Nature and 'spirituality'

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 9, 2018:

I have no idea what spiritual means. When I ask for a definition most come up with some sort of gobbledegook which includes the word spiritual... The natural world does leave me in awe of it. It excites me, it challenges my pre-conceptions and a walk in the woods/hills/along the beach helps me to relax and feel at peace and at one with the world. A rapid downhill ride on a mountain bike leaves me exhilarated and the aftermath of the destructive forces the weather can bring reminds me of how insignificant we can be. And how arrogant we are raping the earth of its resources. But spiritual? Probably not.

Totally unrelated but ... What sort of internet speed is normal/average where you live?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 9, 2018:

I average about 50mb/s download and 15mb/s upload speeds. I could pay extra to double this, but don't need to for what I do on the net. I have friends less that 15 miles away who are lucky to get 10mb/s

Whenever I hear "What would Jesus do" I always wonder what Jesus would do for a Klondike bar.

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 9, 2018:

??? Is someone going to help out those of us who have no idea what a Klondike bar is? Is this some sort of drinking establishment or maybe a kind of candy comestible?

Hi everyone! Thanks for accepting my membership, I'm looking forward to joining in some discussions ...

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 9, 2018:

Nope. :-) Most of my friends are atheist and many of my work colleagues too (coincidence?). However we all have different interests and I don't know of any clubs/societies/groups that have a specific atheist/agnostic agenda. I only here for a bit of healthy debate and seeing how cultures around the world view atheism.

Moral question

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 8, 2018:

Defend them from what? Do we have a right to wage war on each other in the name of 'defence'? I agree with IndySent on this one - War is horrific and rarely, if ever, justified. It's just that as tribal beings we are very good at justifying horrific acts when we are the ones that commit them.

What is your best argument against the teleological argument for theism?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 8, 2018:

My usual response is "You are talking nonsense". I don't know how we came to exist and I don't care. How does your god affect my day to day life? Really? Prove it.

I'm kinda surprised with the bountiful expression of arrogance toward religion(s).

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 8, 2018:

Where do you see this "bountiful expression of arrogance". I certainly haven't seen it on here. I have seen carefully reasoned posts(and some not so) challenging the arrogant claims of religions that they love to force upon others. Personally, as an agnostic atheist, I know that none of the claims made by theists meet their burden of proof. I also do not believe the claims that the Loch Ness Monster exists. Or unicorns. I suspect that no-one on this site is saying that we know for certain that no god can exist in any circumstance. But personally, I am prepared to say that due to the lack of credible evidence given by the major world religions to support their claims, I know that their gods do not exist. If that is what you mean by arrogance, then guilty as charged. :-)

Say that your status changed and you are no longer mortal and you possessed the abilities of a ...

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 8, 2018:

Initially I thought "Yippee! What fun I can have" Then as I thought about it I realised that in fact I would be bored shitless. No adrenaline, no having to push myself to achieve, just a metaphorical click of the fingers and whoosh- job done. So unless I'm up against another god there would really be little point to anything. Maybe that's why the christian god doesn't seem to give a shit either...

How did you find this place?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 8, 2018:

I tripped over it whilst fumbling around in the dark.... :-)

How Long Do You Think You Would Survive On A Deserted Island?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 8, 2018:

It would depend on the size of the island and the resources available. I can build shelter and have a reasonable knowledge of vegetation and could build animal traps. I'm sure I would manage if there were sufficient resources.

Level 5 - first perk

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 7, 2018:

Oooer - I'm a trustee now! It's a bit like being let loose in a sweet shop. I promise to be good - honest!!! :-)

OK... first post. Don't know what to say... Just talking haha Hi?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 7, 2018:

Wibble.

I wish the people on this site would stop being so political.

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 7, 2018:

I quite like the political posts. It gives me a window on how people from other cultures see their own society - remember, this forum has members from all over the world. So far I have only seen polite and reasoned discourse between differing political ideals. If you don't want to join in a discussion, just move along to the next one.

I don't know what you all think about devotion in relationships, but here's my take: aside from ...

