I'd like to try a slightly more involved version of ShaMan's excellent question.
For atheists: You need some work done on your house. The best builder available is a prominent member of one of the local churches. He fund raises for his church, and it is widely acknowledged that he contributes to pro-life causes, hands out flyers decrying same-sex marriage, and has publically voiced the opinion that atheists shouldn't be allowed to stand for political office. It goes without saying that a portion of what you pay him for his work is going to go to fund causes with which you vehemently disagree. Bearing in mind that he is the BEST builder available to you, would you hire him, or would you go with the local atheist builder, who's work isn't as good?
For theists: You need a major car repair. The hands-down best mechanic in town is well-known for being an outspoken atheist. He has demanded that the local school board let him hand out atheist literature to kids, circulates petitions to have church property appraised as real property for tax purposes, campaigned against the Nativity scene on public property, and is currently raising funds for Sam Harris to come to town and speak at the local community centre. It goes without saying that a portion of the money he earns from fixing your car is going to be contributed to these and to other atheist causes. Bearing in mind that he is the BEST mechanic around, would you hire him, or would you use a fellow theist, even if you know is work isn't as good?
Boru
For atheists: You need some work done on your house. The best builder available is a prominent member of one of the local churches. He fund raises for his church, and it is widely acknowledged that he contributes to pro-life causes, hands out flyers decrying same-sex marriage, and has publically voiced the opinion that atheists shouldn't be allowed to stand for political office. It goes without saying that a portion of what you pay him for his work is going to go to fund causes with which you vehemently disagree. Bearing in mind that he is the BEST builder available to you, would you hire him, or would you go with the local atheist builder, who's work isn't as good?
For theists: You need a major car repair. The hands-down best mechanic in town is well-known for being an outspoken atheist. He has demanded that the local school board let him hand out atheist literature to kids, circulates petitions to have church property appraised as real property for tax purposes, campaigned against the Nativity scene on public property, and is currently raising funds for Sam Harris to come to town and speak at the local community centre. It goes without saying that a portion of the money he earns from fixing your car is going to be contributed to these and to other atheist causes. Bearing in mind that he is the BEST mechanic around, would you hire him, or would you use a fellow theist, even if you know is work isn't as good?
Boru
‘I can’t be having with this.’ - Esmeralda Weatherwax
