I've maintained friendships with theists of all types ever since, and have hosted conversation groups to get people to move past the common antagonistic arguments, talk about their experiences, and enjoy some activities together. It has been far more productive than the debates I used to host, though not nearly as effective as I'd hoped.<br />
<br />
Those are the basics about me. Any questions?]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[The history of real freethinkers]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-155.html</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 20 Mar 2013 06:06:08 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-155.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Real freethinkers don't have a problem with Jesus himself. Their issues are generally with the church and behavior of Christians. <br />
<br />
The agnostic historian Durant called the critiques of the Gospels "minutae" and said that for a few simple men to have invented Jesus in one generation would be a miracle more incredible than anything recorded in the Gospels. He questioned the resurrection, but <span style="font-style: italic;">not the accounts of it,</span> suggesting with Schonfield that Jesus swooned and did not himself know that he was not raised by God. <br />
<br />
Einstein, at least as a young man, asked who could <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> feel close to "the Nazarene" of the Gospels, although he later distanced himself. Of course we all know he did his best thinking as a youth. <img src="images/smilies/biggrin.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Big Grin" title="Big Grin" /> <br />
<br />
Franklin went the other direction, quoting the New Testament more as he grew older, and while not a Christian by most definitions, he promoted George Whitefield's preaching by building him a place to preach out of the rain, at his own expense. <br />
<br />
Jefferson called Jesus' teachings "the most sublime and benevolent code of morals ever recorded." He did not believe the miracles, but his hero, John Locke, did believe them, <span style="font-style: italic;">all of them.</span> Locke also calls Jesus "our Lord." <span style="font-style: italic;">(See The Reasonableness of Christianity by Locke)</span> <br />
<br />
Ghandi called the crucifixion a "perfect act" of love. <br />
<br />
I could go on, but the point is that real freethinkers include many highly intelligent and skeptical people who became Christians. They believe partly because they are skeptical of skepticism, of the simplistic, illogical and gratuitous arguments that the Gospels are false records. They realize that the burden is on the critic to prove they are false. Calling people deluded or dishonest requires proof, especially when they had nothing to gain but persecution. (A historic fact).]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Real freethinkers don't have a problem with Jesus himself. Their issues are generally with the church and behavior of Christians. <br />
<br />
The agnostic historian Durant called the critiques of the Gospels "minutae" and said that for a few simple men to have invented Jesus in one generation would be a miracle more incredible than anything recorded in the Gospels. He questioned the resurrection, but <span style="font-style: italic;">not the accounts of it,</span> suggesting with Schonfield that Jesus swooned and did not himself know that he was not raised by God. <br />
<br />
Einstein, at least as a young man, asked who could <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> feel close to "the Nazarene" of the Gospels, although he later distanced himself. Of course we all know he did his best thinking as a youth. <img src="images/smilies/biggrin.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Big Grin" title="Big Grin" /> <br />
<br />
Franklin went the other direction, quoting the New Testament more as he grew older, and while not a Christian by most definitions, he promoted George Whitefield's preaching by building him a place to preach out of the rain, at his own expense. <br />
<br />
Jefferson called Jesus' teachings "the most sublime and benevolent code of morals ever recorded." He did not believe the miracles, but his hero, John Locke, did believe them, <span style="font-style: italic;">all of them.</span> Locke also calls Jesus "our Lord." <span style="font-style: italic;">(See The Reasonableness of Christianity by Locke)</span> <br />
<br />
Ghandi called the crucifixion a "perfect act" of love. <br />
<br />
I could go on, but the point is that real freethinkers include many highly intelligent and skeptical people who became Christians. They believe partly because they are skeptical of skepticism, of the simplistic, illogical and gratuitous arguments that the Gospels are false records. They realize that the burden is on the critic to prove they are false. Calling people deluded or dishonest requires proof, especially when they had nothing to gain but persecution. (A historic fact).]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Hello, I'm a Christian]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-154.html</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 27 Feb 2013 07:25:14 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-154.