I wince a bit at this tactic. I get the evolutionary aspect of our species to socialize. So for atheists to want to socialize is normal because no matter our political or religious labels we are a social species. But why would we as atheists want to attach such a superstitious word in "Church" to what really in reality is merely a social club?
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news ... -go-global (http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/afp/130307/britains-atheist-church-set-go-global)
this will really convince Christians atheism is't a religion.
This smacks of "i'm an atheist and i want everyone to know". That's what this forum is for.
Quote from: "Brian37"But why would we as atheists want to attach such a superstitious word in "Church" to what really in reality is merely a social club?
Not sure about the UK but in the US the tax benefits aren't bad. Other than that, I have no idea. Having an atheist church is kind of like having a pacifist army. :rolleyes:
Quote from: "surly74"this will really convince Christians atheism is't a religion.
This smacks of "i'm an atheist and i want everyone to know". That's what this forum is for.
Anything can become a religion. All it takes is a personality to lead other humans off the cliff.
I think its silly. But it does point out the stupidity of giving religion tax breaks- if atheist, the non-religious, become a "church" and are allowed the same tax breaks, it shows how stupid it is.
Quote from: "stromboli"I think its silly. But it does point out the stupidity of giving religion tax breaks- if atheist, the non-religious, become a "church" and are allowed the same tax breaks, it shows how stupid it is.
Like I said, I understand the intent, but I do not like the tactic. This is how cults get started.
Sounds.... dumb.
If they want to have an atheistic religion fine, but show some originality. No one starts a church of theism, because it's too freakin' vague! How about a Temple of Religious Humanism? How about a Synagogue of Skepticism? How about a library?
The same reason they sometimes call atheism a religion; stereotypes that aren't thought through.
That is the stupidest thing I've seen..!!
Perhaps an Atheist Sanctuary would be better??
Not my cuppa joe.
Quote from: "Johan"Quote from: "Brian37"But why would we as atheists want to attach such a superstitious word in "Church" to what really in reality is merely a social club?
Not sure about the UK but in the US the tax benefits aren't bad. Other than that, I have no idea. Having an atheist church is kind of like having a pacifist army. :rolleyes:
How else can atheists participate in bake sales?
Meh . I would not participate in this .
Quote from: "stromboli"I think its silly. But it does point out the stupidity of giving religion tax breaks- if atheist, the non-religious, become a "church" and are allowed the same tax breaks, it shows how stupid it is.
In the US, Ethical Societies get the religious tax break. They don't call themselves a "church," but the structure is very similar.
Frank
Quote from: "mnmelt"That is the stupidest thing I've seen..!!
Perhaps an Atheist Sanctuary would be better??
How about simply "building where atheists gather".
One of the things I like best about being an atheist is the pragmatism it allows.
If we have to call it a "church" to get tax-free status, so what?
Downside: it lends credence to the theist argument that atheism is "just another religion".