What many atheists feel like with theists logic.

[robvalue]

Sure. Well, I value all the theists on the site because they are people, and I afford them a minimum level of respect. That respect even extends to ignoring them instead of insulting them where appropriate. But I don't necessarily respect or value what they have to say about religion, because I see it as mostly nonsense.

I suppose a better word is appreciate. I appreciate the theists who actually want to talk to us as people, rather than preach at us. I can consider them friends rather than people shouting stuff at me.

[Brian37]

Sure. Well, I value all the theists on the site because they are people, and I afford them a minimum level of respect. That respect even extends to ignoring them instead of insulting them where appropriate. But I don't necessarily respect or value what they have to say about religion, because I see it as mostly nonsense.

I suppose a better word is appreciate. I appreciate the theists who actually want to talk to us as people, rather than preach at us. I can consider them friends rather than people shouting stuff at me.

Again, IF IF IF "respect" meant your intent, I would agree, but it unfortunately is really a hollow word used most of the time someone uses to shut down a conversation to protect their own ego. That is why I don't use that word. Rights and claims are two separate issues and far to many humans think a claim is actually their physical blood or DNA.

It is a loaded platitude and humans will "respect" their own camps and not "respect" others claims. THAT is why I personally never use that word.

[Brian37]

But yea, I do appreciate my species ability to do good, and be good regardless of label, I'd only argue that goodness isn't in the label ourselves, but stems from our evolution that leads us to cooperate and have empathy for our fellow humans. Not even the word "atheist" will automatically make a human good.

[robvalue]

Sure, I agree. It's cowardly to hide behind "respect".

The thing is, if a theist turns up here and offers their opinion on something, they can hardly complain if people discuss it. It's a discussion forum. If they don't want it discussed, they should keep it to themselves. No one is forced to say anything. No one is hounding people in their homes or shouting in their ears.