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 7, 2018:

Mmm... I kind of disagree - but hear me out. As people age and mature, their priorities change and sometimes a couple can grow apart and the nature of the relationship changes. Once the passion has gone and people slip into routines living almost separate lives, you need to ask yourselves 'Is this worth saving?' I have been fortunate, I am in a great relationship at present and have been fortunate enough to move on from previous relationships without animosity and in a really positive way - positive enough for my wife and I to meet up with my ex and her husband for dinner when we are in the locale. I also have a good relationship with the mother of my child and my first wife. It is important to remember the good times and not focus purely on the things that aren't working .Take time to talk, but don't be afraid of change and be honest. If something isn't working for one, then chances are, it isn't working for both.

Are you spiritual?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 7, 2018:

I don't know. Whenever I have asked somebody to define 'spiritual' they have been completely unable without talking complete nonsense or constantly using the spiritual or soul....

How much of the bible have you read?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 7, 2018:

Enough, thank you. :-)

Church weddings?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 7, 2018:

Yes, of course - as long as they aren't mine!!! And that's because it isn't about me, it's about me paying respect to my friends.

Is marriage too connected with religion?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 7, 2018:

I said no as here in the UK, less than 40% of weddings take place in church. Inheritance and post death benefits are far simpler if you are married.

Who here was never religious?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 6, 2018:

Welcome to the minority. Not only have I never been religious, I have always been an atheist. I went to a Church of England primary school and used to get really frustrated when teachers wouldn't or couldn't answer my questions. Why does god kill so many people when he says thou shalt not kill? Who made god? If Jesus was god, then he couldn't die anyway? My dad was religious, but he did tell me to ask questions and make up my own mid - and none of it ever made sense to me. Not sure whether mun ever was. Fortunately, here in the UK, being an atheist is no big deal.

Hi All, I'm just about finished reading "Atheism for Dummies" by Dale McGowan.

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 5, 2018:

Is atheism for dummies theism?

Badly describe your hobby.

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 5, 2018:

I put something large and throbbing between my legs and make it go as fast as I can and hope to have it all over in 10 seconds.

Can "we" really have evidence for all things in this world

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 5, 2018:

If "We" is each of us as an individual, then no, of course we cannot have evidence for everything. We can make decisions and judgements on things without complete evidence and can make judgements on reasonable expectation. If "We" includes the scientific community and by "things" you mean existent things, then at some point, yes there will be evidence found. We cannot claim that something exists until we have evidence that it does in fact exist. We can also hypothesise that on the evidence we have that something could, or should, exist, despite the fact that it has not yet been found - such as the Higgs-Bosun particle or the possibilty of a 9th planet in our solar system.

thisreality?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 5, 2018:

It's the only reality that I know. It's the only reality which has any effect on my life. So, personally, I don't care if there are or not. Matrix ideas are interesting but I find to be of little value - I leave that to philosophy students!

If you found yourself standing on Judgement day, what would you have to say to God?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 4, 2018:

How dare you? And I see that someone has already posted Stephen Fry's response. Nothing to add to that really. Unless of course it wasn't the Jewish/Christian/Muslim god that is.

Anybody else love churches?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 4, 2018:

As a lifelong atheist, I love going to churches. Churches, especially over here in Europe, are often magnificent pieces of architecture and history. I am fascinated with their history, now they were built and the human story behind them. Within a 20 mile radius of my home I have over 50 churches which are over 200 years old, including one which dates back the the 13th century. We also have a huge concentration of ancient buildings and stately homes in Northamptonshire too, but it is the style and accessibility of churches that I really appreciate when out on my travels.

I still remember sitting in church at age 5 listening to this guy telling me I was a sinner.

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 4, 2018:

Not sure if this will play on your side of the pond, but Dave Allen was an Irish comedian and atheist who describes what you are recalling in his own inimitable way. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQ3dL5tJx6M

It is important to make the distinction between a personal god and an impersonal god.

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 4, 2018:

The deist god is a non starter. It's just an argument from ignorance - I can't think of know the universe started, therefore god. Something that is undetectable and has no effect on the universe is indistinguishable from something that doesn't exist. And therefore pointless to speculate about. If a personal god has an effect on the universe then this should be detectable, so an absence of evidence where evidence should be found points towards evidence of absence.. When a theist can present some evidence to back up their claim other than the bible/quran/Illiad says so, then is the time to consider believing their claim.

