The results didn't say that there are no bright people that are religious.

I also gave the example of my very smart supervisor physicist who was very religious.

The people you quote are historical, I think that in historical times depending on which part of the world you were living, open atheism was not popular as you might have got beheaded or something. Even these days some people wouldn't be able to be truthful depending on their position, especially religious leaders.

It's a correlation not causation.

You are correct .Unfortunately some people enjoy the delusion of being intellectually superior to others

I believe that too, it's just that the results show a negative correlation between intelligence and religion, no conclusions can be drawn for individuals, it's a big picture thing.

Regarding clergy who are atheists. It must be hard for people who are fully involved in their church and family and friends and are all intertwined in the religion. Turning your back on the religion can mean turning your back on your family and friends. I have seen this personally, a friend of mine was in a christian cult, so that's even worse than a normal religion, can be very insular. She uprooted herself and moved to another city! it was the only way as no one would accept her denial of the religion. Her family now speaks to her again and have come to terms with her non belief. This was a major and very emotional change. I think a lot of people just opt to stay quiet about it as they value the social infrastructure they enjoy, something which was built up over many years.

@ripcurldane I learned of this issue with Atheist Clergy on You Tube, there is actually a group that helps clergy leave with Job training and so on, they are called the Clergy Project and they vet those who wish to join to ensure they are genuine in their desire to get out and not just there to spy on the group.

@misstuffy I love that, great to see that happening.

@ripcurldane I think it is wonderful too, they help no matter the religion or denomination. When the first started this project they thought there were just a few only to learn there are hundreds out there seeking a way out. Many go into seminary school hopeful but what they learn in those classes disillussions them with regards to God's existence. I for one would love to know just what is being taught in those classes, whatever it is I hope they keep it up. Who knew the religious institutions would be so responsible for creating new atheists out of fervent Christians!

@ripcurldane A lot of the clergy would leave but lack job skills in other areas. The Clergy Project works on job training but their funds are limited so donations to help relocate and retrain former and current clergy looking for a way out is much appreciated I imagine.

There are a lot of very intelligent people that are religious but when it comes to religion ad God they are unwilling to listen to anything that would compromise their beliefs, many of these are in the clergy or make their living with religion based businesses. The believers buy a lot of paraphanalia to go with their God addiction, Bibles, crosses, robes for the choir, religious music, stained glass windows, toast with Jesus on it... you get the picture

That's a pretty reasonable assertion. Nice.