Speak Out

Atheists do not spread hate

Re "Atheists advocate hate" (Speak Out, Jan. 26):

Letter writer Philip Rowe's assertion that atheists spread hate and assert the non-existence of god(s) is, at best, inaccurate. The painting of all atheists with such a broad brush is the equivalent of claiming that all Christians burn witches and conduct murderous crusades and inquisitions.

Atheists lack belief in god(s). While some atheists assert that no god(s) exist (strong atheism), most of us simply don't see sufficient evidence for the existence of any supernatural being. As for Rowe's claim that atheists spread hate, I don't doubt that some do. I, and the atheists with whom I'm acquainted, hate no group of people. I do, however, reserve the right to dislike an individual based on the content of his character.

Rowe's claim that atheism offers only despair and misery is specious. Atheism, being only a lack of belief, doesn't imply any offer, good or bad. The despair or happiness felt by anyone is a product of that person's behavior or circumstances.

I'm thankful to live in a country in which I can be outspoken. When I challenge an assertion made by a Christian, I'm not spreading hate. I am simply voicing an opinion that differs from that of the Christian. While I lack belief in any supernatural being, I respect the believer's right to believe whatever he or she wishes.

Wasn't our country founded by those who wanted to be able to speak, assemble and worship (or not) freely? The right to express one's opinion belongs to all Americans, not just those in the majority. I believe that our country's future depends upon the frequent and vociferous expression of differing points of view, lest we become a homogenous society, lacking the diversity that is the source of our national strength. Until the current attack on the Bill of Rights is successful, I'll continue to frequently exercise my right to speak freely.

Russell Buckalew
Weaver

Why single out atheists?

Letter writer Philip Rowe's main point seemed to be that if atheists debate religious issues with believers, then the motivation is hatred. The writer seemed especially fond of the word "pushy." Does that make pushy Christian proselytizers hateful? Would he apply the same standard to his own faith?

I am an atheist and I do not hate the writer or other Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Wiccans, etc. I love all human beings equally, even if I disagree with their theology.

My car has been bashed in with baseball bats. Bibles left on my front porch. A cross planted in my yard. Death threats received via e-mail. Nasty notes left under my windshield wipers. My children harassed and picked on at school, and much more.

I know all about religious hatred. Luckily, I do not paint all religionists with the same brush because of the actions of some of their ranks. But I must ask, what is the writer's motivation to rail against atheists, if not hatred?

I can assure the writer and readers of The Star that such hatred is not coming from the atheists.

Blair Scott
Alabama State Director
American Atheists
Huntsville