Ask a Catholic

[Whateverist]

I have a serious question for you Randy.  What are you here for and how is that working out for you?

I came to learn more about atheism. I've been doing Catholic apologetics for 10 years or so. I thought it might be interesting to broaden my skills to Christian apologetics. Islam and Atheism are two areas of concern that I, as a Christian, have about the future of the world. So, I decided to chat with you folks.

And I must say, it's been a far different experience than I expected. Atheists are often depicted in the media as being the really smart people, the brainy science types, and the books and articles that I have read were based upon really complex philosophical arguments. 

So, to find that this site is mostly about venting anger and sophomoric humor has been a bit of an eye-opener...but that, too, has been educational.

Some take it more seriously than others. Not me. I have no dog in your fight. I'd describe this as first and foremost a social site. I'm interested in talking with theists who are willing to explore fundamental questions in sincere and honest way. Your emphasis on blind acceptance of doctrine and shameless advocacy leaves you out. You don't impress me because you risk nothing.

For example, until a few days ago, I didn't really understand the depths of the 'myther' lunacy, but now I know that group is really a fringe of atheism...not taken terribly seriously by more educated atheists.

What's funny is that you think there is a vanguard of atheism. I suppose when you've given up your authenticity to shill for god you just naturally assume everyone has similarly sold out for a cause. But atheism just isn't a cause for all of us. I'm not looking to end religion and uninterested in impressing those who wish to.

I'm also learning that a lot of atheists have emotional reasons for rejecting God. They were hurt as children, hurt in an abusive marriage, etc. These folks are just pissed off...and it's not terribly conducive to logical discourse when the other side is blinded by anger. I'm not saying I don't blame them, btw, but I think the anger is misplaced...and definitely misdirected at me.

It isn't so hard to understand why they point it at you. You are like the people in their lives who were willing to do anything to coerce their belief. There is a basic lack of respect in any act of coercion which you of course think is justified by what you think is at stake. Once your kid decides what you think is absurd, all that remains is the taste of your disrespect.

I think the other big category of atheists is the "volitional" atheists...the ones who simply don't WANT to acknowledge God - as God. They may be living with their boyfriend/girlfriend or using contraception or deeply addicted to pornography, etc. To admit that there is a holy God who expects all of us to be Holy (and makes it possible) requires giving up these pleasures. There's more to that, but the bottom line is that everybody wants to sit upon the throne of their own life...but there is another king to whom we owe fealty.

Why would anyone need to avoid acknowledging yours or any other god in order to do as they like? Just seems like a weird idea.

Finally, yes, there are intellectual objections to Christianity. Real ones that cannot be dismissed or taken lightly. This just doesn't seem to be the place where those issues are aired. Christianity is not being taken seriously enough here for that to happen.

If it hasn't been taken seriously it is because no compelling reason has been given to do so. You seem to think serious consideration is your due. But it just isn't. If you weren't so thoroughly indoctrinated you'd realize what an extraordinary claim your gods really are.

So, I'm enjoying the discussions, learning a lot, and trying to provide Catholic Answers as best I can. Hopefully, you're benefiting in some way, too.

Peace.

I have no respect for the authority of institutions, but I have lots of respect for my fellow man. I would never wish to coerce anyone's beliefs as I grant them the status of peer - by default. You really don't have to worry about atheists seeking to extinguish religion. Life is too short.