I've been an atheist since my teens but I have never given up any rituals and have invented at least one because rituals can be very useful. All of my family meals begin with a centering. We hold hands and I say something to the effect I am so thankful we are sharing this meal together because I love you all. It makes for a much nicer meal time when everyone is on the same page.

I listened to this book several months ago. Echoed my thoughts that I hadn't put in to words. It's always nice to get a little wisdom from a Sagan too!

Of course they do, just look at Thanks Giving or Christmas.

This country would be better off if enough people would join in on secular rituals.

Sounds like a great book! Western atheism tends to be too much like the monotheistic religions - fanatic about rejecting what's not right.

I celebrate Christmas, et cetera as cultural festivals. Absolutely nothing wrong with a Christmas tree, gift giving, feasting, and drinking!

Religion survives because it provides community and meaning. We can repurpose their traditions. No need to reinvent the wheel...

I love this idea, as many of my atheist/agnostic friends don't like the idea of celebrating christmas. Why can't we just have a winter festival instead on the same day?