Level 8 in two years? You're a 'fast burner!'

Having lived in Europe and spending a good number of months in the UK, I definitely agree that religion is handled way differently here. The label of 'atheist' or 'unbeliever' will keep most people from being elected to a local school board, much less a higher office.

America was established as a mercantile (capitalist) system in both commerce as well as religion. The free market of ideas allowed, if not encouraged, the creation of new religions, particularly in the 19th century, when 4 large cults were born that later became viewed (by some, not all) as 'mainstream' religions: Mormons, Seventh-day Adventists, Christian Scientists, and your favorite Jehovah's Witnesses. And in the 20th century, America gave birth to the evolved belief of Scientology!

But then again, England gave us the Church of England, thanks to Henry VIII, as well as George Fox's Quakers and John Wesley's Methodists. Religion factories are as productive as they are widespread.

As far as jokes go, I enjoy groaners. They're usually pretty clever.

In the USA, people generally make all kinds of assumptions about you if you don't believe in god.
They generally assume that you're debauched and immoral.
The USA ranks very low in the acceptance and knowledge of science.
And very low in areas of societal well-being.
Mainly because of religion.

Yes, the US seem to be the country in the world which has a huge problem with people being agnostic or atheist. I have not come across this kind of thing anywhere else, that goes for socialism, communism and social democracy. They have this ingrained image and fear of it and no understanding of the differences.

Congratulations.

Congratulations on reaching level 8! Don't let the level 7's con you into showing them the secret handshake!

Here in NC, as well as throughout the Bible belt, religious beliefs or disbelief are conflated with politics, especially in the more bucolic parts. I've had people come to me privately after hearing about my own atheism and quietly admit they agree. I've also had loud disagreement and scorn as responses. But even the local JW's give me some space when I tell them, some even want to talk about it.

Anyway keep posting. I'm at level 8.5 and there is still a long way for me to go. Persistence will be your path to 9.

Being an atheist is a really big thing in parts of the US.

I find the JW's get quite enthusiastic when I explain that not only am I an Atheist but that I was forced to go to their Kingdom Hall as a child. I think they may get bonus points if they can bag an Atheist but they are always a bit shaken when they leave my door because I know all their little tricks and jargon.
Be the change you want to see in the world, mess with their delusional little pea brains and sow the seeds of discontent that may make them question how crazy their religious beliefs are.

Getting to level 9 can be easier than you think. Look at the list of things that generate points and focus on the things that will give you those points. Might have the time at the moment is you're at home a lot.

Just found this on youtube:

I though british people were better at grammar, I "must have" been wrong.

Well done, yes have enjoyed your posts.

Just joined and really like it. It's funny that you mention Jehovah's Witnesses. I used to be one until 5 years ago and can definitely relate! I deconverted from that belief system and from all religion in general. So glad I am finally out of that and can be a freethinker now! Cheers!