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[I'm not sure if this forum is dead or not. It looks like it probably is, but if anyone is out there and wants to have a discussion about atheism vs. theism or the existence of God, or the meaning of Christ, please let me know. <img src="images/smilies/shy.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Shy" title="Shy" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[I'm not sure if this forum is dead or not. It looks like it probably is, but if anyone is out there and wants to have a discussion about atheism vs. theism or the existence of God, or the meaning of Christ, please let me know. <img src="images/smilies/shy.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Shy" title="Shy" />]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Student of Swedenborg]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-153.html</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 31 Jan 2013 17:42:33 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-153.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Hello, my real name is indeed Chad Wooters. Some of you may already know me from Atheist Forums. I found that forum less than hospitable and have decided to give it a go here instead. <br />
<br />
My general philosophy is that the questions are more important than answers. And I believe my opinions are the least important part of me. My overall perspective comes from a study of Emmanuel Swedenborg, although I am not a member of the official New Church. Among other things, Swedenborg's sorietology focuses on Christus Victorious as opposed to Atonement. I recognize that identifying as a Christian may be misleading to some here, since New Church theology is very different from the Catholic or Evangelical ones.<br />
<br />
That said I hope that most of you will come to know me as a serious contributor. I have less time to participate than I would like and and prefer to ponder the posts of others before adding my own. I try to stay more reflective than reactive and hope to earn your respect.<br />
<br />
Thank you for this opportunity.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Hello, my real name is indeed Chad Wooters. Some of you may already know me from Atheist Forums. I found that forum less than hospitable and have decided to give it a go here instead. <br />
<br />
My general philosophy is that the questions are more important than answers. And I believe my opinions are the least important part of me. My overall perspective comes from a study of Emmanuel Swedenborg, although I am not a member of the official New Church. Among other things, Swedenborg's sorietology focuses on Christus Victorious as opposed to Atonement. I recognize that identifying as a Christian may be misleading to some here, since New Church theology is very different from the Catholic or Evangelical ones.<br />
<br />
That said I hope that most of you will come to know me as a serious contributor. I have less time to participate than I would like and and prefer to ponder the posts of others before adding my own. I try to stay more reflective than reactive and hope to earn your respect.<br />
<br />
Thank you for this opportunity.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[50th Ann. Athiest Convention]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-152.html</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 21 Jan 2013 16:49:32 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-152.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Anyone attending the 50th Athiest 4 day conv. March 28th Austin, TX? It looks like lots of fun. My family wasnt too happy to hear I want to go. They think its to brain wash people not to believe. I explained its just a lot of fun activities &amp; able to meet others who wont judge u for not believing in a magical man in the sky.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Anyone attending the 50th Athiest 4 day conv. March 28th Austin, TX? It looks like lots of fun. My family wasnt too happy to hear I want to go. They think its to brain wash people not to believe. I explained its just a lot of fun activities &amp; able to meet others who wont judge u for not believing in a magical man in the sky.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[50th Ann. Athiest Convention]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-151.html</link>
			<pubDate>Mon, 21 Jan 2013 16:29:16 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-151.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Anyone attending the 50th Athiest 4 day conv. March 28th Austin, TX? It looks like lots of fun. My family wasnt too happy to hear I want to go. They think its to brain wash people not to believe. I explained its just a lot of fun activities &amp; able to meet others who wont judge u for not believing in a magical man in the sky.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Anyone attending the 50th Athiest 4 day conv. March 28th Austin, TX? It looks like lots of fun. My family wasnt too happy to hear I want to go. They think its to brain wash people not to believe. I explained its just a lot of fun activities &amp; able to meet others who wont judge u for not believing in a magical man in the sky.]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Hello!]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-150.html</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jan 2013 02:09:44 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-150.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Hi everyone!<br />
<br />
