Freethinkers/Atheists, what do you think of this idea?

Generally, evangelism is not my thing. In fact, that belief that someone owns the TRUTH and thereby has a DUTY to spread it is one of the aspects of most religious believers that revolts me. I don't care whether it's Scientology, Christianity, or Confucianism. Or, for that matter, secular Humanism, which is essentially what you've described, and has been propounded in organized ways since the time of Erasmus.

The social organizations you describe exist as non-religious benevolent associations, foundations, service groups, chairties, and so forth. They don't exist, however, just to spread "the Word" through Good Works. And, of course, if in the U.S. the government were being run competently (NOT for the last 8 years!) then a great del of what you espouse would be taking place, too - and, I might add, on a totally non-religious basis. One of the things I most look forward to is elimination of the faith-based garbage bin now in the White House! And what you described would qualify for public money just as much as the church soup kitchens would.

I appreciate your devotion to clarity of thought and encourage it. That's why I took the time to answer here, even though it is in opposition to your proposal. Keep it up!

I inspiration approximately seeking to organise a Secular Society on campus whilst I used to be a pupil, pondering it probably a laugh to preserve debates with the Christian Union that already existed and might be with the Jewish and Muslim companies too. I determined it wasn't valued at the trouble- the CU have contributors protecting principal positions in normally each society besides the opposite devout companies, the LGBT help organization and the rock tune society, and so they have got extra enter than they must on which new societies get accepted. They would not even approve a Pirate Society that used to be pretty much persons in pirate costumes consuming rum, given that it could inspire persons to rape and pillage. I actually suppose they could have made my existence hell if I'd long past by way of with setting up a mundane/atheist/freethinker organization. However, you'll be able to be doing this someplace much less insular than a school campus (I wish) so that you probably ok. Don't permit my tale placed you off!

Freethinkers can be freethinkers, freedom to believe in some higher power is a freedom as well. What is most important here is you have your rights and they have theirs, I find here is freedom. This means to believe the way one chooses not a battle against others for what they happen to believe or not believe in. Staring logic in the face is something many of us do all the times, live in the real world. Religion in most part gives certain people hope when this it would appear is all they have. I think they have a right to see things their way. Free thought is not a new concept. Atheist don't have to be encouraged when it comes to goodwill or Community service as logical thinkers they realize these things are necessary. Atheism has been around for a long time it's not new. The important thing is the FREEDOM aspect of this. Free to Believe your own way or not to believe. We have problems enough in this world right now and in my opinion this isn't the time in our history to push beliefs or beat people at their own game. We in American have to fight just to keep from becoming the newest third world country on the block. It's just a thought,

I'm a little curious as to why you feel "oppressed" by Christianity. I am a Buddhist living in America and I don't feel this oppression at all. (fyi, Buddhist do not confirm or deny the existence of God) I think you need to be more tolerant of Christians and not have such an axe to grind. I know, you probably think they are judging you - well, so what? You're judging them - everyone does. Judeo-Christian values have done a great deal of good in this country - more good than bad. Atheists are cool to me too - I don't think they are necessarily "bad" people. Just live your life in a moral and decent manner, and yes, continue to do good deeds. But don't worry so much about what Christians think and "beating them at their own game." What is this all about? Why do you want to change Christians - just because they believe something that you think is illogical. Christianity gives a lot of people hope and comfort. Even if it is illogical (I'm not saying it is), that in itself is good enough reason for some people to have faith.

I don't want to pin a 'cause' on a charity other than the charity cause.

For instance, the homeless charity 'Shelter' in the UK, is called 'Shelter'. All kinds of people contribute time and money to it..atheists, pagans, Muslims, Christians, Jews, Buddhists...etc...why would you want an 'atheist' charity, how would it be better than a charity supported by everyone?

The perception that atheists are 'bad' only exists in worrying amounts in the US and Islam.

I don't see any wisdom putting 'atheist' stickers on goodwill.

You may as well put a 'gravitationist' sticker on it.

But kudos for the Page avatar..('Dazed and Confused...Madison Square Garden 1973...)

I think your intent is not really to help people but to make atheists not look like bad people.

I have no problem with atheists organizing, but its almost as if you want to be the antithesis of Christianity as your motivator. Therein lies a problem in my opinion.

And sidenote: How are you personally opressed by Christians and/or Christianity in America. I'm serious, I would really be curious to hear your view on it.

Some very good ideas there. Just dont get caught up in the idea of being so radical about sharing your views you try and convert every follower of a religion to atheism, as that makes you no better than Christians are, the only thing I would add.

No... I'd rather not have to go the extra mile to try an convince a bunch of delusional (not all of you guys, just some of you) people that I'm not a bad person. I can be an atheist and feel just fine with myself without forming some group.

I'm just not a people person....you go ahead.

You've already been beaten to the punch: Bill Gates, an Atheist, runs one of the largest private charities in the world. My own stay at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance was on his dime. He helps more people in America than the pathetic insurance companies do.

Christians aren't exactly taking notice.

It's been tried, with little to no success. Face it, the numbers and funds of freethinkers, coupled with the lack of that imaginary incentive of heavenly reward, make s the numbers insignificant - especially when coupled with the community response to such actions by atheists, ranging from ignoring them to active threats and verbal/physical abuse.