The vocal atheist who would assert other atheists are in fear of expressing their beliefs (that this is it and there ain’t no more) speak on behalf of a population smaller than their own. This is, awkwardly enough, where the vocal atheist errs — and where religionists pounce. Both end up falling all over each other because there is nothing of substance between them.
The quiet atheist has nothing to say, not a fear of saying it. Both vocal atheists and those in agreement with Ms. Allen waste their time speculating about the quiet atheist because no one can rally apathetic troops, nor can anyone exploit sympathy where there is only indifference.
Ms. Allen’s thoughts can be summed up with the last line "So, atheists, how about losing the tired sarcasm and boring self-pity and engaging believers seriously?" To be accurate, however, the word "some" would have to follow the word "So," since most atheists give a rat’s ass about either side of this argument. Too, her parting shot can be applied to any sarcastic, self-pitying opponent — to include religionists. In this, both Ms. Allen and the vocal atheist lack the one thing they need to be taken seriously: a point.
Article comments
1 - Jeannie Danna
Diana,
I believe in God, yet my belief is personal and I don't believe that we are separating church and state any longer. This is the fundamental difference between us in the world today and we need to get back to what Christ taught whether, we believe or not, tolerate one another. One of my favorite atheists is Bill Maher, I love Bill Maher! :)
2 - Irene Wagner
(Soon to be deleted Heads up) -- this is a powerful disinsentive - your link to Charolotte's article caused my network to time out.
3 - Ruvy
Diane,
I'm glad your article was as short as it was. Really - who cares about this tripe? People who have serious religious beliefs (whatever they are) are not swayed at all by articles on the internet.
4 - M Sholehchudin
what is borring because not focus?