I think the choice/not choice thing is kind of weird.
I mean, yes, I consciously rejected every form of god presented to me so far because none of them met any kind of reasonable standard of proof for their existence. Being able to take in assertions (and not much else from theists), think about them, and compare them to reality and the burden of proof they must meet is an active endeavor.
But, since atheism is the default position, I didn't go from belief to an active choice of unbelief. I never really believed to begin with. I wanted to. I tried very hard to. I even went through the motions and aped what true believers said and did. But it was all an act, largely to not further distance myself from others (being in a wheelchair does that efficiently on its own). My atheism wasn't a choice. It's what I've always been, and will continue to be.
I mean, yes, I consciously rejected every form of god presented to me so far because none of them met any kind of reasonable standard of proof for their existence. Being able to take in assertions (and not much else from theists), think about them, and compare them to reality and the burden of proof they must meet is an active endeavor.
But, since atheism is the default position, I didn't go from belief to an active choice of unbelief. I never really believed to begin with. I wanted to. I tried very hard to. I even went through the motions and aped what true believers said and did. But it was all an act, largely to not further distance myself from others (being in a wheelchair does that efficiently on its own). My atheism wasn't a choice. It's what I've always been, and will continue to be.
"I was thirsty for everything, but blood wasn't my style" - Live, "Voodoo Lady"
