http://www.atheists.org/news.rss http://www.atheists.org/news.rss A Servics of American Atheists en-us atheists.org - 625 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Greatest_Show_on_Earth_by_Richard_Dawkins Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 9, 2009) - Thomas Henry Huxley was famously "Darwin's bulldog", then Richard Dawkins is probably best described as "Darwin's pit bull". atheists.org - 202 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_to_KY_-_Keep_your_God_Out_of_Homeland_Security Sat, 06 Dec 2008 17:18:08 -0500 American Atheists is suing the State of KY for Breaking its own law, placing as a primary initiative the publicizing of OUR need to worship God for our own safety atheists.org - 204 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_launch_new_web_site Sun, 07 Dec 2008 02:29:12 -0500 Secular world cheers the evolution atheists.org - 192 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_launches_new_Website Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:14:32 -0400 Combines the Web site, Magazine, Blog, TV Show and Newsfeeds atheists.org - 193 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Congratulate_Obama%2C_Biden%2C_Hagan%2C_and_Others_ Sun, 30 Nov 2008 00:48:25 -0500 Atheists across the U.S. congratulate President-Elect Barack Obama, Vice President-Elect Joe Biden, and all the others who won. atheists.org - 194 http://www.atheists.org/news/Media_Alert%3A__Kathy_Johnson_on_Atheist_Talk_Radio Wed, 24 Dec 2008 23:14:51 -0500 KATHLEEN JOHNSON, Military Director for American Atheists will be the guest tomorrow beginning at 9:00 AM (Sunday, November 9, 2008) on "Atheist Talk" Radio hosted by the Minnesota Atheists.  atheists.org - 195 http://www.atheists.org/news/ATHEISTS_Criticize_Court_Ruling_allowing_Sectarian_Prayer Sun, 30 Nov 2008 00:53:45 -0500 American Atheists today criticized a ruling by the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals allowing sectarian prayers before government meetings in Cobb County, Ga. atheists.org - 196 http://www.atheists.org/news/Media_Alert%3A__Buckner_to_Speak_at_U_of_West_GA Sun, 30 Nov 2008 00:55:59 -0500 ED BUCKNER, President of American Atheists will be a panelist this Monday, Oct. 27, 2008 at the University of West Georgia focusing on "THINGS YOU DON'T TALK ABOUT AT PARTIES: A FORUM ON POLITICS AND RELIGION." atheists.org - 206 http://www.atheists.org/news/NJ_%3A_Civil_Unions_a_Failure%2C_Gay_Marriage_a_Must Thu, 11 Dec 2008 01:00:32 -0500 The New Jersey Civil Union Review Commission has completed its final report. In a unanimous vote, the Commission pronounces the civil union law a failure and recommends to Governor Corzine and the legislature that they enact a marriage equality statute.The report will be posted online at 10:00 am ET Wednesday, December 10, 2008 at atheists.org - 213 http://www.atheists.org/news/Michigan_Atheist_Convention_a_rousing_success Wed, 24 Dec 2008 23:17:02 -0500 There was no “Welcome Michigan Atheists” sign outside the Ann Arbor Best Western Plaza. Not that it would have been visible. It was tempting to infer divine displeasure from a lot of things that happened at the 2008 Michigan Atheists convention on Saturday, Dec. 6, beginning with the weather. All morning, furious sheets of snow whipped the bumper stickers in the parking lot: “Darwin Loves You.” “Hell Don’t Scare Me, Pat Robertson Do.” “When Religion Ruled, We Called It The Dark Ages.” atheists.org - 702 http://www.atheists.org/news/Four-Winged_Dino_Clinches_the_Case_for_Bird_Evolution Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 29, 2009) - A feathered dinosaur unearthed in a Chinese quarry has added another solid piece of evidence to the theory that birds descended from dinosaurs. atheists.org - 703 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_reviewer_takes_on_scholar%5C%27s_look_at_Jesus%2C_Bible Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 29, 2009) - minusRusty is a Faith & Reason regular who likes to stick a pin in conventional views fairly often. So he's picked an author for the Book Club who's well matched to his inquisitive ways. atheists.org - 704 http://www.atheists.org/news/Coalition_of_atheists_puts_out_call_on_billboard Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 30, 2009) - MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- Members of Morgantown's recently formed Coalition of Reason have a simple message: If you don't believe in God, you aren't alone. atheists.org - 705 http://www.atheists.org/news/Oh%2C_Damn%21_Blasphemy_Day_Looks_for_a_Target Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:27:51 -0400 September 30, 2009) - Today, September 30, is Blasphemy Day, and if that makes you want to curse, then the Center for Inquiry may be the place to register your epithet -- or send a donation. atheists.org - 210 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_choice_of_evangelical_leader_sparks_outrage Thu, 18 Dec 2008 02:14:40 -0500 (CNN) — Prominent liberal groups and gay rights proponents criticized President-elect Barack Obama Wednesday for choosing evangelical pastor Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at the presidential inauguration next month. atheists.org - 212 http://www.atheists.org/news/AA_Magazine_for_November_and_December%3A_100_Years_of_Solstice_Writings Thu, 18 Dec 2008 02:29:16 -0500 AA Magazine for November and December: 100 Years of Solstice Writings Members view on-line today! atheists.org - 214 http://www.atheists.org/news/Special_Rights_for_Believers_in_Berkeley Wed, 24 Dec 2008 20:20:51 -0500 Have your ashed interned in Berkeley -- As long as you're Christian. atheists.org - 220 http://www.atheists.org/news/Which_Bible_Verse_will_Obama_Pick Wed, 24 Dec 2008 20:29:47 -0500 The Constitution does not require presidents to be sworn in on a Bible, though almost every chief executive since George Washington has chosen to do so. Presidents have differed greatly, however, on the question of which passage the Bible should be opened to during the swearing-in ceremony. atheists.org - 223 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Sue_to_remove_Inauguration_Prayer Mon, 29 Dec 2008 16:12:15 -0500 Atheist Michael Newdow and several other atheists are suing government officials over the injection of religion into the presidential Inauguration.   atheists.org - 218 http://www.atheists.org/news/We%5C%27re_All_Atheists Sat, 27 Dec 2008 01:21:33 -0500 The Story of Dustin Chalker, Atheist in the military atheists.org - 221 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_Losing_Influence_%28Duh...%29 Sun, 28 Dec 2008 23:55:51 -0500 Two-thirds of Americans think religion is losing its influence on U.S. life atheists.org - 222 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Year_in_Religion_-_Top_10_List Mon, 29 Dec 2008 13:26:42 -0500 Role Of Religion In Presidential Campaign Heads 2008 'Top Ten' List Of Church-State Stories Monday, December 29, 2008 atheists.org - 219 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Dustin_Chalker_Story Wed, 24 Dec 2008 20:15:11 -0500 Atheists in Uniform Fight Back Against Religious Radicals in the Ranks atheists.org - 226 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Announce_Convention_Line-up Tue, 06 Jan 2009 10:01:17 -0500 American Atheists announced several new Key Speakers for their April Convention atheists.org - 233 http://www.atheists.org/news/Silverman_on_KABC_today Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:57:57 -0500 Dave Silverman will be a guest on the Al Rantel show at 6:20pm PST today atheists.org - 234 http://www.atheists.org/news/Action_Alert_Mississippi Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:59:38 -0500 Proposed Mississippi legislation will put “just a theory” stickers in biology textbooks. atheists.org - 230 http://www.atheists.org/news/Creationism_Makes_Its_Mark_ Tue, 06 Jan 2009 20:44:25 -0500 Attacks on evolutionary education continue to take place out of the national spotlight atheists.org - 237 http://www.atheists.org/news/Newdow_%2F_AHA_lose_Inauguration_Lawsuit Thu, 15 Jan 2009 18:29:28 -0500 A federal district court ruled this afternoon that the 2009 Presidential Inaugural ceremonies may proceed as scheduled with religious references. atheists.org - 239 http://www.atheists.org/news/Many_Nods_to_Jesus_%E2%80%94_and_One_to_Non-Believers Wed, 21 Jan 2009 22:54:34 -0500 The most startling acknowledgement of the nation’s religious diversity, however, came from President Obama himself in his inaugural speech. atheists.org - 240 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bus_Ads_will_not_be_Halted Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:13:03 -0500 A £140,000 atheist campaign on British buses and London Underground stating "There's Probably No God" is not in breach of the advertising code in spite of more than 300 complaints, a watchdog ruled. atheists.org - 241 http://www.atheists.org/news/Moment_of_Silence_Defeated Thu, 22 Jan 2009 22:29:30 -0500 A federal judge ruled Wednesday that the state law requiring a moment of silence in public schools across Illinois is unconstitutional, saying it crosses the line separating church and state. atheists.org - 242 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Bigots_Complain_about_Obama%5C%27s_Nonbeliever_Nod Fri, 23 Jan 2009 21:22:43 -0500 Not everyone was happy with President Barack Obama's nod to nonbelievers and non-Christians in his inaugural address. atheists.org - 252 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_hears_Atheists%3B_Christians_Raise_Hell Fri, 06 Feb 2009 13:09:59 -0500 A recent disclosure that the Obama administration transition team met representatives of the atheist Secular Coalition for America to plot political strategy has prompted the national advocacy group In God We Trust to fight back. atheists.org - 253 http://www.atheists.org/news/Media_Alert%3A_Buckner_on_Alan_Colmes_ Fri, 13 Feb 2009 01:17:18 -0500 Thursday at 11:00pm, syndicated atheists.org - 254 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Classifieds_on-line Fri, 13 Feb 2009 01:20:58 -0500 Atheists Helping, and Hiring Atheists.  Post your ad free atheists.org - 255 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_bus_ads_going_up Sat, 14 Feb 2009 00:51:57 -0500 FFRF Debuts New Freethought Bus Sign Campaign atheists.org - 256 http://www.atheists.org/news/Toilet_Paper_brand_more_Important_than_Church Mon, 16 Feb 2009 14:41:31 -0500 16% of Protestants say they would consider only one denomination, while 22% of them would use only one brand of toothpaste and 19% would use just one brand of bathroom tissue. atheists.org - 257 http://www.atheists.org/news/Buckner_to_speak_in_Bay_Area_this_weekend Mon, 16 Feb 2009 21:52:12 -0500 Dr. Ed Buckner, President of American Atheists, will be speaking at several venues this coming weekend in the California Bay Area. atheists.org - 244 http://www.atheists.org/news/Blair_Scott_Promoted_at_American_Atheists Sat, 24 Jan 2009 19:33:33 -0500 Blair Scott  of Huntsville, Alabama, has been named National Affiliates Director atheists.org - 245 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_affiliates_in_AL_and_MS Tue, 27 Jan 2009 17:49:33 -0500 American Atheists is incredibly proud to announce two new Affiliates to the American Atheists Affiliate program! atheists.org - 246 http://www.atheists.org/news/Drawing_to_Introduce_Richard_Dawkins Thu, 29 Jan 2009 20:32:10 -0500 Members of American Atheists can win the opportunity to Introduce Richard Dawkins at the national Convention atheists.org - 249 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_announces_new_Missouri_State_Director Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:24:28 -0500 American Atheists Announces Greg Lammers as Missouri State Director atheists.org - 248 http://www.atheists.org/news/ACTION_ALERT%3A_Keep_faith-based_funding_out_of_the_economic_stimulus_package_ Fri, 30 Jan 2009 17:19:09 -0500 The Compassion Capital Fund was a key component of George W. Bush’s controversial faith-based funding program.  Now they want part of the Stimulus Package. atheists.org - 250 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Poll_Shows_Where_Religion_is_Less_Prevalent Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:23:16 -0500 An analysis of more than 350,000 interviews conducted by Gallup in 2008 finds Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Arkansas to be the most religious states in the nation. Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts are the least religious states. atheists.org - 251 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge_Luigi_Tosti_to_Speak_at_Convention Tue, 03 Feb 2009 17:04:20 -0500 Traditionally Courtrooms in Roman Catholic Italy have crucifixes on the wall behind the judge’s bench.  Judge Tosti of Italy declined for months to hold court in Camerino, Italy, because he insisted that religious symbols have no place in a court of law. atheists.org - 258 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pre_Research_examines_Blacks%2C_Religion Sat, 21 Feb 2009 12:41:07 -0500 African-Americans are markedly more religious on a variety of measures than the U.S. population as a whole atheists.org - 259 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anti-Cross_Judge_Tosti_Acquitted Tue, 24 Feb 2009 23:59:24 -0500 Italy's supreme court overturned judge Luigi Tosti's May 2007 seven-month sentence for refusing to carry out his official duties. atheists.org - 260 http://www.atheists.org/news/UN%3A_Blasphemy_is_a_Crime%21 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 13:18:43 -0500 The United Nations Anti-Blasphemy Resolution aims to curtail speech that offends religion, specifically Islam. Critics, religious groups and free speech advocates say the resolution is spreading Sharia law to the Western world. atheists.org - 262 http://www.atheists.org/news/Time_Running_out_for_National_Convention Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:20:32 -0500 March 10, 2009 is the deadline to reserve your room at the Emory Conference Center in Atlanta, GA. for the blockbuster Freethought event of the year! atheists.org - 263 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_to_accept_BSA_Presidency Wed, 04 Mar 2009 10:48:36 -0500 A Boy Scouts spokesman said Obama has indicated he will accept the title of honorary presidentof the discriminatory BSA. atheists.org - 264 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anti-Dawkins_Resolution_Proposed Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:38:41 -0500 A resolution has been introduced to protest Richard Dawkins atheists.org - 265 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Participate_in_Library_of_Congress_Obama_Effort. Sat, 07 Mar 2009 17:43:02 -0500 Library of Congress Collects 250+ Inaugural Sermons and orations, including one from American Atheists atheists.org - 266 http://www.atheists.org/news/Non-religion_growing_in_all_50_states Mon, 09 Mar 2009 14:28:29 -0400 People claiming no religion constitute the only "religious" tradition that's growing in all 50 states atheists.org - 267 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_a_Cross_be_secular%3F Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:46:24 -0400 A federal appeals court in Denver is weighing a lawsuit over Utah's use of crosses for roadside memorials honoring fallen highway patrol troopers, with some judges questioning Utah's declaration that the crosses are nonreligious, secular symbols of death. atheists.org - 269 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Items_on_the_Kentucky_Case Sun, 15 Mar 2009 03:52:17 -0400 Kentucky Lawsuit progresses atheists.org - 272 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scholarship_Winners_Announced Sun, 15 Mar 2009 17:46:58 -0400 Congratulations to This year's winners for the American Atheists Scholarships atheists.org - 271 http://www.atheists.org/news/Proof_Jesus_was_Invented Sun, 15 Mar 2009 03:57:13 -0400 James Randi's video uses evidence to prove there was indeed, no Nazareth. atheists.org - 274 http://www.atheists.org/news/TX_Moments_of_Silence_Upheld Tue, 17 Mar 2009 13:13:23 -0400 A federal appeals court on Monday upheld a Texas law that requires public school students to observe a daily minute of silence atheists.org - 278 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_equalizing_religions_and_nonreligious Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:49:31 -0400  President Barack Obama regularly puts nonbelievers on the same footing as religious Americans. atheists.org - 281 http://www.atheists.org/news/Defamation_of_Religion_--_Evil_under_cover Mon, 30 Mar 2009 18:37:41 -0400 Two articles on the UN's Resolution on Defamation of Religion atheists.org - 2091 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Vatican_Unsure_How_To_Plug_WikiLeak_ Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:46:19 -0500 (December 15th, 2010) - A U.S. diplomat's confidential analysis of Vatican communication failures, recently published as part of the latest WikiLeaks release, highlights the unique challenges facing an ancient and traditionally secretive institution in the age of the Internet. atheists.org - 280 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vouchers_Struck_Down_in_AZ Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:03:22 -0400 Today, the Arizona Supreme Court struck down two school voucher programs for religious and private schools. atheists.org - 283 http://www.atheists.org/news/Reality_Gets_Trademarked Thu, 02 Apr 2009 10:25:19 -0400 The Church of Reality, has trademarked the word REALITY atheists.org - 289 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mainline_Protestants%5C%27_Dead_End Wed, 15 Apr 2009 15:58:02 -0400 Is America's long love affair with Christianity coming to an end? atheists.org - 285 http://www.atheists.org/news/CA_Declines_suit_over_Boy_Scout_Public_Land_Use_ Sat, 04 Apr 2009 09:39:18 -0400 The California Supreme Court has declined to involve itself in a dispute over whether the state Constitution allows public land to be leased to organizations that discriminate on the basis of religion or sexual orientation. atheists.org - 287 http://www.atheists.org/news/2009_Donations_to_be_Matched Tue, 14 Apr 2009 16:54:39 -0400 Life Member to match all donations in 2009 up to $100K atheists.org - 295 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hawking_Very_Ill Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:01:32 -0400 Professor Stephen Hawking has been urgently admitted to hospital atheists.org - 296 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge_Prohibits_Religious_School_Song Mon, 20 Apr 2009 18:10:20 -0400 A federal judge has banned a Florida elementary school from having children sing a country song, "In God We Still Trust," at a school assembly. atheists.org - 306 http://www.atheists.org/news/Florida_at_it_again_--_Second_Preaching_Song_for_Children Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:59:50 -0400 This is the second time in less than a month that attorneys asked the United States District Court in Jacksonville for a preliminary injunction to stop a song at Webster. atheists.org - 1582 http://www.atheists.org/news/Put_God_back_in_public_life%2C_Glenn_Beck_says_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 uly 18, 2010) - If the title of Glenn Beck’s traveling conservatism show gives you that old-time religion, then he’s hit his mark. atheists.org - 1583 http://www.atheists.org/news/National_spotlight_to_hit_Asheville_as_billboard_debate_rages_on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 18, 2010) - ABC News is interviewing people in Asheville for a story following the ongoing controversy over dueling sets of billboards in Asheville, and across North Carolina, that present different wording for the Pledge of Allegiance. atheists.org - 328 http://www.atheists.org/news/40_Million_Nonbelievers%3F__The_Secret_is_Out... Thu, 07 May 2009 14:10:50 -0400 (May 7, 2009) - Consider: If these numbers are correct, nonbelievers amount to more than the highest estimates of African Americans or gays. Secularists are one of America’s largest minorities. atheists.org - 303 http://www.atheists.org/news/OKlahoma_at_it_again_--_Approves_Illegal_Monument Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:30:22 -0400 The Oklahoma Senate passed a measure Monday that would allow for construction of a 10 Commandments monument on the Capitol grounds. atheists.org - 1611 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_can_be_ethical%3A_Anglican_archbishop_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 31, 2010) - PERTH Anglican Archbishop Roger Herft has clashed with his Catholic counterpart over Julia Gillard's atheism. atheists.org - 305 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hawking_Recovering Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:24:28 -0400 Stephen Hawking is recovering from a lung infection. atheists.org - 307 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Pew_Research_--_44%25_change_religion Wed, 29 Apr 2009 12:24:39 -0400 About half of American adults have changed religious affiliation at least once during their lives. atheists.org - 1112 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_groups_spread_message_on_Sacramento-area_billboards Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 10, 2010) - Ever look skyward for spiritual inspiration? You won't find it on 10 new billboards that just went up in the Sacramento region. atheists.org - 1113 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Evolution_Debate_Is_Over%3B_It%5C%27s_Time_To_Move_Forward Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 10, 2010) - The traditional Science vs. Religion debate -- the one which gets all the airplay, the one which endlessly pits Creationism vs. Evolution -- is exhausted, ossified, and no longer speaks to the challenges we face as a species. atheists.org - 1114 http://www.atheists.org/news/Saudi_Valentine%5C%27s_Day%3A_Authorities_Crack_Down_On_Anywhere_Selling_Red Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 11, 2010) - RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — The Saudi religious police launched Thursday a nationwide crackdown on stores selling items that are red or in any other way allude to the banned celebrations of Valentine's Day, a Saudi official said. atheists.org - 1115 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lancaster_mayor_apologizes_for_his_%5C%27Christian_community%5C%27_remark_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 11, 2010) - Members of Los Angeles-area Islamic organizations said Tuesday they welcomed an apology from Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris, who drew criticism after telling an audience of mostly Christian ministers that he was “growing a Christian community.” atheists.org - 1116 http://www.atheists.org/news/S.C._School_Reinstates_Student_Prayer_Sessions Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 12, 2010) - Controversy over a morning prayer meeting at a high school in Georgetown, S.C., was settled this week as district officials offered a compromise. atheists.org - 1117 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_science_and_atheism_compatible%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 12, 2012)- Science brings no comfort to to anyone with dogmatic beliefs about world - atheists.org - 1118 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Paper_Gives_Insight_Into_How_Religion_Developed Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 12, 2010) - As an atheist, it is often confounding that religion seems to be pervasive in all cultures and across huge spans of our species history. atheists.org - 1119 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_%5C%27good_without_God%5C%27_studies_an_attack_on_your_faith%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 12, 2010) - Do you feel attacked for your religious beliefs? Do you consider popular views that people can be good without God as a direct hit on the moral system you treasure? atheists.org - 1120 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_Christian_Right_join_the_Tea_Party%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 12, 2010) - For what was presented as a rally of angry conservative Americans, last weekend's National Tea Party Convention in Nashville was remarkably lacking in evangelical Christian leaders and rhetoric. atheists.org - 323 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bad_History_-_%5C%22Religious_Heritage_Week%5C%22_Bill Tue, 05 May 2009 16:16:27 -0400 (May 5, 2009) - Last January, Rep. Rany Forbes (R-VA) introduced H. Res. 888, a resolution for an annual religious heritage week. atheists.org - 309 http://www.atheists.org/news/Governor_Chides_Religious_Leaders_for_Homophobia Wed, 29 Apr 2009 20:10:00 -0400 New York Governor David Paterson questioned the moral authority of religious leaders who insist that gay and lesbian families should be denied marriage equality, but who have, he said, long remained silent about the persecution that gay families and individuals have suffered. atheists.org - 311 http://www.atheists.org/news/Camp_Quest_Now_In_Britain Wed, 29 Apr 2009 20:50:35 -0400 Atheists have become the latest group to cash in on Britain's booming summer camp industry by creating the country's first-ever retreat for irreligious children. atheists.org - 369 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Lose_Challenge_to_Taxpayer-Funded_Church_Repairs Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 29, 2009) - A panel of the 6th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals on Thursday rejected an effort by American Atheists to have a Detroit, Michigan program that repaired downtown churches declared unconstitutional. atheists.org - 313 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%2C_Christianity%2C_and_Why_God_Is_Not_Dead Thu, 30 Apr 2009 20:57:13 -0400 "Atheists, come out of the closet. You won't be struck by lightning. I promise," says Atheist and columnist Bonnie Erbe. Jump in, join the conversation... atheists.org - 314 http://www.atheists.org/news/Churchgoers_More_Likely_to_Support_Torture Fri, 01 May 2009 15:47:39 -0400 The more often Americans go to church, the more likely they are to support the torture of suspected terrorists, according to a new survey. atheists.org - 315 http://www.atheists.org/news/Evolution_Instruction_in_Schools_%5C%22Optional%5C%22%3F Sat, 02 May 2009 14:20:28 -0400 A controversial Alberta, Canada bill will enshrine into law the rights of parents to pull their children out of classes discussing the topics of evolution and homosexuality. atheists.org - 316 http://www.atheists.org/news/No_Ceremony_for_Obama_National_Day_of_Prayer_Decree%3F Sat, 02 May 2009 23:02:07 -0400 The National Day of Prayer Task Force, which is run out of the conservative Christian group Focus on the Family in Colorado Springs, Colo., has been eagerly awaiting word from the White House about plans for next Thursday's National Day of Prayer. atheists.org - 317 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_Bishops_Furious_Over_Notre_Dama_Obama_Invite Sun, 03 May 2009 02:28:45 -0400 (May 3, 2009) -- This coming week, Bishop Thomas Wenski of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orlando, Fla., will take the unusual step of celebrating a Mass of Reparation, to make amends for sins against God. atheists.org - 318 http://www.atheists.org/news/Celebrate%2C_Learn_More_on_Darwin_and_%5C%22Origin_of_Species%5C%22 Sun, 03 May 2009 13:56:07 -0400 (May 3, 2009) - In addition to being the 200th anniversary of Darwin's birth, 2009 is the 150th anniversary of the publication of his fundamental work, "On the Origin of Species." atheists.org - 319 http://www.atheists.org/news/Buckner_--_Secularism_Important_for_Religious%2C_Too Mon, 04 May 2009 13:40:14 -0400 (May 4, 2009) -- American Atheists President Ed Buckner said that belief in a supernatural power or being is foolish... but atheists.org - 320 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Religious_History_Week%5C%22_Bill_to_be_Introduced Tue, 05 May 2009 12:19:25 -0400 (May 4, 2009) - Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., and James and Shirley Dobson will take part in a news conference in Washington, D.C., on Thursday - the National Day of Prayer - to help reintroduce a bill that calls for naming the first week of May "Religious History Week." atheists.org - 373 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Nations_More_Peaceful%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 4, 2009) - Sure enough, peaceful countries have more atheists and fewer regular worshippers. The difference is highly statistically significant. atheists.org - 331 http://www.atheists.org/news/Irish__Atheists_Fight_Blasphemy_Law Fri, 08 May 2009 18:17:37 -0400 (May 8, 2009) - A group that claims to represent the rights of atheists in Ireland has launched a campaign to expel God from the Irish constitution, starting with an attempt to block plans for a new blasphemy law. atheists.org - 332 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_School_Threatens_Student_Over_Prom_Date Tue, 12 May 2009 16:52:33 -0400 (May 9, 2009) - A Christian school in Ohio says it will suspend a student if he attends a public high school prom with his girlfriend. atheists.org - 333 http://www.atheists.org/news/Indiana_Atheists_Sues_Over_Godless_Bus_Ads Sat, 09 May 2009 17:29:25 -0400 (May 9, 2009) - BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - An atheist group has sued Bloomington's bus service for rejecting ads that say "You can be good without God." atheists.org - 335 http://www.atheists.org/news/Debate_Over_Obama%2C_Prayer_Day_Order_Continues Sun, 10 May 2009 23:47:30 -0400 (May 10, 2009)-- Columnist Paul Rolly speaks out: The criticism that President Barack Obama has been taking from the likes of Rush Limbaugh and conservative Christian commentators for discontinuing the White House National Prayer Day events reminds me of what a courageous Utah public servant once told me. atheists.org - 336 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_Obama_Expand_D.C._Voucher_Scheme%3F Mon, 11 May 2009 15:45:31 -0400 (May 11, 2009) - President Barack Obama wants to keep paying for private-school vouchers for students receiving them in the District of Columbia, an administration official said Wednesday. atheists.org - 337 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pat_Robertson_Dishes_About_Luv_--_Atheists_%26_Christians Tue, 12 May 2009 21:03:10 -0400 (May 11, 2009) - That Atheist boyfriend of yours may be a nice guy, but Pat Robertson says show him the door! atheists.org - 325 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pastors_Riot_After_D.C._Gay_Marriage_Vote%21 Wed, 06 May 2009 15:57:35 -0400 (May 6, 2009) - D.C. Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8), the only council member to vote against the bill today to legalize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere, predicted today there could be a "civil war" in the District if the Council decides to take up a broader gay marriage bill later this year. atheists.org - 1104 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tim_Tebow_SUPER_BOWL_AD_VIDEO%3A_SEE_The_Focus_On_The_Family_Commercial Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 7, 2010) - Tim Tebow's Super Bowl ad has been rumored for weeks. The commercial, long suspected to contain a pro-life message, was protested by many women's groups, which pressured CBS not to air the ad. Planned Parenthood even released a preemptive video in response to the commercial. atheists.org - 1105 http://www.atheists.org/news/On_Super_Bowl_Sunday%2C_Woman_UP_with_Obama%2C_Katie%2C_and_the_Tebows Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 7, 2010) - Today on Politics Daily's all-woman online Sunday show, Woman UP, Patricia Murphy, Ria Misra, Helena Andrews, Bonnie Erbe' and I discuss life with the Tebows, gay dating with Mancrunch, and a new study that suggests abstinence-only pregnancy-prevention programs might work a lot better than we thought. atheists.org - 1106 http://www.atheists.org/news/You%2C_Britain%2C_are_the_breeding_ground_for_Muslim_terrorists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 7, 2010) - The Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka says the UK, not Nigeria, should be on the terrorism watch-list atheists.org - 1107 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_Are_Notable_Atheists_Saying_About_the_Tebow_Super_Bowl_Ad%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 8, 2010) - A few notable atheists are commenting on the Tim Tebow Super Bowl ad at the On Faith blog. atheists.org - 1108 http://www.atheists.org/news/ACLU_accuses_Calif._instructor_of_religion_lessons Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 8, 2010) - An instructor at a public community college in Fresno has been presenting his religious views on homosexuality, abortion and global warming as fact to students in an introductory health science class, the American Civil Liberties Union alleged Monday. atheists.org - 1109 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_Talks_Tough_on_Vacation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 9, 2010) - John Paul II redefined papal travel by trekking to the most far-flung corners of the planet. In contrast, Benedict XVI, who was 20 years older than John Paul was at his papal election, sticks closer to home. atheists.org - 1110 http://www.atheists.org/news/Don%5C%27t_celebrate_Valentine%5C%27s_Day_warning_to_Muslim_couples Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 9. 2010) - This Feb 14, Muslim women have been urged to 'hold on to their panties' and not celebrate the day, universally known as Valentine's Day, because it is not an Islamic practice. atheists.org - 1111 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_%5C%27just_as_ethical_as_churchgoers%5C%27_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 10, 2010) - Atheists are just as ethical and have as strong a moral compass as churchgoers, new research shows. atheists.org - 351 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pentagon%3A_No_More_Bible_Quotes Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 19, 2009) - The Pentagon said Monday it no longer includes a Bible quote on the cover page of daily intelligence briefings it sends to the White House as was practice during the Bush administration. atheists.org - 1585 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_B-N%2C_atheist_and_Christian_professor_urge_civility Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 10, 2010) - BLOOMINGTON -- Atheist author Hemant Mehta told a Bloomington audience that he would need undeniable proof to believe in God. atheists.org - 1586 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Break_Out_New_Ritual_Tool%3A_The_Blow-Dryer Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 19, 2010) - Wielding a blow-dryer, a leading atheist conducted a mass "de-baptism" of fellow non-believers and symbolically dried up the offending waters that were sprinkled on their foreheads as young children. atheists.org - 330 http://www.atheists.org/news/Secularists_Protest_Gov%5C%27t_Prayer_Day_in_Florida Thu, 07 May 2009 19:09:11 -0400 (May 7, 2009) - Shouts of praise and protest clashed outside the Broward Sheriff's Office Public Safety Building Thursday as rabbis, deputies, priests, firefighters and atheists gathered for -- and against -- prayer. atheists.org - 344 http://www.atheists.org/news/Silverman_Dishes_Back_on_Robertson%2C_Xians-Only_Marriage Thu, 14 May 2009 14:59:59 -0400 (May 14, 2009) - Dave Silverman has a response to Pat Robertson's slur about marriage and the non-religious. atheists.org - 340 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cranky_Priest_Curses_Buxom_Statue%2C_Commands_Removal Tue, 12 May 2009 16:58:29 -0400 (May 12, 2009) - Some consider a statue of a female pirate scantily dressed in Schuylkill county inappropriate. atheists.org - 341 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Angels_%26_Demons%5C%22_to_Draw_Religious_Wrath%3F Tue, 12 May 2009 21:07:36 -0400 (May 12, 2009) - Ron Howard's "Angels & Demons," his prequel to "The Da Vinci Code," is the latest film to rouse the Catholic community. atheists.org - 342 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_Bishop_to_Denounce_Obama_ND_Talk_on_Fox Wed, 13 May 2009 15:38:12 -0400 (May 13, 2009) -Fargo's Roman Catholic bishop is taking a national television platform to denounce President Obama's prominent role in the University of Notre Dame's commencement this weekend. atheists.org - 345 http://www.atheists.org/news/Miss_California%3A_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 14, 2009) - Prejean is keeping busy talking to Dr. James Dobson about how Satan tried to tempt her with a question about gay marriage at the Miss USA pageant. atheists.org - 346 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Angels_%26_Demons%5C%22_Fueling_Religious_Wrath%2C_Conspiracy_Mongering Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 15, 2009) - Those pesky Illuminati are back as "Angels & Demons" opens at the box office. atheists.org - 348 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Not_Fully_Human%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 16, 2009) - A Roman Catholic Cardinal makes a bizarre statement about nonbelievers and what it means to be "fully human." atheists.org - 349 http://www.atheists.org/news/LA_Times_Op-Ed_Smears_Atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 17, 2009) -- Charlotte Allen of the Manhattan Institute says that Atheists are without reason, and just whining. atheists.org - 350 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bible_Quotes_Headline_Intelligence_Briefs Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 18, 2009) - A series of cover sheets for intelligence reports written for Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld ...were adorned with biblical quotations, and appeared Sunday, six years later, on the Web site of GQ magazine. atheists.org - 353 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Yorker_Profiles_Atheists_With_Attitude Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 19, 2009) - "Great portents and disasters turn some minds to God and others away from him." atheists.org - 354 http://www.atheists.org/news/Parents_Battle_Bible_Distribution_in_Local_School Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 20, 2009) - There is a book battle of sorts taking place in Frisco schools. This isn't about a textbook — it's about the "Good Book." atheists.org - 355 http://www.atheists.org/news/Irish_Probe_Indicts_Church-Run_Schools Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 21, 2009) - The report chronicles decades of sexual abuse and beatings by priests and nuns. atheists.org - 374 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Media_on_the_Slide%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 5, 2009) - Preacher Don’t Publish Have the days of Christian media come and gone? atheists.org - 357 http://www.atheists.org/news/Get_the_Full_Report%3A_Irish_Catholic_Child_Abuse Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 22, 2009) - Here are the finding of a nine-year inquiry into Catholic child abuse in Ireland. atheists.org - 358 http://www.atheists.org/news/RESOLVED%3A_Atheists_are_the_New_Evangelicals Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 22, 2009) - The “European Disease” has officially jumped the pond. atheists.org - 360 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lawmaker%3A_Decree_2010_Year_of_the_Bible Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 23, 2009) - A Republican House member wants President Barack Obama to make 2010 the year of the Bible. atheists.org - 361 http://www.atheists.org/news/No_Wall_of_Separation%2C_Largest_Child_Abuse_Scandal Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 25, 2009) - The (arguably) largest child abuse scandal in history has resurfaced. atheists.org - 362 http://www.atheists.org/news/2010__Year_of_the_Bible%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 25, 2009) - Rep. Paul Broun (R-Ga.) wants to have the federal government pass a decree proclaiming 2010 as "Year of the Bible." atheists.org - 367 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sotomayor_and_the_First_Amendment Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 27, 2009) - Sonia Stormayor's record on the First Amendment -- a special report from AANEWS. atheists.org - 366 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_Picks_Sotomayor%3A_Religious_Right_Divides Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 26, 2009) - Conservative groups know they want to oppose Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor — but exactly how that campaign will be conducted is a major unanswered question that is splitting the Republican right. atheists.org - 375 http://www.atheists.org/news/Proselytizing_Public_School_Teacher_is_at_it_Again%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 7, 2009) - The teacher who made headlines in 2007 over his classroom proselytizing is again trying to use taxpayer dollars to promote his religious agenda. atheists.org - 1588 http://www.atheists.org/news/Israel%5C%27s_Ultra-Orthodox_Reject_the_Diaspora%2C_Threatening_to_Split_World_Jewry Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 20, 2010) - A Jew is a Jew is a Jew. Except when he or she is not. atheists.org - 1589 http://www.atheists.org/news/Attacking_Muslims_Is_In_Vogue_Again_Among_Conservatives_%5BUPDATED%5D_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 21, 2010) - Recently in the land of the demented, it's become ultra-voguish to hate Americans who are practitioners of Islam. atheists.org - 1590 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gay_Law_In_Argentina_Signals_Waning_Catholic_Power Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 21, 2010) - The Catholic Church's failure to derail a gay marriage law in Argentina shows once powerful clergymen losing their influence in Latin America, where pressure is growing for more liberal social legislation. atheists.org - 1592 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cops_Collar_Crucifix_Crook Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 22, 2010) - Florida burglar used cross to pry open church poor boxes atheists.org - 1593 http://www.atheists.org/news/Protesting_the_mosque%3A_A_post_Founding_Fathers_America Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 22, 2010) - Last week protestors poured into the streets of Murfreesboro, TN to voice their displeasure at a proposed new mosque just outside of the city in central Tennessee. Some of the protestors were very clear on why they were opposed to a mosque in their neighborhood. atheists.org - 1594 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gay_Priests_Blasted_For_Leading_%5C%27Double_Life%5C%27_By_Church_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 23, 2010) - The Catholic Church in Italy, still reeling from the clerical sex abuse scandal, lashed out Friday at gay priests who are leading a double life, urging them to come out of the closet and leave the priesthood. atheists.org - 1595 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_freedom%2C_hypocrisy_clash_at_Ground_Zero_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 24, 2010) - Far too many Americans are hypocrites, demanding rights while denying those same rights to others. atheists.org - 1596 http://www.atheists.org/news/Over_30_Pro-Family_Groups_Ask_Court_for_Role_in_Day_of_Prayer_Case Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 24, 2010) - Over 30 conservative organizations are asking the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit to allow them to participate in oral arguments supporting the National Day of Prayer, with at least one group calling the Obama administration's defense of the observance “inadequate atheists.org - 1597 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%3A_Faith_Not_Needed_to_Love_Country Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 )July 25, 2010) - John Kieffer's faith first wavered on a Vietnam battlefield. The platoon leader enlisted for religious reasons - to fight faithless communists, he said - but left battle a nonbeliever. atheists.org - 371 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ky._Moves_to_Dismiss_Atheist_Suit_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 30, 2009) -Does the Bluegrass State of Kentucky enjoy God's special protection against terrorism? atheists.org - 372 http://www.atheists.org/news/City_Council_to_Invoke_Great_Pumpkin%3F_Why_Not%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 1, 2009) - The headline says it all... atheists.org - 376 http://www.atheists.org/news/De-Baptism_Rage_Spreads_to_Europe Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 8, 2009) -- Edwin Kagin's De-Baptism theatrics have reached Britain. atheists.org - 377 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_%5C%22Keeping_Faith%5C%22_with_Obama%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 10, 2009) - The president said in his inaugural address that the United States is “a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus and nonbelievers.” atheists.org - 378 http://www.atheists.org/news/Acknowledging_the_Seculars%3A_Obama_and_Atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 12, 2009) - The president continues to acknowledge the status of Atheists and other non-believers in American culture. atheists.org - 379 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_politics_of_assassination Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 13, 2009) - Inside the violent movement that spawned James von Brunn and Scott Roeder. atheists.org - 380 http://www.atheists.org/news/Video%3A_Kagin_Defends_Separation%2C_Challenges_KY._God_Promo_Laws Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 13, 2009) -- Check out the courtroom video and more! atheists.org - 381 http://www.atheists.org/news/Iranian_Fundies_Under_Pressure%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 14, 2009) -- Riots spread through Iran as protesters speak out against despotic fundamentalist rule. atheists.org - 382 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Radical_Islamic_Threat_to_Europe Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 15, 2009) Salt Lake City Atheist and blogger Omar Salah speaks out in a series of provocative op-eds. atheists.org - 383 http://www.atheists.org/news/Presidents_Act_Religious_Even_When_They_Are_Not Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 16, 2009) - Op-Ed piece on how -- and why -- presidents use religious narratives. atheists.org - 384 http://www.atheists.org/news/Inside_Tehran%3A_Revolution%2C_Girl_Power_and_More Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 16, 2009) -- Get an inside track on events in Iran from an insider blog. Are revolution, gender empowerment and secularism