
As much as I would like to overlook it, the word 'atheist' carries with it a generally unappealing connotation. The collective mind of our society has somehow agreed that an atheist is an unmoral, reprehensible person that should be shunned in some way. This is why there are so many different names out there that synonymously represent the atheistic condition (see brights, skeptics etc.). Although there are minute to large differences between these varied labels, the underlying presumption is the acceptance of a naturalistic worldview, devoid of supernatural beings or explanations. Most atheists will agree with this basal statement, I believe. The grounds upon which one continues to build their own worldview from there will introduce the variability that is known not only in the atheistic community, but also in any other group of individuals trying to define themselves.
With all this in mind, I feel an immense amount of pride when I think about the step that the CBC is taking in its inclusion of 'atheists' among the other five groups competing on 'Test the Nation: IQ'. The last few years have been very vocal for atheist communities worldwide. Rational and inquisitive thinking, fuelled by the ability to attain information on a whim, have strongly propagated the movement in my generation. Acceptance of those who prescribe to the 'good without god' way of life is gaining ground alongside this movement—this upcoming show is a perfect example of this.
I am extremely excited to be a part of this. Thank you CBC.



2 comments:
Konstantine, to what extent is the "collective mind of our society" justified in connoting the atheist negatively? As a philosophy minor you would understand that this is an endless and ultimately inconclusive debate. What are the arguments for and against this "unappealing connotation"? Can you empathize with the opposing claims? Could you ever see yourself one day conceding that the opposition has reasonable arguments, regardless if you accept them or not?
Religious fanatics will never have reasonable arguments! If they were reasonable, they wouldn't have faith. Faith is unreasonable to a reasonable thinking person!
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