Atheists can still know what they’re talking about

I’m an atheist myself, and came to that realization after a very long fight to try to keep the faith I was raised in and loved. All too often (I am by no means saying all Christians are like this, in fact, most aren’t) entirely disregarded or negative things assumed about me or my understanding of the Bible or religion in general because I’m an atheist, and I’ve seen many others in the same position receive the same treatment. It’s appalling and stupid to think that because someone has studied the same materials and come to a different conclusion, they must understand nothing about the materials. I and many other atheists have a very deep understanding and even respect for the Bible and the biblical tradition, even if we don’t agree with it ourselves, or don’t believe it to be true, factual, etc.

This doesn’t do Christians in general any favors, and it’s tiring.

I also address this to all people of all faiths or lack thereof: someone can study all the same materials as you, have as good or in some cases even better understanding of it all, and have a different conclusion, whether it’s a Christian talking about Islam, a Sikh talking about materialist atheism, or whatever else. The utter disrespect so many people have just because they disagree is astounding, and unbefitting anyone, regardless of beliefs or morals. I’ve seen and received attacks on individuals because of a difference of opinion, from all sides. I’m sure that I’m by no means perfectly innocent. I’m just tired of it all. No matter who you are, what you believe, we’re all capable of better.

Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk, peace out