The Global Atheist Convention sparked commentary in The Age | The Rise of Atheism

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The Global Atheist Convention sparked commentary in The Age

Posted on : 07-10-2009 | By : grant | In : General

7

The Global Atheist Convention sparked commentary in The Age letters column after Barney Zwartz's article on 6 October..

For heaven's sake

I NOTE that The Age reported that the world's best known atheist is coming to Melbourne for the biggest-ever atheist convention next year (''Uber atheist on his way'', 6/10). For some reason it reminded me of a funny inscription on a tombstone I once read: ''Here lies an atheist, all dressed up but nowhere to go.''

An atheists' convention? Whatever for, pray tell (excuse the pun)? Why, in heaven's name (oops, there I go again), will it be, as the president of their cause says, a ''history-making event'' to hold this convention in Melbourne to promote the cause of atheists, when Australia is already full of them. At least, according to the report, the convention speakers will deliver their messages free. Which is probably appropriate, seeing that their verbal offerings are usually worthless anyway.

Geoff Lacey, Tawonga

Votes in atheism too

THE atheist convention to be held in Melbourne is long overdue. For too long successive Australian governments have bowed to religious pressure on issues such as abortion, euthanasia, religious tax and anti-discrimination exemptions, and gay marriage. Yet, polls show that only 7 per cent of Australians attend church weekly, while 30 per cent do not believe in God, and a further 26 per cent are doubtful to varying degrees.

It's time politicians recognised that they're backing the wrong horse. There are votes in secularism, and non-religious Australians are uniting.

If the Melbourne convention is well-attended, it will send a strong message that Australians are sick of public policy and important human rights issues being derailed by the religious dogma of a minority. I'll certainly be there.

Chrys Stevenson, Mapleton, Qld

Money

THE Parliament of World Religions will receive $4.5 million from the taxpayer. Will the Atheist Foundation get its proportional $500,000?
Somehow, I don't think so.

Tony Dear, Forest Hill [Vic.]

Comments (7)

Mick said on 07-10-2009
	I would bet good money that Geoff Lacey of Tawonga has never actually seen a tombstone with that inscription on it.

john said on 07-10-2009
	Geoff Lacey (such a witty guy) says... "...seeing that their verbal offerings are usually worthless anyway." Hmmm... maybe we should sacrifice a goat or a virgin?

Mo Suss said on 07-10-2009
	Whoops.. looks like one of Geoff Lacey's children has been playing on the computer again Well said Chrys.

Brian English said on 07-10-2009
	Geoff Lacey's comment is right up there with "there are no atheists in bunkers" or similar. Except there are. Religious smugness is irksome. We need more than one convention!

HerbieTheBeagle said on 07-10-2009
	History-making and a lot of fun! If you think those who argue for the prevalence of rational thought in our society and government, instead of seeking guidance from the interpretatations of old texts, say things that are "worthless" then you have a warped view of what's actually important. Great letter Chrys - look forward to seeing you there.

Glen said on 08-10-2009
	I have seen the tombstone that says "Here lies an atheist, all dressed up but nowhere to go" In the Wolfenstein RPG video game on the iphone...

Dane said on 08-10-2009
	All dressed up and nowhere to go? Neat, atheists don't go to hell. I'll have to follow this convention online since there's no way I could attend in person.

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