Welcome to issue #7.35 of Free Thought Now!, the Agnosticism / Atheism site newsletter. This week we'll take a look at the use of repetition in arguments, a book about humanism for kids, the prevalence of "religious privilege" in modern society, disturbing (but unconfirmed) reports about President Bush's behavior, parallels between Muslim and anarchist terrorism, and Christian Right attacks on who is to blame for Katrina.

Repetition: Argumentum Ad Nauseam
Sometimes, people seem to think that the more they repeat an idea, the more likely it is that someone else will believe it. In other words, they are trying to convince people of something not based upon reasons or evidence, but instead upon sheer repetition. But why do some think that such a tactic will work?

Weekly Quote: Tiruvalluvar on Reasoning
Reasoning with a drunkard is like
Going under water with a torch to seek for a drowning man.
Follow the link for analysis and discussion...

Humanism, What's That? A Book for Curious Kids
There are lots of books out there designed to explain various religions to children, but what about non-religious, non-theistic belief systems? Is there anything that can help children better understand what is believed by neighbors, friends, and relatives who don't accept religion? There isn't much, unfortunately, and thus many children continue to accept half-truths and myths.

Gays to Blame for Hurricane Katrina?
When Christians attack...

Religious Privilege in Modern Society
Time for it to end

Wal-Mart and American Churches
Interesting cultural connections

Is Bush Coming Unhinged?
Disturbing reports - but accurate?

Propaganda vs. Art
Is there a difference?

John Roberts & Church/State Separation
Does he oppose it?

Anarchists vs. Islamists
Historical Lessons on Terrorism

 

Forum Discussions:

1) Agnosticism and Theism
"While most agnostics/atheists are very frequently opposed to the use of "faith", it seems that judgment based on no evidence or limited evidence is nonetheless exercised to some degree. While we may "neither affirm nor deny" as agnostics, we nonetheless must either live as if we are accountable to no known or unknown Deities or as if we are accountable to some such Deity, whether known or unknown and whether known fully or partially. Many agnostics and atheists are staunchly opposed to any flavor of theism. However, is there really any rational basis to be opposed to an agnostic leaning toward theism or to necessitate leaning than toward atheism?"

2) If You Were God...
"You know, that really IS a tough question. If there's to be a god, would we really want him/her/it to be like a big parent in the sky? Should every good and evil act be instantaneously rewarded or punished? Should there even be an afterlife? I honestly haven't the foggiest idea what I would do as God. I suppose I have much better ideas about what I wouldn't do."

3) Ceremonial Humbleness
"I have noted that many Christians, especially those of the Evangelical ilk, insert ceremonial humbleness in their diatribes. This practice seems especially common after they have said cruel or contemptuous things. ... What I am wondering is what the underlying motivation might be."