in the air? atheists.org - 385 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sanctimonious_Lawmakers_Admits_Affair Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 17, 2009) - Religious-right errand boy Sen.John Ensign preaches "family values," but has fling with ex-staffer. atheists.org - 386 http://www.atheists.org/news/PBS_Blesses_Old_Religious_Shows%2C_But_Bans_the_New Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 17, 2009) - The Public Broadcasting Service agreed yesterday to ban its member stations from airing new religious TV programs. atheists.org - 387 http://www.atheists.org/news/So_Much_for_%5C%22Godless_Communism%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 18, 2009) - What happened? Used to be you could safely equate communist party membership with atheism because, well, wasn't it always that way? atheists.org - 388 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_Is_Mir_Hossein_Mousavi%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 19, 2009) - "He's not a secular intellectual in the molds of Western intellectuals," atheists.org - 389 http://www.atheists.org/news/Southern_Baptist_Leader_Praying_for_Obama%5C%27s_Assassination Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 19, 2009) - Loving Christians sometimes seem to love violence and death more than they love other human beings. atheists.org - 390 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Music_is_Back%3A_One_Way_of_Defying_the_Taliban Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 20, 2009) - The girl in the pink pashmina scratches out scales on a battered violin. The screeching careens off the walls of the darkened classroom, but Ahmad Sarmast gushes with pride. atheists.org - 391 http://www.atheists.org/news/Some_Drivers_Refuse_to_Work_on_%5C%22Atheist%5C%22_Busses_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 21, 2009) - A controversial atheist bus campaign has hit the streets in the capital city after being banned by bus companies in Turku and Tampere. atheists.org - 392 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_and_Christian_drivers_drop_plans_for_boycott_of_buses_with_atheist_ads Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 22, 2009) - Atheists getting the message out! atheists.org - 405 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dowd_Blasts_Sanford%2C_Self-Righteous_GOP Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 29, 2009) - As in all great affairs, Mark Sanford fell in love simultaneously with a woman and himself — with the dashing new version of himself he saw in her molten eyes. atheists.org - 1612 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anti-Defamation_League_Comes_Out_Against_Ground_Zero_Mosque_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 31, 2010) - So much for religious tolerance. atheists.org - 1613 http://www.atheists.org/news/Debate_Heating_Up_on_Plans_for_Mosque_Near_Ground_Zero Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 31, 2010) - An influential Jewish organization on Friday announced its opposition to a proposed Islamic center and mosque two blocks north of ground zero in Lower Manhattan, intensifying a fierce national debate about the limits of religious freedom and the meaning of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. atheists.org - 1614 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_atheism_debate_writ_large%2C_on_billboards Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 31, 2010) - In North Carolina, a church group and an atheist group put up dueling signs quoting their respective versions of the Pledge of Allegiance. Each group accuses the other of rewriting U.S. history. atheists.org - 1615 http://www.atheists.org/news/Brazil_Offers_Sakineh_Mohammadi_Ashtiani_Safe_Haven%2C_Asks_Iran_To_Allow_It_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 31, 2010) - SAO PAULO — Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva offered on Saturday to provide refuge to a woman who has been sentenced to death in Iran following her conviction for committing adultery. atheists.org - 407 http://www.atheists.org/news/Latest_Sanford_Spin%3A%3A_%5C%22Darkness%5C%22_Fueled_Affair_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 29, 2009) -- Political career in trouble? Bring in a "spiritual advisor," blame it on Satan! atheists.org - 394 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bus_Company_Nixes_Atheist_Ads Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 23, 2009)- If you're looking to advertise cigarettes, churches, politicians, guns or porn, don't even think about approaching Transpo. atheists.org - 395 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Moody%2C_Ever-Changing_God%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 23, 2009) - Author Robert Wright weighs in with some provocative questions about the popular deity. atheists.org - 396 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Gay_Exorcism%5C%22_Sparks_Controversy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 24, 2009) -- Gay rights advocates are outraged over a video that shows a Connecticut church performing an apparent exorcism of a boy to drive out what they call his homosexual demons. atheists.org - 397 http://www.atheists.org/news/Nixon_Tapes%3A_Graham%2C_%5C%22Synogogue_of_Satan%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 25, 200() - A 1973 conversation between President Nixon and evangelist Billy Graham about Jews, laden with critical references including a Biblical verse on the "synagogue of Satan," has put the aging, frail Graham back in unwelcome headlines. atheists.org - 398 http://www.atheists.org/news/NYC_Aheists_Launch_Bus_Messages Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 25, 2009) - Advertisements proselytizing toothpaste and jeans do not make us question our beliefs. But a series of posters on city buses promoting atheism is intended to do just that. atheists.org - 399 http://www.atheists.org/news/Katha_Pollitt_on_Women%5C%27s_Rights_in_the_Middle_East Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 26, 2009) - I thought President Obama's Cairo speech was basically fine: begin anew, extend the hand, reject "crude stereotypes" all around, turn the page on the Christian triumphalism of the Bush years. atheists.org - 400 http://www.atheists.org/news/Samantha_Stein%2C_Camp_Quest_UK Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 26, 2009) -- Camp Quest has reached the shores of Albion! atheists.org - 401 http://www.atheists.org/news/House_Committee%3A_More_Religion_at_DC_Visitor_Center Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 27, 2009) - A Resolution calls for "One Nation Under God" and the religionized Pledge to be displayed at the Capitol Visitor Center. atheists.org - 402 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22It_Isn%5C%27t_Over%21%5C%22_Plots_Aimed_At_Iran%5C%27s_Supreme_Leader Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 28, 2009) - Battle for Iran shifts from the streets to the heart of power. atheists.org - 404 http://www.atheists.org/news/America%5C%27s_%5C%22Party_of_God%5C%22_Riddled_with_Sex_Scandals Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 28, 2009) - From Clarence Thomas to Mark Sanford, the definitive guide to randy Republicans atheists.org - 408 http://www.atheists.org/news/SCOTUS_Declines_School_Bible_Study_Case Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 30, 2009) - The U.S. Supreme Court declined Monday to hear the case between Kentridge High School and two former students who fought to form a Bible study group that excluded non-Christians from becoming voting members. atheists.org - 409 http://www.atheists.org/news/UK_study%3A_Shari%5C%27a_courts_%5C%27incompatible%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 30, 2009) - Dozens of Islamic courts operating in the United Kingdom are "seriously out of step with trends in Western legislation," according to a report published by London think tank Civitas on Monday. atheists.org - 410 http://www.atheists.org/news/OK_GOP_--_Recession_Caused_by_Lack_of_Prayer%2C_Gays%2C_%5C%22Debauchery%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 30, 2009) -- Dave Weigel at the Washington Independent catches a bizarre resolution introduced by Oklahoma State Rep. Sally Kern (R) in Oklahoma, whose state legislature he describes as a "petri dish for wingnuttery." atheists.org - 411 http://www.atheists.org/news/My_Sin_When_I_Ran_for_Governor_of_South_Carolina Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 1, 2009) - Herb Silverman sounds off: Why do so many American politicians -- from Bill Clinton to Mark Sanford -- use religious language when they make public confessions of marital infidelity? atheists.org - 412 http://www.atheists.org/news/God_is_My_Doorman%3A_Mark_Sanford_for_Non-Christians Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 1, 1009) - If Henry Miller talked about his sex life as much as Governor Mark Sanford talks about his sex life, people would have started thinking he was some kind of perv. atheists.org - 414 http://www.atheists.org/news/Paleontology_and_Creationism_Meet_but_Don%E2%80%99t_Mesh_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 July 2, 2009) - Scientst tour the Creation Museum in Petersburg, KY. atheists.org - 415 http://www.atheists.org/news/Focus_on_Secret_DC_%5C%22Fellowship%5C%22_Expands Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 2, 2009) - There Is a Secret Bible House in Washington, D.C. atheists.org - 416 http://www.atheists.org/news/Confidential_Vatican_Probe_of_Nuns%3A_Back_to_the_Convents%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 2, 2009) - The Vatican is quietly conducting two sweeping investigations of American nuns, a development that has startled and dismayed nuns who fear they are the targets of a doctrinal inquisition. atheists.org - 417 http://www.atheists.org/news/Survey_Reveals_Int%5C%27l_Attitudes_on_Evolution Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 2, 2009) A recent international survey conducted by the British Council investigated awareness of Darwin, acceptance of evolution, and attitudes toward evolution and faith. atheists.org - 418 http://www.atheists.org/news/Turkish_TV_gameshow_looks_to_convert_atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 3, 2009) - What happens when you put a Muslim imam, a Christian priest, a rabbi and a Buddhist monk in a room with 10 atheists? atheists.org - 419 http://www.atheists.org/news/Daniel_Radcliffe%3A_a_cool_nerd_and_an_Atheist%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 4, 2009) - Daniel Radcliffe, star of Harry Potter, has disclosed that he endured years of bullying by classmates who considered him 'uncool' - but is now having the last laugh. atheists.org - 420 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rediscovering_Secular_America_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 5, 2009) - This Fourth of July, those who identify themselves as non-believers, or humanists, or atheists -- or a whole host of other names which signify a nontheistic worldview -- have much cause for celebration. atheists.org - 421 http://www.atheists.org/news/Police_Raid_Gay_Bar_in_Texas Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 6, 2009) In a state where prayer at high school athletic games is common and religious monuments abound, now this! atheists.org - 423 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hatemonger_Bible_Church_Targets_Jackson_Memorial_Events Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 7, 2009) - The Westboro Baptist Church, best known for their slogan "God Hates Fags" and for their extremist Christian values, have selected their next target - the recently deceased King of Pop, Michael Jackson. atheists.org - 424 http://www.atheists.org/news/Father_Ted_creators_back_challenge_to_the_blasphemy_bill Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 7, 2009) - The creators of the Father Ted television series have denounced Ireland's proposed blasphemy laws as "insanity" and pledged to support a campaign to repeal them. atheists.org - 425 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_You_There_God%3F_It%5C%27s_Me%2C_Madison_Avenue.How_to_make_an_ad_for_a_church. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 7, 2009) - "You are not your name," says a voice-over announcer, as we see a series of different nametags. "You're not your job." We see people in the uniforms of different occupations. atheists.org - 426 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Christian_Nation%5C%22_Supporter_Votes_Against_House_Resolution_on_Capitol_Slavery Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 8, 2009) - That the United States Capitol, and specifically the Statue of Freedom that rests above it, was built by slave labor has long been a source of shame. atheists.org - 427 http://www.atheists.org/news/Iowa_Next_Battle_Over_Creationism%2C_School_Prayer%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 8, 2009) - Public school students in Spencer will get to study the Bible and pray at graduation if school district leaders approve a proposed "religious liberties" policy, the first of its kind in Iowa. atheists.org - 428 http://www.atheists.org/news/House_Vote_Wednesday_on_Religious_Markers_in_Visitors_Center Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 8, 2009) - The House also took up a resolution directing the Architect of the Capitol to engrave the Pledge of Allegiance and the national motto "In God We Trust" in conspicuous places in the three-story underground visitor center. atheists.org - 429 http://www.atheists.org/news/Francis_Collins%3A_Picked_by_Obama%2C_Attacked_by_Atheists%2C_Wrong_on_Theology Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 9, 2009) - Genome scientist and Evangelical Christian Francis Collins got the nod from President Obama today to head up the National Institutes of Health. Atheists are already on the attack. atheists.org - 430 http://www.atheists.org/news/Residents_Demand_Removal_of_Atheist_Billboard Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 9, 2009) - FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WSVN) -- Community residents are protesting a billboard they call offensive to Christians. atheists.org - 431 http://www.atheists.org/news/O%5C%27Reilly_Blasts_Secularism%2C_Obama Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 10, 2009) - Bill O'Reilly took aim at President Obamas "lack of religion" on Thursday night while discussing Obama's meeting with the Pope on Friday. He stated that Obama is a "secularist" who rejects public spirituality and citing several incidents. atheists.org - 432 http://www.atheists.org/news/Arizona_State_Senator_Sylvia_Allen_%28R%29_says_Earth_is_6%2C000_years_old. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 10, 2009) - You gotta' see it to believe it! atheists.org - 433 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jesus_Goes_to_Bethesda Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (Juy 11)- Just how religious is Obama's nominee for director of the NIH? atheists.org - 434 http://www.atheists.org/news/.El_Dorado_Chiropractic_Fires_Woman_for_Being_an_Atheist%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 12, 2009) - Amanda Donaldson has been in treatment for breast cancer and, just to add to her burdens, she's allegedly been fired from her job at El Dorado Chiropractic because Dr. Scott Dawson doesn't approve of the fact that Donaldson and her husband Brant are atheists. atheists.org - 435 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kansas_City_Pulls_Fuynding_for_Religious_Fest Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 12, 2009) - Kansas City officials said Thursday that they would pull city support from a large spiritual conference planned at Bartle Hall this month. atheists.org - 436 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_transit_ads_will_run_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 12, 2009) - A Supreme Court of Canada decision on freedom of speech in bus advertising means Metro Transit will run atheist ads from a national organization. atheists.org - 437 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ireland_Makes_Blasphemy_Illegal Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 12, 2009) - Irish atheists are horrified by new legislation making blasphemy illegal, and punishable by a 25,000-Euro fine. Christians of all stripes should be, too. atheists.org - 438 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_the_%5C%22New_Atheists%5C%22_are_Right-Wing_on_Foreign_Policy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 12, 2009) -- Is Robert Wright right? You decide... and join the conversation! atheists.org - 439 http://www.atheists.org/news/Reed_is_Back%2C_wants_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 13, 2009) The former glory boy of the Christian right is forming a new political action movement. atheists.org - 440 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22World%5C%27s_Worst%5C%22_to_Preacher_Who_Prays_for_Obama%5C%27s_Death Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 14, 2009) - Pastor Wiley Drake of the Buena Park Southern Baptist Church scored the Gold for his admission that he does in fact pray for the death of President Obama. atheists.org - 442 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_put_own_stamp_on_summer_camp_in_Sierra_foothills Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 14, 2009) - At Camp Quest, campers may not believe in God, but they do have faith in their community. atheists.org - 443 http://www.atheists.org/news/Construction_plan_renews_separation_of_church_and_state_debate_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 15, 2009) - In Illinois, the long awaited statewide construction plan contains not only money to rebuild roads, bridges and public schools, but it has millions of dollars set aside for religious organizations. atheists.org - 444 http://www.atheists.org/news/FMF%5C%27s_Smeal%3A_Don%5C%27t_Abandon_the_Women%2C_Girls_of_Afghanistan%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 16, 2009) - Afghanistan is in deplorable condition. There's no disputing that. Some feel that we should just walk away. atheists.org - 445 http://www.atheists.org/news/Science%2C_religious_beliefs_conflict_for_one_in_three_Americans Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 16, 2009) - Americans by-and-large admire scientists -- unless they get crosswise on issues with religious overtones such as evolution, global warming, embryonic stem cell research -- according to a new survey released today from the Pew Forum. atheists.org - 446 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_gives_thumbs_up_to_Harry_Potter Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 16, 2009) - The Vatican's newspaper, L'Osservatore Romano, has given a warm review to "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,'' praising the film for its “clear line of demarcation between good and evil, making clear that good is right, and that in some cases this involves hard work and sacrifices.” atheists.org - 447 http://www.atheists.org/news/Another_sex_scandal_linked_to_DC_Christian_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 17, 2009) - Self-righteous lawmakers preach Christian theocracy while playing the field in our nation's capital. atheists.org - 448 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_prayers_won%5C%27t_be_only_ones_at_San_Marcos_meetings Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 17, 2009) - In response to complaints by state and national groups about Christian prayers at city meetings, the City of San Marcos is creating a policy to address concerns, while keeping the prayer practice. atheists.org - 449 http://www.atheists.org/news/Palin_Attended_Church_Event_With_Samurai_Sword_Ceremony Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 17, 2009) - On June 7th, 2008 Sarah Palin interrupted her schedule of state business and spent Alaska state taxpayer money to fly down from Juneau to the Mat-Su Valley where she attended on June 8th two religious events dominated by the Wasilla Assembly of God, which is demonstrably Palin's key Alaska church. atheists.org - 450 http://www.atheists.org/news/Public_Praises_Science%3B_Scientists_Fault_Public%2C_Media Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 18, 2009) - Americans like science. Overwhelming majorities say that science has had a positive effect on society and that science has made life easier for most people. Most also say that government investments in science, as well as engineering and technology, pay off in the long run. atheists.org - 451 http://www.atheists.org/news/Michael_Reiss_and_John_White%3A_Atheism_needs_to_be_studied_in_schools Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 18, 2009) - It is a laudable aim of the current National Curriculum that pupils "know about big ideas and events that shape the world". But one of the biggest of these is too infrequently studied in schools. atheists.org - 452 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cheatin%5C%27_Heart_Gov_--_%5C%22God_will_make_me_better%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 19, 2009)-- South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford, still clinging to office after admitting to an extramarital affair, wrote in an opinion piece released Sunday that God will change him so he can emerge from the scandal a more humble and effective leader. atheists.org - 453 http://www.atheists.org/news/Islamic_Theocrats_Holdf_Chicago_Conference Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 19, 2009): Muslim extremists meet, denounce modernity, democracy, divorce -- and check out the video with the message "Free Speech Symbolizes War on Islam." atheists.org - 454 http://www.atheists.org/news/Islamists_rally_in_Chicago%2C_blast_modernity%2C_secularism%2C_civil_liberties Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (June 19, 2009) - Check out the video promoting the conference that declares "Free Speech Symbolizes War on Islam." atheists.org - 455 http://www.atheists.org/news/Islamistys_rally_in_Chicago%2Ck_denounce_modernity%2C_divorce%2C_civil_liberties Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 19, 2009) -- Check out the video promoting this conference that declares "Free Speech Symbolizes War on Islam." atheists.org - 456 http://www.atheists.org/news/Islamist_Group_Holds_First_U.S._Conference Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 19, 2009) -- An international Islamist political group is preparing for its first conference in the U.S. on Sunday July 19th under the theme "Fall of Capitalism & Rise to Islam." atheists.org - 458 http://www.atheists.org/news/Devoted_Atheists_Grow_in_Numbers%2C_Goals Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 20, 2009) - Valerie Celeste Coffey is a woman on a mission. For six years, her small group of local atheists has gathered to exchange bemused stories about the things Christians do in worship and swap tips for raising confident skeptics. atheists.org - 459 http://www.atheists.org/news/John_Ensign_gave_to_Zack_Wamp%5C%27s_campaign_after_admitting_affair___Read_more%3A_http%3A%2F%2Fwww.politico.com Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 20, 2009) - Eight days after admitting to an extramarital affair, Sen. John Ensign gave $5,000 to the Tennessee gubernatorial campaign of Rep. Zack Wamp – a fellow Republican who lives with Ensign in a Christian group house on Capitol Hill’s C Street. atheists.org - 460 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jimmy_Carter_Leaves_Church_Over_Treatment_of_Women Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 20, 2009) - After more than 60 years together, Jimmy Carter has announced himself at odds with the Southern Baptist Church -- and he's decided it's time they go their separate ways. atheists.org - 461 http://www.atheists.org/news/Playwrights_create_a_stir_with_new_work_about_Creationism_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 21, 2009) - After the howls of protest which greeted their play Maggie's End about the plans for a state funeral for Baroness Thatcher, Ed Waugh and Trevor Wood are courting controversy again with a new work focusing on a self-made millionaire who funds an academy where Creationism is taught as scientific fact. atheists.org - 462 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mike_Huckabee%5C%27s_Religious_Authoritarianism%3A_Authoritarian%2C_Vertical_Politics Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 21, 2009) - Austin Cline of About.com takes a look at possible presidential candidate Mike Huckabee and asks some tough questions. atheists.org - 463 http://www.atheists.org/news/More_Scandal_at_DC_%5C%22Fellowship%5C%22_Enclave%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 20, 2009) -- AANEWS examines a new scandal linked to the Washington, DC Christian "Fellowship" House. atheists.org - 464 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ads_Tout_Religion_in_Government Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 22, 2009) - A Hillsborough group is attacking the separation of church and state/ atheists.org - 465 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22C_Street%5C%22_Cabal_of_Anti-Democracy_Fundamentalist_Senators_and_Reps_Wouldn%5C%27t_Turn_Over_Child_Rapist_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 22, 2009) - Kudos to Rachel Maddow for latching on to the captivating and chilling story about not just the lascivious and potentially illegal activities of some of the "C Street" Family, but -- more importantly -- focusing on their belief that they are chosen by God to lead and infiltrate our governnment. atheists.org - 466 http://www.atheists.org/news/Camp_for_Atheists%3F_Dawkins_Denies_He%5C%27s_%5C%22Grooming%5C%22_Kids_as_Nonbelievers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (Juy 23, 2009) - Ah, summer camp! Even though most British children don’t get to experience the ritual of marshmallow roasting, singing of songs and furtive snogging that defines the holidays for most American youngsters, we can all agree that it sounds like pretty good fun. atheists.org - 467 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ohio_State_Rep_Wants_Men_To_Consent_Before_Women_Have_Abortions Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 23, 2009) - Ohio Republican (of course!) state Representative John Adams has introduced a bill that would require women to get written consent from the men who impregnate them before they could get an abortion. Providing false information would bring criminal penalties against women. atheists.org - 1616 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dead_Sea_Scrolls_Mysterys_Solvfed%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (August 1, 2010) - The recent decoding of a cryptic cup, the excavation of ancient Jerusalem tunnels, and other archaeological detective work may help solve one of the great biblical mysteries: Who wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls? atheists.org - 1617 http://www.atheists.org/news/Local_atheists_say_they_%5C%27want_a_seat_at_the_table%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (August 1, 2010) - The monthly social gathering of Charlotte Atheists & Agnostics is very much in progress on a recent Thursday night. Crowded into the downstairs section of a neighborhood bar and grill, about 70 members - all wearing buttons that spell out their first names, but not their last - chat away between sips of beer and wine. atheists.org - 1618 http://www.atheists.org/news/http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eurekastreet.com.au%2Farticle.aspx%3Faeid%3D22618 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (August 1, 2010) - Perth's Catholic Archbishop Barry Hickey (pictured) recently drew attention to Julia Gillard's atheism and its potential to harm the interests of the Church. atheists.org - 1619 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gillard%5C%27s_atheism_belongs_in_the_closet Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (August 1, 2010) - Perth's Catholic Archbishop Barry Hickey (pictured) recently drew attention to Julia Gillard's atheism and its potential to harm the interests of the Church. atheists.org - 1620 http://www.atheists.org/news/Faith_Healers_Plead_Not_Guilty_To_Criminal_Mistreatment_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (August 2, 2010) - OREGON CITY, Ore. (RNS) Two members of a controversial faith-healing church were charged Thursday (July 29) with first-degree criminal mistreatment for failing to provide medical care for their infant daughter. atheists.org - 1621 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22In_God_We_Trust%5C%22_Once_Again_Found_Legal_in_Federal_Court Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 2, 2010) - Can Atheism Be Considered a Religion? atheists.org - 469 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rabbis_linked_to_corruption_probe%2C_arrested_with_public_officials Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 23, 2009) - A two-year corruption and international money-laundering investigation stretching from the Jersey Shore to Brooklyn to Israel and Switzerland culminated in charges against 44 people on Thursday, including three New Jersey mayors, two state assemblymen and five rabbis, the authorities said. atheists.org - 470 http://www.atheists.org/news/Worlwide_Protests_Saturday_Against_Iranian_Clerical_Reimge%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 24, 2009) - Worldwide demonstrations tomorrow. Check United4Iran.com for updates. Amnesty International's web sites highlights some of the larger events planned in the United States. atheists.org - 471 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Most_Dishonest_Lesson_Under_Mormonism_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 24, 2009) - A lot of us rightly criticize mormon ideology, behaviors, outlooks, facts, and leaders. While rational and correct judgments, these insights can and do get set aside and rationalized away. In fact, if I where still a mormon and confronted by most of the information discussed here, I'd have rejected it as some sort of folly. atheists.org - 472 http://www.atheists.org/news/Syrian_Sephardic_Communities_Shaken_by_Charges_Against_a_Leading_Rabbi_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 24, 2009) - The young receive free educations and the old get free geriatric care. Family businesses connect relatives in a web of interdependence to the furthest reaches of kinship. Wedding receptions with 1,000 guests are common. A Friday night Sabbath dinner with 40 people is the norm. atheists.org - 473 http://www.atheists.org/news/NY_Times_profiles_Atheist_bus_ad_campaign Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 23, 2009) - For the city’s organized atheists — here’s hoping that doesn’t sound oxymoronic — the rotten economy would seem in one respect to be Heaven-sent. atheists.org - 474 http://www.atheists.org/news/Some_christian_groups_encourage_premarital_sex_claiming_the_bible_says_nothing_about_it_at_all. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 24, 2009) - Some Christian groups encourage premarital sex claiming that the Bible says nothing about it at all. So is premarital sex OK or for Christians or not? atheists.org - 475 http://www.atheists.org/news/Superstar_on_God_belief%3A_%5C%22No%2C_No%2C_No%21%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 25, 2009) -- Brad Pitt is out of the closet when it comes to Atheism. atheists.org - 1598 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Hidden_Dimensions_Of_Science_Vs._Religion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 26, 2010) - Have the extremes of the Science vs. Religion run their course? Is it time to step beyond the vision of Science and Spirituality as a one-dimensional spectrum? Is it time to say to those who fight from the poles of that spectrum “enough!” and move on? atheists.org - 1599 http://www.atheists.org/news/FIRST-PERSON%3A_Atheism_among_scientists_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 July 27, 2010) - From time to time, a column in a newspaper is more revealing than its author probably intended it to be. atheists.org - 1600 http://www.atheists.org/news/Santa_Claus_Rips_Catholic_Church Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 uly 27, 2010) - Talk about piling on -- now even Santa Claus is taking shots at the Catholic Church. atheists.org - 1601 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Vatican%E2%80%99s_Gay_Priests Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 27, 2010) - For residents of Rome, the sight of courting priests is hardly an anomaly. But a recent exposé is rocking the Catholic Church. atheists.org - 1602 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Coed_Sues_to_Stay_in_Counseling_Program Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 28, 2010)--When officials at Georgia's Augusta State University told counseling student Jennifer Keeton they were concerned her outspoken Christian views might affect her ability to work with gay, lesbian and transgender clients, they gave her a choice: participate in a remediation plan or leave school. atheists.org - 1603 http://www.atheists.org/news/Polygamist_Warren_Jeffs_Can_Now_Marry_Off_Underaged_Girls_With_Impunity Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 28, 2010) - While it comes as no surprise that the Utah Supreme Court has overturned the convictions against polygamist Warren Jeffs today, the outrage is no less palpable for feminists watching around the world. atheists.org - 1604 http://www.atheists.org/news/Just_How_Far_Is_the_%5C%22Ground_Zero_Mosque%5C%22_From_Ground_Zero%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 READ MORE (July 28, 2010) - The "Ground Zero Mosque" that we have been and will be hearing so much about is not exactly a mosque, nor is it at Ground Zero. Here's why: you can't see Ground Zero -- the former site of the World Trade Center -- from the future site of the Cordoba atheists.org - 477 http://www.atheists.org/news/Breaking%21__More_on_Brad_Pitt%5C%27s_Atheism. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 25, 2009) - Brad Pitt was raised as a Southern Baptist, but apparently, his faith didn't stick. atheists.org - 478 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rallies_worldwide_challenge_Iranian_theocracy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 25, 2009) -- Across the globe, opponents of clerical theocracy in Iran are demonstrating for civil liberties, human rights and free elections. atheists.org - 479 http://www.atheists.org/news/Report%3A_U.S._Funded_Religious_Programs_in_Africa%2C_Iraq Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 25, 2009) - The federal government used taxpayer dollars to rebuild mosques in Iraq and teach Bible-based abstinence in Africa, violating a prohibition on funding "inherently religious activities," according to a recent audit of the U.S. Agency of International Development (USAID). atheists.org - 480 http://www.atheists.org/news/Naomi_Campbell%E2%80%99s_first_Bollywood_venture_attacked_by_Hindus Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 25, 2009) - Supermodel Naomi Campbell’s first Bollywood film Karma, Confessions and Holi opened with dreadful reviews in India with Hindus branding the film "undignified disaster” and an "unholy mess”. atheists.org - 481 http://www.atheists.org/news/Malaysians_debate_whipping_for_beer-drinking_model Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 July 26, 2009) - Last week, a Sharia or religious court sentenced Kartika Sari Dewi Shukarno, 32, to six strokes of the cane and a fine of 5,000 ringgit (1,412 dollars) after she pleaded guilty to consuming alcohol in eastern Pahang state last year. atheists.org - 482 http://www.atheists.org/news/Idaho_bible_use_plan_for_charter_school_under_scrutiny Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 26, 2009) - The American Civil Liberties Union of Idaho will investigate Nampa Classical Academy's use of the Bible as a classroom text to see if it violates separation of church and state rules. atheists.org - 483 http://www.atheists.org/news/Baptist_Publication_Fakes_Signatures_on_Kern%5C%27s_Morality_Proclamation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 26, 2009) - The circus sideshow led by Sally Kern in Oklahoma gets more ridiculous by the day. Now a Baptist publication was caught red handed printing a copy of Kern's morality proclamation along with faked signatures from other government officials as though they were endorsing that proclamation. atheists.org - 484 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27De-baptism%5C%27_helps_atheists_denounce_faith Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 26, 2009) - Until last summer, Jennifer Gray considered herself "a weak Christian" whose baptism at age 11 came to mean less and less to her as she gradually lost faith in God. Then the 32-year-old medical transcriptionist from Columbus, Ohio, took a decisive step, one that previously hadn't been available. She got "de-baptized." atheists.org - 485 http://www.atheists.org/news/David_Vitter%5C%27s_%5C%22Serious_Sin%5C%22%3A_GOP_Eyes_Fate_Senator_In_Louisiana Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 27, 2009) - Christian conservatives overlook moral flaws in order to push their theocratic agenda in Waswhingtonh. The re-election campaign of adulturer Sen. David Vitter is a case in point! atheists.org - 486 http://www.atheists.org/news/Some_More_Words_to_the_New_Atheist_Blogosphere_on_Unscientific_America Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 27, 2009) - As the two of us grapple with a book tour, other book projects, cross-country moves, and much else, we’ve been pretty hamstrung in our online replies to the “New Atheists.” So this post will try to make up a bit of that slack. atheists.org - 487 http://www.atheists.org/news/Buckner_live_on_Internet_Tuesday%3B_will_%5C%22Invoke%5C%22_at_Cobb_County_Meeting Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 July 27, 2009) American Atheists prez will challenge prayer at public meetings. Watch live on the Internet! atheists.org - 488 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Christian_Mafia%5C%22_Scandal_Widens%3A_Buzzflash_--_Group_Would_Conceal_Child_Molestation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 28, 2009) - A mushrooming scandal over members of the U.S. congress and a shadowy religious "fellowship"based in Washington, DC is attracting more news coverage and questions, and could lead to calls that the House Ethics Committee open an immediate investigation. atheists.org - 489 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anger_after_Bible_defaced_in_British_gallery Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 28, 2009) - Christians voiced anger and dismay Tuesday after a Bible, which was part of an exhibition inviting viewers to add their reflections, was defaced with offensive and foul-mouthed scrawl. atheists.org - 490 http://www.atheists.org/news/Camp_faithless%3A_Is_Britain%5C%27s_first_atheist_summer_camp_harmless_fun_or_should_we_be_worried%3F___ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 28, 2009) - You might have been forgiven for thinking the BBC was introducing a new presenter of one of its 'yoof' shows. Small, mousey-haired, personable Samantha Stein was given prominent airtime right across the BBC network yesterday to talk about a children's summer camp with a difference that she has set up in Britain. atheists.org - 491 http://www.atheists.org/news/Alabama_Bans_Wines_With_%5C%22Nude_Nymph%5C%22_Labels Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 29, 2009) - The State of Alabama's liquor agency has banned the sale of wine which features a "nude nymph" on its label. atheists.org - 492 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sudan_%5C%27trousers_trial%5C%27_adjourned Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 29, 2009) - The trial of a Sudanese woman charged with wearing "indecent" clothing has been adjourned, but will continue after she decided to waive her immunity. atheists.org - 493 http://www.atheists.org/news/Buckner_defends_separation_at_Cobb_County_public_meet Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 29, 2009) American Atheists Preident Ed Buckner ha his say against government promotion of religion at a public meeting in Cobb County, GA. Check out the text, video! atheists.org - 494 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pro-Abstinence_Lawkaker_Quits_After_Affair_With_22-Year-Old_Intern Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 29, 2009) - A Tennessee lawmaker resigned from the state Senate on Tuesday after his extramarital affair with a 22-year-old intern was revealed by an investigation into an extortion case. atheists.org - 1644 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens%3A_%5C%27I%5C%27m_Dying%5C%27_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 10, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens sat down with The Atlantic's Jeffrey Goldberg for a frank and fascinating conversation on his cancer and his religious beliefs. atheists.org - 1645 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins_Likens_Burqas_To_Trash_Bags%2C_Speaks_Of_%5C%27Visceral_Revulsion%5C%27_To_Islamic_Veils_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 11, 2010) - Outspoken British academic Richard Dawkins has sparked outrage by likening the burqa to a "full bin liner." [The British phrase for trash bag.] atheists.org - 1646 http://www.atheists.org/news/Stewart_Takes_On_Ground_Zero_Mosque_Critics_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 11, 2010) - A clean-shaven Jon Stewart returned from a long weekend last night to tackle the recent controversy over the building of a mosque at the World Trade Center site. Critics of the Islamic cultural center claim it would be built on hallowed ground, but it would actually be built several blocks away from Ground Zero on top of a former Burlington Coat Factory. atheists.org - 1623 http://www.atheists.org/news/US_appeals_court%3A_Pa._prison_can_ban_Muslim_scarf Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 2, 2010) - Prison officials can ban employees from wearing religious headscarves out of concerns they pose a safety risk, a U.S. appeals court in Philadelphia ruled Monday in a split 2-1 decision. atheists.org - 1624 http://www.atheists.org/news/Philosophy_and_Faith Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 3, 2010) - One of my jobs as a teacher of bright, mostly Catholic undergraduates is to get them thinking about why they hold their religious beliefs. atheists.org - 1625 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Ground_zero_mosque%5C%22%3A_Sensible_people_fearing_Islam Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 3, 2010 - The drama over the proposed Muslim community center in New York is a clash within -- not between -- civilizations atheists.org - 1626 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mosque_Plan_Clears_Hurdle_in_New_York Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 4, 2010) - As New York City removed the final hurdle for a controversial mosque near ground zero, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg forcefully defended the project on Tuesday as a symbol of America’s religious tolerance and sought to reframe a fiery national debate over the project. atheists.org - 1627 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mayor_Bloomberg_Delivers_Teary-Eyed_Defense_Of_Ground_Zero_Islamic_Center_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 4, 2010) - Speaking on Governor's Island, misty-eyed New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg praised a decision to allow an Islamic center to be built near Ground Zero. atheists.org - 496 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scientists_complain_over_lack_of_evolution_teaching Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 30, 2009) - Professor Richard Dawkins and 25 other leading British scientists have written to Ed Balls, the schools secretary, to protest that evolution has been omitted from plans for a new primary school curriculum. atheists.org - 497 http://www.atheists.org/news/Arrests_in_terror_case_bewilder_associates Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 30, 2009) - The small town of Willow Spring, N.C., was the scene of an F.B.I. investigation Tuesday at the home of Daniel Patrick Boyd. atheists.org - 498 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_Egyptian_River_Runs_Through_Washington_%3A_Summer_of_Denial_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 30, 2009) - More revelations about the house on C Street. atheists.org - 499 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%2C_%5C%27Monster%5C%27_fans_say_No_to_God%2C_Yes_to_giving Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 31, 2009) - The international internet person-to-person micro-lending site reports that folks with no religion are spirited participants in efforts to uplift the world's poorest. atheists.org - 500 http://www.atheists.org/news/Britain%E2%80%99s_first_atheist_summer_camp_gets_a_big_following Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 31, 2009) -- Rain drums down on the roof of the marquee where the 24 children attending Camp Quest are listening to a talk on astronomy. atheists.org - 501 http://www.atheists.org/news/Feds_probe_multi-million_dollar_%5C%22racing_ministry%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (July 31, 2009) - The pastor of a Sterling church says the IRS is investigating his control of church finances, which include $8.5 million in church real estate and hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of vehicles that he and his wife use in a "racing ministry." atheists.org - 502 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Atheist_Fundamnenbtalists%5C%22%3F_%5C%22Hitler_an_Atheist%5C%22%3F__Weigh_in_on_the_debate... Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 1, 2009) - Number one on my list of dead-giveaways that I'm dealing with a moron of the first order: when they start whining about "atheist fundamentalists", comparing a Richard Dawkins to a Pat Robertson, or babbling about how those atheists are just as fanatical and wicked as the fundagelical zealots. atheists.org - 503 http://www.atheists.org/news/Feds_can_seize_Hovind_property Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 1, 2009) - A ruling this week says the nine properties owned by prominent creationist Ken Hovind that make up Dinosaur Adventure Land, and two bank accounts associated with the park will be used to satisfy $430,400 in restitution owed to the federal government atheists.org - 504 http://www.atheists.org/news/Beyond_belief%3A_Atheists_push_for_greater_visibility_and_acceptance Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 1, 2009) - There's nothing unusual about churches advertising Sunday services, but South Florida atheists are turning that idea on its head: Why not promote the belief that there is no God? atheists.org - 505 http://www.atheists.org/news/Preaching_The_Gospel_Of_Maybe%3A_the_Evolution_of_God Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 1, 2009) - Thank God for agnostics. Over the past decade, our public conversation about religion has all too often degenerated into a food fight between the religious right and the secular left. Now comes journalist Robert Wright with a gentler approach: a materialist account of religion that manages (sort of) to make room for God (of a sort). atheists.org - 506 http://www.atheists.org/news/Surprises_pop_up_in_new_survey_of_U.S._Mormons Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 2, 2009) - On July 24, the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life released an extensive statistical portrait of Mormons in the United States. It drew on answers by self-identified members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to Pew's U.S. Religious Landscape Survey in 2007. atheists.org - 507 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church-state_groups_concerned_about_nominated_Army_secretary Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 2, 2009) -- Organizations that advocate the separation of church and state say they are concerned about President Obama's pick as Secretary of the Army. atheists.org - 508 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_bank_owned_pill_shares_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 3, 2009) - A Roman Catholic bank in Germany has apologised after admitting it bought stocks in defence, tobacco and birth control companies. atheists.org - 509 http://www.atheists.org/news/CNN_profiles_Camp_Quest-UK Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 3, 2009) -- A camp for Atheists, Freethinkers and other non-believers is profiled by CNN in a video podcast atheists.org - 510 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_John_Travolta_having_a_%5C%22cxrisis_of_faith%5C%22_%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 4, 2009) - "Dead of night, and on a deserted Florida landing strip, the silence of the oppressively hot early hours is broken by the low whirring of an electric golf cart, driving lazy circuits. At the wheel is a bulky, lone figure, hunched forward over the controls as he tries to kill time during another long, sleepless night." atheists.org - 512 http://www.atheists.org/news/Study%3A_Religiosity_of_Humanities_Students_Most_Likely_to_Wane_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 4, 2009): Results from a recent study on the impact of a college student's major on their religiosity have led researchers to conclude that postmodernism, rather than science, is the greatest antagonist of religiosity. atheists.org - 513 http://www.atheists.org/news/Blackwater_%5C%22Christian_Crusader%5C%22_Implicated_in_Murder_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 5, 2009) - A former Blackwater employee and an ex-US Marine who has worked as a security operative for the company have made a series of explosive allegations in sworn statements filed on August 3 in federal court in Virginia. The two men claim that the company's owner, Erik Prince, may have murdered or facilitated the murder of individuals who were cooperating with federal authorities investigating the company. atheists.org - 514 http://www.atheists.org/news/Iowa_Atheists_and_Freethinkers_launch_awareness_campaign Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 5, 2009) - The group Iowa Atheists and Freethinkers (IAF) has launched an advertising campaign on the sides of 20 transit buses in Des Moines. atheists.org - 515 http://www.atheists.org/news/Acknowledging_existence_of_atheists_is_too_offensive_for_Des_Moines Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 6, 2009) - After a wave of complaints, Des Moines Area Regional Transit buses will no longer display advertisements that acknowledge the existence of atheists in Iowa. atheists.org - 1628 http://www.atheists.org/news/Robertson_Group_to_fight_vote_clearing_way_for_NYC_mosque Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 4, 2010) - Plans for an Islamic community center and mosque near ground zero moved forward as a city panel opened the way for developers to tear down a building that was struck by airplane debris on Sept. 11. atheists.org - 1629 http://www.atheists.org/news/Topic_of_Cancer%3A_Hitchens Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 4, 2010) - One fine June day, the author is launching his best-selling memoir, Hitch-22. The next, he’s throwing up backstage at The Daily Show, in a brief bout of denial, before entering the unfamiliar country—with its egalitarian spirit, martial metaphors, and hard bargains of people who have cancer. atheists.org - 1630 http://www.atheists.org/news/ACLJ_Petitions_to_Stop_Ground_Zero_Mosque Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 4, 2010) - A conservative group is preparing legal action to challenge a vote on Tuesday that cleared the way for a mosque to be built near the site of the Sept. 11 attacks. atheists.org - 1631 http://www.atheists.org/news/Secular_coalition%5C%27s_billboard_aimed_at_Kentucky_State_Fair-goers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 4, 2010) - A coalition of secular groups and advocates for church-state separation have unveiled a billboard that will be in full view of Kentucky State Fair goers with the message: "Don't believe in God? You are not alone." atheists.org - 1632 http://www.atheists.org/news/Italian_atheists_lobby_against_church_bells Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 5, 2010) - An Italian atheist group campaigning for a quiet life called for tighter restrictions on church bells ringing in the Tuscan town of Pisa, after complaints about the noise from locals. atheists.org - 1633 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_religion_and_atheism_need_smart_women_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 6, 2010) - The Vatican's recent revisions that put the ordination of women on par with child sex abuse drew howls of protest from around the world. In some ways, I think people are being a little unfair. atheists.org - 1634 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lakeland_deletes_word_in_attempt_to_avoid_Atheist_lawsuit_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 6, 2010) - On Monday, the City Commission of Lakeland adopted a resolution to no longer include an invocation as part of their meeting agenda. Instead, the invocation will occur just prior to the start of the official meeting. atheists.org - 517 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%5C%27_recruiting_billboard_draws_ire%2C_support_in_Florida Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 6, 2009) - The dispute over an Atheist billboard continues. atheists.org - 518 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_gov._urges_Christians_to_get_involved_in_politics Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 7, 2009) - Texas Governor Rick Perry says there is a spiritual battle under way for the future of Texas and the United States. atheists.org - 519 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_pupils_spark_row_over_religious_assemblies Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 7, 2009) - Ian Scott wrote to the rector of Hutchesons' Grammar School in Glasgow in April, asking to be able to opt out of the weekly assembly which he had been attending since first year. atheists.org - 520 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_ads_will_go_back_on_buses%2C_DART_decides Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 8, 2009) - An advertisement promoting a Des Moines atheist group will be put back on buses, Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority officials said Friday night. atheists.org - 521 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jesus_killed_Mohammed%3A__The_crusade_for_a_Christian_military Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 8, 2009) - Writer Jeff Sharlet exposes the Christian fundamentalist agenda inside our military. atheists.org - 522 http://www.atheists.org/news/Expelled_from_the_Creation_%E2%80%9CMuseum%E2%80%9D Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 8, 2009) - There is lots of video on the web from our visit to Ken Ham's Palace of Lies, but here's one of one of the rare incidents to mar the trip. atheists.org - 523 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_church_vs._neighbors%2C_bells_begin_the_fight Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 9, 2009) - A dispute over church noise -- should religious groups enjoy special protections from laws and local ordinances? atheists.org - 524 http://www.atheists.org/news/Growth_in_Number_of_Americans_Citing_No_Religion_May_Be_Slower_Than_Previously_Reported Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 9, 2009) - Americans continue to pull away from organized religion, but the rate of departure previously reported may not have been as abrupt as originally thought, according to research to be presented at the 104th annual meeting of the American Sociological Association. atheists.org - 525 http://www.atheists.org/news/State_money_shouldn%5C%27t_go_to_religious_centers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 10, 2009) - The July 14 Pantagraph reported ("Religious groups in line for funds," Page A7) "millions of dollars" being allocated by state legislators to four selected religious faiths: Lutheran, Methodist, Judaic and Roman Catholic. Not Baptist, Mormon, Muslim? Later, maybe? atheists.org - 526 http://www.atheists.org/news/Shooter_Read_Sexist_Christian_Author%5C%27s_Book_Before_Pittsburgh_Female_Aerobics_Class_Massacre Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 10, 2009) - Sodini's final reading: a book by sexist Fundamentalist who claimed husbands own their wives, as property. atheists.org - 527 http://www.atheists.org/news/Senate_Confirms_Outspoken_Christian_as_NIH_Head_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 11, 2009) - The U.S. Senate on Friday confirmed prominent geneticist Francis S. Collins as the new director of the National Institutes of Health. atheists.org - 528 http://www.atheists.org/news/Professional_Atheist_Pitchforks_New_Christian_Head_of_NIH Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 August 11, 2009) - New atheist Sam Harris, author of The End of Faith: Religion, Terror and the Future of Reason (2004) and Letter to a Christian Nation (2006), takes after Francis Collins, the former head of the federal government's Human Genome Project. President Barack Obama has just appointed Collins as the director the National Institutes of Health where he will oversee that agency's $30 billion annual research budget. atheists.org - 529 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Cowboy_Plots_to_Bring_Christ_into_Kids%5C%27_Social_Studies_Class Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 11, 2009) - David Barton likens himself to a biblical prophet. He wants to destroy the separation of church and state. Why is he designing school curricula? atheists.org - 530 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_criticizes_atheism%2C_modern_Christianity Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 12, 2009) - Pope Benedict XVI strongly criticized atheism in a major document released Friday, saying it had led to some of the "greatest forms of cruelty and violations of justice" ever known. atheists.org - 531 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mayoral_candidate_says_putting_Christian_creationism_display_in_the_Tulsa_Zoo_is_top_priority_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 12, 2009) - Republican mayoral candidate Anna Falling said Tuesday that putting a Christian creationism display in the Tulsa Zoo is No. 1 in importance among city issues that include violent crime, budget woes and bumpy streets. atheists.org - 532 http://www.atheists.org/news/Justin_Trottier_and_Michael_Payton%3A_Defending_atheist_bus_ads Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 13, 2009) - In a recent interview with Philosophy Now magazine, the Canadian philosopher Charles Taylor, author of A Secular Age, commented on the atheist bus-ad campaign, calling it "odd" and "pathetic" for atheists to use such tactics to promote their worldview. atheists.org - 533 http://www.atheists.org/news/Punk_meets_Islam_for_new_generation_in_U.S. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 13, 2009) - For more on "Generation Islam," watch Christiane Amanpour as she investigates the struggle for the hearts and minds of the next generation of Muslims. Watch Thursday at 9 p.m. ET on CNN and on CNN International at 2100 CET and 2200 HK Friday. atheists.org - 534 http://www.atheists.org/news/DART%2C_atheist_group_benefit_from_ad_debate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 14, 2009) - A controversy over whether an advertisement for an atheist group should be displayed on the side of public buses seems to have benefited both parties involved. atheists.org - 535 http://www.atheists.org/news/Moderate_scientists_caught_in_middle_of_evolution_debate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 14, 2009) - This spring, evolutionary biologist and bestselling author Richard Dawkins - most recently famous for his public exhortation to atheism, The God Delusion - returns to writing about science. atheists.org - 536 http://www.atheists.org/news/BREAKING%21_All_in_the_family Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 14, 2009) - A conservative religious magazine goes behind the scandal-tainted C Street house and criticizes an organization big on protecting its own and small on church ties and theology | Emily Belz, Edward Lee Pitts atheists.org - 537 http://www.atheists.org/news/Report%3A_Media_Coverage_of_the_Faith-Based_Initiative_in_the_First_Six_Months_of_2001_and_2009_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 15, 2009) - When he took over the White House in January 2009, President Barack Obama quickly adopted much of the "faith-based initiative" put into place by his predecessor, President George W. Bush. atheists.org - 538 http://www.atheists.org/news/OP-ED_piece_smears_Camp_Quest%2C_Atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 15, 2009) - And how did you spend your summer? Having more fun, I hope, than the English kids marched off to Camp Quest, a five-day atheist camp supported in part by Oxford scientist Richard Dawkins. atheists.org - 1606 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tim_Lahaye%2C_Evangelical_Christian_Minister%2C_Warns_Obama_Bringing_Us_Closer_To_%5C%27The_Apocalypse%5C%27_%28VIDE Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 28, 2010) - Evangelical Christian minister Tim LaHaye says that the policy initiatives put forth by the Obama administration are bringing the country "closer to the apocalypse." atheists.org - 1607 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_and_%28economic%29_foxholes Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 29, 2010) - Church attendance rises when the economy slips. atheists.org - 1608 http://www.atheists.org/news/Updated%3A_Obama_skips%2C_McDonnell_attends_historic_boy_scout_jamboree Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 29, 2010) - President Obama may not be planning to speak at the 100th anniversay of the boy scouts' jamboree today in Virginia, but Gov. Bob McDonnell wouldn't miss it. atheists.org - 540 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gay_Marriage_Fight%2C_%5C%22Kiss-In%5C%22_Protests_Smack_Mormon_Image Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 16, 2009) - The Mormon church's vigorous, well-heeled support for Proposition 8, which banned gay marriage in California last year, has turned the Utah-based faith into a lightning rod for gay rights activism, including a nationwide "kiss-in" Saturday. atheists.org - 541 http://www.atheists.org/news/Brad_Pitt%3A_Religion_Doesn%5C%27t_Make_Sense_To_Me%2C_Gay_Marriage_Does Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 16, 2009) - Sporting a long gray beard, Brad Pitt visited Bill Maher Friday night to reaffirm the pro-gay, anti-religion, pro-marijuana agenda he recently laid out in Parade magazine. atheists.org - 542 http://www.atheists.org/news/Editor_loses_faith_as_he_covers_religion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 16, 2009) - WHEN Times editors assigned me to the religion beat, I believed God had answered my prayers. As a serious Christian, I had cringed at some of the coverage in the mainstream media. Faith frequently was treated like a circus, even a freak show atheists.org - 543 http://www.atheists.org/news/No_Burquini%2C_No_Bathing%3A_British_Pools_Impose_Muslim_Dress_Codes_on_All_Swimmers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 17, 2009) - British swimming pools have begun hosting special Muslim swim sessions during which swimmers — including non-Muslims — are banned from entering the pool if their swimming attire doesn't comply with dress code required by Islamic custom. atheists.org - 544 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church%2FState_Problems_Continue_at_Pace Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 17, 2009) - I've been reporting on the ongoing church/state problems at Pace High School in Florida for quite some time. The ACLU filed suit against the school last year for a whole range of Establishment Clause violations, including teachers leading prayers at school events, school-planned baccalaureate services and events held at churches. atheists.org - 545 http://www.atheists.org/news/Millions_Of_Afghan_Women_Will_Be_Denied_Vote_Due_To_Female_Staff_Shortage Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 17, 2009) - Millions of Afghan women will be denied their chance to vote in presidential elections this week because there aren't enough female officials to staff the women-only polling stations. atheists.org - 546 http://www.atheists.org/news/Afghan_women_fight_on_for_rights_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 17, 2009) - The smell of disinfectant mingled with burnt flesh was overpowering - I was in the special burns unit in Herat's hospital. atheists.org - 547 http://www.atheists.org/news/Commission_blocks_Nampa_Classical_Academy%5C%27s_Bible_use Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 17, 2009) - The Idaho Public Charter School Commission told the Nampa Classical Academy today it can't use the Bible as a instructional text. atheists.org - 548 http://www.atheists.org/news/Yale_Surrenders Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 August 17, 2009) - Why did Yale University Press remove images of Mohammed from a book about the Danish cartoons? By Christopher Hitchens atheists.org - 549 http://www.atheists.org/news/Huckabee_says_2_states_in_Holy_Land_%5C%27unrealistic%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 August 18, 2009) - Former U.S. presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee said Tuesday there is no room for a Palestinian state "in the middle of the Jewish homeland" and Israel should be able to build settlements wherever it wants — taking a stance firmly at odds with Washington. atheists.org - 550 http://www.atheists.org/news/DART_Driver_Refused_Bus_With_Atheist_Sign Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 18, 2009) - Des Moines Area Regional Transit confirms a driver refused to drive a bus with an atheist advertisement Monday. atheists.org - 551 http://www.atheists.org/news/Twitter_site_offers_followers_line_to_God Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 18, 2009) - An Israeli university student has opened a Twitter site, twitter.com/thekotel, where prayers can be sent for placement in the crevices of Jerusalem's Western Wall, a Jewish holy site that faithful believe provides a direct line to the Almighty. atheists.org - 552 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anti-Choice_Zealots_Make_Bank_Promoting_the_%5C%22Personhood%5C%22_of_Zygotes Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 18, 2009) - The 'egg-as-person' crusade is driving big money to anti-choice groups. atheists.org - 553 http://www.atheists.org/news/Wife%3A_C-Street_philandering_hubby_had_%5C%22almost_like_an_addiction_to_alcohol_or_pornography.%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 18, 2009) - Currently decamped from Columbia, the state capital, to the family beach home outside of Charleston, the sublime 47-year-old mother of four conjectured "about happiness and what happiness means." atheists.org - 554 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_public_schools_now_required_to_teach_the_Bible Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 19, 2009) - As of the 2009-2010 school year public schools in Texas are now required to offer a high school elective course on the literature of the Bible and history of that era. atheists.org - 555 http://www.atheists.org/news/Italy_Burqini_Ban%3A_Controversial_Swimwear_Barred_From_Northern_Town Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 19, 2009) - A town in northern Italy has banned women from wearing the "burqini" favored by Muslim women, Al Arabiya reports. atheists.org - 556 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_beauty_and_terror_of_science Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 19, 2009) - Romantic poets and scientists tapped the marvels of nature and sounded a clarion alarm that can transform us today atheists.org - 557 http://www.atheists.org/news/Friendly_Atheist_under_attack_by_Christian_hate_group Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 August 19, 2009) - Hemant Mehta, the Friendly Atheist, is under attack by a right wing Christian hate group. The Illinois Family Institute, led by Laurie Higgins, is harassing celebrity atheist Mehta. atheists.org - 558 http://www.atheists.org/news/MSNBC%5C%27s_Maddow_Show_Propels_Growing_Scandal_Over_Washington%5C%27s_%5C%22Christian_Mafia%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 August 20, 2009) - In a new August 17, 2009 Maddow show segment [link to MSNBC page with viewable show segment], Rachel Maddow and Jeff Sharlet discuss, among many new revelations, the disturbing fact that the "Christian Embassy" scandal, propelled by a complaint to the Department of Defense from the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, was investigated by a Pentagon Inspector General who is in fact a Family member. atheists.org - 559 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fearing_Attacks%2C_Art_Fair_in_India_Won%E2%80%99t_Show_Works_by_Top_Artist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 21, 2009) - The largest contemporary art show in India opened Thursday in New Delhi without the works of one of the country’s best regarded painters, amid concerns that his paintings will prompt attacks by religious extremists. atheists.org - 560 http://www.atheists.org/news/Appeals_court_rejects_pro-lifer%5C%27s_tax_case Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 21, 2009) - The New Brunswick Court of Appeal has dismissed the anti-abortion activist's appeal of his convictions on charges that he failed to file federal income-tax returns in 2000, 2001 and 2002. atheists.org - 561 http://www.atheists.org/news/Arizona_preacher_calls_for_execution_of_gays%2C_Obama%2C_Barney_Frank Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 21, 2009) - Pastor Steven Anderson of Faithful Word Baptist Church in Tempe, Arizona [...] calls for the execution of gays in numerous sermons that you can listen to here. atheists.org - 562 http://www.atheists.org/news/Comedian_Patton_Oswalt%3A_a_%C2%93stone_cold_atheist%C2%94_with_new_stand-up Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 22, 2009) - Patton Oswalt is a talented comedian who also happens to be an atheist. He’s been in various TV shows and films, such as Reno 911!, etc, and he acted as a writer for the new movie Funny People. atheists.org - 563 http://www.atheists.org/news/NIH%5C%27s_new_chief_pledges_to_lead_research_agency_%5C%27as_a_scientist%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 22, 2009) - Newly sworn-in National Institutes of Health chief Francis Collins, who founded an institute in May aimed at nurturing the coexistence of science and religion, announced Monday he had resigned from his foundation to focus on his research chief duties. atheists.org - 564 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sex_and_the_bible%3A_The_verses_you_didn%5C%27t_learn_in_Sunday_school Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 22, 2009) - As a kid I always viewed the Bible as one of the world's dullest texts... until I realized my Sunday school teacher was just glossing over the good stuff. atheists.org - 1635 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pat_Robertson%E2%80%99s_Women_Warriors_Leading_Spiritual_Warfare_In_Zimbabwe_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 6, 2010) - At the Fathers’ House International church in Henderson, Kentucky, Pastor Lisa Bourland is seated on the prayer room floor washing the feet of speakers for that evening’s Women, Weapons of Warfare (WWW) conference. atheists.org - 566 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_atheists_care_about_religion_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 23, 2009) - ATHEISTS, at least most of us, would be happy to see the faithful lose their religion. Many of us, indeed, are keen to disabuse them of their beliefs. We write critically about religion, we advocate atheism, some of us even spend money to put ads on buses. atheists.org - 1639 http://www.atheists.org/news/Iranian_facing_stoning_speaks%3A_%5C%27It%5C%27s_because_I%5C%27m_a_woman%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 August 8, 2010) - Exclusive: Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani accuses authorities in Tehran of lying about charges in attempt to execute her in secret atheists.org - 568 http://www.atheists.org/news/Reasonable_Doubt%3A_Creating_a_stir_by_supporting_science Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 August 23, 2009) - All the furor started with a seemingly simple question: What should be taught in public school science classes? atheists.org - 569 http://www.atheists.org/news/Afghan_Elections_Seen_As_A_Setback_For_Women Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 24, 2009) - For women, Afghanistan's recent elections appear to have been more of a setback than a step forward. atheists.org - 570 http://www.atheists.org/news/Wash._bans_Capitol_holiday_displays%2C_tree_to_stay_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 24, 2009) - The Christmas tree can stay - but no more Nativity scene. That's the word from Washington's Capitol, where protests erupted last winter over competing private holiday displays. atheists.org - 571 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_Atheists_Be_Parents%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 25, 2009) -- An evocative 1970 account of discrimination against Atheists from the archives of Time Magazine is now among the most popular articles being accessed on the internet. atheists.org - 572 http://www.atheists.org/news/Yale_and_the_Danish_cartoons_-_revisited Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 25, 2009) -- Many people are pondering whether Yale University Press was right to remove the Danish cartoons and other images of the Prophet Mohammed from Brandeis Professor Jytte Klausen's forthcoming book. atheists.org - 573 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bachmann%3A_Prayer_and_fasting_will_help_defeat_health_care_reform Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 25, 2009) - On Wednesday Rep. Michele Bachmann was part of a star-studded “teletownhall” meeting to discuss health-care reform. The event, billed “Keeping Faith with the Unborn,” was sponsored by the Susan B. Anthony List, an anti-abortion advocacy group. The organization’s president, Marjorie Dannenfelser, claimed that there were some 350,000 listeners on the line. atheists.org - 574 http://www.atheists.org/news/When_Your_Pet_is_%5C%27Left_Behind%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 26, 2009) - No, this isn't about some end-of-vacation nightmare with the family dog. atheists.org - 575 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Win%3A_Homeland_Security_Plaque_Must_Go%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 26, 2009) -- Get the latest on this legal victory from AANEWS. atheists.org - 576 http://www.atheists.org/news/Malaysia%3A_Black_Eyed_Peas_Concert_Off_Limits_To_Muslims_Because_Organized_By_Guinness Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 27, 2009) - Malaysia's government has barred Muslims from a concert by U.S. hip-hop stars the Black Eyed Peas next month because the event is organized by Irish beer giant Guinness, an official said Thursday. atheists.org - 577 http://www.atheists.org/news/Spencer_schools_drop_new_Bible_class Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 27, 2009) - Spencer school officials will throw out a Bible class and discard a critique of evolutionary theory to avoid being sued over the district's proposed "religious liberties" policy. atheists.org - 578 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Friendly_Atheist%5C%27_and_Pro-Family_Group_Wage_Public_Conflict_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 27, 2009) - Religious web sites are spreading the word about efforts to smear "the Friendly Atheist," Hemant Mehta, and threaten his teaching post! atheists.org - 579 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sam_Harris_on_Bill_Maher%21_Check_it_out... Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 August 27, 2009) -- Atheist Sam Harris dishes on faith & more... atheists.org - 580 http://www.atheists.org/news/Michigan_courts_given_leeway_to_force_veil_removal Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 28, 2009) - Michigan's Supreme Court issued an order Tuesday allowing lower state courts to "exercise reasonable control" over the appearance of witnesses and parties, a rule change atheists.org - 581 http://www.atheists.org/news/MVBOE_settlement_details_released Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 28, 2009) - The Mount Vernon Board of Education has resolved a federal lawsuit filed by a family that alleged a civil rights violation. The family alleged that middle school science teacher John Freshwater displayed religious materials and taught religion, in violation of the U.S. Constitution and school policy. atheists.org - 582 http://www.atheists.org/news/This_Just_In%3A_College_Will_Make_You_an_Atheist_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (aUGUST 28, 2009) Like for Halloween and Christmas, the sales pitches arrive well before the actual event. Television, radio, newspapers, piles of merchandise in stores you visit, and blogs all announce: Back to School! atheists.org - 584 http://www.atheists.org/news/Blackwater_Founder_Accused_in_Court_of_Intent_to_Kill Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (Auust 29, 2009) - The founder of Blackwater USA deliberately caused the deaths of innocent civilians in a series of shootings in Iraq, attorneys for Iraqis suing the security contractor told a federal judge Friday. atheists.org - 585 http://www.atheists.org/news/After_Kennedy%5C%27s_Death%3A_Silence_from_the_Pope Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 29, 2009) - There was a poignant footnote to President Obama's historic July 10 meeting with Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican. atheists.org - 586 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_blames_atheists_for_global_warming Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 29, 2009) - Pope Benedict is claiming atheists are responsible for the destruction of the environment. atheists.org - 587 http://www.atheists.org/news/Denver_Metro_Atheists_celebrating_%5C%22Banned_Books_Week%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 29, 2009) - Food for Freethought is a food drive that also encourages freethought, freedom of expression, and free inquiry. We plan to accomplish this by giving “Banned” and Freethought books away in exchange for non-perishable food donations, that will be going to Food Bank of the Rockies, during “Banned Books Week”, September 26 – October 3 atheists.org - 588 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lost_in_Space%3E__NASA_Shuttle_Flight_Carries_Religious_Souvenir Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 31, 2009) -- Should the space program be exploited for proselytizing? atheists.org - 589 http://www.atheists.org/news/Diocese_appears_to_break_pledge Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 31, 2009) - A Roman Catholic diocese in Connecticut has invoked the First Amendment’s separation of church and state in a request to the US Supreme Court to let it keep clergy sexual abuse documents under seal, a move that appeared to contradict the church’s recent pledges of openness. atheists.org - 590 http://www.atheists.org/news/Carrie_Prejean_Sues_Pageant_For_Religious_Discrimination Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 31, 2009) - Former Miss California USA Carrie Prejean sued pageant officials Monday for libel, slander and religious discrimination, accusing them of telling her to stop mentioning God even before her controversial remarks against gay marriage. atheists.org - 591 http://www.atheists.org/news/_Atheist_group_picks_%5C%27God%5C%27_battles Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 31, 2009) - An Atheist group that won a recent court victory to have a reference to "Almighty God" stricken from Kentucky's homeland security law doesn't contemplate legal challenges against more than 30 other divine mentions in state documents. atheists.org - 592 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Fundamentalists_Hawk_Crackpot_Theories_With_Dinosaur_Robots Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 31, 2009) - Creationist theme parks are filled with paleontological wonders. How do Christian fundamentalists reconcile creatures millions of years old with their Young Earth ideas? atheists.org - 594 http://www.atheists.org/news/.Jewish_Taliban_in_Jerusalem%3A_Haredim_Battling_Saturday_Car_Parking Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (August 31, 2009) - I wrote not too long ago about efforts by Orthodox Jews to shut down a public car park opened on Saturdays in Jerusalem. They don't drive on Saturdays because that is their sabbath and they don't believe that anyone else should be drive either. atheists.org - 595 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_League_president%3A_Atheists_%E2%80%98out_there_to_get_us%E2%80%99 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (September 1, 2009) - Catholic League President Bill Donohue presented a paranoid side of his personality to Fox News Monday morning, declaring that “militant, dogmatic” atheists are “out to get” Catholics and dismantle American society. atheists.org - 596 http://www.atheists.org/news/Arizona_pastor_prays_for_President_Obama%5C%27s_death Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (September 1, 2009) - Faithful Word Baptist Church's Pastor Steve Anderson has been preaching an unusual message to his Phoeniz, Arizona congregation: Why he hates Barak Obama and why he prays the President will die. atheists.org - 597 http://www.atheists.org/news/Preying_on_the_Desperate%3A_The_Religious_Right%5C%27s_Adoption_Racket Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (September 1, 2009) - Many Christian adoption agencies are far more concerned with artificially producing "orphans" for Christian parents to adopt, than helping birth parents care for wanted children. atheists.org - 598 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_vs._Reality_in_Missouri Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (September 2, 2009) - I urge you to read the whole thing, but the basic story is a band made t-shirts with the theme "Brass Evolutions" using the famous cartoon sequence of a monkey changing into a man. It’s a cute idea, and no big deal, right? atheists.org - 599 http://www.atheists.org/news/Interview_with_Richard_Carrier Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (September 2, 2009) - RichardCarrier is a published historian and philosopher with a Ph.D. in Greco-Roman intellectual history from Columbia University. He is the author of Sense and Goodness without God: A Defense of Metaphysical Naturalism and Not the Impossible Faith, as well as a major contributing author to The Empty Tomb: Jesus Beyond The Grave. atheists.org - 600 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cross_Purposes%3A_How_Florida%5C%27s_Corporate_Tax_Credit_Scholarship_program_dodges_state_law_to_fund_priv Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:28:05 -0400 (September 2, 2009) - In January 2006, the Florida Supreme Court struck down Gov. Jeb Bush's private school voucher program. atheists.org - 601 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cross_Purposes%3A_How_Florida%5C%27s_Corporate_Tax_Credit_Scholarship_program_dodges_state_law_to_fund_priv Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (September 2, 2009) - In January 2006, the Florida Supreme Court struck down Gov. Jeb Bush's private school voucher program. atheists.org - 602 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sanford%3A_God_on_his_side%2C_Palin_on_his_mind Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 2, 2009) - Conservative WashTimes Ralph Hallow interviews philandering South Carolina Gov. Sanford, who suggests a higher power is behind his refusal to heed GOP calls for his resignation. atheists.org - 603 http://www.atheists.org/news/City_attorney%3A_Fort_Lauderdale%5C%27s_opening_prayer_A-OK_with_the_courts Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 2, 2009) - The city of Fort Lauderdale is looking into one jogger's question about the presence of the Ten Commandments, from the Old Testament of the Bible, on a monument at a city park. But in a related matter, the city says there's no question the prayers that open City Commission meetings are legal and constitutional. atheists.org - 604 http://www.atheists.org/news/Detroit-Area_Church_Campaigns_with_%5C%27Satan%5C%27_Signs_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 2, 2009) - Metro South Church in Trenton, Mich., is the latest church to grab the attention of the local community and media outlets through a marketing campaign that includes signs signed by Satan. atheists.org - 605 http://www.atheists.org/news/Group_wants_Jindal_to_reimburse_state_for_Sunday_church_junkets Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 3, 2009) - A national group that lobbies Congress on religious issues asked Gov. Bobby Jindal to apologize and reimburse taxpayers for the state-funded helicopter trips he takes on Sundays to visit churches. atheists.org - 606 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_White_House_Celebrates_Ramadan Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 3, 2009) - President Obama will hold his first White House dinner celebrating the Muslim holiday of Ramadan on Tuesday night as part of his effort to rebuild American relations with the Islamic world after years of strain. atheists.org - 607 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dutch_Muslim_group_prosecuted_over_Holocaust_cartoon Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 3, 2009) - The Arab European League (AEL) is being prosecuted for insulting Jews by publishing a cartoon suggesting they invented the Holocaust, the Dutch public prosecution office said on Wednesday. atheists.org - 608 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama__Hosts_White_House_Ramadan_Dinner_for_Muslims Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 4, 2009) - On Tuesday President Barak Obama hosted a special White House dinner commemorating the Islamic Ramadan holiday and America's Muslim communities. atheists.org - 609 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sen._Ted_Kennedy%5C%27s_Legacy_of_Disdain_for_the_Separation_of_Church_and_State Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 4, 2009) - There was one message that dominated the remembrances of the late Sen. Ted Kennedy following his death: He was a very successful dealmaker. It was always good to have Ted on your side – regardless of the obstacles. Unfortunately, one obstacle Kennedy often ignored was the Constitution's mandate of a meaningful separation of church and state. atheists.org - 610 http://www.atheists.org/news/Reports%3A_Gov._Jindal_took_state_helicopters_to_church Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 4, 2009) - Louisiana’s Republican Governor Bobby Jindal is receiving heavy criticism after local media revealed he has been using taxpayer money to make helicopter visits to churches in the state. atheists.org - 611 http://www.atheists.org/news/Outside_faith%2C_a_rising_tide_of_%5C%27nones%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 5, 2009) - A few years ago, Tyler Manley would have considered himself a Presbyterian. If asked about his religion today, he will confess he doesn't have one. Nor does he believe in God. atheists.org - 612 http://www.atheists.org/news/Did_Bob_McDonnell_Read_%5C%27The_Handmaid%5C%27s_Tale%5C%27%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 5, 2009) - Three years before Virginia gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell submitted his now-famous thesis at Regent University, (in which he described working women as detrimental to the family, called for a "covenant view" of marriage, and said government should favor married couples over "cohabitators, homosexuals, and fornicators"), the Canadian writer Margaret Atwood published her novel "The Handmaid's Tale." atheists.org - 613 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kentucky_to_appeal_ruling_against_Homeland_Security_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 5, 2009) - The State of Kentucky announced Friday that it would appeal a court ruling that struck down legislation requiring the Commonwealth's Homeland Security Office to display a religious plaque and incorporate "dependence on God" in its training programs. atheists.org - 614 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Creation%5C%27_tells_of_Charles_Darwin%5C%27s_war_between_science_and_love Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 6, 2009) - Almost 50 years after the Scopes "Monkey" trial received the Hollywood treatment in the original "Inherit the Wind," the eternal friction between science and religion is back on the big-screen with "Creation," which opens the Toronto International Film Festival on Thursday. atheists.org - 615 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_reversing_their_baptisms Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 6, 2009) - Until last summer, Jennifer Gray of Columbus, Ohio, considered herself “a weak Christian” whose baptism at age 11 in a Kentucky church came to mean less and less to her as she gradually lost faith in God. atheists.org - 617 http://www.atheists.org/news/Maybe_religion_is_the_answer_claims_atheist_scientist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 7, 2009) - The world may have to turn to God to save itself from climate change, claims one of Britain’s most eminent scientists. atheists.org - 618 http://www.atheists.org/news/Girls_Gone_Wild_vs._Virgins_Till_Marriage%3A_Why_Is_Sexual_Life_in_America_So_Schizoid%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 7, 2009) - America, "Land of the Free", continues to swing between smut and sanctimony. "Our dominantly Christian nation’s schizophrenic approach to sex has deep roots." atheists.org - 619 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mother_mad_coach_took_players_to_church%3B_School_district_says_trip_was_voluntary Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 7, 2009) - The head football coach at Breckinridge County High School took about 20 players on a school bus late last month to his church, where nearly half of them were baptized, school officials say. atheists.org - 620 http://www.atheists.org/news/Yale_criticized_for_removing_cartoons_of_Mohammed_from_upcoming_book Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 8, 2009) - Prominent alumni and a national groups of university professors are criticizing Yale University for the removal of cartoons of the prophet Mohammed from an upcoming Yale University Press book because of fears of violence in the Muslim world, the Associated Press reports. atheists.org - 621 http://www.atheists.org/news/Schools_Should_Teach_Christianity%5C%27s_Role_in_U.S._History%2C_Say_Evangelicals_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 8, 2009) - Teaching the importance of Christianity in U.S. history is common sense, asserted several evangelical leaders in defending a new Texas law that requires public schools to incorporate Bible literacy into the curriculum. atheists.org - 622 http://www.atheists.org/news/SF_Court_Upholds_Ban_on_Religious_Music_at_High_School_Graduation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 8, 2009) - A federal appeals court in San Francisco is upholding a decision by Washington state school officials to bar a student ensemble from playing an instrumental version of the prayer "Ave Maria" at a high school graduation. atheists.org - 623 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sudan_trouser_ruling_violates_international_law%3A_U.N. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 8, 2009) - Sudan's conviction of a woman for indecency for wearing trousers violates international law and is emblematic of wider gender discrimination in the Islamic country, the United Nations human rights office said on Tuesday. atheists.org - 624 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ky._school_trip_to_church_that_included_baptisms_raises_questions Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 9, 2009) A mother is angry about a trip led by the head football coach at Breckinridge County High School took about 20 players on a school bus late last month to his church, where nearly half of them — including her son — were baptized. atheists.org - 627 http://www.atheists.org/news/Max_Blumenthal_on_how_the_fanatical_religious_right_has_destroyed_movement_conservatism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 9, 2009) - Our friend Max Blumenthal has a great new book out titled Republican Gomorrah: Inside the Movement that Shattered the Party that explores the toxic effects that the religious right has had not just on the national discourse, but on movement conservatism itself. atheists.org - 629 http://www.atheists.org/news/Another_%5C%22Pro-Family%5C%22_Politician_resigns_after_his_sex_comments_are_broadcast Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 9, 2009) - KCAL-TV in Los Angeles played a tape of the married Yorba Linda Republican speaking about sex with two women. He apparently did not realize a microphone was on during a legislative hearing. atheists.org - 630 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bolivian_Preacher_Says_God_Wanted_Him_To_Hijack_Aeromexico_Jet Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 10, 2009) - Mexican investigators are evaluating a Bolivian pastor who hijacked a jetliner for possible mental illness, and trying to figure out how he managed to slip through Cancun Airport security with a fake bomb in his luggage. atheists.org - 631 http://www.atheists.org/news/_Examiner_Bio_Fox_News_paints_atheist_groups_as_counter-religious Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 10, 2009) - On August 3, Fox News aired a spot on “Non-Believer Communities,” looking at groups united around a common disbelief in a higher power. The segment begins simply enough, presenting atheists as they typically are: a loose affiliation of ideologically similar individuals from varying walks of life. atheists.org - 632 http://www.atheists.org/news/Customers_Going_Ape_Over_Banned_Band_T-Shirts_Depicting_Evolution Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 10, 2009) - A Daily RFT post last week about a Sedalia, Missouri, high school that prohibited its band members from wearing T-shirts of apes and Neanderthals carrying musical instruments, generated dozens of comments from readers. atheists.org - 633 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_woman_presses_French_panel_for_burqa_ban Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 10, 2009) - Her voice trembling with emotion, the leader of an advocacy group for Muslim women and girls urged a French parliamentary panel on Wednesday to press for laws that would ban the wearing of Islamic body- and face-covering veils. atheists.org - 634 http://www.atheists.org/news/Godless_work%3A_Edmonton_atheists_to_pitch_in_to_clean_Alberta_highways Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 11, 2009) - In a press release today, the Society of Edmonton Atheists announced its plan to participate in the Government of Alberta's "Caring for Alberta Highways" program. atheists.org - 635 http://www.atheists.org/news/Americans_Don%5C%27t_Believe_in_Church%2FState_Separation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 11, 2009) - Americans may believe in the importance of religious liberty, but for some reason they don't also believe in separating church from state. atheists.org - 636 http://www.atheists.org/news/Elizabeth_mosque_organizes_national_prayer_gathering_for_Muslims_in_Washington%2C_D.C. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 11, 2009) - A mosque in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Dar-ul-Islam, is spearheading a national prayer gathering next month in Washington, D.C., that organizers are billing as the first event of its kind -- organized prayer for tens of thousands of Muslims outside the U.S. Capitol building. atheists.org - 637 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Architect_of_9%2F11 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 11, 2009) - In Aleppo, Syria, Mohamed Atta Thought He Could Build the Ideal Islamic City atheists.org - 638 http://www.atheists.org/news/Out%2C_Out%2C_Damned_Atheists_Karen_Armstrong_weighs_in_on_God. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 12, 2009) - The latest salvo in the war between the atheists and the believers comes from the doyenne of religious intellectual history, Karen Armstrong. atheists.org - 639 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Mind%2C_Even_if_It%E2%80%99s_Just_a_Couple_of_Pounds_of_Meat%2C_Is_a_Terrible_Thing_to_Waste Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 12, 2009) - Hoax or the real thing? The creationist/intelligent design website at Discovery Institute proposes to send Atheists to school."What about people living in ideological poverty?" atheists.org - 640 http://www.atheists.org/news/Faith-Based_Double_Standards Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 13, 2009) - In 2001, President Bush issued his first executive order as president. He created a program to encourage religious organizations to receive taxpayer funds to perform social services. The Office of Faith-Based Initiatives, as it was called, infuriated many. atheists.org - 641 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ambush_Baptisms_caught_on_video%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 13, 2009) -- An invite to a steak dinner for a high school football team turned into a church service. Was separation of church and state violated? atheists.org - 642 http://www.atheists.org/news/Charles_Darwin_film_%5C%27too_controversial_for_religious_America%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 13, 2009) - A British film about Charles Darwin has failed to find a US distributor because his theory of evolution is too controversial for American audiences, according to its producer atheists.org - 643 http://www.atheists.org/news/Italy_Grapples_With_Priest_Sex_Abuse Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 14, 2009) - It happened night after night, the deaf man said, sometimes in the priest's bedroom, sometimes in the bathroom, even in the confessional. atheists.org - 644 http://www.atheists.org/news/Urgent_and_Authenticated_Non-fiction_Set_to_Unveil_Freemason_Truths_Contact%3A_Eliza_Earsman%2C_Author%2FP Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 14, 2009) - Religion in America is on the decline and has been dropping since the turn of the century. atheists.org - 645 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_in_America_in_Decline Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 14, 2009) - Religion in America is on the decline and has been dropping since the turn of the century. atheists.org - 646 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Atheists_View_Religion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 14, 2009) - The struggle between religion and reason for the hearts and minds of the people goes back at least as far as ancient Greece and has been played out time and again through the ages. atheists.org - 647 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslims_Press_for_School_Holidays_in_New_York_City_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 15, 2009) - As Mayor Courts Ethnic Vote, Groups Seek Same Accommodation of Religious Observances That Christians and Jews Receive atheists.org - 648 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Public_Disgrace%21__New_Darwin_Film_Unable_to_Find_US_Distributor Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 15, 2009 - AANEWS) - Producers of a new film about the life of naturalist Charles Darwin have been unable to secure a company to handle distribution in the United States. atheists.org - 650 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_row_as_Orthodox_Jewish_couple_sue_neighbours_for_%5C%27imprisoning%5C%27_them_with_automatic_hallway Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 15, 2009) - A Jewish couple are suing their neighbours in a block of flats, saying an automatic security light is keeping them prisoner in their home because it forces them to break their Sabbath rules. atheists.org - 651 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_People_Believe_in_Conspiracies Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 15, 2009) -- Michael Shermer sounds off in the latest Scientific American. atheists.org - 652 http://www.atheists.org/news/NJ_Teens_Sue_Over_%5C%27God_Bless_America%5C%27_Ejection Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 15, 2009) - Three teenagers who say they were tossed from a New Jersey ballpark over their refusal to stand during the song "God Bless America" are suing the minor league Newark Bears. atheists.org - 653 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ohio_town_moves_to_preserve_church_facing_closure Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 16, 2009) - A proposal to protect a landmark Roman Catholic church has the potential to turn into a fight over private property rights and church-state separation. atheists.org - 654 http://www.atheists.org/news/Have_creationists_tricked_scientists_yet_again%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 16, 2009) - Creationists have made a habit out of tricking scientists and historians into appearing in pro-creationism films. atheists.org - 655 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_Bill_Foster%5C%27s_creation_beliefs_evolve_into_valid_issue_in_St._Petersburg_mayoral_race%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 16, 2009) - St. Petersburg mayoral candidate Bill Foster believes, contrary to the overwhelming majority of scientists, that dinosaurs and humans co-existed. atheists.org - 656 http://www.atheists.org/news/Darwin%5C%27s_complex_loss_of_faith Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 17, 2009) - It wasn't evolution that led Darwin away from religion, but nor was it simply the loss of his beloved daughter atheists.org - 657 http://www.atheists.org/news/BREAKING%21_Dawin_film_producers_%5C%22Close_to_a_Deal%5C%22_on_U.S._Distributor Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 19, 2009) - "There is now a bidding war for the film in the US. A US deal will be in place by the end of the week." a spokesman tells NBC Bay Area. atheists.org - 658 http://www.atheists.org/news/Florida_school_officials_in_prayer_case_could_get_jail_time_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 17, 2009) - Two Florida school administrators were due to appear in federal court Thursday to face contempt charges for saying a prayer at a school luncheon. atheists.org - 659 http://www.atheists.org/news/Teen_birth_rates_highest_in_most_religious_states Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 18, 2009) - U.S. states whose residents have more conservative religious beliefs on average tend to have higher rates of teenagers giving birth, a new study suggests. atheists.org - 660 http://www.atheists.org/news/Monkey_Business%3A_Creation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 18, 2009) - Da Vinci Code star Paul Bettany is overjoyed that he has the chance to play one of his personal heroes – Charles Darwin. But, as Rob Driscoll discovers, he also had to face some personal demons along the way atheists.org - 661 http://www.atheists.org/news/Charles_Darwin_Exhibit_Explores_the_Evolution_Of_Human_Expression Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Septmber 18, 2009) - Most students encounter Charles Darwin — the man behind the Origin of Species — at some point in their academic career, whether it be during high school, a mandatory introductory biology class or an upper level evolution course. atheists.org - 664 http://www.atheists.org/news/Carrie_Prejean_to_Values_Voter_Summit%3A_%5C%27God_chose_me%5C%27_with_the_gay-marriage_question Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 18, 2009) - It’s easy to make fun of beauty queens -- their plastic smiles, their bottle-blond tresses, their dreams for world peace. But Carrie Prejean, the former Miss California whose declaration that marriage should be between a man and woman earned her the vilification of some in the gay rights community, provided an unanticipated emotional highlight at a conference of Christian conservatives in Washington today. atheists.org - 665 http://www.atheists.org/news/Research_Finds_that_Atheists_are_Most_Hated_and_Distrusted_Minority Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 19, 2009) - Intolerance is a bitter beast. There are many groups in America that are subject to discrimination and prejudice, but none are more hated than atheists. atheists.org - 666 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_%5C%27more_Successful_at_Online_Dating%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 19, 2009) - People who don't believe in god are more likely to achieve success at online dating, according to a new study of opening messages. atheists.org - 667 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_%5C%27God_Gap%5C%27_Between_Republicans_and_Democrats_Closed%3A_Values_Voters_on_the_Left Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 19, 2009) - If you've ever stood in a pet shop and watched Siamese fighting fish attack their reflection in a glass tank, then you know what it's like to read a fascinating new survey of more than 3,000 religious activists on the left and the right. atheists.org - 668 http://www.atheists.org/news/Losing_their_religion%3A_Atheists_deal_with_isolation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 20, 2009) - After graduating from high school, Nan Owens attended a Bible institute with hopes of becoming a missionary. But before she finished seminary, her opinion on religion had changed. atheists.org - 669 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rifqa_Bary_exposed_as_a_fraud Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 21, 2009) - It would appear Rifqa Bary has been exposed as a fraud. Authorities in Florida have found no evidence to support Bary's allegations that she faced any threat what so ever from her parents for her conversion to Christianity. atheists.org - 670 http://www.atheists.org/news/COLUMN%3A_Anti-atheist_prejudice_widespread_in_America Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Septemer 21, 2009) - Americans find atheists a particularly repugnant minority. According to Gallup, they are more disliked than any other major religious group, with the exception of Scientologists. atheists.org - 671 http://www.atheists.org/news/Monday_Puzzle%3A_Darwin_Restores_Parity Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 21, 2009) - In this year of Darwin celebrations (for the 200th anniversary of his birthday, and the 150th anniversary of the publication of “The Origin of Species”), I’d be remiss in my duty if I did not come up with a puzzle involving Darwin. atheists.org - 672 http://www.atheists.org/news/Indonesia%3A_Stoning_for_adultery_-_Aceh_passes_Sharia_law Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 21, 200) Aceh, a province of Indonesia, passed a new law making adultery punishable by stoning to death. atheists.org - 673 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scientology_seeks_to_squash_anonymity_Track_this_topic___Print_story__Post_comment_Anonymous_attacks Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 21, 2009) - A little local controversy involving the Church of Scientology and its critics could lead to curbs on the right to anonymity of anyone using the web. atheists.org - 674 http://www.atheists.org/news/Values_Voters_Summit_Promotes_%5C%22New_Masculinity%5C%22_of_Ignorance_and_Fury Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 22, 2009) - The Family Research Council wants you to be manly atheists.org - 675 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kirk_Cameron%5C%27s_%5C%27Origin_Of_Species%5C%27_Plan%3A_Ex-Actor_To_Distribute_50%2C000_Altered_Darwin_Books__Read_mo Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 22, 2009) - Kirk Cameron, best known for his role in the 1980s sitcom Growing Pains, now spends much of his time advocating for far-right Christian evangelical causes. atheists.org - 676 http://www.atheists.org/news/People_with_%5C%27no_religion%5C%27_gain_on_major_denominations_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 22, 2009) - Americans who don't identify with any religion are now 15% of the USA, but trends in a new study shows they could one day surpass the nation's largest denominations — including Catholics, now 24% of the nation. atheists.org - 677 http://www.atheists.org/news/Relax_%5C%27unjust%5C%27_libel_law_-_Dawkins_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 22, 2009) - Atheist author and campaigner Richard Dawkins has called for libel laws to be relaxed to stop the stifling of debate about science and medicine atheists.org - 678 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kirk_Cameron_Plays_the_Hitler_Card Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 23, 2009) - Evangelical actor Kirk Cameron is on a serious crusade against Charles Darwin -- connecting the scientist's most famous and significant work to Adolf Hitler. atheists.org - 679 http://www.atheists.org/news/%E2%80%9CNo_religion%E2%80%9D_segment_of_U.S._population_profiled Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 23, 2009) - At the “Values Voter Summit” of conservative Christian activists I attended last week in Washington, more than one participant lamented the “secularization” of America. atheists.org - 680 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scalia%3A_Government_should_favor_religion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 24, 2009) - Justice Antonin Scalia believes government should favor religion, and is apparently willing to abandon the separation of church and state. atheists.org - 681 http://www.atheists.org/news/Breaking%21__Darwin_biopic_has_US_distributor Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 24, 2009) Audiences in the United States will now be able to see "Creation," a film on the life and agony of naturalist Charles Darwin. atheists.org - 683 http://www.atheists.org/news/Overshadowed_by_Tea_Party_Movement%2C_the_Christian_Right_Scrambles_to_Claim_It_Isn%5C%27t_Racist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 24, 2009) - The Tea Party movement has the juice as the religious right is on the wane. Survival may mean joining up, but that presents an image problem for Christians. atheists.org - 682 http://www.atheists.org/news/10_Ways_the_U.S._Military_Has_Shoved_Christianity_Down_Muslims%5C%27_Throats Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 24, 2009) - It's not just private religious organizations that act like Christian crusaders. atheists.org - 684 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_to_shut_down_evangelist%5C%27s_web_site%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 24, 21009) Is "hate speech" a good (and ethical) reason to silen ce your opposition? Texas-based Atheist Patrick Greene lays it out for Ray Comfort. atheists.org - 685 http://www.atheists.org/news/Canadian_Creationism%3A_Just_22_Percent Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 25, 2009) - I’ve been doing some research and just found this figure: only 22 percent of Canadians think God created human beings within the last 10,000 years or so. In the U.S. the number is roughly double that. atheists.org - 686 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_On_Science%2C_Technology%2C_Darwin_And_More... Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 25, 2009) - Check out this pre-election video where Mr. Obama emphasized the need for greater emphasis on science, and recognized the role of Charles Darwin. atheists.org - 687 http://www.atheists.org/news/Creation_is_a_fitting_tribute_to_Darwin Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 25, 2009) - A new film about the great scientist is upsetting Darwinologists as much as creationists. Their suspicion is misplaced atheists.org - 688 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Importance_of_Blasphemy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 25, 2009) - Ron Lindsay of Center for Inquiry speaks out on the importance of "blasphemy" in public discourse. atheists.org - 689 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jump_In_Magazine_talks_with_American_Atheists_Affiliatiuon_Director_Blair_Scott Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 25, 2009) - Blair dishes on Atheism, religion and more... atheists.org - 690 http://www.atheists.org/news/50%2C000_Muslims_to_Pray_on_Capitol_Hill%3A_Guess_Who%5C%27s_Not_Happy%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 25, 2009) - The event sounds like yet another Tea Party protest, or perhaps an encore of last weekend's Values Voter Summit: Devout believers joining together this Friday to pray on Capitol Hill for the soul of America. atheists.org - 691 http://www.atheists.org/news/Darwin_Defenders_Lash_Out_at_Creationist_Origin_of_Species Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 26, 2009) - Lots of Darwin defenders responded to my post about the new Creationist edition of Origin of Species. Needless to say, they're not pleased. atheists.org - 692 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kirk_Cameron_Defends_Attack_on_%5C%27Species%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 26, 2009) - Former teen idol Kirk Cameron has it out for Charles Darwin, and is making no apologies for his controversial (and mocked, see below) plan to distribute thousands of altered copies of 'The Origin of Species' to college students. atheists.org - 693 http://www.atheists.org/news/College_makes_or_breaks_faith_for_many_students Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 26, 2009) - Utah campuses -- Some stray from their religion even as they discover spirituality. atheists.org - 694 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_advocates_evidence-based_belief_on_Fargo%5C%27s_Freethought_Day Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Septembert 27, 2009) - PZ Myers, an outspoken atheist and evolutionary biologist, had some nice things to say about Fargo on Thursday. atheists.org - 695 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Are_the_Most_Mistrusted_Group%3A_They_Are_Evil_and_Immoral%21_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 27, 2009) - Guess who’s coming to dinner: oh no, not an atheist! atheists.org - 696 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_examine_Christmas_from_angel-free_angle Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 28, 2009) - It is a book about Christmas but there's not a manger, virgin birth or angel in sight. atheists.org - 697 http://www.atheists.org/news/Insurance_Company_Settles_Claim_for_Discriminating_against_Atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 29, 2009) - GuideOne Mutual Insurance didn’t see any problem with offering special benefits to god-fearing consumers, but atheists and agnostics, not to mention the federal government, sure did. atheists.org - 698 http://www.atheists.org/news/US_soldiers_urged_to_pray_for_Muslims_to_become_Christians Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 29, 2009) - On Friday, several thousand Muslims gathered in DC for a very peaceful National Day of Prayer. At the same time, several Evangelical Christian groups gathered to protest the event. atheists.org - 699 http://www.atheists.org/news/Evangelical_treatment_program_gets_%242.4_million_from_state Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 28, 2009) - Public funding of Minnesota Teen Challenge raises constitutional questions atheists.org - 700 http://www.atheists.org/news/Travolta%5C%27s_Scientology_Turning_Point%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 29, 2009) - The actor’s public acknowledgement that his son, who died in January, was autistic has former Scientologists convinced that he will leave the church—which they say has little tolerance for chronic conditions. atheists.org - 701 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism%5C%27s_open-door_policy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 29, 2009) - Andrew Brown is wrong: atheism isn't about class. Anyone can join our club if they don't believe in God atheists.org - 706 http://www.atheists.org/news/Oh%2C_Damn%21_Blasphemy_Day_Looks_for_a_Ta Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 30, 2009) - Today, September 30, is Blasphemy Day, and if that makes you want to curse, then the Center for Inquiry may be the place to register your epithet -- or send a donation. atheists.org - 707 http://www.atheists.org/news/International_Blasphemy_Day%3A_from_Danish_cartoons_to_Jerry_Springer_-_The_Opera Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 30, 2009) - It's International Blasphemy Day. We take a look at some of the key moments in the history of the profane. atheists.org - 708 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_struggle_for_the_hearts_and_minds_of_%5C%22fundamentalist_atheists%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 1, 2009) - In a rebuke of the group he founded, Center for Inquiry Transnational creator Paul Kurtz says in an essay that a blasphemy contest sponsored by CFI "is not dissimilar to the anti-semitic cartoons of the Nazi era." atheists.org - 709 http://www.atheists.org/news/Oldest_%5C%22Human%5C%22_Skeleton_Found--Disproves_%5C%22Missing_Link%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 1, 2009) - Move over, Lucy. And kiss the missing link goodbye. atheists.org - 710 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bible_Verse_Banner_Banned_From_Football_Games Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 1, 2009) - FORT OGLETHORPE, GA - A Christian sign is banned from the football field and now hundreds rally to voice their disapproval. atheists.org - 711 http://www.atheists.org/news/School_district_says_it_erred_in_allowing_church_permission_slips Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 2, 2009) - After complaints raised by a Muslim group, the school district in Roseville said today it made a mistake when permission slips were distributed to elementary school students that would allow them to attend Bible classes in a Baptist church. atheists.org - 712 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_Christians_and_Muslims_Can_Learn_From_the_%5C%27The_Saint_and_the_Sultan%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 2, 2009) - Forget the St. Francis of folklore – or Giotto, for that matter -- and make way for a chapter of history that longtime Newsday religion writer Paul Moses says, "in the language of the newsroom . . . was covered up.'' atheists.org - 713 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_Ricky_Gervais%E2%80%99_new_film_really_atheist_propaganda%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 2, 2009) - The new film from NSS honorary associate Ricky Gervais, The Invention of Lying, has been accused of being little more than atheist propaganda. atheists.org - 714 http://www.atheists.org/news/Good_Fences_Make_Good_Neighbors Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 3, 2009) - In an attempt to blur the lines between church and state, 33 churches participated in a nationwide event called “Pulpit Freedom Sunday” in September 2008, prior to the historic November election. The goal of this event was to trigger a legal fight and ultimately overturn regulations that prevent places of worship from supporting or opposing candidates for office. atheists.org - 715 http://www.atheists.org/news/President_Obama_Finds_Greatest_Support_Among_Atheists_and_Jews_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 4, 2009) - Gallup’s Daily Tracking for the month of September found that 65% of American atheists, agnostics and non-religious approve of the job Barack Obama is doing as president. atheists.org - 716 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_preacher_refused_entry_to_Britain_under_rules_intended_to_fight_extremism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 4, 2009) - Christian evangelist Benny Hinn, from Texas, has been refused entry to Britain after falling foul of new rules drawn up to combat hate crimes and extremism. atheists.org - 717 http://www.atheists.org/news/2012%2C_the_end-of-the-world_feature_film_that_critics_say_is_a_disaster_all_by_itself._See_the_hilari Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 4, 2009) - The world ravaged by fires, earthquakes, meteor showers and floods and a heroic struggle for survivors. atheists.org - 718 http://www.atheists.org/news/Liberty_Legal_takes_up_cross_for_religion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 5, 2009) - In a remote corner of the Mojave Desert, there's a war memorial dating to the 1930s. On top, there's an 8-foot cross that is, for now, obscured by a plywood box lest anyone driving 900 miles out of their way happen upon it and take offense at the endorsement of religiosity on public land. atheists.org - 719 http://www.atheists.org/news/Defending_Darwin%5C%27s_Legacy__ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 5, 2009) - Let us set the record straight once and for all. Darwin’s famous tome is not properly entitled, The Origin of Species atheists.org - 720 http://www.atheists.org/news/Italian_scientist_reproduces_Shroud_of_Turin Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 5, 2009) - ROME (Reuters) - An Italian scientist says he has reproduced the Shroud of Turin, a feat that he says proves definitively that the linen some Christians revere as Jesus Christ's burial cloth is a medieval fake. atheists.org - 721 http://www.atheists.org/news/Shroud_Of_Turin_Reproduced%3B_Italian_Group_Says_Relic_Is_Man-Made%2C_Fake__Read_more_at%3A_http%3A%2F%2Fwww.huf Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 6, 2009) - Scientists have reproduced the Shroud of Turin -- revered as the cloth that covered Jesus in the tomb -- and say the experiment proves the relic was man-made, a group of Italian debunkers claimed Monday. atheists.org - 722 http://www.atheists.org/news/ABQ_City_Councilor_Harris_responds_to_NMI_on_%E2%80%9Catheist%E2%80%9D_attack_on_challenger Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 6, 2009) - Earlier today, we reported that Albuquerque City Councilor Don Harris had sent out a piece of campaign mail attacking his challenger in the District 9 race, David Barbour, for being an atheist, saying “[Barbour] is a donor to Atheist organizations and speaker at Atheist events…” atheists.org - 724 http://www.atheists.org/news/BUBBLES%2C_BOOMS%2C_BUSTS_MELTDOWNS%2C_BAIL_OUTS%2C_FINDING_JESUS Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 6, 2009) - Even with job layoffs, distressed banks, Bernie Madoff schemes-a-plenty and all of the other fiscal problems bedeviling global economic markets, there is a silver lining atheists.org - 725 http://www.atheists.org/news/Michele_Bachmann_Lobbies_for_Christian_Punk_Ministry_Bent_on_Forcing_Christ_in_Public_Schools Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 7, 2009) - The Christian punk rock band organizes motivational student assemblies to bring conservative Christian dogma to public schools. Separation of church and state, anyone? atheists.org - 727 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Constitution_and_the_Cross_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 7, 2009) - When the Supreme Court takes up a religion case, it often prompts overheated charges: There is a war against Christianity under way; or civil liberties groups are trying to turn this into a secular nation. atheists.org - 728 http://www.atheists.org/news/Crippled_Kids_Walk_With_Jesus%2C_Lefty_Journos_With_Satan Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 7, 2009) - For as little as $130, fellow Americans, you can take home a canvas reproduction of this beauty of a painting depicting your country's noble roots. atheists.org - 730 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lawsuit_alleges_chaplain_prayed_for_lawyer%E2%80%99s_demise Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 7, 2009) - The founder of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation is suing a Dallas-based religious organization for praying for his demise. atheists.org - 731 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_divisive_Mojave_cross Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 7, 2009) - Even as a war memorial, the Mojave cross only serves to undermine the sacrifices of soldiers of other faiths. atheists.org - 732 http://www.atheists.org/news/%E2%80%98You_Can_Run%E2%80%99_may_be_running_afoul_of_the_Constitution Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 9, 2009) - Controversial ministry may breach church/state separation, activists say atheists.org - 733 http://www.atheists.org/news/Egypt%3A_Al-Azhar_University_To_Ban_Face_Veil_In_Women%5C%27s_Classes%2C_Dorms_%28VIDEO%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 9, 2009) - Egypt's Al-Azhar university said Thursday it would ban the niqab or face veil from female classrooms and dormitories, according to AFP. atheists.org - 734 http://www.atheists.org/news/DA%3A_Pa._couple_prayed%2C_denied_care_to_dying_tot Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 9, 2009) - A fundamentalist couple who prayed over their sick toddler rather than get medical help before his pneumonia death have been ordered to stand trial on manslaughter charges. atheists.org - 735 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conservative_Bible_Project_Aims_to_Delete_%5C%27Liberal_Bias%5C%27_from_the_Bible Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 9, 2009) -"Liberal bias has become the single biggest distortion in modern Bible translations," its website asserts. atheists.org - 736 http://www.atheists.org/news/Loving_Christians%3A_Churches_Plan_Attack_Ads_for_Iowa_Busses Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 9, 2009) - Remember the "controversy" in Iowa when people were outraged and offended over bus ads that dared to inform the public that atheists actually exist? atheists.org - 737 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_talks_of_his_faith_in_science Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 10, 2009) - Richard Dawkins chuckled when I told him he might have to travel on Billy Graham Parkway when he flies into town next week to speak at Queens University of Charlotte atheists.org - 738 http://www.atheists.org/news/O%5C%27Reilly_Debates_Atheist_Richard_Dawkins%2C_Calls_His_View_Of_How_To_Teach_Science_%5C%22Fascism%5C%22_%28VIDEO%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Ocrtober 10, 2009) - One might have expected fireworks when Fox News host Bill O'Reilly interviewed avowed atheist Richard Dawkins on his show the other night, but the two men managed to have a remarkably even-tempered debate despite the contentious nature of the subject under discussion. atheists.org - 739 http://www.atheists.org/news/Does_Economic_Security_Reduce_Appeal_of_Religion%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 10, 2009) - Ronald Bailey has an interesting post at Reason's Hit and Run blog about a new paper (PDF) by Gregory Paul in the journal Evolutionary Psychology. atheists.org - 740 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Sell_The_Vatican_Save_The_World%5C%22%3A_Sarah_Silverman%5C%27s_Campaign_To_End_Hunger_%28VIDEO%29__Read_more_at%3A_h Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 11, 2009) - We're pretty sure offering the Pope "pussy" is inappropriate, but doing it in the name of solving world hunger seems a little less crazy. atheists.org - 741 http://www.atheists.org/news/Iraqis_Shocked_as_Atheism_Creeps_in_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 11, 2009) - Although their number remains insignificant and most of them hid their identity, the fact that some people are leaving Islam and becoming atheists is a troubling news in conservative Iraq. atheists.org - 742 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_does_a_cross_mean%3F_Scalia_gets_it_all_wrong. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 12, 2009) - A case argued recently before the U.S. Supreme raises a pair of questions: What, exactly, does a cross symbolize, and what does the placement of the cross mean? atheists.org - 743 http://www.atheists.org/news/Morals_Without_God__Read_more_at%3A_http%3A%2F%2Fwww.huffingtonpost.com%2Ffrans-de-waal%2Fmorals-without-god_b_3 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 12, 2009) - Without God, we will live like animals! Really? atheists.org - 744 http://www.atheists.org/news/Republican_Senate_Sex_Scandals_Point_Back_to_Secretive_Conservative_Christian_%5C%22Family Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 13, 2009) - It was a hot summer full of sex scandals for GOP members of "The Family," the exclusive conservative Christian group with designs on DC power. atheists.org - 745 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22The_Ten_Commandments%5C%22_remake%3A_the_Bible_meets_%5C%22300%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 14, 2009) - 20th Century Fox is producing a retelling of the Biblical story of Moses, which was most famously told in Cecil B. DeMille’s 1956 epic “The Ten Commandments”, starring Charlton Heston as Moses. atheists.org - 746 http://www.atheists.org/news/THE_NOT-SO-ANGRY_EVOLUTIONIST_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 14, 2009) - Biologist Richard Dawkins is turning down the atheist rhetoric as he promotes "The Greatest Show on Earth," his new book about the evidence for evolution. But don't you dare suggest that he's going soft on religion. atheists.org - 747 http://www.atheists.org/news/Colbert%3A_Scalia_correct_that_%E2%80%98cross_has_nothing_to_do_with_Christianity%E2%80%99 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 15, 2009) - Comedy Central's Stephen Colbert complained mockingly on Tuesday that "our tradition of separation of church and state too often separates church and state." atheists.org - 748 http://www.atheists.org/news/Children_%5C%27will_go_to_hell_if_they_celebrate_Halloween%5C%27%2C_says_church_leaflet Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 16, 2009) - Children who go trick or treating on Halloween are "siding with the devil", a church group has claimed. atheists.org - 749 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_3.0_Finds_a_Little_More_Room_for_Belief Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 17, 2009) - Bruce Sheiman doesn't believe in God, but he does believe in religion. atheists.org - 750 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_Are_They%2C_Evolutionists%2C_Theistic_Evolutionists%2C_and_Anti-Evolutionists%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 17, 2009) - The most controversial topic in the ongoing battle between fundamentalist Christians and the scientific community today is the validity of evolution. atheists.org - 751 http://www.atheists.org/news/Surrender%3A_Appeasing_Islam%2C_Sacrificing_Freedom Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 18, 2009) - 2009 marks the eighth anniversary of September eleventh. atheists.org - 752 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Bitter_Rift_Divides_Atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 19, 2009) - Last month, atheists marked Blasphemy Day at gatherings around the world, and celebrated the freedom to denigrate and insult religion. atheists.org - 753 http://www.atheists.org/news/Beyonce_Postpones_Malaysia_Show_Amid_Criticism__Read_more_at%3A_http%3A%2F%2Fwww.huffingtonpost.com%2F2009%2F10%2F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 19, 2009) - R&B star Beyonce Knowles has postponed a planned concert in Malaysia, the event's organizer said Monday, following accusations by Islamic conservatives that the show would be immoral. atheists.org - 754 http://www.atheists.org/news/Collision%3A_Is_Religion_Absurd_or_Good_for_the_World%3F__ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 20, 2009) - Last fall, we went on tour debating the topic "Is Religion Good For The World?" atheists.org - 755 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Bone_Collectors_It%5C%27s_time_to_bring_relics_back_to_the_Catholic_Church Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 20, 2009) - Some believe that listening to heavy metal and soaking in its sometimes faux macabre culture can lead to the devil. atheists.org - 756 http://www.atheists.org/news/WaPo_Allows_Catholic_League%5C%27s_Donohue_To_Pen_Unhinged_Rant__. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 21, 2009) - Bill Donohue is the president of the Catholic League, an organization that hysterically goes on the warpath against any alleged slight or insult or criticism. atheists.org - 757 http://www.atheists.org/news/Veil_Ban_At_Islamic_School_In_Egypt_Fuels_Debate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 22, 2009) -- In Egypt, the senior cleric at one of the Muslim world's pre-eminent centers of Sunni Islamic teaching has banned female students and teachers from wearing the niqab — the full-face veil — in classrooms and dormitories. atheists.org - 758 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_particle_God_doesn%E2%80%99t_want_us_to_discover Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 22, 2009) - Explosions, scientists arrested for alleged terrorism, mysterious breakdowns — recently Cern’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC) has begun to look like the world’s most ill-fated experiment. atheists.org - 759 http://www.atheists.org/news/Coalition_promotes_atheism_in_subway_stations Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 23, 2009) - An advertisement sponsored by a coalition of eight New York City atheist and secularist groups will appear in 12 major Manhattan subway stations starting Monday. atheists.org - 760 http://www.atheists.org/news/Preaching_the_Gospel_Would_be_Against_the_Law%21_%28And_Other_Hate_Crimes_Myths%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 23, 2009) - With a Senate vote expected soon to expand federal hate crimes laws to include sexual orientation, religious conservatives are ramping up the rhetoric against the bill, which passed the House last week atheists.org - 761 http://www.atheists.org/news/Australian_Atheist_websites_knocked_out_by_DOS_attack Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 22, 2009) - Somebody doesn’t like Australia’s atheists. atheists.org - 762 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religions_that_rely_on_prayer_to_heal_add_twist_to_health_care_reform_debate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 23, 2009) - Getting lots of attention in the health care reform debate: the idea of requiring nearly all Americans to get insurance coverage. atheists.org - 763 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scientology_Spokesman_Storms_Out_Of_Nightline_Interview_%28VIDEO%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 24, 2009) - Last night ABC's Nightline aired a report on the Church of Scientology, and accusations made against the church's leader, David Miscavige, by ex-Scientologists. atheists.org - 764 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_Will_Save_the_Women_of_Afghanistan%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 24, 2009) - You don't hear much talk about women in Afghanistan as the Obama administration goes through its arduous and semi-public deliberations over how to proceed with our "good war." atheists.org - 765 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Mormonism_Created_Glenn_Beck Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 24, 2009) - With Glenn Beck now a mainstay in the national debate, the public is getting exposure to a peculiar strain of religious political conservatism rooted in Mormon culture. atheists.org - 766 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_Atheist%5C%27s_Review_of_the_Book_of_Genesis_Illustrated_by_a_Legendary_Comics_Artist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 24, 2009) - It's true what they say. Sometimes, a picture really is worth a thousand words. Especially when those pictures are drawn by Robert Crumb. atheists.org - 767 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_southern_India%2C_Hindu_radicals_declare_war_on_Muslims_over_Love_Jihad Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 25, 2009) - Bangalore (AsiaNews) – Karnataka’s radical Hindu movement Sri Rama Sene (the Army of god Rama) has declared war on the ‘love jihad’, an alleged network of Muslim men bent on enticing non Muslim women to marry Muslim men and then forcing them to convert to Islam. atheists.org - 768 http://www.atheists.org/news/House_of_Lords_to_back_libel_law_changes Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 25, 2009) - Freedom of speech campaigners are claiming victory as the House of Lords is expected to back changes removing "anachronistic" laws which have criminalised libel for more than 700 years. atheists.org - 769 http://www.atheists.org/news/Paul_Haggis_Renounces_Church_of_Scientology_in_Blistering_Letter Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 26, 2009) - The Church of Scientology has long claimed many of Hollywood’s most elite talents amongst its members, but now, one famous Scientologist is leaving the church, and he’s not going quietly. atheists.org - 770 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_%5C%27Collision%5C%27_Of_Beliefs%3A_Atheist_Vs._Theologian Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 26, 2009) - Last fall, journalist, literary critic and proud atheist Christopher Hitchens went on a debating tour with Pastor Douglas Wilson. The topic: "Is Christianity good for the world?" atheists.org - 771 http://www.atheists.org/news/Alachua_publisher_enlists_Kirk_Cameron_to_promote_criticism_of_Darwin Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 26, 2009) - A former child actor is partnering with a local publisher to distribute altered copies of Charles Darwin’s “The Origin of Species” to university students across the country in November - around the time of the 150th anniversary of the book’s original publishing. atheists.org - 772 http://www.atheists.org/news/Individual_Rights_Must_Come_Before_Protecting_Religious_Institutions Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 26, 2009) - The Obama Administration has changed the way the United States relates to the world. I tend to think this is good on many levels, but change can be nerve-racking. An example of this is the recent United Nations Human Rights Council resolution regarding freedom of opinion and expression co-authored by the U.S. and Egypt. atheists.org - 773 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Bogus_Mislabeling_of_Atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 27, 2009) - Much has been made lately in the news of the schisms between the “New Atheists” and (presumably) the old atheists. There are also “strong” atheists, “weak” atheists… I don’t know… reasonably fit atheists… atheists.org - 774 http://www.atheists.org/news/FBI_arrests_two_Chicago_men_for_Danish_terror_plot Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 27, 2009) - Two Chicago men are being charged over a plot to attack a Danish newspaper that published a controversial cartoon of the prophet Muhammed in 2005. atheists.org - 775 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christianity_Today%3A_Is_Schism_Over_Gay_Issues_Inevitable%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 28, 2009) - If history could get a copyright, the Episcopal Church (USA) could sue the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America for plagiarism. atheists.org - 776 http://www.atheists.org/news/Faith_No_More_What_I%5C%27ve_learned_from_debating_religious_people_around_the_world. