In my opinion, from a scientific viewpoint atheists have nothing to prove. They only have things yet to discover.
Equally, from a scientific viewpoint theists have nothing to prove. They only have things yet to discover.
Since, scientifically speaking, the objective is identical; it strikes me as odd that the two groups waste any energy at all on a question that by the very nature of its subject cannot be proven scientifically. Namely, is there a God?
For purposes of the advancement of scientific endeavor, it doesn't matter what the answer is.
Is it fun to debate that question? Yes. But those who most fervently believe in God have God's force in their life as evidence for themselves, and those who do not believe in God either do not have this force or do not recognize this force in their lives and therefore have no evidence.
I do not comprehend anyone advocating atheism. I do not understand how theism inhibits someone in any real way, therefore I don't understand an attempt to eliminate anyone's theism. I submit that what theists have discovered through the centuries argues strongly against a limiting effect on cognition inherent in theism. The atheists I know typically are not against others believing in God(s). They are (almost to a person) against religions that tell people what to think and how to feel about things.
I believe atheists on this forum would be directing their efforts much more effectively if they became advocates of a positive position instead of advocates for a negative one. The ability to think for ourselves as individuals separates me from insects. Why not advocate for this? Surely theists and atheists can agree on the societal benefits of using the brain we've been given.
That I attribute my brain to a different source does not make me better or worse than an atheist, it makes me different. If I allow that belief to inhibit my thought processes I am still no better or worse than an atheist, for atheists are just as apt to allow their beliefs to inhibit cognition as I am. In other words, if I limit myself where is the harm? If I limit others (the effect of religion) I have caused harm.
Atheism is active belief in the non-existence of God. If atheists propagandize their beliefs they harm others as surely as any other religion. If they proselytize converts they are no better or worse than other religions who do the same. If they scoff and deride the beliefs of others they prove themselves clergy. If they persecute and heckle the beliefs of others because of their beliefs how are they better than those they demonize?
Just some thoughts for consideration on a Wednesday morning.
AuldSoul