What topics do you use to identify with people?

I think using beliefs as a start up topic is unique to R&S.

I like to start my conversations with complete strangers more along the lines of "Hey, you're wearing pants too".

If they don't back away, slowly, I know we are on the brink of starting a beautiful new friendship.

:)

No, I don't have to bring up religion. The other people always do. Many tend to assume I am a Christian, which annoys me, and therefore start talking about god and whatnot, then are shocked to find out I am an atheist. Other cases sometimes people (around were I live) will during the first meeting flat out ask what religion you are. They think nothing weird of it.

As for what topics I'd use to "identify".... I'd probably try to find out what the person's political leaning is, what their opinions on current events are. Everyone has something they dislike. You can tell a lot about a person based on what they don't like in the realm of politics.

Small talk gets boring after the first few minutes: you can only talk about music and the weather for so long and you don't learn much about a person other that for example, they like hot weather and they love country music.

Heh, I just faced this last night when I made a new friend.

I mainly see what their family situation is (any kids? wife/ex/girlfriend/whatever?), where they work, how independent they are (do they have their own place/car/mentality), what sort of music they're into.

You'd be surprised what all you can tell from a person by what music they favor. At least that's always been my experience.

just a while ago I found out that my best friend of 3 years is a Christian (ooooops)

I never speak of religion with someone I meet for the 1st time, it's always more about movies, songs, various artists, TV stars and etc

It depends on where I am and what I am doing, but I only talk religion on here or with like minded friends I already have.

lol...

I guess it would depend on where I was when meeting this person for the first time on a one on one basis when starting a conversation.

hehe No i don't go saying which religion i am and what i believe in .. i just talk about a common thing between us .. or were their from

i smile .. that helps words flow .. they feel accepted and like you and talk back

EDIT: like i'll tell you ... Hi nice rabbit you got there :)

Nearly always football (soccer to Americans).

i wouldn't recommend introducing yourself as an atheist in my little town

i certainly wouldnt

they dont take kindly to heathens here