Why do you reject the idea of religion?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 4, 2018:

Because it doesn't make sense. I see no reason to worship anything, let alone a made up mythological being. Almost all religions are based on fear and having to pay lip service to vengeful and self centred thugs. No thanks. I have more respect from those I share this planet with to waste time with made up rules that are not relevant to the world in which I live.

How do you make life meaningful without the help of religion?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 4, 2018:

How do you make life meaningful with religion?

Will we ever have world peace?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 4, 2018:

No.

I believe in the power of faith.

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 3, 2018:

There is a difference between faith and expectation. I don't have faith that my van will start in a morning - I have a reasonable expectation based upon previous experience, knowing that it is regularly serviced and it is a make that has a good record of reliability. I had lots of faith that my old 1950's motorcycle would get me to my destination without breaking down. I had no evidence to back this up, as it never made it on any journey over about 40 miles. But I had faith that one day...... :-)

Marijuana for recreational or medicinal? Dont be shy?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 3, 2018:

Legalise and control it around the world. Regulate it in the same way that different countries regulate alcohol and I would go so far as to say legalise and regulate all recreational drugs. The further drugs get pushed underground, the more damage they do. Opiates from natural sources would open up a legitimate way for taliban to rely on the west with mutual trade dependency - in the same way that Japan trades with the west now. Every society has it's mind altering drugs of choice and has had since before records began. Prohibition doesn't work. It's a bit like the religious "Just say no" approach to contraception and safer sex. In the UK, the government has been waging a war on what were known as legal highs, gradually banning substances by adding them into the Misuse of drugs Act. This resulted in increased deaths as more and more dangerous substances were sold to stay one step ahead of the law. The law has now been changed to include "any psychoactive substance..." Sledgehammer and nut spring to mind. Isn't caffeine psychoactive in higher concentrations? And in case you are wondering, no I don't use recreational drugs with the exception of the occasional beer or glass of wine with a meal.

In your opinion, is natural selection the best way to improve a species?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 3, 2018:

I am surprised that nobody has yet mentioned that this is precisely what a certain Mr A Hitler tried. He thought he could improve upon natural selection by trying to do to breed a "master race" of Aryan people by selective breeding and eradicating any populations seen as threatening this.

So atheist or agnostic men don't shave, huh?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 3, 2018:

I don't shave my chin, but I do shave my armpits. Is that odd? :-)

Rev barbour

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 1, 2018:

Mmmm.... Not sure. Although I appreciate what he is trying to do I wish he could do it without the "moral crusade" bit. Good people do good things regardless of their religious bent. That said, I support his campaign to eliminate inequality and poverty.

Submitted for your perusal -- Kent M.

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 1, 2018:

A lot like how I have lived my life. I refuse to drop to the level of the haters and naysayers and do my best to live my life according to the ethics that I hold to be true and important to me. Some people make it difficult at times though!

Non Believer differences by Region

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 1, 2018:

Just about anywhere in Europe, especially Scandinavia and the UK. I have been an atheist since birth, and all but two of my friends and acquaintances are non-religious or atheist. And the two that are don't try to convert me or discriminate against me because I am an atheist. We do have the occasional fascinating debates where we eventually agree to differ though!

Aren't we all agnostic?

Uncorrugated comments on Jan 1, 2018:

Although the word agnostic has several definitions of usage, its etymology derives from the Greek a-gnostic as in a = without and gnostic = knowledge. So its literal meaning is without knowledge. In some areas we are all agnostic, but common usage generally relates to knowledge of god. As some theists claim to know that a god exists, they will claim that they are not agnostic. Most atheists are agnostic atheists in that they disbelieve theist claims to the existence of a god and do not believe a god exists, but understand that they cannot know that it is not possible for a god to exist.

Do zodiac signs (star signs) have a significant role in your life?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 31, 2017:

It's a couple of years out of date, but it should still be valid for 2018 https://i0.wp.com/media.boingboing.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2015-free-horoscope.jpg

Rate your level of Kinkiness from 0 to 5

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 31, 2017:

Define kinky. If it doesn't hurt and it's consensual and fun then is it kinky?

