I happened upon this site while looking for a "religious debate" forum after a debate on another forum began to slow down and I began to repeat my own arguments. I hope it doesn't seem rude that I haven't taken very much time to read through threads-- the atmosphere seems friendly (but, I hope, not too friendly; there is a point when politeness masks honesty,) so I'm going to give it a try.

I'm Kieran. I'll be 17 for a few more months. I live in Washington state. I'm an atheist until further notice or until someone comes up with a better name; "Brights" (a term a few unbelieving intellectuals have tried to make popular) manages to sound both pretentious and absurdly cheerful.

I don't know quite what I'm getting myself into here. Perhaps someone can enlighten me.

Welcome to the forum Kieran. This is a unique forum which you will find out as you get into it. Have fun! We are happy to have you here.

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InterfaithForums.com-Where your ideas and beliefs count.

Thanks. I can only hope that I don't get bogged down by so many topics.

Welcom! It's good to have you and I look forward to getting to know you. Hope you enjoy the forum.

Welcome Circle! Good to have you on this forum : )

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May your awareness be perfection

Hello, Circle - and Welcome.

You said: "I don't know quite what I'm getting myself into here. Perhaps someone can enlighten me."

.... that's something no-one can do for you....

you have to do that bit yourself........


Peace, Love, & Light

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The Peaceful Place: http://www.agedhippy.plus.com/

"An object is perceived, or not perceived, according as the mind is, or is not, tinged with the colour of the object. "
Patanjali - Sutra 4:17

Welcome, Kieran. As a fellow atheist, I also dislike the name "Brights," and for about the same reasons you do.

I don't think the matter is so much "politeness" as it is making sure to debate the argument, not the person. If you consistently avoid Ad Hominem attacks, and if you consistently give reasons and/or evidence for your opinions, rather than just make bald statements, I think most of the members will welcome you.

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evangelicalhumanist: Greek "eu"=good and "angelos"=messenger. Spreading the good news of Humanism.

Hi, Circle and welcome to the forum. If you have any questions (other than for enlightenment) just ask. Someone is usually around to help out.

Welcome aboard!!

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RevKathyV

http://www.myspace.com/divinelightinterfaith



www.divinelightinterfaithministry.com

Good point. It seemed like an appropriate word to use, nonetheless.


What if you give reasons for not liking a particular hominem?

Eh, I'm not really worried. Seems like an accepting place to me. The only time people get hurt in civil debates when they take a bullet for their own argument.