TreesNightly

I�ve been observing and taking part in on-line arguments regarding the existence of God for three years now. These interactions should be evaluated primarily by the value of their content, but I�ve also noticed a trend in their civility. Atheists, on average, are more douchy than theists. I don�t like admitting that the stereotype of the angry atheist is more often fulfilled than not, but I can�t deny it...and neither can I condemn it. Unlike most theists, atheists don�t have an obligation to a doctrine of charity. We can be mean without being hypocritical, but should we? My answer used to be a resounding �no.� Now, while I maintain the personal choice of �playing nice,� I can�t slight others for getting their hands dirty. Reason is only one way to affect hearts and minds, shame is another.  Bullying can work to deter others from adopting the subject of the abuse--which should be the erroneous belief and not the believer. I try to change minds, but I�ve seen that some people simply...