Life on other Planets? Yes or No?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 31, 2017:

"It's life Jim, but not as we know it..."

Are Women Equal to Men or More Superior?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 31, 2017:

Equal but different. Men and women have many similar and many different traits, but the combination of a great man and a great woman is unbeatable. Of course, this is just the rambling of an old heterosexual male and I know these are sweeping generalisations. And for balance, I should add that I know several same sex couples who complement each other beautifully too.

Which sports/activities do you enjoy?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 31, 2017:

You have missed off motorcycling and drag racing.

Can you recommend a new hobby to me?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 31, 2017:

Learn to ride a motorbike. I don't know about over there, but here in the UK there is a great social scene around bikes. Women are welcomed and treated as equals.

Is there any youtube channel you would recommend for the topic of atheism?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 31, 2017:

And for some lighter moments a bit of dark matter.... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qahB7mYhLxs

Theist claims

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 31, 2017:

My response.... "Shit happens. Deal with it."

how certain are you god does not exist ?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 30, 2017:

I am 100% certain that Zeus does not exist. I am 100% sure that Yahweh does not exist. ! am 100% sure that Sheva does not exist. I am 99.999999999999999999recurring% convinced no gods exist. I have seen no evidence whatsoever for anything supernatural existing. However, a null hypothesis is not possible to prove, so if evidence comes to light that a god does exist, I will change my mind and become a theist.

Your definition for atheism is wrong.

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

When I say that as an atheist I do not believe in god I am not saying that no gods exist. I have made no assertions about a deity whatsoever, apart from the fact that I do not believe the assertions made by deists. An analogy I have used in the past uses a roulette table. The next spin will either be red or black. Those are the only options, the same way that god either exists or doesn't. A deist asserts that the next spin will definitely be black (god exists). As an atheist I say that I do not believe them. I am not asserting that the next spin will be red (god does not exist). I am asserting that I cannot believe your claim until I have evidence that your claim is true. Obviously in this example there is a 50/50 chance that it will be black as we have previous form and probability to work out the likelihood - far greater than for the god claims! Hope that explains why being an atheist does not mean asserting god(s) does not or cannot exist.

How to deal with religious family and friends?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

Oddly enough, I don't think that I have any.

In my country Christians celebrate Christmas Eve, the evening before Christmas a family and ...

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

If it was at my home, I would ask that they say their prayer privately and in silence. On neutral ground or at their home I would stay courteously quiet.

What's your new years resolution going to be?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

Make sure you get there before Brexit!

Would the world be better if the top 2% ran it instead

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

They already do....

What do you think?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

No. No need whatsoever. I have been an atheist since birth. I was brought up to question everything and not to take anything a face value. The idea of supernatural never made sense to me and the fairy tales we were told at primary school were just that - fairy stories. I loved the tales of Greek and Roman gods, Norse mythology and was fascinated at how ancient civilisations tried to rationalise their world and explain the unknown. Then was told that the Christian gos was different. How? I don't need to know lots about different world religions to not believe in their deities. If they want me to believe in their deity, they need to present their argument and back it up with evidence. If their god has any effect on the world then there should be evidence of it. If it doesn't have an effect then it is indistinguishable from no god. That is not to say that the tenets of their belief are harmful - until recently I thought that Buddhism was a harmless and benign religion and for the most part it is. It is not my job to prove their god does not exist, if they want me to believe, they have the burden of proof. I will only question their beliefs when they try to assert that they are true.

What are your thoughts about euthanasia?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

It is a difficult one. I fully support an individual's right to end their own life. When it comes to someone assisting in that process then this is an area which would need to be very carefully regulated with clear and unambiguous guidelines and regulations. Asking for your life to be ended to relieve intolerable pain and suffering is an obvious candidate, but how about someone suffering debilitating mental health problems? How about non-resuscitation requests? In principal. I generally agree that assisted suicide should be legal, but with clear and unambiguous guidelines.