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 28, 2009) - This week sees the opening on various cinema marquees of the film Collision: a buddy-and-road movie featuring last year's debates between Pastor Douglas Wilson, who is a senior fellow at New St. Andrew's College, and your humble servant. atheists.org - 777 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fed_jury_sides_with_Knox_Schools_in_lawsuit_over_Karns_Bible_study Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 29, 2009) - A federal court jury today declared that the Knox County school system did not violate the civil rights of a Karns Elementary School pupil who was participating in a Bible discussion group during recess. atheists.org - 778 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Broadcasting_Network_Warns_Against_%5C%27Demonic%5C%27_Halloween_Candy__Read_more_at%3A_http%3A%2F%2Fwww.huf Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 29, 2009) - Pat Robertson's Christian Broadcasting Network posted a blog by Kimberly Daniels recently that warns Christians to forgo celebrating Halloween because of its evilness. Daniels specifically calls out candy as a source of soul-molestation atheists.org - 779 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Ad_Campaign_hits_Boston Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 29, 2009) - All across the country and in other parts of the world, atheist ad campaigns have been popping up on city buses and trains. atheists.org - 780 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_candidate_for_public_office Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 30, 2009) - ASHEVILLE — Writer, environmentalist, builder, war protestor, gadfly and of late, political candidate. For 28 years, Cecil Bothwell has played a plethora of roles in the Asheville area. atheists.org - 781 http://www.atheists.org/news/3_Silly_Religious_Beliefs_Held_By_Non-Silly_People Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 30, 2009) - Many of the beliefs held by religious moderates -- smart people who respect science and the separation of church and state -- are as untenable as the dogma of fundamentalists atheists.org - 782 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jesus_Goes_to_the_Dark_Carnival%3A_Hell_House_Gets_a_Makeover%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 31, 2009) - Evangelical-sponsored haunted houses known as “Hell Houses” were spooky attractions filled with the ghosts of the culture wars. Now, a softer, gentler version, the “Judgement House” claims to eschew politics, but does it? atheists.org - 783 http://www.atheists.org/news/Exclusive%3A_Ray_Comfort_Defends_His_Creationist_Edition_of_%5C%27On_the_Origin_of_Species%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 31, 2009) - When I blogged recently about a new, pro-creationism edition of Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species—complete with a rebuttal to the theory of evolution—the responses poured in. atheists.org - 784 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_Arab%2FMuslim_Countries_Criticize_Israel_Under_the_UN_Anti-Blasphemy_Resolution%3F__Read_more_at%3A_ht Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (October 31, 2009) - The turning point occurred on June 16, 2008 at 4:40 pm, when David Littman took the floor at a UN Human Rights Council meeting to speak on behalf of the Association for World Education (AWE) and the International Humanist and Ethical Union (IHEU). atheists.org - 785 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_Atheism_Scientific%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 1, 2009) - Massimo Pigliucci argues that atheism is philosophical, not scientific. Jerry Coyne differs: atheists.org - 786 http://www.atheists.org/news/Powerful_Islamic_movement_sees_leadership_struggle Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 November 1, 2009) - CAIRO — The Middle East's most powerful Islamic political movement is undergoing a leadership struggle as young, more moderate activists try to push the Muslim Brotherhood to soften its fundamentalist ideology and become a more democratic force. atheists.org - 787 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Creationist_%5C%27Origin%5C%27_Distorts_Darwin Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 1, 2009) - In this post, Eugenie C. Scott, executive director of the National Center for Science Education, critiques creationist Ray Comfort's new, antievolution version of Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species. atheists.org - 788 http://www.atheists.org/news/Evolution_and_Creation_Fight_to_the_Death%3A_What_Emerges_from_the_Ashes Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 2, 2009) - You have to look long and hard in the public-square discussion today to find bilateral calls for complementarity and partnership. Yet why should the relations between evolution and creation constitute a zero-sum game? atheists.org - 789 http://www.atheists.org/news/Recorded_Calls_to_Voters_From_Brooklyn_Bishop_Praise_a_Democratic_Leader Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 2, 2009) - In an unusually overt step into politics by a religious leader, the Roman Catholic bishop of Brooklyn is urging voters, via robocalls, to support Vito J. Lopez, an assemblyman and the Brooklyn Democratic boss, whose hand-picked candidate is in a tough race for a City Council seat. atheists.org - 790 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Margaret_Downey_complains_about_Christian_music_on_American_Airlines Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 3, 2009) - Margaret Downey, successful businesswoman, atheist and social activist, was recently on a flight from Hawaii to Los Angeles on American Airlines. As the plane was coming in for landing, she awoke to Christian music playing over the plane's sound system. atheists.org - 791 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_takes_message_to_Lakeland_via_billboard Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 3, 2009) -- - Motorists along one of Lakeland's major thoroughfares are being greeted with a billboard asking a provocative question: "Don't believe in God?" atheists.org - 794 http://www.atheists.org/news/Chased_by_their_church%3A_When_you_try_to_leave_Scientology%2C_they_try_to_bring_you_back Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 3, 2009) - For years, the Church of Scientology chased down and brought back staff members who tried to leave. atheists.org - 795 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dutch_mark_5th_anniversary_of_filmmaker%5C%27s_murder Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 4, 2009) - The Dutch are marking the fifth anniversary of the murder of filmmaker Theo van Gogh by a Muslim fanatic, a brutal killing that continues to shape politics in the Netherlands. atheists.org - 797 http://www.atheists.org/news/Italy_challenges_ruling_that_crucifix_in_class_violates_religious_freedom Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 5, 2009) - Italy said today that it would challenge a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights in favour of an Italian woman who opposed the display of a Catholic crucifix at a state school attended by her two children. atheists.org - 798 http://www.atheists.org/news/Provision_in_Health_Care_Bill_Governing_Prayer_Treatments_May_Be_Unconstitutional Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 5, 2009) - The debate over the health care bill has reached a new level - a spiritual level - with a provision in the health care legislation requiring the consideration of prayer treatments as medical expenses brought to light. atheists.org - 799 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_Wrong%3A_Do_%5C%27New_Atheists%5C%27_and_Old_Evangelists_Play_the_Same_Game%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 6, 2009) - There's an internal and external fight over the direction of atheism. atheists.org - 800 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Atheist_Recruiting_Machine Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 7, 2009) - From subway ads to “Blasphemy Day,” nonbelievers are proselytizing louder than ever. But as they draw more converts, are they in danger of losing their unique brand of faith? atheists.org - 801 http://www.atheists.org/news/Somali_adulterer_stoned_to_death_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 7, 2009) - Islamists in southern Somalia have stoned a man to death for adultery but spared his pregnant girlfriend until she gives birth. atheists.org - 802 http://www.atheists.org/news/Director_of_%5C%272012%5C%27_Destroys_Rome%2C_Spares_Mecca Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 7, 2009) - No one would ever accuse director Roland Emmerich of being subtle or shy. atheists.org - 803 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_Praises_Bravery_at_Fort_Hood%2C_Cites_Nonbelievers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 7, 2009) - President Barack Obama dedicated his weekly radio address Saturday to the shooting that occurred at the Fort Hood military base this week. atheists.org - 804 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_faith-based_prison_is_pushed_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 7, 2009) - WAKITA — This tiny town near the Oklahoma-Kansas state line north of Enid may soon own the country's only all-Christian prison, with Christian administrators, employees, counselors and programs. atheists.org - 805 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_Turkey%2C_fertile_ground_for_creationism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 8, 2009) - U.S. critics of evolution help translate their ideas for a society already torn between Islam and secularism atheists.org - 806 http://www.atheists.org/news/Creationism_teaching_varies_at_Christian_universities Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 8, 2009) - Christian universities take different approaches to how biblical creationism is presented in courses. Some religiously affiliated universities keep creationism discussions in theology, religion and philosophy classes. Others integrate them into biology courses. atheists.org - 808 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_tedious_%E2%80%98new%E2%80%99_atheism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 8, 2009) -- Sound off, weigh in and speak up in this fractious debate! atheists.org - 809 http://www.atheists.org/news/Our_Military%5C%27s_Supernatural_Warfare. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 9, 2009) - Military Paranormal Battle Plan: The Men Who Stare at Goats (Paperback) -- No Not the Upcoming George Clooney Film, But the Non-Fiction Book That It is Based On. Our Military's Supernatural Warfare. atheists.org - 810 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Deep_Rifts_simply_call_us_unto_the_breach_once_more Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 9, 2009) - I hereby declare this the official theme of the whimpering, pathetic, anti-atheist backlash of 2009: there are Deep Rifts in atheism. It's all over the place, and it's a little weird. atheists.org - 811 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_Ethical_Question%3A_Does_a_Nazi_Deserve_a_Place_Among_Philosophers%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 9, 2009) - Martin Heidegger rejected empiricism and Western rationalism in favor of Nazi ideology. atheists.org - 1576 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Break_Out_New_Ritual_Tool%3A_The_Blow-Dryer Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 16, 2010 - Wielding a blow-dryer, a leading atheist conducted a mass "de-baptism" of fellow non-believers and symbolically dried up the offending waters that were sprinkled on their foreheads as young children. atheists.org - 1578 http://www.atheists.org/news/Prolegomena_to_any_future_sociology_of_New_Atheism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 17, 2010) - The back and forth here in comments and at Jason Rosenhouse's blog has been interesting and stimulating in the last few days. The question of how the rise of New Atheism will or has changed public attitudes towards evolution, towards religion, and towards atheism/atheists are all important questions that have extracted gallons of ink from a lot of bloggers and book authors. atheists.org - 1579 http://www.atheists.org/news/U._of_I.%5C%27s_teaching_partnership_with_Catholic_Church_draws_scrutiny Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 July 18, 2010) - Panel to review arrangement that lets Catholic center select, fund U. of I. adjunct atheists.org - 1580 http://www.atheists.org/news/Right-To-Die_Billboard_Raises_Concerns_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 18, 2010 -- The huge black billboard is hard to miss, looming over a stretch of Route 22 like a harbinger of death, or at least the right to die: atheists.org - 813 http://www.atheists.org/news/http%3A%2F%2Fonline.wsj.com%2Farticle%2FSB125781425786840005.html Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Catholic Church Emerges as Key Player in Legislative Battle November 10, 2009) - atheists.org - 814 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_Church_Emerges_as_Key_Player_in_Legislative_Battle_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 11, 2009) - Injecting itself aggressively into the health-care debate, the Roman Catholic Church in America has emerged as a major political force with the potential to upend a key piece of President Barack Obama's agenda. atheists.org - 815 http://www.atheists.org/news/Travoltas_have_%5C%27own_way%5C%27_of_coping_after_death_of_son Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 11, 2009) - John Travolta says that he struggles daily to get by since the death of 16-year-old son Jett but that family, religion and intensive therapy have helped the family cope. atheists.org - 816 http://www.atheists.org/news/Goldman_Sachs_Doing_%5C%22God%5C%27s_Work%5C%22%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 11, 2009) - The only thing worse than Goldman Sachs amassing close to $20 billion in bonus money for its executives based on various government subsidies and bailout measures is listening to senior executives there trying to explain it all away. atheists.org - 817 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Godless%5C%27_billboard_greets_I-71_drivers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 11, 2009) - The simple message on it is even more attention-grabbing: "Don't believe in God? You are not alone." atheists.org - 818 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_offers_service_to_care_for_Christians%5C%27_pets_after_the_Rapture Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 11, 2009) - A New Hampshire atheist is offering Christians who believe in the Rapture a service to look after their pets when they get taken up into eternity, the New Hampshire Union Leader reports. atheists.org - 819 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge_Says_No_to_%E2%80%9CI_Believe%E2%80%9D_License_Plates%3B_SC_Group_Says_it_Will_Issue_a_Version Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 11, 2009) - A federal judged on Tuesday ruled that the license plates were unconstitutional because they were created by the state legislature, which meant the state was endorsing one religion. atheists.org - 820 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_Church_gives_D.C._ultimatum Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 12, 2009) - Same-sex marriage bill, as written, called a threat to social service contracts atheists.org - 821 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican-sponsored_meeting_discusses_chances_of_extraterrestrial_life Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 12, 2009) - Vatican-sponsored meeting discusses chances of extraterrestrial life atheists.org - 822 http://www.atheists.org/news/America%5C%27s_First_All-Christian_Prison_May_Be_Coming_Down_the_Pike Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 12, 2009) - If Bill Robinson gets his way, Wakita, Oklahoma, a small town near the Kansas border consisting of 380 residents, will be the home of the first all-Christian prison in the U.S. atheists.org - 823 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scientology_foes_denounce_member%5C%27s_arrest Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 13, 2009) - The Church of Scientology is working with Las Vegas police to frame a church critic on terrorism allegations, a protest group says. atheists.org - 824 http://www.atheists.org/news/Alavi_Foundation%3A_Feds_Move_To_Seize_4_Mosques%2C_Tower_Linked_From_Organization_To_Iran Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 13, 2009) - Federal prosecutors took steps Thursday to seize four U.S. mosques and a Fifth Avenue skyscraper owned by a nonprofit Muslim organization long suspected of being secretly controlled by the Iranian government. atheists.org - 825 http://www.atheists.org/news/Carrie_Prejean%3A_The_Bible_Allows_Breast_Implants%2C_My_Hairdresser_Is_Gay Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 13, 2009) - Carrie Prejean is just carrying out God's plan, she tells Christianity Today in an interview that fails to address her solo sex tape--the topic that nearly caused her to walk off 'Larry King Live' Wednesday night. atheists.org - 826 http://www.atheists.org/news/Former_Miss_California_Carrie_Prejean_made_7_other_sex_tapes%2C_dozens_of_nude_pics_-_report__Read_mor Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 13, 2009) -- t looks like Carrie Prejean spoke too soon when she called her recent sex tape the "biggest mistake" of her life. atheists.org - 827 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Godless%5C%27_billboard_relocated_due_to_threats Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 13, 2009) - CINCINNATI - A billboard that reached out to those who don’t believe in God lasted less than 48 hours before threats forced organizers to move it, they said. atheists.org - 1640 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_The_Prop_8_Ruling_Scares_Religious_Conservatives Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 8, 2010) - When U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker struck down California's Proposition 8 on Wednesday (Aug. 4), he said voters' motivation for outlawing gay marriage was clear. atheists.org - 1641 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tony_Perkins%3A_Prop._8_Judge_Should_Have_Recused_Himself_Because_Of_His_Sexuality Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 9, 2010) - Tony Perkins, head of the influential Family Research Council, argued on Sunday that the judge who overturned California's ban on gay marriage should have recused himself from the case due to his own sexuality. atheists.org - 1642 http://www.atheists.org/news/No_Atheists_in_Foxholes%3F_Christopher_Hitchens_Proves_Otherwise Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 9, 2010) - Vocal atheist (among other things) Christopher Hitchens is gravely ill, with esophageal cancer. After his diagnosis became public two months ago, people, particularly Christians, wondered whether it would be appropriate to pray for the author of God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything. atheists.org - 829 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_do_these_religiously_motivated_terrorist_acts_tell_us%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 14, 2009) - Why are we so selective about lessons we draw from religious extremism? atheists.org - 835 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_creationism_is_back_in_the_news%2C_this_time_in_Egypt Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 17, 2009) - Muslim creationism is back in the news. atheists.org - 834 http://www.atheists.org/news/BibleThumper_iPhone_App_Finds_Cool_Bible_Verses_for_Atheists%E2%80%99 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 16, 2009) - BibleThumper allows atheists to keep the most funny and irrational bible verses right in their pocket. atheists.org - 831 http://www.atheists.org/news/NASA_Working_to_Dispel_2012_Apocalypse_Myth Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 14, 2009) - According to the movie "2012," the end of Earth is at hand when the ancient planet Nibiru smashes into Earth on Dec, 21, 2012. atheists.org - 832 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Bishops_are_Back%2C_For_Now%2C_Thanks_to_the_Party_and_President_They_Opposed Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 15, 2009) - When the nation's 300 or more Catholic bishops gather for each November for their annual fall meeting, there's always a hearty show of clerical camaraderie, much of it deeply-felt, but some of it a charitable mask on the rivalries that are inevitable in any group of strong-willed fellows. atheists.org - 833 http://www.atheists.org/news/Author_confronts_Darwin_backers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 15, 2009) - When outspoken atheist and best-selling author Richard Dawkins called Ray Comfort "an ignorant fool," Mr. Comfort put that "glowing endorsement" on the cover of his latest book. atheists.org - 836 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama%5C%27s_Chinese_Box%3A_Where_Does_Religious_Freedom_Fit%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Novemer 17, 2009) - Barack Obama arrived in Japan today on the first leg of his first trip to Asia as president, a delicate week-long diplomatic swing which will confront him with an array of pressing issues, from North Korea and nukes to climate change and the global economy atheists.org - 837 http://www.atheists.org/news/Court_turns_down_student_over_religious_speech_%28AP%29_%E2%80%93_22_hours_ago Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 17, 2009) - The Supreme Court has rejected an appeal from a student who complained that high school officials violated her constitutional rights when they turned off her microphone during her religion-tinged graduation speech. atheists.org - 838 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bishops_Try_to_Reassert_Control_of_a_Restive_Flock Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 18, 2009) - The leader of the Catholic hierarchy in the United States on Monday launched a new effort to rein in Catholic debates and dissidents and to remind the flock that the bishops will be the arbiters of what it means to be a Catholic. atheists.org - 839 http://www.atheists.org/news/C_Street_House_No_Longer_Tax_Exempt Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 18, 2009) -Residents of the C Street Christian fellowship house will no longer benefit from a loophole that had allowed the house's owners to avoid paying property taxes. atheists.org - 840 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church_Of_Scientology_Accused_Of_Torture_And_Forced_Abortions_In_Australia Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 19, 2009) - The church of Scientology has entered another international controversy this week as Nick Xenophon, an independent Australian politician, tabled a number of controversial letters about the church to the Australian Senate. atheists.org - 841 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rachel_Maddow_Interview_with_Former_Evangelist_Frank_Schaeffer%3A_Christian_Right_Is_%5C%27Trolling_for_Ass Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 19, 2009) - Schaeffer: "There is a crazy fringe [receiving] messages that have been pouring out of FOX News ... talking about doing away with Obama, asking God to kill him." atheists.org - 842 http://www.atheists.org/news/Darwin_in_Battle_of_Wits_against_Unarmed_Man Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 19, 2009) - Antievolutionist Ray Comfort will be distributing copies of the Origin of Species with a new introduction that misrepresents, misunderstands and distorts Darwin's ideas and legacy. Steve Mirsky comments atheists.org - 843 http://www.atheists.org/news/GOP%5C%27s_hopefuls%3A_Put_prayer_in_schools Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 19, 2009) -- Most Republican candidates have conservative beliefs, favoring creationism over evolution and saying Bible is literally true atheists.org - 844 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Will_Religion_Evolve%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 20, 2009) - Does religion have a future? Who looks more like an evolutionary dead end: the religious American or the agnostic European? atheists.org - 845 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_Galapagos_Finches%2C_Biologists_Catch_Evolution_in_the_Act Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 20, 2009) - On the Galapagos Islands, where Charles Darwin’s observations led to his evolutionary theory, scientists are now reporting that they’re witnessing a single species splitting into two, according to a new paper in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. atheists.org - 846 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_turn_to_billboard_sites Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 20, 2009) - The group behind a controversial atheist bus-poster campaign is urging parents not to label their children with their own religious faith. atheists.org - 847 http://www.atheists.org/news/Free_books_used_as_tools_to_fight_evolution Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 20, 2009) - Hundreds of college students were surprised on Wednesday when they were handed free copies of Charles Darwin’s “On the Origin of Species” as they walked across campus. atheists.org - 848 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ministry_Distributes_%5C%27Origin_of_Species%5C%27_with_Intelligent_Design_Intro Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 20, 2009) - Ministry leader Ray Comfort surprised college students and atheists throughout the country on Wednesday when his planned giveaway of On the Origin of Species came one day early. atheists.org - 849 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Sinners%5C%27_gather_at_atheist_meeting Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 21, 2009) - Good evening, sinners!" Edwin Kagin called out to a group of about 33 people sitting in folding chairs in the basement of the Norwood library Thursday night. atheists.org - 850 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Student_Groups_Flower_on_College_Campuses Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 21, 2009) - The sign sits propped on a wooden chair, inviting all comers: "Ask an Atheist." atheists.org - 851 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rep._Patrick_Kennedy_Banned_From_Receiving_Communion_By_Bishop_Thomas_Tobin Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 22, 2009) - Roman Catholic Bishop Thomas Tobin has banned Rep. Patrick Kennedy from receiving Communion, the central sacrament of the church, in Rhode Island because of the congressman's support for abortion rights, Kennedy said in a newspaper interview published Sunday. atheists.org - 852 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_countries_seek_blasphemy_ban Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 22, 2009) - GENEVA — Four years after cartoons of the prophet Muhammad set off violent protests across the Muslim world, Islamic nations are mounting a campaign for an international treaty to protect religious symbols and beliefs from mockery — essentially a ban on blasphemy that would put them on a collision course with free speech laws in the West. atheists.org - 853 http://www.atheists.org/news/Heaps_of_evolution_evidence Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 22, 2009) - Biologist Richard Dawkins presents the basics to assist those "prepared to argue the case." atheists.org - 854 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sarah_Palin_And_Billy_Graham_Visit%2C_Eat_Dinner_Together_At_Evangelist%5C%27s_Home Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 23, 2009)- Sarah Palin on Sunday dined and prayed with the Rev. Billy Graham, who has counseled presidents and other politicians for decades. atheists.org - 855 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conservatives_vow_resistance_on_abortion%2C_gay_marriage Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 23, 2009) - Facing what they consider "threats" from American culture, prominent Catholic, evangelical and Orthodox Christian leaders are vowing unspecified civil disobedience against abortion, same-sex marriage and limits on religious liberty. atheists.org - 856 http://www.atheists.org/news/_Caldwell_Possible_use_of_religious_texts_at_Nampa_Classical_Academy_will_b Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 24, 2009) - The charter school's planned use of the Bible and other religious texts sparked controversy and a lawsuit challenging state law. atheists.org - 857 http://www.atheists.org/news/Darwin_and_the_case_for_%5C%27militant_atheism%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Nvember 24, 2009) - On November 24, 1859, the first edition of a book that would shake the most deeply established beliefs about life was published in London. What would eventually be known as "The Origin of Species" was the opening shot in a debate that hasn't ended, even 150 years later. atheists.org - 858 http://www.atheists.org/news/Marietta%2C_Ga.%2C_Lawmakers_to_Review_%5C%27So_Help_Me_God%5C%27_Police_Oath Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 24, 2009) - City council members in Marietta, Ga., will consider changing the oath of office that the city's police officers take so that recruits can swear to uphold the law without saying the phrase "so help me God." atheists.org - 859 http://www.atheists.org/news/Humanists_Push_for_Godless_Holidays Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 25, 2009) -- As Americans gear up for the holiday season, they're fine-tuning wish lists, digging out unfortunate Christmas sweaters and bracing for the onslaught of holiday advertising campaigns. atheists.org - 860 http://www.atheists.org/news/Carl_Sagan_%26_Stephen_Hawkins_rap Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 25) -- Check out a cool video featuring two incredible non-theist minds! atheists.org - 861 http://www.atheists.org/news/City_of_Clarksville_backs_off_calling_Nativity_scene_funds_%5C%27inappropriate%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 26, 2009) - The city of Clarksville has issued a formal response to complaints regarding a Nativity scene by the American Civil Liberties Union in a letter dated Nov. 23 and signed by city attorney Lance Baker atheists.org - 862 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Carl_Silverman_has_shaped_public_policy_in_Franklin_County_area_before Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 26, 2009) - Atheist Carl Silverman insists he didn't intend to evict the Christ child and his family from Memorial Square in downtown Chambersburg when he and his group of non-believers asked Chambersburg Borough Council to let them put up a sign on square. atheists.org - 863 http://www.atheists.org/news/Creationism_vs._atheism%3A_It%5C%27s_on%21_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 27, 2009) - A "revised" edition of Darwin's "The Origin of Species" turns college campuses into three-ring circuses atheists.org - 864 http://www.atheists.org/news/Irish_Catholic_Church_Covered_Up_Decades_Of_Child_Abuse%2C_Report_Says Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 27, 2009) - DUBLIN — Roman Catholic Church leaders in Dublin spent decades sheltering child-abusing priests from the law and most fellow clerics turned a blind eye, an investigation ordered by Ireland's government concluded Thursday. atheists.org - 865 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kevin_Myers%3A_And_by_what_right_has_anyone_the_right_to_defend_their_rights_if_those_rights_intrude_o Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 27, 2009) - Sometimes, I think I'm going mad. Take the recent declaration by one Colm O Cinneide that Pakistan had at a recent UN gathering praised Ireland's blasphemy laws "as an example of best practice". atheists.org - 875 http://www.atheists.org/news/Video_Attempts_to_Explain_that_Atheism_is_NOT_a_Religion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 30, 2009) - John W. Loftus says nothing bothers atheists more than when people call atheism a "religion," or when they say you need "faith" to be an atheist. They will tell you that atheism is actually "the absence of faith." This video offers a more detailed explanation of the controversy: atheists.org - 867 http://www.atheists.org/news/Minaret_Ban_In_Switzerland_Set_For_A_Vote Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 28, 2009) - GENEVA — The campaign posters are inflammatory: Minarets rising like missiles from the national flag. atheists.org - 868 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_so_many_Jews_are_atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 28, 2009) - A Rabbi speaks out -- Real cause of overwhelming Jewish atheistic tendencies seems to be tragic ignorance of Judaism’s most profound teachings and ideas atheists.org - 869 http://www.atheists.org/news/Author%3A_%E2%80%98The_Family%E2%80%99_behind_proposed_Ugandan_law_that_would_execute_HIV%2B_men Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 28, 2009) - The African nation of Uganda is weighing a bill that would impose the death penalty on HIV positive men who have committed what it calls "aggravated homosexuality." atheists.org - 870 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rally_organizer_plans_to_continue_protests_in_Chambersburg_over_nativity%5C%27s_removal_%5C%27until_no_one%5C%27s_i Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 29, 2009) - Saturday's rally for the nativity in Chambersburg's square is the second public event organized by Lisa Blackstock of Mercersburg. atheists.org - 871 http://www.atheists.org/news/Review%3A_%5C%27Oh_My_God%5C%27_is_hardly_divine Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 22, 2009) - The globe-trotting documentary "Oh My God" offers a chance to dozens of people - religious figures, celebrities and ordinary folks - to sound off about the nature of the divine being. atheists.org - 872 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_did_%5C%27Life_of_Brian%5C%27_ever_do_for_us%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 29, 2009) - Monty Python's 1979 film, ‘Life of Brian’, is rightly considered a comedy classic. But, thirty years on, it wouldn’t be made today, argues Sanjeev Bhaskar. atheists.org - 873 http://www.atheists.org/news/Indonesia_minister_says_immorality_causes_disasters Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 29, 2009) - A government minister has blamed Indonesia's recent string of natural disasters on people's immorality. atheists.org - 874 http://www.atheists.org/news/More_Russians_support_creational_theory_than_Darwin%5C%27s_evolution_theory_-_poll Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 30, 2009) - Moscow, November 30, Interfax - As many as 44% of Russians support the creationist theory compared to 35% believing in Charles Darwin's evolution theory, a poll of 1,600 respondents conducted by the VTsIOM public opinion research center in 140 Russian communities on November 20-21 has found. atheists.org - 876 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cult_of_Conservative_Christian_GOPers_Backs_Death_Penalty_for_Gays_With_HIV Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (November 30, 2009) -- Uganda is pushing a bill that would impose the death penalty on HIV positive gay men. And a secretive group of American politicians appears to be a driving force behind the law. atheists.org - 877 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mike_Huckabee%5C%27s_fatally_bad_judgment Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemberr 1, 2009) - Brutality by another Huck-pardoned criminal suggests the 2012 GOP hopeful listened more to pastors than prosecutors atheists.org - 878 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Website_Helps_You_Avoid_Jew_Stores Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 1, 2009) - Wingnut Christians have a powerful new ally in the War On Xmas: It’s a website full of retailer ratings to let you know if maybe Jews or Atheists or (God forbid!) Muslims are making the Xmas Season less Christ-y! atheists.org - 879 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mike_Huckabee%5C%27s_presidential_hopes_damaged_by_suspected_cop_killer_Maurice_Clemmons%5C%27_clemency Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 1, 2009) - Former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee's future presidential aspirations took a serious hit in the hail of bullets that killed four police officers in a suburban Seattle coffee shop Sunday morning. atheists.org - 880 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_ask_Baltimore%3A_Are_you_good_without_God%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 1, 2009) - A coalition of atheists and agnostics is hoping to get Baltimoreans talking with a billboard campaign that poses the question: “Are you good without God?” atheists.org - 881 http://www.atheists.org/news/Father%2C_Son%2C_and_the_Holy_Toast Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 1, 2009) - Mary Jo Coady thinks she sees Jesus on her iron. Others have had sacred sightings on potato chips, pierogies, bonfires—and even an alligator’s belly. VIEW OUR GALLERY. atheists.org - 882 http://www.atheists.org/news/Minarets_and_Europe%5C%27s_crisis_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 2, 2009) - The mind is boggled by the fact that Switzerland, a country renowned for its tolerant nature, could come to see less than a handful of minarets as a threat to its identity and culture. atheists.org - 883 http://www.atheists.org/news/Update%3A_Atheist_Group_Plans_to_Sue_in_Nativity_Debate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 2, 2009) - Chambersburg, Pa. - The nativity display in Chambersburg has a new home, but now an atheist group may sue. atheists.org - 884 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_plan_to_be_at_Larimer_sheriff%5C%27s_holiday_event Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 2, 2009) - Local atheists groups say they plan to attend Larimer County Sheriff Jim Alderden's annual holiday event that includes a prayer, decorating a Christmas tree and displaying a nativity scene. atheists.org - 885 http://www.atheists.org/news/Joanna_Krupa_vs._Catholics%3A_Animal_Rights%2C_Not_Blasphemy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 2, 2009) - What's wrong with this picture? Lots, according to the Catholic League, which has voiced its opposition to PETA's latest shock-'em-into-action ad campaign—which features a naked Joanna Krupa sporting nothing but angel wings and holding a strategically placed crucifix while exhorting us to "be an angel for animals" by adopting, rather than buying, new pets. atheists.org - 886 http://www.atheists.org/news/Leave_Churchill_out_of_Scientology%2C_says_family Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 2, 2009) - Images of Britain's wartime leader are being used in recruiting posters atheists.org - 887 http://www.atheists.org/news/If_Uganda_Executes_Gays%2C_Will_American_Christians_be_Complicit%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 3, 2009) - A bill currently before the Ugandan Parliament sounds like an absurdist scenario from some liberal nightmare about a theocratic state: Under the proposed law -- which appears to have strong public support -- criminal penalties on homosexual acts in the East African nation would be made much harsher, and include the death penalty. atheists.org - 888 http://www.atheists.org/news/Larimer_sheriff_makes_space_for_atheists_at_tree_party Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 3, 2009) - Larimer County Sheriff Jim Alderden will have some atheistic company at his annual politically incorrect Christmas tree-trimming party Saturday morning. atheists.org - 889 http://www.atheists.org/news/Silent_Night%3A_Third_Circuit_Upholds_School_Ban_On_Holiday_Religious_Music Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 3, 2009) - It’s so close you can taste it. In just a few hours time, we begin Holiday season–or, as we at the Law Blog like to call it, Establishment Clause season. Yes, it’s that time of year, kids, when we rejoice in our right to argue about the legality of religious displays in the public realm. atheists.org - 890 http://www.atheists.org/news/Egg_With_Cross_On_It_%28PHOTO%29%3A_%5C%27Holy_Egg%5C%27_Is_Latest_Over-Analyzed_Religious_Icon Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 3, 2009) - A Fort Worth-area couple said one of their hens laid an egg with a cross on the end of it. Pam and Tracy Norrell of Burleson, who displayed the odd-shaped egg, said they believe it's a sign of encouragement during the holiday season. atheists.org - 891 http://www.atheists.org/news/Approaching_Holidays_Prompt_Atheist_Campaign_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 4, 2009) - An unusual holiday message began appearing this week in the nation’s capital on the sides of buses and trains. READ MORE“No god? ... No problem!” reads the advertisement featuring the smiling faces of people wearing Santa Claus hats. “Be good for goodness’ sake.” atheists.org - 892 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Tree_of_Knowledge_under_attack_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 4, 2009) - WEST CHESTER, PA – For the last three years, a local group of atheists, skeptics, rationalists, humanists, freethinkers, etc. have joined in the winter festivities by putting up a display representing their values along side other displays in front of the Chester County Courthouse in West Chester, Pennsylvania. atheists.org - 893 http://www.atheists.org/news/It%5C%27s_a_Christian_Man%5C%27s_World Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 4, 2009) - The Promise Keepers, in an attempt to stage a comeback, are reaching out to women and Messianic Jews. But why? atheists.org - 894 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_Cardinal_on_Gays_and_Transsexuals%3A_%5C%27No_Heaven_for_You%21%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 4, 2009) - Cardinal Javier Lozano Barragan, a Mexican cardinal who this year retired as the Vatican's chief spokesman on health care issues, including AIDS, has given a pointed interview to a Rome magazine in which he says that homosexuals and transgendered people will not go to heaven, and he cites Saint Paul by way of backup. atheists.org - 895 http://www.atheists.org/news/Maddow-Sharlet%3A_US_ties_to_Uganda_homosexual_death_penalty_law Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (December 4, 2009) - On tonight's Rachel Maddow Show, Rachel's first guest was Dan Rather, fresh back from Afghanistan. Her second guest was Jeff Sharlet, author of The Family: The Secret Fundamentalism at the Heart of American Power, talking about connections of The (C Street) Family and other American evangelicals to the proposed Ugandan death penalty law for homosexuality, which would also imprison anyone who knowingly failed to report a homosexual to the police. atheists.org - 896 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_holds_state_convention_in_Ann_Arbor Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 5, 2009) - ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) - A national atheist leader will speak to an affiliated group of Michigan atheists at its state convention in Washtenaw County. atheists.org - 897 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_billboards_beg_the_question%3A_What_does_it_mean_to_be_%5C%27good%5C%27%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 5, 2009) -- JOIN THIS DEBATE! What incredible irony! A group of atheists and agnostics calling themselves the Coalition of Reason has put up billboards around town which use God's name to attract nonbelievers ("Seeking out a community of nonbelievers," Dec. 3). "Are you good without God?" they ask. "Millions are." atheists.org - 898 http://www.atheists.org/news/Thou_shalt_not_shop Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 5, 2009) - Jost Müller-Neuhof from Der Tagesspiegel wonders how Germans can criticise Switzerland’s vote to ban minarets on mosques as an attack on religious freedom yet they blithely accept being told by Christian churches whether they can shop on Sundays or not. atheists.org - 899 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mike_Huckabee%5C%27s_End_Times Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 5, 2009) - Commuting the sentence of a cop-killer may be the least of Huckabee’s problems. John Batchelor on the former Arkansas governor's mindless evangelism—and why the GOP should just skip the 2012 election. atheists.org - 900 http://www.atheists.org/news/Auschwitz_Revisited%3A_Are_Aborted_Fetuses_Really_Like_Dead_Jews%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 5, 2009) - Stephanie Gray, a Canadian anti-abortion activist, has been touring American and Canadian college campuses with a rather chilling message: Legalized abortion isn't merely a grievous wrong, but a calculated genocide morally indistinguishable from the Nazi-perpetrated Holocaust. atheists.org - 901 http://www.atheists.org/news/Glenn_Beck%3A_Latter-day_Taint Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:28:05 -0400 (December 6, 2009) - Glenn Beck's Mormonism may even frighten fellow believers. atheists.org - 902 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_is_Helen_Radkey_and_why_is_she_out_to_get_the_LDS_Church%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 6, 2009) - Genealogical pit bull » Ex-Mormon has defenders, critics in quest to eliminate LDS proxy baptisms. atheists.org - 904 http://www.atheists.org/news/O%5C%27Reilly_Ambushes_Elementary_School_For_%5C%27War_On_Christmas%5C%27_%28VIDEO%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 6, 2009) - Bill O'Reilly has targeted an elementary school in Massachusetts for daring to have a non-religious holiday fair. atheists.org - 905 http://www.atheists.org/news/Did_The_Internet_Create_The_New_Atheists%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemer 6, 2009) -- Join the debate! Atheists have always been a minority. Religious minorities are frequently in an awkward position, particularly when the majority considers their very existence to be a challenge. So atheists have tended to keep quiet, sometime not even realizing that the person they are speaking to is another atheist. atheists.org - 906 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_Needs_God_When_We%5C%27ve_Got_Mammon%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 7, 2009) - The most prosperous and happy nations on earth are also the most non-religious. atheists.org - 907 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Tis_The_Season_For_Battles_Over_Holiday_Displays_On_Public_Property_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 7, 2009) - This is the time of year when disputes over holiday displays on public property and be expected. Here is a sampling of the most recent. atheists.org - 908 http://www.atheists.org/news/Supreme_Court_Takes_Up_Law_School_Case_on_Christian_Student_Group Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (December 7, 2009) - The Supreme Court agreed Monday morning to take up the first church-state case of the term, a dispute over recognition of the Christian Legal Society's chapter at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. atheists.org - 909 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_need_a_different_voice Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (Deember 7, 2009) -- We all know the names (Dawkins, Harris, Hitchens) of those angry white men who tend to antagonize the world’s believers. But the most persuasive voices for the ‘new New Atheism’ tend to be women. atheists.org - 910 http://www.atheists.org/news/Uganda_Considering_Death_Penalty_For_Gays Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (December 8, 2009) - KAMPALA, Uganda — Proposed legislation would impose the death penalty for some gay Ugandans, and their family and friends could face up to seven years in jail if they fail to report them to authorities. Even landlords could be imprisoned for renting to homosexuals. atheists.org - 911 http://www.atheists.org/news/Uganda_Considering_Death_Penalty_For_Gays Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 8, 2009) - KAMPALA, Uganda — Proposed legislation would impose the death penalty for some gay Ugandans, and their family and friends could face up to seven years in jail if they fail to report them to authorities. Even landlords could be imprisoned for renting to homosexuals. atheists.org - 912 http://www.atheists.org/news/Critics_of_Cecil_Bothwell_cite_N.C._bar_to_atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 8, 2009) - ASHEVILLE — North Carolina's constitution is clear: politicians who deny the existence of God are barred from holding office. atheists.org - 913 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_%5C%22war_on_Christmas%5C%22_flap_is_getting_old Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 8, 2009) - Q: Should the White House, whose residents serve all Americans, display a crèche or a menorah or any strictly religious symbols during the holidays? atheists.org - 914 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tenn._city_drops_Bible_text_reading_at_tree-lighting_ceremony Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 9, 2009) - MARYVILLE, TENN. — Acknowledging it is "terrifying to stand and go against the courts," Samuel David Duck, a Maryville resident and father of two, did what city officials had decided not to do. atheists.org - 915 http://www.atheists.org/news/Federal_Appeals_Court_Goes_With_%5C%27God%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 9, 2009) - Before every oral argument in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, a court clerk tells everyone to stand and draw attention because the court is now sitting. The opening cry ends with the line "God save the United States and this honorable court." atheists.org - 916 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christ_in_Your_Tree%3F_The_Newest_Weapon_Against_Evil_Atheists_Bent_on_Destroying_X-Mas Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 9, 2009) - The CHRIST-mas tree, created by holiday decor company Boss Creations, is intended as a weapon in the war on Christmas. atheists.org - 917 http://www.atheists.org/news/Man_dies_after_sitting_in_recliner_for_eight_months Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 9, 2009) - COLUMBIA, South Carolina (NBC) -- Believing his faith would heal him, a Greenwood County, South Carolina man sat down in his recliner after an injury in March and never got up. atheists.org - 918 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Evolution_of_Richard_Dawkins%2C_the_Rock_Star_of_Neo-Atheism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 10, 2009) - Is Richard Dawkins getting soft? It's hard to believe that the leading exponent of a brash new school of pugnacious atheism would somehow, miraculously, transform into the soul of charity. But consider the evidence: atheists.org - 919 http://www.atheists.org/news/Holy_cow%3F_Farmer_sees_divine_sign_in_bovine Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 10, 2009) -- A calf with a white marking on its forehead in the approximate shape of a cross was born last week at a dairy farm in Sterling, a small rustic town on the Rhode Island border. atheists.org - 923 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_U.S._Christian_Right_and_the_Attack_on_Gays_in_Africa Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 11, 2009) - For two days in early March 2009, Ugandans flocked to the Kampala Triangle Hotel for the Family Life Network's "Seminar on Exposing the Homosexuals' Agenda." atheists.org - 924 http://www.atheists.org/news/Uganda%5C%27s_Anti-Gay_Bill%3A_Inspired_by_the_U.S. