The thing that really struck me is how so many US atheists talk about "coming out" as an atheist, suggesting that for many of them announcing their lack of belief in God is a major life-changing event which, in some cases, leads to extremely negative and even violent reactions. Over here; if you announce that you don't believe in God the reaction is likely to be "Oh right. Did you see McVitie's Digestives have gone up by 3p in Tesco?"

Interesting article, and it largely agrees with what I've observed in Western Europe. Christians here are not very devoutly Christian (barring a few Jehovah's Witnesses) certainly compared to say 40 years ago. Things have been changing quickly, and the younger people have with each passing generation gotten more scientific and more secular.

Hi pleased you're enjoying the site.

The first thing I notice is a cheap attempt to gain attention - at the expense of Atheists. So, end of reading…

[note - I’m beginning to avoid posts with ‘links’]

Religion in this nation has become linked to patriotism, thus, it remains a battleground of sorts. One side of our political system rallies their troops with it, while the other side seeks the kind of progressivism you’re accustomed to. Much is at stake, so the battle continues.

There’s a church in ‘America’ (I try to refer to us as the US or USA, as not to taint either of ‘the Americas’ ) where my political pals go … and since I refuse to set foot in a church.. can’t even come up with it… I think there’s someing ‘Ecumential’ in it’s name, though They tolerate my Athleticism, often discovering it from a letter to the editor … as I attempt to tolerate their inability to totally detached from religion

It appears the more educated you become, the more distanced from religion you get. It does appear black & white, around here.. No doubt a large segment of society uses religious institutions as a form of social interaction more than a source of values, morals or direction. Hell, if I were to join one of countless local churches ..I’d likely find a partner in no time! But, what I’d give up with regard to personal integrity, is not worth it.

We’re a large, confused lumbering nation, likely in as perilous a time as ever..

Good READ!! I live here and it puzzles the shit outta me so I can see where you would wonder what's up.

I have not answers but I do wish we'd founded a religion on John Lennon - he wrote all you need is LOVE. Probably too simple for alot of folks to follow.