The Militant Atheist, The Businessman, And The Fibber
Posted on | May 2, 2009 | 1 Comment
I’ve never been a fan of the term “militant atheist.” It implies that the subject has their ideological sword ready at all times to do battle with the fidels (look, I made up a word!) The term “devout atheist” or “staunch atheist” seems to get the job done without characterizing them as out picking senseless fights.
It’s not my style to get in the face of religious people and tell them they are worshiping a man-made fantasy. Not only would that be rude and uncomfortable, but also I have come to terms with the fact that it’s not my job to fix the world.
As the owner of a small business, I sign contracts with new customers on a regular basis. Prior to the actual signing, there is often a getting-to-know-one-another discussion, and occasionally during these sessions, the prospective client brings up his or her religion. Often, it comes in the form of asking which church I attend or in the form of an invitation to his or her own church, because, “Reverend <Who-Gives-A-Crap> is the absolute best. You’ll love him.”
How should I handle these situations? I could proudly beat the atheist drum and let them know that I have no use for sky pixies, but, uh, that might be bad for business. I try to take a milder approach, letting them draw an erroneous conclusion but without my actually lying. For example: “Thank you for the invitation, but religion is deeply important to me, and I’m very happy where I am right now.” I then deftly change the subject back to business.
How do my fellow atheists deal with these predicaments? What do you do or say to otherwise pleasant people who foist their religious beliefs on you?
Tags: devout atheist > militant atheism > militant atheist > religion > religious people > sky pixie
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My name is John. I have opinions about everything, especially about how to solve world problems. Most of my rants have to do with the runaway stupidity on this planet. If you don't agree with my views, that's OK - it's a free country (kinda). Just don't mistake this site for a democracy!
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May 14th, 2009 @ 1:56 pm
Thats a nice way of diplomatically avoiding a potentially costly situation.
I teach at a college – and recently a class of mine had to miss an afternoon as their school required them to sit a Religious Studies exam. Stifling my laughter we had a theological discussion – I pointed out evolution, astrophysics, the similarites of jesus to pre-existing hero-myths etc.. It was amusing to see that they mainly based their belief in an afterlife – not becuase of 10 years of catholic school, but through ghost hunting tv shows and “orbs” (dust on digital camera lenses)
I am very forthright about my beliefs – having nothing to lose! I recently became a father and have no intention of christening my lad, despite going to his many cousins christenings. Humanist naming ceremony for us.
I used to work with an african christian who’s homophobia was alarming. As I explained when trying to point out how vile her attitudes were; Ignorance of reality is no excuse.