Guns: Love them or leave them?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

Looking in on this from the UK I find the American attitude to guns quite bizarre. And to your constitution for that matter. "You can't change our constitution" you shout with the same passion that evangelists shout about the bible. When actually, you can. The right to bear arms is the second AMENDMENT. Like the prohibition of alcohol was the 18th amendment and the 21st amendment that repealed the 18th amendment. It can change with the times to protect and serve the American public. You appear to have the attitude that when someone breaks into your house they do so intent on killing you. I would have thought they are more likely to want to steal your stuff. Here in the UK, house burglars rarely carry weapons because they know if they wake someone up, they can just run off (or at worst swing at you with a chair or vase or something) and if they get caught get a few years prison as opposed to life if they shot at you if you woke up. In the states if they disturb you, they will likely have a weapon because they are likely to get shot at - so will shoot first to protect themselves. It would appear to be a vicious circle - more law abiding citizens carry guns means more criminals carry guns which means more people get shot. More people are shot and killed in the states by other Americans daily than are killed in a year by terrorists, yet you have this high profile war on terror and muslims. The biggest threat to your safety is much closer to home. And, yes, you are right. It is none of my business!!! ;-)

Is it inevitable that in order to accept scientific discovery all humans must think the same way and...

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

You also need to take into consideration 'social sciences' and sociology to get an idea of how individuals and societies relate to each other in given circumstances. Those with power will manipulate how society functions through sponsorship and control of governments and media outlets, so that although we may have an understanding of how the physical world works, our understanding of the social world will be skewed by the lies we are fed from above....

Which one is atheist?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

The latter is anti-theist not atheist. Atheism is a response to the theist's claim that a god(s) exists. It is not a claim that gods don't exist. The burden of proof remains with the person making the claim. If you state that god does not exist, you have a burden of proof to back up your assertion.

Why did you become nonreligious or atheist?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

I was born an atheist and have been ever since.

Oldest human fossils discovered in Morocco - Axios

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

There are many religious people (not just christians) that are not young earth creationists and believe the earth is much older and believe in evolution and most of the science behind it. Unfortunately, there are some zealots out there who believe so strongly in the literal translations of their holy books that short of divine revelation, nothing will shake their faith in the book.

are you afraid of death?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 29, 2017:

Not scared of death. I don't like the idea of it, but there is nothing I can do about it. I kind of look at it a bit like I look at the time before I was born - it didn't hurt and I didn't miss it.

Which Parent Are, or Were You Closest To?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 28, 2017:

I'm not close to either of my parents.

The meaning of life

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 28, 2017:

The original series was originally broadcast on BBC Radio in 1978 as a weekly half hour show and was later adapted for television. There were also 6 books - Hitchhikers guide to the Galaxy, Restaurant at the End of the Universe, Life the Universe and Everything, So Long and Thanks for all the Fish, Mostly Harmless... and And Another Thing... The author. Douglas Adams was also an atheist.

Would you buy 'Made in America' even when it would be more expensive than a comparable product?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 28, 2017:

Nope. Though some of my friends seem to like Harleys.....

QUICK SNAPSHOT OF THE COMMUNITY

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 26, 2017:

Not sure that I agree with Dawkins on this. I consider myself an atheist. I am 99.9999% sure that no gods exist - mostly because I have never had anyone able to define a god satisfactorily. However, I cannot prove that no gods exist anywhere in the universe or that it is impossible for them to exist. Should evidence appear that proves the existence of a god, then I will no longer be an atheist with regard to that god.

If you are not a Christian, is it alright to go to church?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 26, 2017:

I suppose it depends what you mean by go to church. Personally I would fell a hypocrite if I went to services and took part in the prayers. However, I often help out my local church with events they put on in my village as a part of the community. The vicar is aware that I am an atheist, as are several of the congregation. It hasn't been a problem and I don't get preached at. I am in the UK though, where atheism is neither rare nor frowned upon, so I understand that it may be more difficult where you are.

Do men need 'sexual harassment' training? Agree? Disagree?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 26, 2017:

I voted other as I believe that everybody needs to know what constitutes sexual harassment and the ability to combat it wherever it occurs. We need to move away from the culture where those in power have the ability to impose their will on others with impunity and allow those who have been wronged to make their case without fear of retribution.