My name is Victor. I found this forum via atheistforums.org and I am looking forward to many discussions ranging over a vast number of topics.<br />
<br />
A little about me:<br />
<br />
I am currently a graduate student studying neuropsychology, with my research focusing on sensory function/dysfunction and neuroanatomical differences in various neurological and psychiatric disorders. My undergraduate studies focused on psychology and philosophy, and I am very interested in politics, history, biology/genetics, and various other fields. I love to learn and to challenge myself and others, and hate accepting the status quo unless there is good reason (ie. evidence). I play guitar and love music, and hope to meet some interesting people!]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Hi everyone!<br />
<br />
My name is Victor. I found this forum via atheistforums.org and I am looking forward to many discussions ranging over a vast number of topics.<br />
<br />
A little about me:<br />
<br />
I am currently a graduate student studying neuropsychology, with my research focusing on sensory function/dysfunction and neuroanatomical differences in various neurological and psychiatric disorders. My undergraduate studies focused on psychology and philosophy, and I am very interested in politics, history, biology/genetics, and various other fields. I love to learn and to challenge myself and others, and hate accepting the status quo unless there is good reason (ie. evidence). I play guitar and love music, and hope to meet some interesting people!]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Familiar Faces]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-147.html</link>
			<pubDate>Sun, 23 Dec 2012 21:34:07 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-147.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[For those of you who don't know who I am,<br />
<br />
I am one of the Moderators at AtheistForums.org offering up some of my "free thoughts."<br />
That's right - you don't have to pay me a dime for them. They're free-bees. <br />
<br />
Cheers.<br />
<img src="images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Rolleyes" title="Rolleyes" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[For those of you who don't know who I am,<br />
<br />
I am one of the Moderators at AtheistForums.org offering up some of my "free thoughts."<br />
That's right - you don't have to pay me a dime for them. They're free-bees. <br />
<br />
Cheers.<br />
<img src="images/smilies/rolleyes.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Rolleyes" title="Rolleyes" />]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[I'm going to 'Hell']]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-146.html</link>
			<pubDate>Tue, 20 Nov 2012 10:52:26 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-146.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Hi all<br />
I wasn't sure where to post this but here goes anyway!!!<br />
In a nutshell/ nutcase:<br />
My husband is a Christian and has decided to further his search to find god , which I do support. We have been married for 12 years. <br />
I'm an athiest<br />
He does get quite defensive when we try to have a discussion around religion, so we agreed just not to talk about it<br />
His whole family are Christian and his dad asked me if we could have a 'healthy discussion rather than there being an elephant in the room' ... His words. Personally I have not found that mine and my husbands beliefs have ever been an issue, but the ante appears to have escalated in his new found faith<br />
The 'discussion' happened yesterday, it went ok, we agreed to disagree on some points and had some common ground, though i didnt 'rock the boat ' I remained firm in my demeanour . As he was leaving , he said he and the rest of the family would 'pray for me and hope I would find god' , I just gave him a hug and didn't confront this ( though I did feel like saying don't pray for me and I'll not think in your church) . He said 'it is a matter of life and death, it's that important'. I asked clarify: basically , if I don't accept god in my life then I will go to hell!!! <br />
I was shocked to say the least. Then again why should I be shocked??? I don't believe that we all meet up after death , that we are all sinners on earth and I don't believe in heaven. I hadn't really considered hell too much, but I guess I don't believe in It either !! <br />
I told I felt that this was aggressive and punitive, his reply' well that's how it is'<br />
Having reflected, I can only think of Hitch and his summing up at the American baptist church, I have played a favourite clip of mine on YouTube 'hitchens tribute' which is his reply and set to the music of devotchka 'how it ends'<br />
It's helped me gain some focus<br />
Thanks for reading folks <br />
Xxx]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Hi all<br />
I wasn't sure where to post this but here goes anyway!!!<br />
In a nutshell/ nutcase:<br />
My husband is a Christian and has decided to further his search to find god , which I do support. We have been married for 12 years. <br />
I'm an athiest<br />
He does get quite defensive when we try to have a discussion around religion, so we agreed just not to talk about it<br />
His whole family are Christian and his dad asked me if we could have a 'healthy discussion rather than there being an elephant in the room' ... His words. Personally I have not found that mine and my husbands beliefs have ever been an issue, but the ante appears to have escalated in his new found faith<br />
