Atheists - did you ever think that Chrstians do think for themselves, but just come to different conclusions?

First of all, I don't assert this claim. Some Christians do not really think about it. They were raised Christian and they never question it's validity. I know because my husband was one of those people until we met.

Some Christian people are very intelligent and do indeed come to different conclusions... that's fine.

No, I think they *feel* instead of *think*. That's why they go wrong.

Apparently there are two different areas of the brain which deal with decision making - One is based on emotion, the other is based on reason. We all feel the same kind of emotions (distress at the thought of our own mortality, the desire for an easier life etc.) and these translate into wishful thinking, but in rational people the other part of the brain overrides these emotional responses and we come to the conclusion that things don't become real just because we wish they would.

I'm sure some do and it's just lucky that most agree with their parents and local culture. They must have thought really hard on that one, with all the world religions they could have chosen they stick with the one they are born into.

You are a rarity, most don't shift from their first religion.

The answers you have recieved seem to confirm this.....

I agree with you 100%, why is it that people are unable to accept that others can come to a different conclusion without being brainwashed etc.

Possibly some times, but rarely.

Is that why catholics come to different conclusions to protestants who come to different conclusions to baptists who come to different conclusions to pentecostals.........I could go on.

Fact,christians cannot even decide among themselves what is correct and many do not think for themselves they just accept what they are taught.

It was thinking for myself that led me away from christianity.

Sure, most Christians I know are rational and very spiritual. But those Christians are also rather liberal Christians.

I never say they don't think, what I do say is they are taught it from childhood. Sometimes you need to look further than what you are taught as a child.