Atheists who changed the world

[KnockEmOuttt]

Peter Higgs!! and Gene Roddenberry.

[C.W. Sims]

William Shatner for playing one of the most pivotal roles in the history of television. Not only the first interracial kiss but also playing in a show that has spawned the longest lasting television series in history, as well as the show that has tackled some of the most audacious social problems and issues. Had it not been for Shatner playing that role so well (and yes I realize that must be said slightly tongue in cheek) we might not have had the amazing awesomeness of Star Trek as we do today. And since he was a self avowed atheist I feel he deserves to be on the list.

[KnockEmOuttt]

William Shatner for playing one of the most pivotal roles in the history of television. Not only the first interracial kiss but also playing in a show that has spawned the longest lasting television series in history, as well as the show that has tackled some of the most audacious social problems and issues. Had it not been for Shatner playing that role so well (and yes I realize that must be said slightly tongue in cheek) we might not have had the amazing awesomeness of Star Trek as we do today. And since he was a self avowed atheist I feel he deserves to be on the list.

not to mention Denny Crane.

[Shell B]

My earlier views of the unsoundness of the Christian scheme of salvation and the human origin of the scriptures, have become clearer and stronger with advancing years and I see no reason for thinking I shall ever change them.
-- Abraham Lincoln

I so wish I could say he was atheist and not just wary of Christianity. I really love Abe.

[Minimalist]

"In religion, Mr. Lincoln was about of the same opinion as Bob Ingersoll, and there is no account of his ever having changed. He went to church a few times with his family while he was President, but so far as I have been able to find out, he remained an unbeliever. Mr. Lincoln in his younger days wrote a book, in which he endeavored to prove the fallacy of the plan of salvation and the divinity of Christ."

-- Judge James M Nelson, who had an intimate acquaintance with Lincoln in Washington, in the Louisville Times, in 1887, quoted from Franklin Steiner, The Religious Beleifs of Our Presidents, p. 137

[jonb]

I will try and dig out some books I think I last read about twenty years ago, about some figures in the ancient world who pushed none belief in god as far as they could given the societies they lived in.
Of the top of my head would Pythagoras count? I know he himself was a semi mythical person, but certain writers report the belief system he set up did not rest on the belief in gods, though he did believe in reincarnation. if I may offer a little advise it might be better to sway the list towards professions that one would not expect to be atheist. A large group of scientists might just illicit the response; well what would you expect. Nice idea if I can remember any of those odd balls I will let you know.
Good luck.

PS Chuck really made me laugh with 'Pope Alexander VI' as it is so close to the truth.

[Rayaan]

Tiberius?

[jonb]

Tiberius?

Well if we're going down that line, Abraham he did more than anybody to reduce the number of gods to be worshipped.

[Rayaan]

Hehe. That is true perhaps, but I was talking about this Tiberius, in case if you didn't know.

[Shell B]

I did add Abe, Min. He's just too cool to pass up. Very good choice.