The 'discussion' happened yesterday, it went ok, we agreed to disagree on some points and had some common ground, though i didnt 'rock the boat ' I remained firm in my demeanour . As he was leaving , he said he and the rest of the family would 'pray for me and hope I would find god' , I just gave him a hug and didn't confront this ( though I did feel like saying don't pray for me and I'll not think in your church) . He said 'it is a matter of life and death, it's that important'. I asked clarify: basically , if I don't accept god in my life then I will go to hell!!! <br />
I was shocked to say the least. Then again why should I be shocked??? I don't believe that we all meet up after death , that we are all sinners on earth and I don't believe in heaven. I hadn't really considered hell too much, but I guess I don't believe in It either !! <br />
I told I felt that this was aggressive and punitive, his reply' well that's how it is'<br />
Having reflected, I can only think of Hitch and his summing up at the American baptist church, I have played a favourite clip of mine on YouTube 'hitchens tribute' which is his reply and set to the music of devotchka 'how it ends'<br />
It's helped me gain some focus<br />
Thanks for reading folks <br />
Xxx]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[looking for resources]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-145.html</link>
			<pubDate>Sun, 18 Nov 2012 14:39:21 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-145.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Hello everyone,<br />
I was referred here by the Atheist Alliance International. I am looking for resources in the form of books (digital or paper) and journal articles in my research on atheism. I have found many sources online, especially free ones, but these texts are not always very recent. What I would like to have are more texts on Carvaka, the athropology/psychology/sociology of religion, ancient Greek and Roman literature, Asian religion/philosophy, writings from the Middle Ages, writings from the French Revolution, 19th/20th/21st century literature, any and all journals with atheism related articles. If you have any digital copies or website referrals, please post them under this article. If you have any book or journals that you can send me, please e-mail me at <a href="http://mailto:alarkie101@yahoo.com" target="_blank">alarkie101@yahoo.com</a> for more information. Any and all donations will be greatly appreciated.<br />
Thank you all very much,<br />
Abigail Larkie]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Hello everyone,<br />
I was referred here by the Atheist Alliance International. I am looking for resources in the form of books (digital or paper) and journal articles in my research on atheism. I have found many sources online, especially free ones, but these texts are not always very recent. What I would like to have are more texts on Carvaka, the athropology/psychology/sociology of religion, ancient Greek and Roman literature, Asian religion/philosophy, writings from the Middle Ages, writings from the French Revolution, 19th/20th/21st century literature, any and all journals with atheism related articles. If you have any digital copies or website referrals, please post them under this article. If you have any book or journals that you can send me, please e-mail me at <a href="http://mailto:alarkie101@yahoo.com" target="_blank">alarkie101@yahoo.com</a> for more information. Any and all donations will be greatly appreciated.<br />
Thank you all very much,<br />
Abigail Larkie]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[No one can seem to explain how this pattern occured.]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-143.html</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 05 Oct 2012 07:49:25 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-143.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[&nbsp;]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Mathematics proves Jesus is ?]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-142.html</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 05 Oct 2012 07:46:59 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-142.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[&nbsp;]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[We Are Not Monsters - "Revelry"]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-141.html</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 04 Oct 2012 11:20:03 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-141.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Hello all! I am sorry that this is my first post, as I did not know this forum existed!<br />
My roommate and I have been working quite diligently on a film that I think you all may enjoy, please, watch the trailer and give me ANY feedback or criticisms.<br />
If you support what we are doing, please share! =D<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking!<br />
<br />
indiegogo.com/wearenotmonsters<br />
<br />
<br />
-sam]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Hello all! I am sorry that this is my first post, as I did not know this forum existed!<br />
My roommate and I have been working quite diligently on a film that I think you all may enjoy, please, watch the trailer and give me ANY feedback or criticisms.<br />
