If an "active atheist" is one who takes an active role on the front lines and, say, participates in demonstrations and meetings etc, then I am not an active atheist. If on the other hand an "active atheist" is one who posts on a forum such as this, sharing thoughts and opinions on whatever topics come up, then I am an active atheist. We mustn't fall into the trap of equating "activism" with "interest", however. The same sort of pigeonholing could be made of someone who participates in a forum of any kind. I used to post on a sci-fi forum, but I only wear my Tom Baker scarf when the weather calls for it.
As to the allegation that I identify as atheist because I am aggrieved by religion in some way, if the 'damaged goods' stereotype is the only way to make it work for you then by all means go for it. Just be aware that the assertion is in your head, not mine.
For the record, I hold no personal grievance against religion; I have no axe to grind. I have never been hurt, slighted, or even mildly put out by religion or its adherents. I may find the actions outlined by Zen and others anything from reprehensible to repulsive, the rest of the subject I just find ridiculous.
As to the allegation that I identify as atheist because I am aggrieved by religion in some way, if the 'damaged goods' stereotype is the only way to make it work for you then by all means go for it. Just be aware that the assertion is in your head, not mine.
For the record, I hold no personal grievance against religion; I have no axe to grind. I have never been hurt, slighted, or even mildly put out by religion or its adherents. I may find the actions outlined by Zen and others anything from reprehensible to repulsive, the rest of the subject I just find ridiculous.
At the age of five, Skagra decided emphatically that God did not exist. This revelation tends to make most people in the universe who have it react in one of two ways - with relief or with despair. Only Skagra responded to it by thinking, 'Wait a second. That means there's a situation vacant.'