Would you agree with the following: All agnostics are atheists but not all atheists are agnostics?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 26, 2017:

I disagree. It is possible to be an agnostic theist. A gnostic theist claims to know that a god exists and will cite evidence from their holy books as the proof. An agnostic theist may not strictly follow a particular religion and may not believe everything in their holy books, but they are convince a god exists, but don't know why or will believe gods do exist until someone proves they do not. The time to believe a claim is when there is evidence to support the claim. You may have a hypothesis, but it only becomes a theory when there is sufficient evidence to support it.

Where does life originate from?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 25, 2017:

I don't know. Does it matter?

I have just joined this group.

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 25, 2017:

The impressive level of bible knowledge, I suspect, is why many on here are atheist. I have absolutely no idea what you mean by 'spiritual enlightenment'.' If you can define what it is, I can probably tell you why I reject it. If you can't define it, that is probably the reason why I reject it.

Because I am an atheist does it mean that I should disrespect or not knowledgeable other peoples ...

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 25, 2017:

I try not to disrespect anyone's beliefs. If a topic arises where I have a different view I will engage in polite discourse when possible and appropriate. Generally I find that as humans we have much more in common than we have differences and sometimes the best option is to agree to differ and accept that we will not change each other's position and get on with getting on. Street preachers and door knockers are fair game though! :-)

As an atheist, I think Homosexuality should not come into mainstream. What's your take ?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 25, 2017:

I was going to be particularly scathing and probably offensive to you with my initial reply, but a quick look at your profile may has tempered my response somewhat now I have seen where you are from and how old you are. You say in some of your replies that you do not want homosexuality to become mainstream in case it becomes normal and people are 'encouraged' to be homosexual. This appears to me to be a very nieve view that has been implanted by your social norms. People don't become homosexual because it accepted as normal. People come out as homosexual (or bisexual) because they feel safe to. Gay pride and other parades raise awareness and challenge the stereotyped perceptions of those less educated. In Europe, public perception has been changing over the years and there is less discrimination against LGBT groups year on year. There is still a long way to go, there are still people out there that think you can catch homosexuality or that it is a choice. Until we live in a world where people have equal rights under the law and are treated by their peers as equals, then marches and demos to bring this inequality into the mainstream must continue. You are 19 years old and probably still exploring your sexuality. You live in a country where I believe the rights of the LGBT community are still in their infancy and culturally unacceptable - certainly if you were further north in Pakistan. Without protests and marches, women still wouldn't have the vote - feminism has been around for far longer and women still struggle to be treated as equals. Could you vote for No discrimination against women - but it shouldn't be in the mainstream? Hang around the forum, listen to the sane and the crazy, and look at alternative sources for evidence. And keep asking questions.

As an atheist, I think Homosexuality should not come into mainstream. What's your take ?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 25, 2017:

I was going to be particularly scathing and probably offensive to you with my initial reply, but a quick look at your profile may has tempered my response somewhat now I have seen where you are from and how old you are. You say in some of your replies that you do not want homosexuality to become mainstream in case it becomes normal and people are 'encouraged' to be homosexual. This appears to me to be a very nieve view that has been implanted by your social norms. People don't become homosexual because it accepted as normal. People come out as homosexual (or bisexual) because they feel safe to. Gay pride and other parades raise awareness and challenge the stereotyped perceptions of those less educated. In Europe, public perception has been changing over the years and there is less discrimination against LGBT groups year on year. There is still a long way to go, there are still people out there that think you can catch homosexuality or that it is a choice. Until we live in a world where people have equal rights under the law and are treated by their peers as equals, then marches and demos to bring this inequality into the mainstream must continue. You are 19 years old and probably still exploring your sexuality. You live in a country where I believe the rights of the LGBT community are still in their infancy and culturally unacceptable - certainly if you were further north in Pakistan. Without protests and marches, women still wouldn't have the vote - feminism has been around for far longer and women still struggle to be treated as equals. Could you vote for No discrimination against women - but it shouldn't be in the mainstream? Hang around the forum, listen to the sane and the crazy, and look at alternative sources for evidence. And keep asking questions.

