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Turned Toward Rationality

On September 14, 2012, The New York Times ran a story called “Turned Away, He Turned to the Bible” which describes the efforts of Matthew Vines to encourage Biblical interpretations that welcome differences in sexual orientation. A plain reading of the Bible shows many things that to modern minds can seem unlikely, unscientific, illogical, or even immoral. » Read more

Strategies for Humanist Living Part 7

QUESTION 7

Imagine you have recently begun working with a boss who loudly plays radio programs from a Christian radio station. The programs say derogatory things about atheists, gay people, women, and even other groups of Christians. How would you handle the situation? Have you had similar experiences with family or friends?

REPLIES

It depends on the type of business, if you’re working for the government, there is the EEO office. In a private company, you might have to quit. I can’t say there is an easy answer. -Stan Bradley » Read more

Get in on the giving!

Strategies for Humanist Living Part 6

QUESTION 6

What do you say when someone says, “bless you” or “have a blessed day”? How do you respond to “I’ll pray for you”?

REPLIES


“Thanks!” -Jamie Nichols


To “I’ll pray for you,” I respond “thank you, I’m sure you are.” With “bless you,” this phrase in my opinion is harmless, so I simply say, “thanks.”

I just let it pass. At least they are not saying “kiss my behind.” -Stan Bradley » Read more

How I Came To Be a Nonbeliever

The Young Atheist's Handbook

Alom Shaha’s The Young Atheist’s Handbook: Lessons for Living a Good Life Without God is an exceptional book in several ways and shows Shaha’s skill as a teacher.

Shaha explains atheism using memorable personal stories. The stories show how his experiences led him to his conclusions about life and about religion. By using stories, Shaha gives a gentle introduction to atheism that allows the reader to understand his atheism as part of his experience rather than as an abstract subject to be debated.  » Read more

Strategies for Humanist Living Part 5

QUESTION 5

What art, music, literature, television, humor, movies, or other entertainment reflect your Humanist world view? Which people do you especially admire who model Humanist living?

REPLIES


All art is important to human emotional existence. Awe can create a depth of feeling like religion. Mr. Deity and Renaissance artists are examples of humor and art.

Rodin’s “The Thinker” makes a good reminder to think!  » Read more

Strategies for Humanist Living Part 4

Sharing a common worldview, Humanists face many common situations. In "Strategies for Humanist Living" Humanists offer their suggestions for handling those common situations. We invite readers to add their suggestions in the comments section.

QUESTION 4

Can you tell someone is an atheist by things that person does or does not do? What clues might let you know that someone is a Humanist even if that person does not tell you? 


REPLIES 


It’s easier to tell who is not an atheist. Atheists don’t say, “God willing,” “Our prayers are with you,” or “It’s a miracle!”  » Read more

Something More Than Atheism

Years ago, when I told my parents that I was no longer a Christian, my mother asked, “Then what do you believe?” My mother seemed to think that living well would take more than just an absence of belief. Now, this important question of what to stand for and of whether atheists should deal with more than the existence of God has erupted in the secular movement. » Read more

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