In Advance: Stop Whining!

I have not heard much in the way of backlash to American Atheists newest billboard campaign but I'm sure it's coming. A lot of theists just can seem to help turning into spoiled little cry babies the moment atheists speak up. I know there are some atheists who will also argue that they are in poor taste or are too hostile. Nonsense. There is nothing wrong with blunt criticism so long as it does not condone or encourage violence. The critics also fail to consider a number of other points.

First, when have theists ever shown restraint when criticizing atheists or even other theists? If you can't take the criticism don't offer any of your own. For that matter, keep your religious views to yourselves. If theists stopped making public statements about their religious views I'd be happy to stop pointing out how foolish they are.

Theists also have no reason to get pissy about atheists expressing themselves since they basically own our culture. Don't see it? Look around and listen. Our culture is saturated with religious symbols, expressions, and ideas. Why they see us as threatening is a bit mystifying. Unless, of course, deep down they realize just how worthless their faith really is.

Third, the insistence that someone's faith should not be used for political purpose I would agree with, with a few exceptions. The ads target both Obama's Christianity and Romney's Mormonism. It is certainly fair to do so since both men have made public statements about their faith and both men have used religion for political purposes. They opened the door. Religion should not be injected into public policy. The moment any one does so it is not only fair it should be obligatory to attack and ridicule them for it. If they claim to represent all of us then they should set aside such divisive ideas and serve the best interests of all. If they can't figure out how to separate what is best for the general public from what they think their faith says is best for those who follow the religion they have chosen for themselves then they should not be in office. Those who want spiritual guidance can find spiritual leaders. I'm looking to elect a political leader not a clergyman.