Is ignorance bliss?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 25, 2017:

Which studies? Japan has the highest life expectancy of any country and the majority of other countries with long life expectancies are countries that have a higher percentage of atheists and less dogmatic religions. Is this just true in the US?

If you could ask "god" just 2 questions, what would they be ?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 24, 2017:

If you are all powerful can you make an object that you cannot move? And why 42?

20min past midnight on the 25th.

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 24, 2017:

Ooh. Another 5 hours before we get there. Invercargill - isn't that where Burt Munroe came from?

What's an example of UnIntelligent Design?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 24, 2017:

The London Orbital Motorway, the M25.

How do you tell religious people that you're an atheist?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 24, 2017:

I don't. In the same way that I don't tell people I am heterosexual. 99% of the time it isn't relevant to our discussions. Should the conversation turn to religion, then I am comfortable in stating that I am an atheist - and then often then have to explain the difference between atheist and anti-theist as most religious people seem to think that if you don't believe there is enough evidence to believe there is a god, then you must believe that a god cannot exist.

What does your circle of friends look like?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 24, 2017:

A circle? :-)

Hello, First I need to let folks know that I am a seminary student at a post-modern ...

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 24, 2017:

Interesting that you use the terms agnostics and atheists as if they both relate to belief as they address different things. Does your premise also assume that Hindus and Bhuddists have a greater potential to reach the conscious level (whatever that is) more than most Christians. If so, then why are you a Christian? Is it because that as atheists we are free to make our own decisions based on reason and evidence rather than what a bunch of 2000 year old story books tell us? Could you please clarify what you are trying to say as you post makes no sense to me at all.

Anyone else not celebrating xmas?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 24, 2017:

Depends what you mean by celebrating. We use Christmas as a time of year to meet up with friends and family as it is one of the only times in the year when we have free time together. No religious element to it.

As Agnostic, are you more inclined to believe in higher power (of any kind) or more inclined to deny...

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 23, 2017:

I don't understand what you mean. An agnostic what? What is a higher power? Are you an agnostic atheist or an agnostic theist?

Do people actually find a soulmate or is that fake?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 22, 2017:

Can you define soulmate for me? I don't mean to sound uncaring, but different people have very different definitions of the word. I have several "soulmates". One of whom is my wife. We share lots of things together including sex. I have other soulmates that I would trust with my life, we spend time together, share interests and trust each other implicitly but we don't have sex - both male and female. I guess that your family ruined your view of relationships and I too abhor sexual abuse. Sex is a beautiful thing between two consenting adults of equal stature who are making an informed choice. Gender is not an issue in this choice. Take a step back and take stock of what you want from a relationship. Dating sites are full of predators looking for a quickie. Take time to build friendships slowly, find places where you are likely to meet people with similar interests and don't go in with the expectation of finding someone to have a relationship with. We find our closest friends in the least expected places and if those friends turn into lovers great. And if they don't, that's ok too. Take your time and don't be pressured into sex is you are not ready. If they care they will respect your feelings, tell them you are not ready for sex, but also be honest if you think you are unlikely to get to that stage say so. You don't have to justify why not, but you will know when the time is right. If you have an interest or hobby, join a club or society and get to know others with those interests. I am lucky to have never suffered abuse, but have spent years working with the survivors and the hardest part is often recognising that it is not your fault. There is nothing you could have done at the time to change things - you had no power to make any change. I don't know where you are based, but there are a number of groups for survivors of abuse over here in the UK which can be helpful for some people to move on. I wish you luck in your search.

Should health insurance companies be required to cover birth control?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 22, 2017:

??? Uk based with free healthcare including contraception.

Am I the only person on the planet who has to work today?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 22, 2017:

I spent many years working in children's homes and worked every Christmas Day, Boxing day and lots of new year's eves over the last 20 odd years. I'm currently working in a school, so get 14 weeks holiday a year including all the public holidays. I'm skint, but loving the work/life balance!

Which one of THESE fetishes would you be most willing to deal with?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 22, 2017:

I would be willing to try any of the above - BUT - variety is the spice of life and if any of these were the only way a partner could enjoy sex, then they would soon stop being an ideal date.

