Why call it an "Atheist Church"?

[Brian37]

I wince a bit at this tactic. I get the evolutionary aspect of our species to socialize. So for atheists to want to socialize is normal because no matter our political or religious labels we are a social species. But why would we as atheists want to attach such a superstitious word in "Church" to what really in reality is merely a social club?

http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news ... -go-global

[surly74]

this will really convince Christians atheism is't a religion.

This smacks of "i'm an atheist and i want everyone to know". That's what this forum is for.

[Johan]

But why would we as atheists want to attach such a superstitious word in "Church" to what really in reality is merely a social club?

Not sure about the UK but in the US the tax benefits aren't bad. Other than that, I have no idea. Having an atheist church is kind of like having a pacifist army.  

[Brian37]

this will really convince Christians atheism is't a religion.

This smacks of "i'm an atheist and i want everyone to know". That's what this forum is for.

Anything can become a religion. All it takes is a personality to lead other humans off the cliff.

[stromboli]

I think its silly. But it does point out the stupidity of giving religion tax breaks- if atheist, the non-religious, become a "church" and are allowed the same tax breaks, it shows how stupid it is.

[Brian37]

I think its silly. But it does point out the stupidity of giving religion tax breaks- if atheist, the non-religious, become a "church" and are allowed the same tax breaks, it shows how stupid it is.

Like I said, I understand the intent, but I do not like the tactic. This is how cults get started.

[GurrenLagann]

Sounds.... dumb.

[Mister Agenda]

If they want to have an atheistic religion fine, but show some originality. No one starts a church of theism, because it's too freakin' vague! How about a Temple of Religious Humanism? How about a Synagogue of Skepticism? How about a library?

[zacherystaylor]

The same reason they sometimes call atheism a religion; stereotypes that aren't thought through.

[mnmelt]

That is the stupidest thing I've seen..!!

Perhaps an Atheist Sanctuary would be better??

[Thumpalumpacus]

Not my cuppa joe.

[SGOS]

But why would we as atheists want to attach such a superstitious word in "Church" to what really in reality is merely a social club?

Not sure about the UK but in the US the tax benefits aren't bad. Other than that, I have no idea. Having an atheist church is kind of like having a pacifist army.  

How else can atheists participate in bake sales?

[leo]

Meh . I would not participate in this .

[FrankDK]

I think its silly. But it does point out the stupidity of giving religion tax breaks- if atheist, the non-religious, become a "church" and are allowed the same tax breaks, it shows how stupid it is.

In the US, Ethical Societies get the religious tax break.  They don't call themselves a "church," but the structure is very similar.

Frank

[Brian37]

That is the stupidest thing I've seen..!!

Perhaps an Atheist Sanctuary would be better??

How about simply "building where atheists gather".