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 11, 2009) - The late-November afternoon sun bore down on the park in downtown Kampala, and all along the benches, Ugandan office workers took their siestas. atheists.org - 921 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judges_review_Soledad_cross_issues Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemer 10, 2009) - PASADENA — A federal appeals court stepped into the Mount Soledad cross controversy yesterday, and after a 45-minute hearing it was hard to determine where the court would ultimately come down. atheists.org - 922 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rick_Warren_Publicly_Condemns_Uganda_Anti-Gay_Law_%28VIDEO%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 10, 2009) - Rick Warren, after weeks of avoiding the issue, has publicly condemned a Ugandan law that makes it legal to give people the death penalty just for being gay. atheists.org - 925 http://www.atheists.org/news/Presents_for_the_godless%3A_the_13_days_of_atheist_Christmas Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 11, 2009) - Don't believe in God, but want to celebrate Christmas anyway? Don't worry, you're not alone. Here are 13 suitable gifts for the heretic. atheists.org - 926 http://www.atheists.org/news/More_U.S._Christians_mix_in_%5C%27Eastern%2C%5C%27_New_Age_beliefs Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 11, 2009) - Going to church this Sunday? Look around. The chances are that one in five of the people there find "spiritual energy" in mountains or trees, and one in six believe in the "evil eye," that certain people can cast curses with a look — beliefs your Christian pastor doesn't preach. atheists.org - 927 http://www.atheists.org/news/_Rachel_Maddow_Catches_Rick_Warren_In_Blatant_Lie Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemer 11, 2009) - On Thursday night, MSNBC host Rachel Maddow reviewed Rick Warren's video condemnation of an anti-gay law in Uganda. While she said the statement was "better late than never," she stated that the famous pastor came up a little short. atheists.org - 928 http://www.atheists.org/news/Houston_Gets_1st_Free_Thought_Billboard Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Deember 12, 2009) - HOUSTON - A non-profit group is reaching out to humanists, atheists and agnostics via a northwest Houston billboard that says, "Don’t Believe In God? You are not alone.” atheists.org - 1643 http://www.atheists.org/news/Today_in_Sex%3A_Pat_Robertson_Urges_Christian_Woman_to_Ditch_Her_Devil_Dawg Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 10, 2010) - Oh, Pat Robertson--aren't you dead yet? Now I'm not wishing Pat ill (well, maybe a little), but he's one of those dudes I'm always shocked to hear is still alive. Like Abe Vigoda, only evil. atheists.org - 1647 http://www.atheists.org/news/Saudis_Want_%5C%27Mecca_Time%5C%27_to_Replace_GMT Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 11, 2010) - For centuries, an astronomy observatory in Greenwich, London -- the namesake of Greenwich Mean Time -- has been the reference point for lines of longitude, ships' navigation on the world's seas and the time zones used today. atheists.org - 930 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Obama_Party_Kerfuffle%3A_Downsizing_Hanukkah Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemberr 12, 2009) - WASHINGTON -- Just because no one is too worried about gate crashers showing up at the White House Hanukkah party next week doesn't mean the guest list isn't being watched very carefully. atheists.org - 931 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bobbie_Kirkhart%3A_Atheists_United%5C%27s_chief_nonbeliever Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 13, 2009) - 'No God? No problem!" That's one sign of the season. The American Humanist Assn. is pasting it all over Southern California buses to make the point that you don't have to be godly to be good. atheists.org - 932 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lawsuit_threatened_over_atheist_councilman_in_NC Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 13, 2009) - RALEIGH, N.C. — Asheville City Councilman Cecil Bothwell believes in ending the death penalty, conserving water and reforming government — but he doesn't believe in God. His political opponents say that's a sin that makes him unworthy of serving in office, and they've got the North Carolina Constitution on their side. atheists.org - 933 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christians_and_atheists_clash_in_spirited_debate_in_Costa_Mesa_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 14, 2009) = Get out of hell cards, virtual Bible-tossing and even an ant god marked the debate Wednesday between three Christian apologists and three atheists. atheists.org - 934 http://www.atheists.org/news/From_Jesus_to_Christ%3A_The_First_Christians_--_Airing_Tomorrow%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemer 14, 2009) - The award-winning PBS program FRONTLINE examines the early face of Christianity. Airs Tuesday, December 15, 2009. atheists.org - 935 http://www.atheists.org/news/Asheville_councilman_atheism_debate_goes_viral%3A_Cecil_Bothwell_gets_wide_audience Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 14, 2009) - ASHEVILLE — As a writer, Cecil Bothwell always wanted a bigger audience. Now as a new city councilman, he may have gotten more attention than he bargained for. atheists.org - 936 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins_Sparks_Religious_Ad_Spend_Frenzy%2C_as_Christians_Battle_Heretics_on_London_Buses Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 14, 2009) - Oh Richard Dawkins, what have you started? The British Humanist Association’s atheist bus campaign, which was rolled out late last year with Dawkins’ support, declared “There’s Probably No God. Now Stop Worrying and Enjoy Your Life.” atheists.org - 937 http://www.atheists.org/news/Blog_Satire%3A_Who_does_%5C%22Answers_in_Genesis%5C%22_strap_bombs_on_kind_and_... Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 14, 2009) - OK, I exaggerate, but I thought it might be a good time to talk about AiG. atheists.org - 938 http://www.atheists.org/news/UPDATE%3A_Atheist_Tree_of_Knowledge_left_at_back_of_bus_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemer 14, 2009) - WEST CHESTER, PA – During the winter season, the Chester County Courthouse becomes the home for holiday displays. For the last three years, the Freethought Society of Greater Philadelphia (FSGP) has put up a Tree of Knowledge along side the Christmas Tree, The Jesus Crèche, and the Menorah. atheists.org - 939 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_in_office%3A_D%C3%A9j%C3%A0_vu_all_over_again Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 15, 2009) - 'm reminded of my South Carolina experience when I hear that some folks in Asheville, North Carolina want to remove Cecil Bothwell from City Council. What he and I have in common is not just that we are atheists,but that we are open about it. atheists.org - 940 http://www.atheists.org/news/Oral_Roberts_Dead%3A_Televangelist_Dies_At_91 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Dedember 15, 2009) - TULSA, Okla. — Oral Roberts, a pioneer in televangelism who founded a multimillion-dollar ministry and a university that bears his name, died Tuesday. He was 91. atheists.org - 941 http://www.atheists.org/news/Has_Tiger_Put_the_%5C%27Sin%5C%27_back_in_Sin_City%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 15, 2009) - Mayor Oscar Goodman is delighted that Tiger Woods' alleged mistresses include at least three with ties to Las Vegas. atheists.org - 942 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_do_Atheists_grapple_with_Christmas%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 15, 2009) - Relax and enjoy the holidays, maybe even sing a carol or two. It won't kill you. That's the advice of the woman behind a how-to book for non- believers on surviving the holidays. atheists.org - 943 http://www.atheists.org/news/Buckner%2C_Silverman_sound_off_to_Chicago_Tribune%3A_Let%5C%27s_just_leave_it_at_%60Happy_Holidays%2C%5C%27_shall_we%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 15, 2009) -- Well, it's that time of year again, and I, for one, am going to continue wishing people "Happy Holidays" and "Season's Greetings," no matter what the zealots say. atheists.org - 944 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ruling_allows_for_atheist_display_Judge_grants_Freethinkers%E2%80%99_request_for_kiosk_at_state_Capitol Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 16, 2009) - An atheist group’s display marking the winter solstice will join the traditional Nativity scene on the state Capitol grounds as a result of a ruling by a federal judge Monday. atheists.org - 945 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Sue_Catholic_Bishop Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 17, 2009) - ADAMS STREET — Atheists rallied in Columbus Park yesterday to announce a lawsuit against the Catholic Church and the Bishop of Brooklyn. atheists.org - 946 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rachel_Maddow_on_the_NC_atheist_election_row_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 17, 2009) - Critics of Cecil Bothwell, who was elected to the Asheville, North Carolina city council in November, have been questioning his right to be seated on it. Why? Because a provision of the state constitution states that anyone who denies the existence of God is barred from holding office in North Carolina... and Mr. Bothwell is an atheist. atheists.org - 947 http://www.atheists.org/news/Boy_Punished_for_Drawing_a_Cross%21_Persecution_Complex%3F_Or_Complex_Persecution%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 17, 2009) - Nothing trips the hair-trigger reflexes of culture warriors on the Christian right faster than some hare-brained act of multi-culty political correctness by school officials against a poor grade schooler who even hints at a religious reference in class. atheists.org - 948 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_%5C%27War_on_Christmas%5C%27_Comes_Under_Attack Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 18, 2009)-- Only 7 culture-war-fighting days left until Dec. 25. The annual conflict over the season of peace is raging again -- but lately, with an added twist. atheists.org - 949 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_sues_Brooklyn%5C%27s_Catholic_Diocese_for_pre-election_%5C%27robocalls%5C%27_aimed_at_swaying_voters Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 18, 2009) - An atheist group and a priest sued Brooklyn's Catholic Diocese Thursday, charging Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio broke the law with "robocalls" aimed at swaying voters in a tight City Council election. atheists.org - 950 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anti-Homosexuality_Bill_Creates_Rift_Between_American_and_Ugandan_Christians Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 19, 2009) - As American Christian leaders come out against a bill in Uganda that would institute the death penalty for certain homosexual activity, a rift is growing with their African brethren. Ugandan Christians overwhelmingly support the law and, as Christianity Today reports, are questioning the integrity of the American Christians trying to stop it. atheists.org - 951 http://www.atheists.org/news/Topless_Bike_Protest_In_Williamsburg_Latest_Hipster-Hasidic_Jew_Battle Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 18, 2009) - NEW YORK — Bicyclists planning a protest ride through New York City are calling it their "Freedom Ride" – free of clothing, that is. The removal of clothing during Saturday's ride is meant as a protest over the removal of a bike lane in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn. atheists.org - 952 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conservative_Christians_Don%5C%27t_Crown_%5C%27Princess_and_the_Frog%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 19, 2009) - You'd figure that Disney has all its family-friendly bases covered with its latest offering atheists.org - 953 http://www.atheists.org/news/Support_Lower_For_U.N._Text_on_Religion_Defamation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemer 19, 2009) - The U.N. General Assembly condemned defamation of religion for the fifth year running on Friday but support continued to erode for a resolution Western countries say threatens freedom of speech. atheists.org - 954 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Onward_Christian_Athletes%5C%22%3A_Tom_Krattenmaker%5C%27s_Book_Explores_Evangelical_Monopoly_In_Sports_World Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (September 19, 2009) - BOSTON — A toss left, a quick break past the defense, and it was obvious Philadelphia Eagles running back Herb Lusk was headed to the end zone. The real surprise came when he arrived 70 yards later. atheists.org - 955 http://www.atheists.org/news/Councilman_under_fire_for_atheism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 20, 2009) - Cecil Bothwell, a member of the Unitarian Universalist church, declined to mention God in his swearing-in ceremony. Angry conservatives say his stance violates the state constitution. atheists.org - 956 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_law_bars_atheists_from_office Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 20, 2009) - Pat Smith was surprised to hear that a clause in the Texas Bill of Rights bars atheists from office. READ MORESmith, the president of the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Lubbock's board of trustees, said the law is outdated. atheists.org - 957 http://www.atheists.org/news/Reason%5C%27s_greetings%3A_Atheists_celebrate_Christmas_without_Christ%2C_and_history_is_on_their_side Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 21, 2009) -- Walk into Blair Scott's home in Mobile on Christmas morning, and the scene will likely mirror those of countless families: twinkling lights and decorations hanging from the Christmas tree. Snowmen and Santa Claus figures scattered about the house. Strands of mistletoe hanging in the doorways. - atheists.org - 958 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fisher%3A_An_atheist_holiday Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 21, 2009) - It's the winter solstice, and Silicon Valley's atheists, agnostics and humanists want to extend their sincere, secular season's greetings. While they reject the religious teachings behind Hanukkah and Christmas, the avowed nonbelievers aren't against throwing parties, eating rich food or giving gifts. atheists.org - 959 http://www.atheists.org/news/Winter_Solstice_2009%3A_Contemplating_the_Darkest_Day Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 21, 2009) - Despite the snow, winter didn't "officially" start until today--December 21st. atheists.org - 960 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Erect_Sign_at_Loudoun_Courthouse Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 21, 2009) - This sign was put up Sunday on the Loudoun County courthouse grounds in Leesburg as protest to displaying religious symbols on public property. atheists.org - 961 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group%5C%27s_ad_campaign_kicks_off_in_Iowa Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 22, 2009) - A group that sparked controversy in Des Moines with an advertising campaign that publicized atheist views now has a holiday campaign meant to offer support to nonbelievers atheists.org - 962 http://www.atheists.org/news/Merry_Hyatt%2C_Crusader_for_Christmas_Carols Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 22, 2009) - Attention, all ye faithful: Merry Hyatt has a plan to bring Christmas carols into the lives of school children. The substitute teacher in Redding, Calif., says she is tired of working in schools where students aren't allowed to sing Christmas songs that are religious in nature. So she's sponsoring a ballot initiative that would require all public schools in California to give children the opportunity to sing or listen to Christmas carols. atheists.org - 963 http://www.atheists.org/news/Politics_and_Religion_on_Pandora%3A_Why_%5C%27Avatar%5C%27_is_Crummy_Allegory Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 22, 2009) - If you've read any reviews of the new movie "Avatar," you've probably seen discussions about how it's lefty-political and how it touts New Age religion. atheists.org - 964 http://www.atheists.org/news/Uganda_Pastors_Chide_Rick_Warren%3B_Defend_Anti-Gay_Bill Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 23, 2009) - Pastors in Uganda recently chided evangelical pastor Rick Warren after he urged them to speak out against the country's Anti-Homosexuality bill. atheists.org - 966 http://www.atheists.org/news/Heaven_and_Nature Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemer 23, 2009) - It’s fitting that James Cameron’s “Avatar” arrived in theaters at Christmastime. Like the holiday season itself, the science fiction epic is a crass embodiment of capitalistic excess wrapped around a deeply felt religious message. atheists.org - 967 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mexico_City_Legalizes_Same_Sex_Marriage%2C_Despite_Catholic_Church_Dominance%3A_Will_the_United_States_L Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 23, 2009) - Mexico City lawmakers on Monday made the city the first in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage, a change that will give homosexual couples more rights! The bill calls for changing the definition of marriage in the city's civil code. Marriage is currently defined as the union of a man and a woman. The new definition will be "the free uniting of two people." atheists.org - 968 http://www.atheists.org/news/Air_Force_Academy_Says_Religious_Climate_Improving Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 23, 2009) - The Air Force Academy says religious tolerance has improved dramatically since allegations five years ago that evangelical Christians harassed cadets who didn't share their faith. Even the school's most vocal critic agrees. atheists.org - 969 http://www.atheists.org/news/Calif._County_Rescinds_Ornament_Ban_After_Outcry Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 24, 2009) - - The top official in California's Sonoma County has rescinded a ban on stars and angels on Christmas trees in county buildings. atheists.org - 970 http://www.atheists.org/news/AN_ATHEIST%E2%80%99S_DEFENCE_OF_CHRISTMAS Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 24, 2009) - Everybody take a deep breath. Now repeat after me: Christmas is alive and well. Worshipping Jesus Christ is still allowed in Canada. Judeo-Christian traditions have not been swamped by political correctness. And even we atheists are likely to wish you a Merry Christmas over the next few days. atheists.org - 971 http://www.atheists.org/news/Culture_wars_over_Christmas_displays%3A_where_the_law_stands Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 25, 2009) -- Christmas displays have been a big part of the culture wars for years, and 2009 is no different. Hot spots include Sonoma County in California, where angel and star ornaments in government buildings caused controversy. atheists.org - 972 http://www.atheists.org/news/Poll%3A_Fewer_Americans_May_Be_Celebrating_Christmas_This_Year Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 25, 2009) - A new poll by Gallup confirms earlier reports that fewer Americans are identifying with Christianity and more are claiming no religious affiliation. atheists.org - 973 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vassar_nativity_scene_causes_uproar Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 26, 2009) - Not everyone is feeling the Christmas spirit in Vassar. It’s because of a nativity scene in front of city hall. A threat has been issued against the city, with an unidentified resident alleging the city is violating the Constitution of the United States of America by endorsing Christianity atheists.org - 974 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jefferson%5C%27s_Jesus_%281%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 26, 2009) - Thomas Jefferson is known for many things. For example, he wrote the Declaration of Independence, articulating centuries of human suffering and tortured longing for liberty and equality into a document of transcendent perfection at the very moment of a noble nation's birth. He was an inventor. atheists.org - 975 http://www.atheists.org/news/Offices_should_have_%E2%80%98quiet_rooms%E2%80%99_rather_than_prayer_rooms_so_atheists_can_use_them_too%2C_employers%E2%80%99_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 26, 2009) - Offices should set aside "quiet rooms" that can be used by atheists as well as religious worshippers who want to pray, according to a leading employers’ group. atheists.org - 976 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Pope%5C%27s_Big_Holocaust_Lie Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 26, 2009) -- The Vatican is on the defensive as Jewish groups object to its decision to move Pius XII, the wartime pope, toward sainthood. James Carroll on the church’s shameful bid to rewrite Holocaust history. atheists.org - 977 http://www.atheists.org/news/Biting_off_more_religion_than_we_can_chew Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 27, 2009) - This is a brave attempt at explaining, in loose, understandable scientific terms, how religion arose, how it stuck and why it endures and will continue to do so. atheists.org - 978 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_holiday_display_vandalized_in_Los_Angeles_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 27, 2009) - Freethought Art Vandalized Last year, the Grinch stole Solstice; this year, he got violent. atheists.org - 979 http://www.atheists.org/news/No_Reason_for_the_SeasonThe_joy_of_celebrating_a_godless_Christmas. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 28, 2009) - For some Christmas celebrants, secular traditions like television specials, gifts, and decorations are just a distraction from the holiday's religious signification. But Torie Bosch, in a 2008 article reprinted below, argued that these supposed corruptions are precisely what make the Christmas season so meaningful. atheists.org - 980 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ali_Mousavi%5C%27s_Body_Taken_From_Hospital%2C_Family_Says Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemberr 28, 2009) - Iranian authorities said Monday that they were holding the bodies of five slain anti-government protesters, including the nephew of the opposition leader, in what appeared be an attempt to prevent activists from using their funerals as a platform for more demonstrations atheists.org - 981 http://www.atheists.org/news/LAPD_makes_the_right_choice%2C_moves_beyond_Boy_Scouts_in_New_Year_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 28, 2009) - In what can only be heralded by freethinkers everywhere, the Los Angeles Police Department is on track to complete the ending of a long-standing partnership with the Boy Scouts. atheists.org - 982 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pat_Robertson_and_Christian_clergy_use_Oral_Roberts%5C%27_funeral_to_promote_financial_scam_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 28, 2009) - The Christian Post reports that Christian televangelists Pat Robertson, John Hagee, Ken and Gloria Copeland, and many others preached at deceased faith healer Oral Roberts' funeral on Monday, December 21, 2009. Many of the Christian clergymen arrived in stretch limos, Jaguars and Cadillacs. atheists.org - 983 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ill._gov_candidates_mostly_accept_evolution Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 29, 2009) - The Associated Press recently asked the candidates for Illinois governor about their views on evolution. Here are highlights from their answers: atheists.org - 984 http://www.atheists.org/news/Terror_Suspect%5C%27s_Web_Posts_Reveal_Desire_For_%5C%27Great_Jihad%2C%5C%27_Shame_About_Sex Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 29, 2009) - Internet postings purportedly written by a Nigerian charged with trying to bomb a U.S. airliner on Christmas Day suggest a fervently religious and lonely young man who fantasized about becoming a Muslim holy warrior. atheists.org - 985 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_leaders_try_to_counter_radicals%5C%27_influence_on_youths Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 29, 2009) - The adults thought they'd done all they could. They had condemned extremist ideology, provided ski trips and Scout meetings, and encouraged young people to speak openly about how to integrate their religion, Islam, with the secular world. atheists.org - 986 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Boy_Scouts_of_America_Turns_100 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:28:05 -0400 (December 30, 2009) -- Will the Boy Scouts Survive Another 100 Years? atheists.org - 987 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Boy_Scouts_of_America_Turns_100 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decemerr 30, 2009) -- Will the Boy Scouts Survive Another 100 Years? atheists.org - 988 http://www.atheists.org/news/God_Lives%2C_but_Not_in_Cambridge Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 30, 2009) - Here is an ambitious novel about big ideas — love, sex, religion — that nevertheless faces these issues with irony and humor. A novel sprinkled with Yiddish and Hebrew, and populated mostly by secular Jews attempting to live decently and navigate their complicated lives. A big-hearted novel, filled with energy and an encouraging zest for life. atheists.org - 989 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Avatar%5C%22_And_Religion%3A_Jonah_Goldberg%5C%27s_Take Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Decembr 30, 2009) - Over at the LA Times, Jonah Goldberg sets about attempting to decode the quasi-religious aspects of James Cameron's "Avatar". I've not seen the movie yet, but Goldberg reliably informs me that it's so ever-present that "even if you haven't seen it, you've seen it." So, OK: let's play! atheists.org - 990 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rove_Gets_Divorced._Again. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 31, 2009) - Yet another fevered defender of "traditional marriage" gets divorced, for the second time in this case. atheists.org - 991 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_Hospitals_vs._Catholic_Bishops%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 31, 2009) - As tense, last-minute negotiations over details of the Senate's health care bill progressed just before Christmas, one of the most fluid and contentious issues was over abortion coverage -- as it has been since the beginning. atheists.org - 992 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_is_doooooomed%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (December 31, 2009) - I keep hearing people telling me this, but at the same time I keep seeing more and more out atheists, and atheism becoming more and more popular. atheists.org - 993 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_hatred_simmers_in_terror_suspect%5C%27s_homeland Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 1, 2010) -- Umar Farouk AbdulMutallab wouldn't have to go to an al Qaeda training camp in Yemen to learn how to hate. He had plenty of examples in his own country. atheists.org - 994 http://www.atheists.org/news/Irish_atheists_challenge_new_blasphemy_laws Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 1, 2010) - Secular campaigners publish series of anti-religious quotes and say they will challenge law if charged with blasphemy atheists.org - 1648 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Most_Pressing_Question Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 12, 2010) - What is it, finally, that divides the believer from the atheist? atheists.org - 1649 http://www.atheists.org/news/Inside_the_mind_of_one_atheist_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 12, 2010) - What's it like to be an atheist in Colorado Springs, home of the religious right? atheists.org - 996 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Year%5C%27s_Partiers%2C_Preachers_Clash_in_%5C%27Sin_City%5C%27_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 1, 2010) - The blonde pulled up her shirt to expose her breasts, the male couple French-kissed with reckless abandon and the gang of friends from the University of Vermont posed for pictures holding up yard-long drinks and brandishing obscene hand gestures. All standard fare for New Year's Eve here, to be sure. atheists.org - 997 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Why_Don%5C%27t_Moderate_Muslims_Police_Their_Own%3F%5C%27_Here%5C%27s_One_Who_Did. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 1, 2010) - Surely you've heard that question asked many times over the past decade. Before we all get lost in election-year political recriminations over the Christmas Day terrorism attack, let's note that there was a hero to this story who hasn't gotten as much credit as he deserves: atheists.org - 998 http://www.atheists.org/news/Biblical_scholar%5C%27s_date_for_rapture%3A_May_21%2C_2011__Read_more%3A_http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sfgate.com%2Fcgi-bin%2Farticle. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 2, 2010) - Harold Camping lets out a hearty chuckle when he considers the people who believe the world will end in 2012. atheists.org - 999 http://www.atheists.org/news/Assassin_shot_in_cartoonist%5C%27s_home_has_links_to_al-Qaida%2C_say_police Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 2, 2010) - Denmark shocked by return of Islamist terrorism after 2005 storm over drawings of the Prophet Muhammad atheists.org - 1000 http://www.atheists.org/news/Africa%5C%27s_apocalyptic_mood Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 3, 2009) - eligious fervour and the effects of climate change may combine with explosive effect over the coming months and years atheists.org - 1001 http://www.atheists.org/news/Brit_Hume_To_Tiger_Woods%3A_Convert_To_Christianity_To_Recover_From_Scandal_%28VIDEO%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 3, 2010) - Fox News' Brit Hume gave Tiger Woods some personal advice Sunday morning, telling the scandal-plagued (and Buddhist) golfer to 'turn to Christianity' to make a full recovery. atheists.org - 1002 http://www.atheists.org/news/Irish_atheists_use_Bjork%2C_Mark_Twain_to_challenge_blasphemy_law Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 3, 2010) - An Irish atheist group has published a series of quotations on religion in an attempt to challenge a blasphemy law that went into effect on New Year's Day atheists.org - 1003 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rick_Warren%5C%27s_Recession--and_the_Saddleback_Stimulus Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 3, 2010) - Rick Warren has a hard-earned reputation as a hugely successful megachurch pastor who specializes in mentoring other pastors in the United States and around the globe -- when he's not pitching his bestselling books or counseling presidents and world leaders, or jetting off to Davos for high-level talks. atheists.org - 1004 http://www.atheists.org/news/Irish_Befuddled_By_New_Blasphemy_Law Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 4, 2010) - A new blasphemy law went into effect in Ireland with the new year, and it was greeted with a certain amount of bemusement. atheists.org - 1005 http://www.atheists.org/news/Theology_for_atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 4, 2010) - Theology lets us talk about deep and irrational urges. This is seen by some atheists as weakness. But maybe it's a strength as well atheists.org - 1006 http://www.atheists.org/news/Without_God%2C_Without_Leader%2C_Harlem_Atheists_Have_Faith_in_Future Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 4, 2010) - Once a month, Harlem atheists, along with a smattering of outerborough residents, gather at the Adam Clayton Powell State Building on 125th Street to discuss the ubiquitous role of religion in American society. atheists.org - 1007 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_Right_Goes_Nuts_Over_Transgender_Appointee_Amanda_Simpson Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 5, 2010) - Amanda Simpson, who was named by President Obama to be senior technical adviser for the Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security, has worked in the field for over 30 years. But prominent figures on the religious right are claiming that she was picked only as part of some transsexual agenda. atheists.org - 1008 http://www.atheists.org/news/Idaho_GOP_gubernatorial_candidate_Rammell_expands_on_controversial_prophecy_in_YouTube_video Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 5, 2010) - Idaho GOP gubernatorial candidate Rex Rammell says saving the U.S. Constitution requires God's help. Rammell's thoughts are captured in a nine-minute excerpt from a recent news conference now available on YouTube. atheists.org - 1009 http://www.atheists.org/news/Blasphemy_laws%3A_A_dangerous_anachronism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 5, 2010) - Atheists are others are protesting a new law in Ireland, under which a person can be found guilty of blasphemy if "he or she publishes or utters matter that is grossly abusive or insulting in relation to matters held sacred by any religion, thereby causing outrage among a substantial number of the adherents of that religion." atheists.org - 1010 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_weigh_in_on_prayer_at_Tampa_council_meetings Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 6, 2010) - The debate over the invocation at Tampa City Council meetings continues. Now, the nonprofit group Atheists of Florida is weighing in. In a letter to the Times, the group's chairman, John Kieffer, said the "practice of prayer rituals" is unconstitutional, confrontational and a "disgusting and unfair utilization of government venues." atheists.org - 1011 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_College_Students_Glorify_an_%5C%27Egomaniac%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Januasry 6, 2010) - God is the most God-centered person in the universe, says Baptist pastor John Piper. And some people take offense to that. atheists.org - 1012 http://www.atheists.org/news/Maybe_Brit_Hume_Should_Preach_Buddhism_._. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 6, 2010) - Maybe Brit Hume Should Preach Buddhism . . atheists.org - 1013 http://www.atheists.org/news/At_Mayor%E2%80%99s_Breakfast%2C_%E2%80%98Interfaith%E2%80%99_Means_Atheists%2C_Too Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 7, 2010) - Six newcomers to Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg’s annual interfaith breakfast stood out in the crowd of more than 400 religious leaders draped in vestments varying from turban to cassock. atheists.org - 1014 http://www.atheists.org/news/Revisionaries Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 7. 