instead of the snarky contest between teams that feel that need to win an argument which is, in the end, essentially unwinnable.
Recognizing that many who believe or don't believe in a god or gods think they are right is a good first step. Who doesn't want their POV to be the right one.
Condemning, attacking or ridiculing someone for their beliefs, as long as those beliefs do not infringe on the rights of others, is not a democratic, liberal or progressive value, imo.
The religious right's intrusion into politics really poisoned the well and made it difficult for progressive religious people to be heard or even taken seriously. They need the support, or at least tolerance, of secular and non-believing groups to regain their foothold.
The longstanding fear of and discrimination towards non-believers is being challenged and cracked in some unprecedented ways. Groups representing them are critical in pushing back against the legislative intrusions of the religious right. They need the support, or at least tolerance, of the faith community.
And the recognition that the two groups share values and are stronger together than apart is where the real power is.
Anyway, I really enjoyed and appreciate your very thoughtful piece here. I hope many will read it and those that wish to engage in civil and constructive dialogue will stick around this group. Religion and the lack thereof aren't going away and will continue to be contentious, but powerful, forces.
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