Why We Shouldn’t Call Ourselves Atheists

First, watch the talk. Believe me–it’s worth it.

Now, I think the talk is brilliant, and I think he makes a strong point that
would stand strongly in almost any other time and place. But we are here
instead.

I feel that the biggest problem logic has is not having enough moderates on
its side to fight against the illogical. It’s hard enough to get people to
leave the ranks of apologists without asking them to join a team that has no
name.

Harris would normally be right, if it were not for the extraordinary
pressure we are currently under to fight clear and present dangers that face
us. While I admit atheism to be a blunt tool, I’d rather we have a blunt one
than none at all.

Sadly, I fear the “logic and reason” banner will get us nowhere. This is
especially true given the lack of sophistication of many of our opponents.
If someone calls us an atheist, and we say, “I prefer not to use that
term…”, they will immediately follow with, “Do you believe in God?”

If our answer is “no”, then we will be instantly accused of trickery and
deceit (something they expect from the Godless anyway, of course). That is
the mentality we will face in this situation.

In short, I believe Sam’s argument is one that we must accept once we have
achieved some measure of success. But until then we must attempt to make
enough progress that his distinction can even be comprehended by the other
side. ::