Would you buy an electric car?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 22, 2017:

Would definitely buy an EV if the price was right. Range not a problem for me as my commute is short, but that means it is not economically viable at present. For example, here in the UK both Renault and Nissan do EV's where you lease the battery, the cost of which is more than I currently spend on fuel for my car, van AND motorbike. I did run a Prius when my commute was significantly longer and an EV would have made financial sense then, but with bought battery pack.

Do you celebrate religious holidays?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 21, 2017:

Hell yes! I'll celebrate any holiday. And anyways, Easter is usually the first race meeting of the season. What's not to celebrate? :-)

Should I attend a wedding at church as an atheist?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 21, 2017:

Of course you should. This is your daughter's wedding. It's not about you. You don't have to pray or join in with any religious element of the service. Visiting a church doesn't make you a hypocrite, but boycotting your daughter's wedding because you don't like her choices would be devastating for her. I don't know where you are based, but most churches over here in the UK are awesome buildings and worth a visit just to see the craftsmanship that went into them and to learn a bit of history about the area. Make your daughter's day complete - it's what dad's need to do sometimes. You know it makes sense! :-)

How comfortable are you with the word "Atheist" ?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 21, 2017:

Completely comfortable with it. I do occasionally have to explain that I am atheist and not anti-theist as some people struggle to accept that not believing a claim is true is not the same as believing it is false.

Are IDC s welcome here?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 19, 2017:

Dilligaf

Should an atheist study world religions or not?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 19, 2017:

How else would I know the best way to offend them? :-)

I believe in a creator.

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 16, 2017:

Does your creator act in any measurable way on your daily life? Did your creator also create the parasites, bacteria and viruses that cause misery to millions? Does your creator create the storms that kill millions of animals and plants every year? Does he love you unconditionally, yet afflicts others with painful and degenerative genetic conditions that cause suffering not just to them but also that those who care for them? Just asking why you believe in a creator that loves you unconditionally and what your evidence is for this.

FAVORITE DRUG What is your favorite drug?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 16, 2017:

It's clearly visible in my profile picture......

I am a school teacher.

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 16, 2017:

I work in a UK school and wonder why you would go into a class with no prep - is this why this is your worst class? Days when I have to cover at short notice and go into a class with no prep are the ones that are most difficult to manage and go wrong most often.

Are the 10 commandments a bucket list for Atheist?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 16, 2017:

The Torah has 613 commandments. I could have loads of fun with them on a bucket list!

I've generally regarded agnostics as atheists who want to keep their options open.

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 16, 2017:

I think that the difficulty here is that of definitions. Agnostic and atheist are not mutually exclusive. You can be an agnostic theist or agnostic atheist. The gnostic part is the claim to knowledge and the theist part is that of belief'. Personally, I am an atheist in that I do not believe the claims of religions that a god (or anything supernatural) exists as I have seen no evidence to substantiate those claims. Do I know that no such evidence exists? No, and so on the knowledge claim I am agnostic. My next door neighbour is an agnostic theist. She tells me she believes in a god, but does not know absolutely that there is, it just feels good to her. Anti-theist is the belief that no gods exist and for me, they have the same burden of proof as a theist. They would have to show me evidence that in fact, no god can exist - absence of evidence does not necessarily equate to evidence of absence, in the same way that proving that something happens does not explain why it happens.

What is your response when people threaten you with religious punishments? (i.e. Hell/Jahannam)

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 16, 2017:

On the rare occasions when that has happened, I push the question back to them and ask if they think that I deserve to go to hell. They will often try to avoid the question by saying that it is not their decision and "only god can make that decision". I then ask if they agree that their god would send me to hell for using the 'free will' I have been given to not believe. Watching the cognitive dissonance and grappling for nonsensical excuses is entertainment of the highest order.

Do you ever miss the religious life?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 16, 2017:

Nope. I have never been religious or believed in a god, so nothing to miss.

Turns out, in my experience, that it is better to admit to being a pedophile than an atheist.

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 16, 2017:

Over here in the UK, it really isn't a problem. In fact, it is very rare for religious people (street preacher nutters excepted) to talk about religion much at all.

What would make you believe in a God?

Uncorrugated comments on Dec 16, 2017:

I don't know. But a God would. So if it wants me to believe, it knows what to do.