(August 8, 2010 at 12:44 am)ssmutters Wrote: I would like to put this question forth to everyone here. Most of my family is very religious and none in my friend circle is an atheist. Now, when you are talking to a bunch of believers and something brings up the argument of existence of God, how do you go about convincing the other person about atheism? I would be happy if, at the least, the arguments are effective in making other person to question his/her beliefs.
But, most of the time, even when my argument is lucid and filled with rationality, it only offends the other person. At first, i thought it was my style, but seeing some threads and posts here I realize this happens a lot to other people as well. The more rational the argument, the more offense the other person takes. I don't want to offend. A heated debate only makes a believer more headstrong and at the most, it is only entertainment value or is just spicy. After all, in any argument, a person does not like to lose. One thing to be said about religion is - it reaches everyone at all intellectual levels.
So, how do you go about it? Has anyone here had success in personally converting someone to atheism? I would appreciate your response very much.
- ss
Offense from the other person is certainly expected because you're attacking their entire worldview with pesky details like facts and logic. Don't let that deter you.
Mostly, just avoid being confrontational because that will be off-putting. They'll just ignore your arguements if they feel you're being agressive with your views. Many Christians have a persecution complex regarding their religion, so just be calm, rational, logical, and consistent. Don't be afraid to challenge them but don't be confrontational.
I recommend any videos on youtube regarding the atheist experience and user Aronra to see how this thing goes. You can also look up Richard Dawkin's debate with a creationist named Wendy Wright for an example (though Dawkins seems to be kind of sheepish, but he's very intelligent and excellent at making his points even when he's debating an intellectually daft person.)
Here's an excellent example (of many) of Aronra's work:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnJX68ELbAY