If you support what we are doing, please share! =D<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking!<br />
<br />
indiegogo.com/wearenotmonsters<br />
<br />
<br />
-sam]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[What is the truth about this man?]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-136.html</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 13 Sep 2012 12:27:56 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-136.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[&nbsp;]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Science and faith]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-134.html</link>
			<pubDate>Sat, 25 Aug 2012 12:38:06 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-134.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[&nbsp;]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Last person to post wins a hand job from Napoleon]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-133.html</link>
			<pubDate>Tue, 21 Aug 2012 08:13:59 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-133.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[The title says it all really. <img src="images/smilies/biggrin.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Big Grin" title="Big Grin" /><br />
<br />
Since I am currently winning, Napoleon better get his lil' ass over here. <img src="images/smilies/heart.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Heart" title="Heart" /> <br />
<br />
<img src="images/smilies/angel.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Angel" title="Angel" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[The title says it all really. <img src="images/smilies/biggrin.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Big Grin" title="Big Grin" /><br />
<br />
Since I am currently winning, Napoleon better get his lil' ass over here. <img src="images/smilies/heart.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Heart" title="Heart" /> <br />
<br />
<img src="images/smilies/angel.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Angel" title="Angel" />]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[The best argument]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-130.html</link>
			<pubDate>Sun, 19 Aug 2012 18:34:43 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-130.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[What is the best argument for God's none existance?]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[What is the best argument for God's none existance?]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[reason]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-129.html</link>
			<pubDate>Sun, 19 Aug 2012 18:29:00 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-129.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[Mind you, English isnt my first language.So why did i join? Well i realized i need to be in a group that hold similar views as myself, beeing an atheist is actually pretty depressing, if you have no one to relate to ( same as beeing christian for that matter) Also the reason im here is because i need comfort, until this day i didnt know that christians are that hostile towards unbelievers ... like seriouslly (strory alert) I met this one, what i thought was nice girl, she seemed to like me, but after talking for some time i made clear that i didnt believe in God and that the idea is very riddicilous, after while she clammed up, i felt as she hated me afterwards... ehh anyhow just made me wonder why christians disslike atheists, i, for example, woundnt mind at all if she holds some beliefs that difffer to my own. Would be interesting to know if someone has had similar experiance to myself in christian/atheist incompatibility.<br />
<br />
 Adieu <img src="images/smilies/wink.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Wink" title="Wink" />]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Mind you, English isnt my first language.So why did i join? Well i realized i need to be in a group that hold similar views as myself, beeing an atheist is actually pretty depressing, if you have no one to relate to ( same as beeing christian for that matter) Also the reason im here is because i need comfort, until this day i didnt know that christians are that hostile towards unbelievers ... like seriouslly (strory alert) I met this one, what i thought was nice girl, she seemed to like me, but after talking for some time i made clear that i didnt believe in God and that the idea is very riddicilous, after while she clammed up, i felt as she hated me afterwards... ehh anyhow just made me wonder why christians disslike atheists, i, for example, woundnt mind at all if she holds some beliefs that difffer to my own. Would be interesting to know if someone has had similar experiance to myself in christian/atheist incompatibility.<br />
<br />
 Adieu <img src="images/smilies/wink.gif" style="vertical-align: middle;" border="0" alt="Wink" title="Wink" />]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Happy Eid]]></title>
			<link>http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-128.html</link>
			<pubDate>Sun, 19 Aug 2012 16:34:00 +0000</pubDate>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">http://freethoughtforums.com/thread-128.html</guid>
			<description><![CDATA[&nbsp;]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[&nbsp;]]></content:encoded>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>