Atheism and Anti-Theism same thing?

[Excited Penguin]

Antitheism generally takes the form of being actively opposed to theism, even when such theism doesn't affect you personally.   In my own mind (and I admit that this is neither accurate nor particularly fair), I tend to equate antitheism with religious evangelism, as both positions involve getting yourself mixed up in things that don't concern you.  For instance, if I'm sitting at home reading the paper and come across a story that a local church is building a new annex, as an atheist, I'd probably mutter, 'Bloody silly waste of time and money', and go on with my tea.  As an antitheist, I'd be more likely to throw the paper down in a rage, being knocking together a protest sign, and heading over to the church to march up and down with a scowl on me mug.

Boru

I'm anti-theist, but still I recognize the rights of theists to do what they wish with private property and no public funds. Unless said church uses public money, or crosses the line on school grounds or my town hall, I'd probably go on sipping my coffee.

It's quite strange. Atheists seem to think of antitheists the same way theists think of them. Oh, the irony.

You shouldn't have to put those sorts of caveats in. Just because you identify as an antitheist, doesn't mean you want to kill all religious people, blow up churches and illegalize religious practice and thought. This is becoming stupefyingly ridiculous.