No.Why? See no value-better things to do.

Never. What is the point in doing so?

On a campus I could see possibly being more vocal - just for the reasons you've expressed. Sometimes, the battles seem worth it - at least for a while.

But out in the world in the rest of life, I prefer not to get into random debates, as I see no point. Similar to debating with those enamored with the orange one. Not going to change them - why waste energy, get yourself all worked up, and possibly bring your mood down ?

If it's someone I like, and care about to some degree, that happens to be a "god person", I'll respectfully examine thoughts and ideas, without any expectation of change on either side .

I also never waste my time on the hate-spewers. Obviously, they somehow are getting off on the "persecution" we give them when we shout back... I think if they were completely ignored by everyone they would probably do it less(?). As to the "surveyors" who turn out to be recruiters, I'd also just brush them off quickly as they are obviously neck-deep into their religion to be doing such a thing. The only people I do debate/discuss with are friends/coworkers/colleagues/family... IF they bring it up. If this happens, I just try to focus on what beliefs we do have in common and how we can both be moral despite our differences. I think it's most important for them to see that we non-believers are human and moral; they've had a lifetime of propaganda from the pulpit telling them otherwise, so going in friendly and gentle is one of the few ways I've found that I'm heard.

No id rather spend my time with some ladies in a mass--debate

They have an agenda (these people you're talking about) so they are not really interested in your opinion, or in a debate. I do not seek out religious people to debate and I'm not on a mission to deconvert anyone (but I'd be happy if they all just "saw the light" and stopped believing tomorrow). However, if someone engages me, I'm happy to offer my opinion, which is rather strong. =]

Depends whether or not the person is willing to be reasonable, if not (more times than not) then I see no use.

I will only engage in those types of conversations if its amaong people I know and in a particular setting. We're far more apt to listen to our friends and family than we are a complete stranger when it comes to such topics. Ultimately the debate ends up being pointless so instead I've taken on the philosphy of explaining the process of figuring it out for themselves. Encouraging them to ask important questions about life and showing them ways they can research for themselves. When they ask me what I believe I simply shift the conversation, "More important than what I believe is whether or not you've asked yourself the right questions." It usually catches them off guard and they'll want you to elaborate. At which point I just peacefully start pointing out simple questions like have they ever stopped to consider what life would be like if they didn't exist. Stuff like that. If the conversation goes nowhere than I just politely excuse myself from the situation.

No, its a waste of time.

All the time. Even in prison with Muslims.

Rarely do I spend any time debating with the religious. However, on those rare occasions, it is a sight to behold. Even more rare than the debates is obtaining any form of positive result -- which is one of the major reasons for rarely engaging. Hate spinning my wheels.

Soon I'll be in college and I'll be having to deal with that. Thank you for the heads up.