(April 2, 2018 at 9:30 pm)The Gentleman Bastard Wrote:(April 2, 2018 at 5:49 pm)Catholic_Lady Wrote: I think it may be because you don't hear much from atheists who merely lack belief, since I assume they tend to be the ones who dont say anything about it. The ones you hear from are the ones who actively disbelieve. So when someone thinks of "atheist" they are more inclined to think of someone who thinks God doesnt exist, rather than just someone who doesnt believe nor disbelieve. Is there someone even like that on this forum?
Right here. I do not believe in any god(s). However, I do not claim no god(s) exist. My position on individual gods (Zues, Apollo, YWVH, etc...) will vary depending on the claims. I most certainly believe that most of the named, defined gods of human history do not exist. Some nebulous god that kick started the universe? Who the fuck knows. Gods who answer prayers and intervene in the lives of mere mortals? Nope, don't buy that shit for a second.
But when talking about "God" (like the OP did), most people will assume you're referring to THE God. The one that the vast majority of people in the 21st century believe in. And you've already said you have disbelief in that God lol. So that's what people are going to think of, and that's what people mean when they get the impression that atheists have disbelief in God, rather than just not believing or disbelieving.
"Of course, everyone will claim they respect someone who tries to speak the truth, but in reality, this is a rare quality. Most respect those who speak truths they agree with, and their respect for the speaking only extends as far as their realm of personal agreement. It is less common, almost to the point of becoming a saintly virtue, that someone truly respects and loves the truth seeker, even when their conclusions differ wildly."
-walsh
-walsh
