Atheists challenge the religious right

Post Reply New Topic

Any force, in my opinion, doesn't work.

Hell, take governmental beliefs (same as religious but your 'god' is a system, so to speak). Socialism to me, does not work. Reason being is because I'm being FORCED to donate money.

On the way home, UNICEF asked me for donations. I said no. Between me staying above poverty and the government taking all my money for services *I* dont use, I've little left to donate.

Difference between Welfare and UNICEF? I was asked by UNICEF to donate, welfare just takes my money where people can potentially abuse it.

Now, yes, you SHOULD donate, we feel good when we do. But what I'm suggesting is that being TOLD to donate is not the same as WILLINGLY donating funds.

Now, I dont want to get into a debate about politics, but force in ANY way is bad. In other words, lose the choice, lose the will.

Of course, you dont have to believe this, I just like having choice.

In regards to charity. As a general matter, private charity (which UNICEF is not really, they have some issues) are much more efficient then government welfare services for several reasons. This even includes charities where volunteers are not paid a penny. This is a little off topic though...

As for religion. My question is not in regards to personal feelings. Regardless on my wants I remain agnostic. It is about what is best for society.

Freedom of choice in religion is better then lack of. It allows people to come to their own conclusions and then act accordingly. You can you no more be a Roman Catholic openly in China then can be an Jew in Saudi Arabia. It is hard to imagine the Ayatollah of Iran cheerfully conversing with an atheist such as the late Oriana Fallaci as did Benedict XVI.

I compare it to Nationality. An American in any country will be disrespected (I generalize for humour).