We may differ on many things, but what we respect is free inquiry, openmindedness, and the pursuit of ideas for their own sake.
Skeptics do not have a dislike of all religious people, but of religious belief
and faith. Our anger stems from seeing otherwise intelligent people — our
families, friends, and so many others — dedicating their lives to the
ramblings of the ignorant men of past ages; and also from witnessing the
enormous harm caused by religion.
These people are far too intelligent to be coerced into believing such myths.
It's not worthy of them, as rational, autonomous people, to believe
something because they're enticed by reward and terrified of punishment. If
the primary motivation for believing something is “saving yourself,” then the
belief is rooted in self-interest, not in love. Love is not compulsory and
extracted through primitive threats of torture, but is what you feel of your
own volition.
Original Article URL: http://www.atheistrepublic.com/blog/storme/religionwomb-arrogance-and-irrationality
P a g e | 138