2010) - How a group of Texas conservatives is rewriting your kids’ textbooks. atheists.org - 1015 http://www.atheists.org/news/Court_dismisses_atheist%5C%27s_lawsuit_regarding_Fort_Riley Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 7, 2010) - TOPEKA | A federal judge in Kansas dismissed a lawsuit Thursday by an atheist soldier who claimed his rights were violated because he had to attend events where prayers were said while stationed at Fort Riley. atheists.org - 1016 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vegas_Covers_Its_Nipples Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 8, 2010) - Absurd development in the national capital of reckless abandon: County officials in Las Vegas are putting their foot down about some nipples featured in a painted mural decorating the Erotic Heritage Museum. atheists.org - 1651 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens%3A_His_Cancer_Story_So_Far Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 12, 2010) - To some Christians, Christopher Hitchens getting struck by cancer seemed to be a clear message from the God he had spoken against in his book, “God Is Not Great: The Case Against Religion” (or God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything), but to Hitchens it’s simply “just not a good cancer to get”. atheists.org - 1018 http://www.atheists.org/news/Islam_Is%5C%22_Google_Suggests_Don%5C%27t_Appear_%28PHOTOS%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 8, 2010) - Usually, when you type a query into Google, a list of possible searches from Google Suggest will appear. atheists.org - 1019 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hollywood%5C%27s_Christian_Blockbuster Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 8, 2010 - The Blind Side has tackled Hollywood, passing the $200 million mark this week. Nicole LaPorte examines the underground, faith-based force that’s fueling the film’s success. atheists.org - 1020 http://www.atheists.org/news/_A_Divine_Right_to_Run_for_Office_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 8, 2010) - Surprising as it seems, we’re now in another election year, so I’m wondering if we’ll see any more barriers broken by people who historically were considered unfit for public office. atheists.org - 1021 http://www.atheists.org/news/Student%2C_community_groups_bring_together_non-believers%2C_free_thinkers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 9, 2010) - Tony Kiegel works on aviation radar and communications systems for the Federal Aviation Administration in Evansville. He is, he says, a product of an evangelical Christian education and upbringing. And he is an atheist. atheists.org - 1022 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Allah%5C%27_Feud_In_Malaysia%3A_Fourth_Church_Firebombed Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 9, 2010) - A fourth church in Malaysia was hit by firebombs Saturday, stoking concern among Christians as a dispute rages over the use of the word "Allah" by non-Muslims. atheists.org - 1023 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_God_Fraud_--_Harris_Responds_toiArmstrong Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 9, 2010) - Best-selling atheist author Sam Harris pushes back against Karen Armstrong's sympathetic take on religion. atheists.org - 1024 http://www.atheists.org/news/Did_Noah_Get_Around_in_a_Circular_Ark%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 10, 2010) - Ask any Christian, Jew or Muslim to draw you a picture of Noah's ark and you'll probably get a sketch of a regular wooden boat being boarded by a procession of animals – two by two, of course. atheists.org - 1025 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rick_Warren_and_the_martyr_mythology_of_the_religious_right_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 10, 2010) - A couple of weeks ago, in "Uganda 'kill the gays' story underscores--bearing false witness lies at 'Religious Right's' core", I quoted the following from Rick Warren's belated public rejection of the Ugandan bill that would put gays to death: atheists.org - 1026 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_God_We_Don%5C%27t_Trust%2C_the_Irish_Stheists_Say Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 10, 2010) - A survey some time ago in Ireland, that most devout of Christian and Catholic-dominated of countries, found that only 53 % of people believe in hell, so the other 47 % either haven’t been married, or creeping atheism is afoot even there. atheists.org - 1027 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_letter_to_all_peace-loving_Muslims Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 11, 2010) - I appeal to all peace-loving Muslims to urge the government to stop pursuing this matter of Allah's name. atheists.org - 1028 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ugandan_Lawmaker_Refuses_to_Withdraw_Anti-Homosexuality_Bill Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 11, 2010) - The Ugandan lawmaker who proposed a highly contentious bill that would, if enacted, broaden the criminalization of homosexuality in the east African nation said Friday that he will refuse any request to withdraw the legislation. atheists.org - 1029 http://www.atheists.org/news/Only_Biblical_Literalists_May_Be_Alabama_Governor Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 11, 2010) - There's a rather amusing brouhaha going on in Alabama where a Republican candidate for governor named Bradley Byrne is having to assure voters that he believes every word of the Bible to be literally true. atheists.org - 1030 http://www.atheists.org/news/Everybody%5C%27s_a_blasphemer_by_Herb_Silverman_-_The_Washington_Post Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 11, 2010) - Atheists are others are protesting a new law in Ireland, under which a person can be found guilty of blasphemy if "he or she publishes or utters matter that is grossly abusive or insulting in relation to matters held sacred by any religion, thereby causing outrage among a substantial number of the adherents of that religion." The penalty is a fine of up to about $35,000. Should Ireland or any nation have a law against blasphemy? atheists.org - 1031 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_Slams_%5C%27Avatar%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 12, 2010) - "Avatar" is wooing audiences worldwide with visually dazzling landscapes and nature-loving blue creatures. But the Vatican is no easy crowd to please. atheists.org - 1032 http://www.atheists.org/news/Steve_Schmidt%3A_Palin_Believed_Candidacy_%5C%27God%5C%27s_Plan%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 12, 2009) - WASHINGTON — Sarah Palin believed that Sen. John McCain chose her to be his running mate in 2008 because of "God's plan," according to a top political strategist in the Arizona Republican's campaign. atheists.org - 1033 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Christian_Anti-Gay_Campaign Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 12, 2010) - Christian evangelicals helped spur Uganda to seek the death penalty for gay behavior—just the latest indication that homosexuals have replaced Jews as the new target for reactionary religious zeal. atheists.org - 1034 http://www.atheists.org/news/POLITICAL_PRAYER%3A_Atheist_group_wants_lawmakers_to_stop_praying_before_session Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 13, 2010) - DES MOINES, Iowa - Monday's legislative session began like most sessions; with a prayer. But the group "Iowa Atheists and Freethinkers" wants to put an end to the practice by sending lawmakers an e-mail demanding the prayers stop. atheists.org - 1035 http://www.atheists.org/news/2nd_group_asks_Tampa_City_Council_to_halt_invocations Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 13, 2010) - TAMPA - Another group is calling on the Tampa City Council to abolish its decades-old tradition of opening public meetings with prayer. atheists.org - 1036 http://www.atheists.org/news/BREAKING%21_Pat_Robertson%3A_Haiti_%5C%22Cursed%5C%22_After_%5C%22Pact_to_the_Devil%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 13, 2010) - NEW YORK (CBS) Pat Robertson, the American Christian televangelist and host of "The 700 Club," said that Haitians need to have a "great turning to god" while he was reporting on the devastating 7.0 earthquake that shook the island nation — the most powerful to hit the country in a century. atheists.org - 1037 http://www.atheists.org/news/Haiti%5C%27s_%5C%22pact_with_the_devil%5C%22_myth Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 14, 2010) - How Pat Robertson turned a country's origin myth into a cheap invocation of Satanism atheists.org - 1038 http://www.atheists.org/news/__culturebox_James_Cameron_Hates_America%3A_The_conservative_attack_on_Avatar._ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 January 14, 2010) - James Cameron's Avatar has been greeted on the right with the kind of immediate snarling antagonism reserved for Oliver Stone pics. atheists.org - 1039 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_students_silenced Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 15, 2010) - Concordia College is in a period of modernization. In the two and a half years I have called myself a Cobber, it seems like just about everything at the school has changed. atheists.org - 1040 http://www.atheists.org/news/Letter_of_the_day%3A_Haiti_suffers%2C_and_Robertson_sees_the_hand_of_Satan Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 15, 2010) - In a small paragraph on page A10 of the Jan. 14 Star Tribune is a report about the remarks made by evangelical broadcaster Pat Robertson. atheists.org - 1042 http://www.atheists.org/news/Problems_of_Transhumanism%3A_Atheism_vs._Naturalist_Theologies Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 16, 2010)-- The dominant trajectory of Enlightenment thought over the last three hundred years has been towards atheism. Most transhumanists are atheists. atheists.org - 1043 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_Board_Delays_Vote%3B_Defends_Christian_Influence_in_U.S._History Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 16, 2010) - The Texas State Board of Education has delayed its first vote on a new social studies curriculum to March. atheists.org - 1044 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rush_and_Robertson%3A_Shameless_Haiti_Wingnuts Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 16, 2010) - Tragedies like the earthquake unite most of us—except the Wingnut fringe, who can’t understand the suffering of those outside their tribe. That’s why Limbaugh and Robertson put such a nasty spin on the devastation, says John Avlon. atheists.org - 1045 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pat_Robertson_vs._The_Devil_in_%5C%27BabbleHeads%2C%5C%27_Plus_POTUS_Priorities_Sudoku Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 17, 2010) - Today, Pat Robertson and The Devil debate Haiti pacts and divine punishment (click here for more BabbleHeads). atheists.org - 1046 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Fault_Is_Not_a_Sin Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 17, 2010) - It's idiotic to blame anything other than geology for the Haitian earthquake. By Christopher Hitchens atheists.org - 1047 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Richard_Dawkins_aids_Haiti%2C_touts_God-free_giving Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 17, 2010) - Donations to faith-based aid groups are soaring and believers get a great deal of just credit for stepping up to help in Haiti. Now unbelievers want the world to know they're just as caring. atheists.org - 1048 http://www.atheists.org/news/Go_to_Hell%2C_Pat_Robertson%3A_Haiti_Needs_Help%2C_Not_Stupidity Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 17, 2010) - Haiti is suffering, and the only response from Christians and other decent human beings is compassion, love, and all the concrete support we can supply. atheists.org - 1049 http://www.atheists.org/news/U.S._Military_Weapons_Inscribed_With_Secret_%5C%27Jesus%5C%27_Bible_Codes_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 18, 2010 - Pentagon Supplier for Rifle Sights Says It Has 'Always' Added New Testament References atheists.org - 1050 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_atheist%5C%27s_dilemma_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 18, 2010) - Reason and faith battle it out in the story of a celebrity philosopher and his tumultuous past atheists.org - 1051 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_Robertson_right_about_Haiti%3F_Haitian_Christian_researcher_disputes_Satan_pact_claim Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 18, 2010) - A distinguished Haitian Christian minister and scientist who researched rumors about Haiti's 18th century independence movement's alleged pact with Satan, cited by TV evangelist Pat Robertson as the source of the country's poverty, pestilence and earthquake woes, is little more than an uncorroborated rumor. atheists.org - 1052 http://www.atheists.org/news/Devil%5C%27s_advocate%3A_Pat_Robertson_and_Haiti%5C%27s_curse Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 19, 2010) -- Another critic weighs in -- and evidence mounts that Pat Roberetson made a false claim about an alleged Haitian "pact with Satan." atheists.org - 1054 http://www.atheists.org/news/Despite_Extensive_Online_Discussions%2C_Military_Denies_Knowledge_Of_Rifle_Scope_Bible_Verses Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 19, 2010) - Responding to the revelation that rifle sights used by the military in Iraq and Afghanistan are inscribed with Bible citations, a Marine Corps spokesman told TPMmuckraker today that the branch simply didn't know about the inscriptions until inquiries were made last week. atheists.org - 1055 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Avatar%5C%27%3A_Backlash_Builds_Against_Film_and_Filmmaker_James_Cameron Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 19, 2010) - Russians, Conservatives, Atheists, Blacks and Disabled Take Swipes at 'Avatar' atheists.org - 1056 http://www.atheists.org/news/Teacher_With_Bible_Divides_Ohio_Town_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 20, 2010) - MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — Most people in this quiet all-American town describe themselves as devoutly Christian, but even here they are deeply divided over what should happen to John Freshwater. atheists.org - 1057 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Pope%5C%27s_Newspaper_Goes_%5C%27Pop%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 20, 2010) - If The New York Times was known as "the Gray Lady" of journalism for its staid appearance, then L'Osservatore Romano could justifiably have been called "The Dowager Queen." atheists.org - 1058 http://www.atheists.org/news/Firm_to_Remove_Bible_References_From_Gun_Sights_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 21, 2010) - Bowing to Pentagon concerns and an international outcry, a Michigan arms company said Thursday that it would immediately stop embossing references to New Testament Scriptures on rifle sights it sells the military. atheists.org - 1059 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Zealand_Army_To_Remove_Bible_Citations_From_Rifle_Sights Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 21, 2010) - Biblical citations inscribed on U.S.-manufactured weapon sights used by New Zealand's troops in Afghanistan will be removed because they are inappropriate and could stoke religious tensions, New Zealand said Thursday. atheists.org - 1060 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Burqa_Ban%3F_Keep_the_State_Out_of_America%5C%27s_Closets Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 21, 2010) - Delia -- thanks for a thoughtful response to Bonnie Erbe's great conversation starter on banning the burqa, especially the argument that the melting pot (or salad bowl, or whatever metaphor you prefer) is one of the things that makes America great. atheists.org - 1061 http://www.atheists.org/news/Robertson_Chided_for_%5C%27Arrogance%2C%5C%27_%5C%27Ignorance%5C%27_Behind_Haiti_Curse_Remark Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 21, 2010) - Controversial charismatic Pat Robertson has put his foot in his mouth with yet another post-disaster remark – this time regarding the hard-hit country of Haiti. atheists.org - 1062 http://www.atheists.org/news/Terra_Incognita%3A_A_clash_of_cultures_or_ideologies%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 22, 2010) - In the waning months of 1775 an elderly imam named Sayf ibn Ahmed al-Atiqi lay dying in Sudayr, a region north of Riyadh. Atiqi was a well known imam of the Nejd and he had spent his dying days opposing a new religious movement named Wahhabism. atheists.org - 1063 http://www.atheists.org/news/36_Arguments_for_the_Existence_of_God_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 22, 2010) - This clever novel manages to blend existential ponderings with humor and sharp writing. atheists.org - 1064 http://www.atheists.org/news/Haiti_and_the_Pat_Robertson_Paradox Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 22, 2010) - Here's the Pat Robertson paradox: Maybe the overwhelming condemnation of his comments about Haiti following the earthquake is evidence of how much religion continues to matter to many Americans. atheists.org - 1065 http://www.atheists.org/news/Satire%3A_An_atheist%5C%27s_search_for_sacramental_wine_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 23, 2010) - Mark Schatzker discovers Ontario's most glorious liquor law loophole atheists.org - 1066 http://www.atheists.org/news/Paul_Bettany_on_Charles_Darwin%3A_%5C%27He_Was_an_Atheist_and_So_Am_I%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 23, 2010) - Paul Bettany is going to opposite extremes in his current big screen appearances atheists.org - 1067 http://www.atheists.org/news/Free_speech_ruling_seen_as_a_threat_to_separation_of_church_and_state_and_to_democratic_system_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 23, 2010) - The Supreme Court ruling that allows corporations to spend unlimited funds in political campaigns could further increase the influence of the religious right, which has already made substantial inroads into the political system. atheists.org - 1068 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pat_Robertson%5C%27s_Haitian_Theodicy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 24, 2010) - Religion-based bigotry has been the mainstay of Rev. Pat Robertson's bully pulpit. And he mounts this pulpit as an uber-God, possessed with an inherent omniscience in knowing not only the mundane and wicked thoughts and actions of man but also in knowing the cataclysmic actions of God's wrath on man. atheists.org - 1069 http://www.atheists.org/news/ABC_News_profiles_Greg_Epstein%2C_%5C%22godless%5C%22_movement Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 25, 2010) -- Harvard Chaplain and godless Humanist Greg Epstein talks to ABC Nightly News. atheists.org - 1070 http://www.atheists.org/news/Counterpoint%3A_Is_the_United_States_a_Christian_Nation%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 25, 2010) - Mention the topic of religion in a standard American conversation, and you’re likely to ignite a blaze of spiritual devotion or spark an impassioned declaration of emancipation from religious restraint. atheists.org - 1071 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_John_Paul_II_Used_Belt_To_Whip_Himself%2C_Book_Claims Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 26, 2010) - Pope John Paul II whipped himself with a belt, even on vacation, and slept on the floor as acts of penitence and to bring him closer to Christian perfection, according to a new book by the Polish prelate spearheading his sainthood case. atheists.org - 1072 http://www.atheists.org/news/More_%5C%22Godless%5C%22_billboards_go_up_aroundTampa__Bay_area_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 26, 2010) - More "Godless" billboards go up around Bay area atheists.org - 1073 http://www.atheists.org/news/Humanist_chaplains_head_to_the_UK Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 26, 2010) - Do atheists need humanist chaplains if they have a crisis? It seems the demand is growing for non-religious chaplaincy services, but whether we can afford them is another matter atheists.org - 1074 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fundamentalists_and_the_Atheists_Who_Love_Them Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 27, 2010) - As a general rule, I try to avoid writing about both Pat Robertson and Richard Dawkins. atheists.org - 1075 http://www.atheists.org/news/Polls_show_Americans_embracing_elements_of_other_faiths Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 27, 2010) - Americans hold a hodgepodge of religious beliefs and practices. atheists.org - 1076 http://www.atheists.org/news/CBS_making_huge_mistake_with_Tebow_ad Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 28, 2010) - Will network accept message from atheist group? Probably not atheists.org - 1077 http://www.atheists.org/news/Federal_judge_says_Forsyth_County_must_stop_allowing_sectarian_prayer_at_public_meetings Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 28, 2010) - Federal District Court Judge James A. Beaty this morning ruled that Forsyth County is violating the U.S. Constitution by allowing prayers with sectarian references before meetings of the county board of commissioners. atheists.org - 1078 http://www.atheists.org/news/Haiti_and_the_hypocrisy_of_Christian_theology Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 28, 2010) - British evolutionary biologist and author Richard Dawkins Former Professor of the Public Understanding of Science at Oxford; author of "The God Delusion" and "The Greatest Show on Earth." atheists.org - 1079 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Fresh_Prince%5C%27_Prankster_Calls_Christian_TV Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 29, 2010) - Hello GOD TV, it's the Internet calling! There's a new trend happening, and if you're up watching late night ChristTV, you might be familiar with it. READ MORE AND SEE THE VIDEO atheists.org - 1080 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_Atheists_Don%5C%27t_Turn_to_Religion_When_Faced_with_Death_or_Disaster Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 29, 2010) - The notion that 'there are no atheists in foxholes' isn't just mistaken, it's bigoted and ugly; a denial of atheists' humanity and the reality of our experience with death. atheists.org - 1081 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Does_an_Atheist_Come_to_Believe_in_God%3F%3A_An_Interview_with_Jacob_Needleman_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 30, 2010) - RD’s senior editor sits down with philosopher Jacob Needleman, whose autobiography What is God? describes his journey from young Ivy-educated professor and atheist, to talk about fundamentalism, atheism, separating the sacred from religion, and why listening is the first step of every ethics. atheists.org - 1082 http://www.atheists.org/news/Q_and_A_session_with_Marcus_Brigstocke Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 30, 2010) - The Radio 4 satirist and TV regular talks atheism, anger and being argumentative. atheists.org - 1083 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tim_Tebow%3A_A_case_of_ad_nauseam Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 31, 2010) - God, it's about time athletes understand it's a multifaith society atheists.org - 1084 http://www.atheists.org/news/Somalia_Islamist_group_bans_video_games Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 31, 2010) - MOGADISHU — Somalia's Islamist insurgents on Thursday banned video games, one of the last forms of entertainment left for local youth, arguing they were destroying the country's social fabric. atheists.org - 1085 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_Seeks_to_Further_Define_Separation_of_Church_%26_State_for_California_Marriages Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 31, 2010) - As the gay marriage debate continues in the courts and within communities, a newly introduced bill by State Senator Mark Leno may win over church leaders who are opposed to same-sex unions. atheists.org - 1087 http://www.atheists.org/news/CREW_To_Obama%3A_Skip_The_National_Prayer_Breakfast Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 1, 2010) - A prominent good government group is demanding that President Obama and members of Congress skip this year's National Prayer Breakfast, calling its organizer "shadowy" and "cult-like." atheists.org - 1088 http://www.atheists.org/news/Alleged_atheist_hoax_reincarnates_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 1, 2010) - Petition asks FCC to not ban religious programming atheists.org - 1089 http://www.atheists.org/news/California_Mayor%3A_Growing_a_Christian_City Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 1, 2010) - Is this story for real? Unfortunately, yes... atheists.org - 1090 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tim_Tebow_Goes_for_the_Conversion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 2, 2010) - The real meaning of the quarterback's pro-life Super Bowl ad. atheists.org - 1091 http://www.atheists.org/news/North_Carolina_Politicians_Seek_to_Unseat_Councilman_Because_He%5C%27s_an_Atheist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 2, 2010) - The North Carolina constitution bars state office to "any person who shall deny the being of Almighty God." An Asheville councilman is prepared to put that clause to the test. atheists.org - 1092 http://www.atheists.org/news/AFA_Favors_Forced_%5C%22Reparative_Therapy%5C%22_For_Gays_-_And_You_Too Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 2, 2010) - The American Family Association's Bryan Fischer says he's not in favor of putting gays and lesbians in jail -- he just wants them to be forced to go to "effective reparative therapy" to cure them of being gay. atheists.org - 1093 http://www.atheists.org/news/Daniel_Dennett%3A_Religious_no_longer_a_protected_class Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 3, 2010) - Dennett is the Austin B. Fletcher Professor of Philosophy and Co-Director of the Center for Cognitive Studies at Tufts University. His most recent book was "Breaking the Spell." atheists.org - 1094 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_Takes_On_Birthers%2C_Uganda_Anti-Gay_Law_At_Prayer_Breakfast_%28VIDEO%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 4, 2010) -- Speaking Thursday morning at the National Prayer Breakfast, a conciliatory President Barack Obama urged attendees to bypass grievances in their efforts to push forward morally and socially responsible policy. atheists.org - 1095 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scientologists_in_Haiti%3A_A_Firsthand_Account Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 4, 2010 - We've spoken to someone who traveled to Haiti on a Scientology plane — and witnessed firsthand the ineptitude, quackery and irresponsibility of the church's minions in a disaster zone. Here's his account. atheists.org - 1096 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Fallacy_of_the_God_Gene Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 4, 2010) - Two major newspapers did what all mainstream media do best: Get the story wrong. The New York Times published "The Evolution of the God Gene" by Nicholas Wade in which we are told that, "religion has the hallmarks of an evolved behavior, meaning it exists because it was favored by natural selection." atheists.org - 1098 http://www.atheists.org/news/Turkish_Girl_Buried_Alive_For_Talking_To_Boys Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 5, 2010) - The body of a 16-year-old girl who police say was buried alive by relatives in an "honor" killing carried out as punishment for talking to boys has been discovered in Kahta, Turkey. atheists.org - 1099 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_wants_prayer_out_at_City_Council Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 5, 2010) - TAMPA, FL -- An atheist group took their requests to end prayer in city government meetings to Tampa City Council for the second time Thursday. atheists.org - 1100 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_%28Prayer%29_Breakfast_Club%3A_Obama_Does_the_Lion%5C%27s_Den_Again Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 5, 2010) - President Obama's address at the National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday was a given -- the chief executive has been the main speaker since the event began in 1953. atheists.org - 1101 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_group%5C%27s_gay_gaffe_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 6, 2010) - Lesbian couple not sufficiently ugly for Florida Family Policy Council atheists.org - 1102 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scientists_celebrate_evolution_on_Darwin%5C%27s_birthday Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 6, 2010) - Darwin Day came in a big way last year — with hundreds of Feb. 12 celebrations noting the bicentennial birthday of evolution's icon all over the globe. atheists.org - 1652 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sakineh_Mohammadi_Ashtiani%2C_Woman_Who_Faced_Stoning_Death%2C_%5C%27Confesses%5C%27_On_Iranian_State_TV_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 12, 2010) - A lawyer for an Iranian woman who had faced death by stoning on an adultery conviction said Thursday he suspects she was tortured into confessing that she was an unwitting accomplice to her husband's murder. atheists.org - 1653 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_sues_for_grant_refund_from_landmark_cross Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 12, 2010) - ST. LOUIS — An atheist is suing to force the administrators of a towering cross in southern Illinois to return a $20,000 state grant toward its restoration, saying Thursday it was "blatantly unconstitutional" to spend taxpayer money on a Christian symbol. atheists.org - 1121 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mexican_Lower_House_Approves_Bill_to_Separate_Church_and_State Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 13, 2010) - Mexico’s lower house of Congress approved a constitutional amendment that formally establishes the separation of church and state after religious leaders criticized legislation on gay rights and abortion. atheists.org - 1122 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Christian_Were_the_Founders%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 13, 2010)- LAST MONTH, A WEEK before the Senate seat of the liberal icon Edward M. Kennedy fell into Republican hands, his legacy suffered another blow that was perhaps just as damaging, if less noticed. It happened during what has become an annual spectacle in the culture wars. atheists.org - 1123 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kentucky%E2%80%99s_%E2%80%9CIntellectual_Freedom%E2%80%9D_Act Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 13, 2010) - Republican Representative Tim Moore has introduced a new bill in the Kentucky House of Representatives that would let teachers promote “objective discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of scientific theories.” atheists.org - 1125 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lindsay_Lohan%5C%27s_Jesus_look_incites_anger%2C_laughter Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 14, 2010) - Is it time for the Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen star to go to Confession? atheists.org - 1126 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Promise_to_Care_for_Pets_After_Rapture Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 14, 2010) - If, as millions of fundamentalist Christians believe, the Rapture is imminent, who will take care of the pets of those who are suddenly spirited away to heaven? atheists.org - 1341 http://www.atheists.org/news/UPDATE%3A_Escort_Says_Rekers_Is_Gay%2C_Paid_Him_To_Perform_Nude_Body_Rubs Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 6, 2010) - "It's a situation where he's going against homosexuality when he is a homosexual," the young man told the New Times, adding that Rekers -- who repeatedly asked for a move he dubbed "The Long Stroke" -- ought to divorce himself from his many anti-gay associations. atheists.org - 1342 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_call_on_Tampa_City_Council_to_halt_public_prayer Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 6, 2010) - Members of a secular group packed Tampa City Council chambers this morning, calling on the board to abolish its decades-old practice of opening meetings with prayer. atheists.org - 1128 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_We_Don%5C%27t_Need_Religion_to_Give_Life_Mystery Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (January 15, 2010) -- If you're worried that we're in danger of understanding everything about the universe, you can relax. atheists.org - 1129 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_v._Minister Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 15, 2010) - San Francisco area Atheist and activist Mark Thomas takes on Rev. John Sullivan on the theme "Love Thy Neighbor" atheists.org - 1130 http://www.atheists.org/news/NCAA_Football_Committee_OKs_Ban_on_%5C%27Eye_Black%5C%27_Notes Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 15, 2010) - The NCAA Football Rules Committee agreed Wednesday to bar players from displaying words, numbers, logos and other symbols in the anti-glare “eye black” they underline their eyes with. atheists.org - 1131 http://www.atheists.org/news/Speakers_debate_legality_of_Ten_Commandments_monument Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 16, 2010) - Experts discussed the constitutionality of a Haskell County Courthouse monument of the Ten Commandments on Friday at the College of Law. atheists.org - 1132 http://www.atheists.org/news/Missionaries_Go_to_Haiti%2C_Followed_by_Scrutiny_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 16, 2010) - PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — Their holy books vary widely and so does their disaster apparel. Devotees of Supreme Master Ching Hai, a Vietnamese spiritual leader, wore fluorescent yellow vests on their way into quake-damaged Haiti. atheists.org - 1133 http://www.atheists.org/news/When_athletes_praise_God_at_the_Super_Bowl_and_other_sports_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 16, 2010) - The problem isn’t the faith of believers like Drew Brees. It’s the media assumption that every person of faith adheres to a highly traditional version of Christianity. atheists.org - 1134 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_billboard_vandalized Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 17, 2010) - SACRAMENTO, Feb. 17 (UPI) -- A billboard near Sacramento promoting atheism was vandalized by someone depicting atheists as lost, one of the billboard's sponsor said. atheists.org - 1135 http://www.atheists.org/news/Roger_Ebert%3A_The_Essential_Man Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 17, 2010) - "I know it is coming, and I do not fear it, because I believe there is nothing on the other side of death to fear," he writes in a journal entry titled "Go Gently into That Good Night." atheists.org - 1136 http://www.atheists.org/news/Controversial_Schultheis_public_schools_religion_bill_ends_in_a_whimper Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 17, 2010) - Renfroe: ‘Religions are under attack in our schools-- except for the religion of global warming’ atheists.org - 1137 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_train_to_remove_roadside_memorials Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 18, 2010) - A Christian organization is denouncing an atheist group for a campaign that aims to desecrate roadside crosses. atheists.org - 1138 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_high_price_of_religious_defection_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 18, 2010) - Israel's ultra-orthodox Jews live in a sealed, parallel universe. Well, almost sealed, but getting out is tough atheists.org - 1139 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bible_Study_in_Kentucky_Schools%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 18, 2010) - There could be a new textbook on school desks in Kentucky soon. "There are so many aspects in the scripture relevant to literature-it's relevant to art, to music, to social issues as well," said Sen. David Boswell (D) Owensboro. atheists.org - 1140 http://www.atheists.org/news/Salvation_Army_Reaches_Settlement_in_Church-State_Suit Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 18, 2010) - The Salvation Army and the New York Civil Liberties Union have reached a settlement in a longstanding suit that sought to prevent the evangelical organization from violating church-state separation when providing social services. atheists.org - 1141 http://www.atheists.org/news/After_Clergy_Abuse_Scandals%2C_Ireland_Needs_a_New_St._Patrick Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 18, 2010) - At this point in the Catholic Church's long-running saga of the sexual abuse of children by priests there are few surprises and fewer heroes. atheists.org - 1142 http://www.atheists.org/news/Interview_--_Atheist_with_a_soul_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 19, 2010) - Philosopher and novelist Rebecca Goldstein speaks with Martin Levin about God and godlessness, and her new novel atheists.org - 1143 http://www.atheists.org/news/Eight_Cringeworthy_Celebrity_Jesus_Moments Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 19, 2010) - After Sir Elton John's breaking news that Jesus was "a super-intelligent gay man," we've dug up the finest gaffes and most intriguing celebrity perspectives on the one and only JC. atheists.org - 1144 http://www.atheists.org/news/Young_adults_%5C%27less_religious%2C%5C%27_not_necessarily_%5C%27more_secular%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 20, 2010) - Young adults today are less church-connected than prior generations were when they were in their 20s. But a new study finds they're just about as spiritual as their parents and grandparents were at those ages. atheists.org - 1145 http://www.atheists.org/news/Courthouse_Commandments_display_ignores_Ga._law Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 20, 2010) - With the blessing of local officials, members of a Baptist church came to the Tattnall County courthouse last week with a hammer, nails and a large framed copy of the Ten Commandments they hung inside near the entrance. atheists.org - 1146 http://www.atheists.org/news/Benny_Hinn_Divorce%3A_Wife_Suzanne_Hinn_Files_For_Divorce_From_Televangelist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 20, 2010) - The wife of televangelist Benny Hinn has filed for divorce from the high-profile pastor, whose reputation as an advocate of prosperity gospel has attracted millions of followers and criticism from lawmakers and watchdog groups over his lavish lifestyle. atheists.org - 1147 http://www.atheists.org/news/Did_Texans_walk_with_dinosaurs%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 20, 2010) - The latest survey of creationist attitudes in Texas shows them strangely fossilised atheists.org - 1148 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Sign_Described_as_%5C%22Hate_Speech%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 21, 2010) - A candidate for Illinois comptroller has sued the state over a decision related to the State Capitol building's holiday display. atheists.org - 1149 http://www.atheists.org/news/Helen_Kagin_started_camps_for_atheists%5C%27_kids Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 February 22, 2010 - Dr. Helen Kagin practiced medicine in Cincinnati for decades, but her family says that the most important work she did - and the work closest to her heart - had nothing to do with her profession. atheists.org - 1150 http://www.atheists.org/news/Time_for_a_Separation_of_Church_and_Sports%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 22, 2010) - After this month's Super Bowl, American Christians, especially the conservative evangelicals who enjoy a high profile in football, had good reason to feel good about themselves. atheists.org - 1151 http://www.atheists.org/news/Study_Links_Religion_and_Racism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 23, 2010) - In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus warned religious listeners against what today would be called “ingroup prejudice”: the tendency to think less of outsiders, especially those of another race. atheists.org - 1152 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tiger_Woods_to_Brit_Hume%3A_Buddha_is_Just_Alright_With_Me Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 24, 2010) - Tiger Woods received both acclaim and criticism for his choreographed statement of remorse Friday, with the critiques centering on his refusal to allow any questions from the media. atheists.org - 1153 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_aides_to_meet_with_atheists_on_White_House_grounds Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 25, 2010) - President Barack Obama has burnished his Christian credentials, courted Jewish support and preached outreach toward Muslims. On Friday, his administration will host a group that fits none of the above: America's nonbelievers. atheists.org - 1154 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholics%2C_Mormons_working_against_separation%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 25, 2010) - A Roman Catholic cardinal told a huge audience Tuesday at Brigham Young University that Mormons and Catholics must strive together to proclaim truth even as pressures mount to exclude religion from the public square. atheists.org - 1155 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Group_Heralds_%5C%27First_Time_in_History%5C%27_Policy_Briefing_with_White_House_Officials Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 26, 2010) - White House officials will this morning meet with leaders of the atheist community, who will discuss their concerns about the "privileging of religion" by the government "that harms real people," in the words of Sean Faircloth, executive director of the Secular Coalition of America. atheists.org - 1156 http://www.atheists.org/news/No_word_on_substance_of_White_House_meeting_with_atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 26, 2010) - A spokesman for the Secular Coalition for America, a group that includes atheists, said its representatives met for close to an hour and a half Friday with Obama administration officials from the public engagement office of the White House and from the departments of Justice, Health and Human Services and Defense atheists.org - 1157 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_meet_with_White_House_officials Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Februaryt 26, 2010) - The White House has been known to confer with religious leaders on important political and social issues -- for instance, a meeting on torture with several religious denominations in June or Obama's meeting with Buddhist leader the Dalai Lama just last week. atheists.org - 1158 http://www.atheists.org/news/Liberalism%2C_atheism%2C_male_sexual_exclusivity_linked_to_IQ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 26, 2010) - Political, religious and sexual behaviors may be reflections of intelligence, a new study finds. atheists.org - 1159 http://www.atheists.org/news/%EF%BB%BF_Update%3A_The_Secular_Coalition_for_America%E2%80%99s_Briefing_with_the_Obama_Administration Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 26, 2010) - I’m back from the briefing. Here is some of what all went down. After meeting in the Secular Coalition for America’s offices in DC, we made the trek to the EEOB, where the policy briefing would take place: atheists.org - 1160 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_consider_legal_action_over_bus_ads Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 27, 2010) - Organisers of a controversial campaign to get pro-atheism ads on buses say they may go to the Human Rights Review Tribunal after transport company NZ Bus backtracked on plans to allow the ads. atheists.org - 1161 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tony_Perkins_of_Family_Research_Council_Bumped_From_Prayer_Lunch Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 27, 2010) - Tony Perkins, head of the Family Research Council and a fierce critic of the Obama administration, says he was uninvited from participation in the National Prayer Luncheon scheduled for Thursday at Andrews Air Force Base. atheists.org - 1162 http://www.atheists.org/news/Retired_soldier_creates_military_association_for_atheists_in_Cove Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 27, 2010) - Some may look at retired 1st Sgt. Kathleen Johnson's 21-year military career and assume she stands by the tenets, "For God and country." With duty stations spanning from South Korea to Iraq, Johnson said she's always served her country – just leave God out of it. atheists.org - 1163 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins_in_bitter_web_censorship_row_with_fellow_atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 27, 2010) -- Professor Richard Dawkins is embroiled in a bitter online battle over plans to rid his popular internet forum for atheists of foul language, insults and “frivolous gossip”. atheists.org - 1164 http://www.atheists.org/news/Right_wing_slams_White_House_for_meeting_with_atheist_%E2%80%98hate_groups%E2%80%99 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 27, 2010) - Some conservative commentators are accusing the Obama administration of inviting "hate groups" into the White House by holding a meeting with a coalition of secularist and atheist groups. atheists.org - 1165 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dawkins_over-board Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 28, 2010) - Recently, Richard Dawkins shut down the forums on his website. The forums had gotten to being the biggest atheist boards on the internet, and thus probably amongst the glitchiest as the servers were getting flooded. atheists.org - 1166 http://www.atheists.org/news/Famed_Magician_Battles_Bogus_Bomb_Detectors Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (February 28, 2010) - James Randi, a magician who goes by the stage name "Amazing Randi" has waged a decades-long war on purveyors of the paranormal, pseudoscience, and other hoaxes. But now his war on fraud is hitting up against the war on terror, and specifically, ineffective bomb detectors that are being shilled to military and police forces around the world. atheists.org - 1167 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_Administration_Ripped_for_%E2%80%98Historic%E2%80%99_Meeting_with_Atheist_Anti-Religion_Hate_Groups Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 1, 2010) - The advocacy group In God We Trust today ripped the Obama administration for meeting to plot political strategy with 60 atheist activists representing organizations comprising the Secular Coalition of America. atheists.org - 1168 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sue_Myrick_Meets_the_Muslims_-_and_Brings_Backup Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 1, 2010) - Sue Myrick met the Muslims. atheists.org - 1169 http://www.atheists.org/news/Liberals_and_Atheists_Smarter%3F_Intelligent_People_Have_Values_Novel_in_Human_Evolutionary_History%2C_S Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 1, 2010) - More intelligent people are statistically significantly more likely to exhibit social values and religious and political preferences that are novel to the human species in evolutionary history. Specifically, liberalism and atheism, and for men (but not women), preference for sexual exclusivity correlate with higher intelligence, a new study finds. atheists.org - 1170 http://www.atheists.org/news/Prayer_Warriors_and_Palin_Organizing_Spiritual_Warfare_to_Take_Over_America Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 2, 2010)- Imagine a religious movement that makes geographic maps of where demons reside and claims among its adherents the Republican Party's most recent vice presidential nominee and whose leaders have presided over prayer sessions (one aimed at putting the kibosh on health-care reform) with a host of leading GOP figures. atheists.org - 1171 http://www.atheists.org/news/At_Texas_campus%2C_atheists_offer_porn_for_Bibles Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 2, 2010) - An atheist group asked students at the University of Texas, San Antonio, to trade in their Bibles for pornography. atheists.org - 1172 http://www.atheists.org/news/SMART_buses_to_carry_atheist_message Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 3, 2010 - "Don't believe in God? You are not alone." More than a dozen SMART buses bearing that message will hit major Metro area roads Thursday in an effort to let atheists know that there are like minded groups and individuals out there sharing their beliefs ... or lack thereof. atheists.org - 1173 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Family_Association%3A_Stone_To_Death_Killer_Whale_Who_Killed_Trainer Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 3, 2010) - The American Family Association, a religious right group, is urging that Tillikum (Tilly), the killer whale that killed a trainer at SeaWorld Orlando, be put down, preferably by stoning. Citing Tilly's history of violent altercations, the group is slamming SeaWorld for not listening to Scripture in how to deal with the animal: atheists.org - 2110 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_split_on_whether_it%5C%27s_%5C%27appropriate%5C%27_to_celebrate_Christmas Wed, 22 Dec 2010 22:07:35 -0500 (December 22nd, 2010) - Each year, Jennie Fiddes decorates a Christmas tree, wraps presents and polices a strict rule that forces her family members to wear pyjamas around the house all day on Dec. 25. atheists.org - 1654 http://www.atheists.org/news/Liz_Smith_on_Christopher_Hitchens_and_fighting_back... Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 14, 2010) - "I AM badly oppressed by a gnawing sense of waste..." atheists.org - 1655 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Still_trying_to_get_creationism_in_science_classes%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 14, 2010) - Writing on Religion Dispatches (August 11, 2010), Lauri Lebo anticipates the five-year anniversary of Kitzmiller v. Dover by rehearsing the connections between "intelligent design" and creationism, both in Dover, Pennsylvania, in 2005 and in Livingston Parish, Louisiana, in 2010. atheists.org - 1656 http://www.atheists.org/news/Activists_Call_for_US_Televangelist_to_Testify_at_Taylor_Trial Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 14, 2010) - Celebrities Naomi Campbell and Mia Farrow have testified at the Charles Taylor trial, but activists say it also would be useful for a well-known U.S. televangelist to make an appearance. atheists.org - 1657 http://www.atheists.org/news/Activists_Call_for_US_Televangelist_to_Testify_at_Taylor_Trial Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 14, 2010) - Celebrities Naomi Campbell and Mia Farrow have testified at the Charles Taylor trial, but activists say it also would be useful for a well-known U.S. televangelist to make an appearance. atheists.org - 1176 http://www.atheists.org/news/Porn_For_Bibles_At_Texas_College Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 4, 2010) - A student group at the University of Texas-San Antonio likens the Bible to porn -- so much so that they allow students on campus to trade religious texts for pornographic ones during an annual event. atheists.org - 1177 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kentucky_pride Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 4, 2010) - Kentuckians have something to live down right now, Ken Ham and his Cretin "Museum". atheists.org - 1178 http://www.atheists.org/news/Group_seeks_to_prove_atheists_can_be_giving_too Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 4, 2010) - Dale McGowan, executive director of the Alpharetta-based Foundation Beyond Belief, wants to encourage his fellow non-believers to give more to charity. atheists.org - 1179 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_Hit_By_Gay_Sex_Scandal Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 5, 2010) - The Vatican has been thrown into chaos by reports that one of the Pope's ceremonial ushers, as well as a member of the elite Vatican choir, were involved in a homosexual prostitution ring. atheists.org - 1180 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Little_Matter_of_Science%2C_Superiority%2C_and_Racism%3A_New_Atheism%5C%27s_Dangerous_Waters Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 5, 2010) - In a widely viewed article on CNN last week, Professor Satoshi Kanazawa of the London School of Economics announced the results of a study which he claims proves that atheists are smarter than believers. atheists.org - 1658 http://www.atheists.org/news/Activists_Call_for_US_Televangelist_to_Testify_at_Taylor_Trial Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 14, 2010)-- Celebrities Naomi Campbell and Mia Farrow have testified at the Charles Taylor trial, but activists say it also would be useful for a well-known U.S. televangelist to make an appearance. atheists.org - 1659 http://www.atheists.org/news/Afghan_Women_Have_Already_Been_Abandoned Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 16, 2010) - I know Bibi Aisha, the young Afghan woman pictured on the August 9 cover of Time, and I rejoice that her mutilated nose and ears are going to be surgically repaired. But the logic of those who use Aisha's story to convince us that the US military must stay in Afghanistan escapes me. Even Aisha has already left for America. atheists.org - 1660 http://www.atheists.org/news/Taliban_Stone_Couple_For_Adultery_In_Afghanistan_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 16, 2010) - Taliban militants in northern Afghanistan stoned a young couple to death for adultery, which a rights group said was the first confirmed use of the punishment here since the hardline Islamist regime was ousted in 2001. atheists.org - 1661 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_meeting_urges_spiritual_renewal%2C_opposition_to_secularism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 16, 2010) - They set the tone from the outset Saturday morning when more than 300 Roman Catholics stood to recite an extended version of the Pledge of Allegiance — concluding with the phrase, “with liberty and justice for all, born and unborn.” atheists.org - 1182 http://www.atheists.org/news/Liberals_smarter%3F_Porn_for_Bibles._Atheist_arrested_for_blasphemy._Banning_the_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 5, 2010) -- Welcome to The Critical Eye Podcast: Your source for Reason and Rationality! Your hosts are Blair Scott and Tom Hand. atheists.org - 1183 http://www.atheists.org/news/Controversy_Grows_over_Study_Claiming_Liberals_and_Atheists_Are_Smarter Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 5, 2010) - The author of a study claiming liberals and atheists are smarter than conservatives and believers is called 'great idiot of social science' by prominent evolutionary biologist. atheists.org - 1184 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hatred_Against_Atheists_And_Gays Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 March 7, 2010) - The typical hostility toward atheism emerges out of ignorance, and preconceptions. Most Americans are at least moderately religious, and take it is a given that morality comes from God. atheists.org - 1185 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_I_found_God_and_peace_with_my_atheist_brother%3A_PETER_HITCHENS_traces_his_journey_back_to_Christi Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 8, 2010) - During his teenage years and early 20s, Peter Hitchens lost his faith and rebelled against everything he had been brought up to believe in. Here, in a moving and thought-provoking account from his controversial new book, he describes his spiritual journey back to God - and the end of his feud with his brother atheists.org - 1186 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dawkins_celebrates_the_miracle_of_life_%E2%80%93_with_or_without_God_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 8, 2010) - THE scientist, author and outspoken atheist Richard Dawkins started his talk to a packed Opera House audience yesterday with a challenge – don't dare take your life for granted. atheists.org - 1187 http://www.atheists.org/news/6_Questions_for_an_Atheist_Undercover_in_an_Evangelical_Church Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 8, 2010) -- I know what it's like to be a Jew jonesing for Jesus -- at least for the purposes of a memoir. I spent a year going to 52 different churches each Sunday. atheists.org - 1188 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_Silent_on_Uganda%5C%27s_%5C%27Kill-the-Gays%5C%27_Bill Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 8, 2010) - Pope Benedict XVI met with the Roman Catholic hierarchy of Uganda at the Vatican last Friday and delivered a speech summing up what he saw as the main tasks of the church in the East African nation -- but made no mention of the draconian anti-homosexuality bill that has prompted an international outcry. atheists.org - 1189 http://www.atheists.org/news/Liberty_University%3A_Students_Flock_To_School_To_Study_Creationism_%28VIDEO%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 9, 2010) - An Agence France-Press report estimates that some 40 percent of the United States believe in creationism, which holds that the Earth was created by God only several thousand years ago. Students are flocking to Liberty University to study this literal interpretation of the Bible, much to the dismay of scientists. atheists.org - 1190 http://www.atheists.org/news/Florida_Atheists_angry_with_Governor_Crist_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 15, 2010) - The Atheists of Florida are accusing Governor Crist of ‘assaulting’ one of their members at a St. Petersburg Pizzeria this past Friday March 5th. Governor Crist was at the restaurant shaking hands with and talking to supporters. The Charlie Crist for US Senate Campaign refused to comment on this accusation. atheists.org - 1191 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christians_Counter_Global_Atheist_Convention Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 10, 2010) - The 2010 Global Atheist Convention is sold out, with some 2,500 people expected to attend the March 12-14 event at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Center. atheists.org - 1192 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church_Abuse_Scandals_%5C%27Creeping_Ever_Closer%5C%27_To_The_Pope Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 11, 2010) - Church abuse scandals in Germany have reached the older brother of Pope Benedict XVI and are creeping ever closer to the pontiff himself. atheists.org - 1193 http://www.atheists.org/news/Court_Upholds_%5C%27Under_God%5C%27_in_Pledge_of_Allegiance Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 11, 2010) - It also says 'In God We Trust' is fine on money atheists.org - 1194 http://www.atheists.org/news/Federal_court_approves_%5C%27under_God%5C%27_in_Pledge_of_Allegiance Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 11, 2010) - Atheist Michael Newdow challenged 'under God' in the Pledge of Allegiance and 'in God we trust' on US currency as unconstitutional endorsements of religion. But the Ninth US Circuit Court of Appeals said the references to God are grounded in historical philosophy and politics. atheists.org - 1195 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_-_a_fizzer_or_fantastic%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 11, 2010) - With the Global Atheist Conference about to kick off this weekend, it might be a good time to assess where atheism is at the moment atheists.org - 1196 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_meet_in_Melbourne_to_celebrate_lack_of_faith_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 12, 2010) - More than 2,000 atheists from around the world are gathering in Melbourne, Australia, to celebrate their lack of religious belief. atheists.org - 1197 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_Approves_Curriculum_Revised_by_Conservatives Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 12, 2010) - After three days of turbulent meetings, the Texas Board of Education on Friday approved a social studies curriculum that will put a conservative stamp on history and economics textbooks, stressing the superiority of American capitalism, questioning the Founding Fathers’ commitment to a purely secular government and presenting Republican political philosophies in a more positive light. atheists.org - 1198 http://www.atheists.org/news/Utah_GOP_Leader_Paid_Woman_%24150%2C000_After_Skinny-Dip Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 12, 2010) - A late-night confession by Utah's House majority leader about sitting nude in a hot tub with a minor 25 years ago has shocked this conservative state's political establishment but has not prompted calls from party leaders for him to resign. atheists.org - 1199 http://www.atheists.org/news/TEXAS_TEXTBOOK_MASSACRE__Education_Board_OKs_Radical_Changes%2C_Thomas_Jefferson_Cut_From_Curriculum_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 13, 2010) - Think Progress flags some of the more eye-opening revisions the Texas Board of Education approved for its social studies curriculum and textbooks: atheists.org - 1200 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_Board_of_Education_cuts_Thomas_Jefferson_out_of_its_textbooks. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 13, 2010) - The Texas Board of Education has been meeting this week to revise its social studies curriculum. During the past three days, “the board’s far-right faction wielded their power to shape lessons on the civil rights movement, the U.S. free enterprise system and hundreds of other topics”: atheists.org - 1201 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mysterious_rituals_of_the_atheists_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Marcvh 14, 2010) - Those declaring themselves godless provide a fascinating study for sociologists. atheists.org - 1202 http://www.atheists.org/news/International_Probe_Targets_Secretive_Catholic_Group Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 14, 2010) - As sex abuse scandals rock the Vatican, the results of an investigation into a rich, ultra-conservative and secretive Roman Catholic order founded by a priest accused of pedophilia and incest are due to be filed in Rome tomorrow. atheists.org - 1203 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scientologists_Accuse_Film_of_%5C%27Intolerance%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 14, 2010) - Scientology's image has taken a flurry of hits in the past six months. First, a high-profile member -- Oscar winning "Crash" director Paul Haggis -- defected. Then former employees alleged they were defrauded and treated like slaves by the church. And now Tom Cruise and Co. face a new threat from across the Atlantic. atheists.org - 1204 http://www.atheists.org/news/Irish_arrests_over_%5C%27plot_to_kill_Swedish_cartoonist%5C%27_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 14, 2010) - Seven people have been arrested in the Irish Republic over an alleged plot to kill a Swedish cartoonist for depicting the Prophet Muhammad, police say. atheists.org - 1205 http://www.atheists.org/news/Utah_GOP_Leader_Comes_Clean_On_Hot_Tubbing_Hush_Money Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 15, 2010) - Utah's House majority leader said late Thursday he paid a woman $150,000 to keep silent about going nude "hot-tubbing" with her when she was minor a quarter century ago atheists.org - 1206 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pro-atheist_bus_ads_vandalized Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 15, 2010) - Metro Detroit’s suburban bus system has replaced at least three pro-atheist advertisements that were vandalized. atheists.org - 1207 http://www.atheists.org/news/McEntee%3A_Garn%5C%27s_hot_tub_interlude_much_more_than_a_%5C%27mistake%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 15, 2010) - For Kevin Garn, it's been 25 years of hiding, of paying big money for "secrecy," of presenting himself as a devoted public servant, twice rising to the status of House Majority Leader in the Utah Legislature. atheists.org - 1208 http://www.atheists.org/news/Haddam_School_Board_Member_Rejects_Evolution Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 15, 2010) - Chester Harris was recently and narrowly elected to Region 17 school board. As a creationist, Harris has concerns about the teaching of evolution in the classroom. atheists.org - 1209 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hitchens_-_The_Great_Catholic_Cover-Up Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 15, 2010) - The pope's entire career has the stench of evil about it. atheists.org - 1210 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Unseen_And_Unknowable_Has_No_Place_In_Science Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 16, 2010) - It is my view that religion and science are incompatible in a very specific and important way. atheists.org - 1211 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_is_a_broad_church Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 16, 2010) - WHAT were we going to talk about all weekend? Nothing? Could we scientifically prove the existence of Richard Dawkins? What does an atheist scream during sex? "Truth, evidence and reason?" We'd heard them all. atheists.org - 1212 http://www.atheists.org/news/Irish_Cardinal_Won%5C%27t_Resign_Over_Abuse_Cover-Up Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Marcvh 17, 2010) - Calls for the embattled leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland to resign increased today while the Vatican tried to stem the growing flood of outrage over sexual abuse scandals all over Europe. atheists.org - 1213 http://www.atheists.org/news/Brazil_Church_Sex_Scandal%3A_Video_Allegedly_Shows_Priest_Abusing_Altar_Boy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 17, 2010) - Brazilian authorities are investigating three priests accused of sexually abusing altar boys after a video allegedly showing one case of abuse was broadcast on television, police and church officials said Tuesday. atheists.org - 1217 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_allowing_prayer_at_school_events_advances_in_Florida_Legislature Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 18, 2010) - Students could lead prayers at school functions such as football games and the senior prom, under a controversial bill advanced by a Florida House committee Wednesday. atheists.org - 1215 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_unleashes_exorcist_for_campaign_of_crazy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 18, 2010) - Rome responds to sex abuse scandals by letting its official Satan fighter speak. Turns out it's Satan's fault atheists.org - 1216 http://www.atheists.org/news/His_fortune_polishes_atheists%5C%27_reputation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 18, 2010) - When GlaxoSmithKline bought ToddStiefel's family business for $2.9 billion last April, he began to think about what to do with the rest of his life. atheists.org - 1218 http://www.atheists.org/news/SF_Atheists_protest_Ninth_Circuit_Decision_on_%5C%22Under_God%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 18, 2010) -- Should government promote god-belief and recognition? The San Francisco Atheists say "No Way!" atheists.org - 1219 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_The_Bible_More_Violent_Than_The_Quran%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 18, 2010) - As the hijackers boarded the airplanes on Sept. 11, 2001, they had a lot on their minds. And if they were following instructions, one of those things was the Quran. atheists.org - 1220 http://www.atheists.org/news/Boy_Scout_Sex_Abuse_Files%3A_Suit_Claims_Group_Kept_%5C%27Perversion_Files%5C%27_As_Part_Of_Coverup_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 19, 2010) - he Boy Scouts of America has long kept an extensive archive of secret documents that chronicle the sexual abuse of young boys by Scout leaders over the years. atheists.org - 1221 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Philosopher_Explores_Causes_of_Atheism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 19, 2010) - James S. Spiegel has an uncomfortable thesis to propose. atheists.org - 1222 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sin_Isn%5C%27t_the_Problem_with_the_World%2C_Theology_Is_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 20, 2010) - Pat Robertson has been under fire by Christians and non-Christians alike after his divisive comment over the reasons why the destructive earthquake hit the helpless country of Haiti. atheists.org - 1223 http://www.atheists.org/news/Twisting_History_in_Texas Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 20, 2010) - The changes to the social studies curriculum recently approved by the conservative-dominated Texas Board of Education have attracted attention mainly because of how they may affect textbooks used in other states. atheists.org - 1224 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_Benedict_accused_of_ignoring_abuse_allegations_against_Hullerman Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 20, 2010) - NOT long after a portly, jovial priest in the German industrial city of Essen was accused of sexually abusing three boys in 1979, he was offered a new home in Munich by Joseph Ratzinger, the future Pope Benedict XVI. atheists.org - 1225 http://www.atheists.org/news/Boy_Scouts_sex_abuse_files_now_evidence_in_lawsuit_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 21, 2010) - The Boy Scouts of America call them "perversion files," internal documents used to track Scout leaders suspected of sexually abusing young boys. atheists.org - 1226 http://www.atheists.org/news/Nate_Phelps_on_growing_up_in_%5C%27the_most_hated_family_in_America%5C%27. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Marcvh 22, 2010) - When celebrity nonbeliever Richard Dawkins finished addressing his hundreds of Godless followers at the American Atheists Convention at Atlanta's Emory Center last April, the follow up act was a man virtually no one in the room had ever heard of. atheists.org - 1227 http://www.atheists.org/news/Over_an_Alito_Dissent%2C_Supreme_Court_Denies_Review_in_School_Band_Case Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 22, 2010) - When a controversial decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit is appealed to the Supreme Court, the justices often take the bait and reverse. atheists.org - 1228 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_is_%5C%27personal_rebellion%5C%27_against_God%2C_says_philosopher Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 22, 2010) - James S Spiegel has an uncomfortable thesis to propose. He contends: Religious skepticism is, at bottom, a moral problem. atheists.org - 1229 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism%2C_Conversion%2C_and_Class_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 23, 2010) - Atheists like to think of themselves as free thinkers whose take on the world is more intelligent than that of those who are religious. atheists.org - 1230 http://www.atheists.org/news/PRAY_FOR_AN_ATHEIST_INITIATIVE_ON_FACEBOOK%3B_STIRS_RELIGIOUS_EMOTIONS_BETWEEN_CHRISTIANS_AND_ATHEISTS Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 23, 2010) - No-one likes to be taken for a fool and, with April Fool's Day (April 1) approaching, it is important to remember the Bible says those who do not believe in God are just that. atheists.org - 1231 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sinead_O%5C%27Connor_still_ripping_the_pope Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 23, 2010) - The singer's blistering response to the Catholic Church's abuse scandal makes her an unlikely voice of reason atheists.org - 1236 http://www.atheists.org/news/White_urges_Perry_to_get_state_board_to_revisit_social_studies_curriculum__Read_more%3A_http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sta Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 25, 2010) - Democratic gubernatorial candidate Bill White on Tuesday said he wants Gov. Rick Perry to ask State Board of Education Chairwoman Gail Lowe to send the controversial social studies curriculum revisions back to the committees where the proposals started. atheists.org - 1235 http://www.atheists.org/news/L.A._County_sheriff_defends_himself%2C_Muslims_after_attack_by_Indiana_lawmaker Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 24, 2010) - Lee Baca stands by his association with a Muslim American group described by an Indiana congressman as 'radical.' atheists.org - 1234 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bristol_Palin_And_The_Trouble_With_Christian_Sex_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 24, 2010) - As part of Bristol Palin's role as a born-again champion of abstinence, she recently wrapped up filming an episode of ABC's The Secret Life of the American Teenager, in which she plays the friend of another young single mother. atheists.org - 1237 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens_Slams_Vatican%2C_Pope_Over_Sex_Abuse_Scandal_%28VIDEO%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 30, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens, whose antagonism towards religion is well-established, had harsh words for the Catholic Church, and the Pope in particular, during an appearance on "Morning Joe" today. atheists.org - 1238 http://www.atheists.org/news/Another_member_of_Christian_militia_Hutaree_arrested Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 30, 2010) - Joshua Stone, 21, whose father and brother are already in custody, surrenders in Michigan. He is one of nine 'warriors' of the anti-government group charged in an alleged plot against police. atheists.org - 1239 http://www.atheists.org/news/CNN_delving_into_ex-Scientologists%5C%27_claims_of_abuse Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 30, 2010) - The Church of Scientology is again coming under scrutiny --- this time in a week-long series by Anderson Cooper at 10 p.m. on CNN. atheists.org - 1240 http://www.atheists.org/news/Learning_From_the_Vatican%5C%27s_Problems%3A_What_the_U.S._Must_Do_to_Protect_Children_Now_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Marcvh 31, 2010) - In the last several weeks, Germany and Brazil have been added to the already lengthy list of countries where there is irrefutable evidence of childhood sexual abuse by Roman Catholic clergy. atheists.org - 1241 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Campaign%3A_%5C%27Pray_for_an_Atheist%5C%27_in_April Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 31, 2010) - "We want you to select an atheist friend or relative and pray for them by name each day during the month of April, 2010 (and beyond!). It’s easy and could make an eternal difference for someone you love," the campaign states on its Facebook page. atheists.org - 1242 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mississippi_A.C.L.U._Rejects_%2420%2C000_for_Alternate_Prom Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (March 31, 2010) - To avoid further controversy, the American Civil Liberties Union of Mississippi has rejected a $20,000 gift intended to underwrite an alternate prom replacing one canceled by a local school district after a lesbian student demanded that she be allowed to attend with her girlfriend. atheists.org - 1243 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Vatican_Tries_to_Dodge_Legal_Fallout_of_Sex_Abuse Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 1, 2010) - Papers filed in a case in Kentucky assert that the pope is a head of state and that U.S. bishops aren't employees of the Holy See. atheists.org - 1244 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_Lashes_Out_At_The_New_York_Times_Over_Sex_Abuse_Coverage_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 1, 2010) - VATICAN CITY — Cardinals across Europe used their Holy Thursday sermons to defend Pope Benedict XVI from accusations he played a role in covering up sex abuse scandals, and an increasingly angry Vatican sought to deflect any criticism in the Western media atheists.org - 1245 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conservative_%5C%27C_Street_House%5C%27_Residents_Face_Ethics_Complaints_For_Below-Market_Rent_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 1, 2010) - The bevy of conservative members of Congress who've resided at the notorious "C Street House" may have violated Congressional gift rules by accepting steeply-discounted lodging, new ethics complaints allege. atheists.org - 1246 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_Paul_VI_May_Have_Been_Warned_Of_Pedophile_Priests_In_1963_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 1, 2010) - The head of a Roman Catholic order that specialized in the treatment of pedophile priests visited with then-Pope Paul VI nearly 50 years ago and followed up with a letter recommending the removal of pedophile priests from ministry, according to a copy of the letter obtained by The Associated Press on Wednesday. atheists.org - 1247 http://www.atheists.org/news/Saudi_move_to_execute_%5C%27sorcery_man%5C%27_sparks_protest_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 1, 2010) - Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri has been urged to intervene to stop the execution of a Lebanese national accused of sorcery in Saudi Arabia. atheists.org - 1248 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_is_David_Brian_Stone%2C_leader_of_the_Hutaree_militia%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 2, 2010) - Members called him "Captain Hutaree" or, somewhat cryptically, "RD." A federal indictment calls him the “principal leader” of the Hutaree militia – an extremist group federal authorities say was preparing to "levy war" against the US government by killing police officers. atheists.org - 1249 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church_leaders_unite_against_the_%60idolatry%5C%27_of_atheism_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 2, 2010) - THE creeping forces of secularism and materialism were addressed by several religious leaders during their Good Friday messages yesterday, with Sydney Anglican Archbishop Peter Jensen condemning atheism as a form of self-worship. atheists.org - 1250 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gretchen_Carlson_%26_Guests_Pimp_Christianity_And_Anti-Atheist_Billboards_On_Fox_%26_Friends_%28%26_Jesus%2C_t Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 2, 2010) - If anything can bring a great big smile to the comely face of Former Miss America, good Christian Gretchen Carlson, it’s talk of Christian messages on great, big billboards. atheists.org - 1251 http://www.atheists.org/news/http%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FQuarrel_of_the_Ancients_and_the_Mod Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 2, 2010) - While Pope Benedict XVI watched somberly near the central altar, a senior Vatican priest used his Good Friday homily at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome to compare recent attacks on the Catholic Church to anti-Semitism. atheists.org - 1252 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dubai_Kissing_Couple%3A_Jail_Sentence_Upheld_For_U.K._Couple_Arrested_For_Kissing Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 4, 2010) - DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — A Dubai appeals court on Sunday upheld a one-month prison sentence for a British couple convicted of kissing in a restaurant. atheists.org - 1253 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sam_Harris%3A_Science_can_answer_moral_questions Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 4, 2010) - Questions of good and evil, right and wrong are commonly thought unanswerable by science. But Sam Harris argues that science can -- and should -- be an authority on moral issues, shaping human values and setting out what constitutes a good life. atheists.org - 1254 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_Offers_Three_Reasons_Why_It%5C%27s_Not_Liable_For_Abuse Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 5, 2010) - Dragged deeper than ever into the clerical sex abuse scandal, the Vatican is launching a legal defense that it hopes will shield the pope from a lawsuit in Kentucky seeking to have him answer attorneys' questions under oath. atheists.org - 1255 http://www.atheists.org/news/Papal__Indulgences%3A_Subject_to_Debate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 5, 2010) - My favorite moment of the whole child abuse scandal in the Catholic Church was when Father Klaus Malangré suggested that Peter Hullermann, the redoubtable German pedophile priest, might be sent to work in a girls' school. atheists.org - 1256 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_considers_lawsuit_against_city_governments Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 5, 2010) - LAKELAND, FL -- Lakeland City Commissioners began their meeting Monday with a prayer as they always do. That's exactly why Atheist of Florida is now preparing for a fight. atheists.org - 1257 http://www.atheists.org/news/To_ban_or_not_to_ban_the_burqa Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 5, 2010) - The circumstances surrounding France's veil debate are key, but so is the individual context for Muslim women atheists.org - 1258 http://www.atheists.org/news/Report%3A_Cops_called_in_for_Lakeland_atheist_dispute Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April6, 2010) - LAKELAND — Lakeland police were called in Monday night to calm a city commission meeting that threatened to get out of control because of a loud dispute between one man and a group of atheists who showed up to protest the commission's pre-meeting prayer, according to a report in a Lakeland newspaper. atheists.org - 1259 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_Are_Pedophilia-Hiding%2C_Child-Abusing_Church_Fathers_Allowed_to_Write_Laws_About_Women%5C%27s_Bodies%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 6, 2010) = The moral authority granted the Catholic Church in the secular world is the most repellent aspect of the current crisis. atheists.org - 1260 http://www.atheists.org/news/Understanding_atheism_and_agnosticism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 7, 2010) - The terms atheism and agnosticism are commonly confused by many in today’s society. For the first of many articles on religious beliefs, the two and their differences will be discussed. atheists.org - 1261 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scientists_investigate_if_atheists%5C%27_brains_are_missing_a_%E2%80%98God_Spot%E2%80%99 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 7, 2010) - Neurologists cast their eyes on the grey matter of non-believers atheists.org - 1262 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_target_commercial_confirmations_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 8, 2010) - Pamphlets provided to schools by athiest organisation encouraging students to drop religious confirmation ceremony atheists.org - 1263 http://www.atheists.org/news/Wis._DA_Threatens_Arrest_for_Local_Sex-Ed_Teachers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 8, 2010) - A Wisconsin district attorney is urging schools to drop their sex-education programs, warning that the teachers involved could be arrested if they follow a new state law requiring them to instruct students on how to use condoms and other contraceptives. atheists.org - 1264 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scout_leader_fires_back_at_atheist%5C%27s_attack_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 8, 2010) - The Boy Scouts' motto is "Be Prepared," and a representative was just that Wednesday as he defended the private organization against discriminatory charges leveled Tuesday in Doylestown by a mother who says her 12-year-old boy was ousted for being an atheist. atheists.org - 1265 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_the_Catholic_Church%5C%27s_Excuses_Ring_Hollow Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 8, 2010) - This year, as always, Catholics flocked to Mass on Easter Sunday. It is the holiest of days, the time for Catholics and other Christians to reflect on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. atheists.org - 1266 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Nonscience_Of_The_Scientific_Arguments_Against_Evolution Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 9, 2010) - The Discovery Institute (DI) isn't impressed with what I've been writing for The Huffington Post. atheists.org - 1267 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens_Turns_Down_the_Heat_at_Notre_Dame Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 9, 2010) - When one of the world's best-known atheists comes to a stalwart Christian institution such as Notre Dame, where some 80 percent of students self-identify as Catholic, one invariably expects a shout down. atheists.org - 1269 http://www.atheists.org/news/Shroud_Of_Turin_Going_Back_Up_Before_The_Public_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 *April 10, 2010) - TURIN, Italy — The long linen with the faded image of a bearded man is the object of centuries-old fascination and wonderment, and closely kept under wrap. atheists.org - 1270 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins%3A_I_will_arrest_Pope_Benedict_XVI Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 10, 2010) - RICHARD DAWKINS, the atheist campaigner, is planning a legal ambush to have the Pope arrested during his state visit to Britain “for crimes against humanity”. atheists.org - 1271 http://www.atheists.org/news/Maureen_Dowd%3A_%5C%27Negating_Women%5C%27_At_Core_Of_Catholic_Church%5C%27s_%5C%27Hideous_And_Criminal_Indifference%5C%27_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 11, 2010) - When I was in Saudi Arabia, I had tea and sweets with a group of educated and sophisticated young professional women. atheists.org - 1272 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Catholic_Church%3A_Why_Richard_Dawkins_was_Right_and_I_was_Wrong_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 11, 2010) - I was born in 1940 in England. There is, therefore, not much surprise that I grew up with a prejudice against Roman Catholicism. atheists.org - 1273 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Nonscience_Of_Scientific_Arguments_Against_Evolution_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 11, 2010) - The Discovery Institute (DI) isn't impressed with what I've been writing for The Huffington Post. atheists.org - 1274 http://www.atheists.org/news/Board_Postpones_Vote_on_%5C%27Creation_is_Myth%5C%27_Science_Book Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 12, 2010) - A vote on whether to remove a biology textbook that describes creationism as "the biblical myth" from Knoxville, Tenn., schools was tabled for another month. atheists.org - 1275 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_Church_Tries_to_Quiet_Pedophilia_Scandal_with_New_Policy%2C_While_Atheists_Push_for_Pope%5C%27s_Ar Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 12, 2010) - The church drops its defense posture, edits its guidelines to read that church leaders should report clerical sex abuse to civil authorities. atheists.org - 1276 http://www.atheists.org/news/Somali_anger_at_threat_to_music_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 12, 2010) - Radio stations broadcasting out of Somalia face a dilemma this month after a powerful Islamist militant group ordered them to stop playing music. atheists.org - 1277 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Family_Association_To_Muslim-Americans%3A_Convert_To_Christianity_Or_Leave Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 13, 2010) - It seems like only a week ago that the American Family Association's Bryan Fischer (who is the AFA's Director of Issues Analysis, perhaps because he has so many personal issues that need to be analyzed by professional psychopharmacologists), was saying that the Christian thing to do would be to round up all Muslim American citizens and deport them to Muslim countries, because surely that would solve a lot of problems? atheists.org - 1279 http://www.atheists.org/news/%241.4_million_verdict_in_Boy_Scout_abuse_case Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 13, 2010) - Organization now faces punitive damages phase in Oregon trial atheists.org - 1280 http://www.atheists.org/news/Time_for_an_atheist_on_the_Supreme_Court%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 13, 2010) - Previously in Under God, we asked what seemed like a logical question: With the only Protestant on the Supreme Court (John Paul Stevens) retiring this summer, should the president appoint another Protestant to replace him? atheists.org - 1281 http://www.atheists.org/news/Until_atheists_are_respected%2C_religious_tolerance_will_remain_an_ideal Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 14, 2010) - The idea of a god has never made sense to me. atheists.org - 1282 http://www.atheists.org/news/Antony_Flew_dies_at_87%3B_atheist_philosopher_who_changed_his_mind_late_in_life Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:28:18 -0400 (April 15, 2010) - The lifelong atheist became a deist after reading a 2001 book by a physicist and theologian. But he didn't want an afterlife. atheists.org - 1283 http://www.atheists.org/news/Antony_Flew_dies_at_87%3B_atheist_philosopher_who_changed_his_mind_late_in_life Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:28:21 -0400 (April 15, 2010) - The lifelong atheist became a deist after reading a 2001 book by a physicist and theologian. But he didn't want an afterlife. atheists.org - 1284 http://www.atheists.org/news/Antony_Flew_dies_at_87%3B_atheist_philosopher_who_changed_his_mind_late_in_life Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 15, 2010) - The lifelong atheist became a deist after reading a 2001 book by a physicist and theologian. But he didn't want an afterlife. atheists.org - 1285 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Playing_For_Jesus%5C%27%3A_The_Christian_Rise_And_Fall_Of_Ben_Roethlisberger_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 15, 2010) - Pro football superstar Ben Roethlisberger -- the Christian quarterback who used to take the field with the words "Playing for Jesus" scrawled on his cleats -- is almost making it too easy for the cynics and snark-mongers. atheists.org - 1286 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hobby%3A_Texas_has_become_a_national_laughingstock Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 15, 2010) - Texas, once the Lone Star State, first became the Let's Secede State (courtesy of Gov. Rick Perry), and is now the Laughingstock State (thanks to the State Board of Education). Once a two-party state, Texas has become a tea party state. atheists.org - 1287 http://www.atheists.org/news/Historians_decry_social_studies_revisions Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 16, 2010) - Group calls on state education board to delay vote on controversial standards. atheists.org - 1288 http://www.atheists.org/news/Calif._city_may_face_legal_action_over_prayer_vote Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 16, 2010) - LOS ANGELES — When Lancaster's flamboyant mayor R. Rex Parris calls the City Council to order at its next meeting, it's a good bet he'll open the proceedings with a prayer. atheists.org - 1289 http://www.atheists.org/news/Day_of_Prayer%3B_the_wrong_kind_joining_civility_statement%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 17, 2010) - A federal judge in Wisconsin ruled Thursday that the National Day of Prayer is unconstitutional. atheists.org - 1290 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church-state_issue_clouds_Ind._schools%5C%27_conversion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 17, 20`10) - INDIANAPOLIS — A plan to create what could be the first U.S. public charter schools run by a Roman Catholic archdiocese is meeting resistance from those who worry about whether religious messages and icons will really stay out of the classrooms and hallways. atheists.org - 1291 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_O%E2%80%99Reilly_Says_Richard_Dawkins_Is_A_%E2%80%9CBitter%E2%80%9D_Atheist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 18, 2010) - The DSM defines the narcissistic personality disorder as a "pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy." Those with the disorder are “prone to exaggerating and padding their accomplishments.” atheists.org - 1293 http://www.atheists.org/news/NCAA_Bans_Eye_Black_With_Messages_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 19, 2010) - The National Collegiate Athletic Association has banned the use of eye black with messages--a practice prominently used by former University of Florida star quarterback Tim Tebow to display Bible verses. atheists.org - 1294 http://www.atheists.org/news/Court_Splits_Sharply_On_Campus_Christian_Argument_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 19, 2010) - Supreme Court justices on Monday seemed to split sharply on whether a law school can deny recognition to a Christian student group because it won't let gays join, a case that could determine whether college nondiscrimination policies trump the rights of private organizations to determine who can – and cannot – belong to their ranks. atheists.org - 1295 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tony_Perkins%E2%80%99s_cringe-inducing_debate_with_Christopher_Hitchens_over_the_National_Day_of_Prayer_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 19, 2010) - Please, God. Is it over yet? Can I open my eyes? If you want to see the perfect illustration of my point from Friday about why a National Day of Prayer is more trouble than it’s worth for Christians, grab a vomit bag and try to sit through this seven-minute debacle in which atheist Christopher Hitchens eats Family Research Council president Tony Perkins for lunch. atheists.org - 1296 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge_backs_Redding_atheist_who_balked_at_religious_anti-drug_program_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 19, 2010) - Barry A. Hazle Jr. served a year in prison on a drug charge. After he got out, his parole agent sent him back for being an atheist. atheists.org - 1297 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Playing_For_Jesus%5C%27%3A_The_Christian_Rise_And_Fall_Of_Ben_Roethlisberger_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 20, 2010) - Pro football superstar Ben Roethlisberger -- the Christian quarterback who used to take the field with the words "Playing for Jesus" scrawled on his cleats -- is almost making it too easy for the cynics and snark-mongers. atheists.org - 1298 http://www.atheists.org/news/Man_Who_Quarreled_With_Atheists_Gives_Lakeland_Commission%5C%27s_Invocation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 20, 2010) - City Hall was set for a showdown Monday morning, but the front row of seats in the City Commission chambers was empty instead of occupied by the atheists who sat there the past three city meetings. atheists.org - 1300 http://www.atheists.org/news/South_Park_Vs._Radical_Muslims%3A_Join_the_Live_Chat Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 20, 2010) - A radical Muslim website warns the creators of "South Park" and Comedy Central. atheists.org - 1301 http://www.atheists.org/news/Security_Brief%3A_Radical_Islamic_Web_site_takes_on_%5C%27South_Park%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 20, 2010) - The radical Islamic Web site Revolutionmuslim.com is going after the creators of the TV cartoon series "South Park" after an episode last week included an image of the Prophet Mohammed in disguise. atheists.org - 1302 http://www.atheists.org/news/Glenn_Beck%3A_the_Televangelist_Con_Man_Selling_God%5C%27s_Plan_for_America Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (April 21, 2010) - During yesterday's Glenn Beck radio show, Beck delivered a 10-minute monologue in which he hit all of his phony-baloney touchstones -- some of them, as I've been writing for the last several weeks, are dangerous and some are simply ridiculous. atheists.org - 1303 http://www.atheists.org/news/Glenn_Beck%3A_the_Televangelist_Con_Man_Selling_God%5C%27s_Plan_for_America_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 21, 2010) - During yesterday's Glenn Beck radio show, Beck delivered a 10-minute monologue in which he hit all of his phony-baloney touchstones -- some of them, as I've been writing for the last several weeks, are dangerous and some are simply ridiculous. atheists.org - 1304 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Ask_Obama_to_Scrap_Day_of_Prayer Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 21, 2010) - The American Humanist Association wants Barack Obama to declare a “National Day of Reason” on May 6, instead of a National Day of Prayer. atheists.org - 1305 http://www.atheists.org/news/Franklin_Graham_Disinvited_From_Pentagon_Prayer_Day_For_Calling_Islam_Evil%2C_Offensive_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 22, 2010) - Evangelist Franklin Graham's invitation to speak at a Pentagon prayer service has been rescinded because his comments about Islam were inappropriate, the Army said Thursday. atheists.org - 1306 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_Sued_in_Wisconsin_Clergy_Sex_Abuse_Case Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 22, 2010) - A man who says he was molested by a priest while a student at a Catholic school for the deaf filed a federal lawsuit today against Pope Benedict XVI, the Vatican and senior church officials, saying the Vatican knew the priest was a pedophile and could have stopped the sexual abuse. atheists.org - 1307 http://www.atheists.org/news/Law_Banning_Blasphemy_Is_Upheld_in_Indonesia Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 22, 2010) - Indonesia’s Constitutional Court ruled 8 to 1 Monday that a controversial 45-year-old law banning religious blasphemy was constitutional. atheists.org - 1308 http://www.atheists.org/news/Threat_against_%E2%80%98South_Park%E2%80%99_creators_highlights_dilemma_for_media_companies Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 23, 2010) - Comedy Central bleeped out all references to the prophet Muhammad in the show after he was depicted dressed as a bear. The show’s creators disagreed strongly with the decision. atheists.org - 1309 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_Evangelicals_and_Atheists_Have_in_Common Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 23, 2010) - Atheists and evangelicals often find themselves on opposite sides of the cultural battle line -- and those battles are becoming more frequent. atheists.org - 1310 http://www.atheists.org/news/Islamic_Extremists_Lash_Out_At_Media%2C_Americans%2C_And_Snacks_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 23, 2010) - Younus Abdullah Mohammed, of the web-hacked and rightly go-fuck-yourselfed collective known as Revolutionary Islam, has directed a torrent of whinging at Gawker's Ravi Somaiya. atheists.org - 1311 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_next_Catholic_abuse_scandal%3A_Crimes_against_women Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 23, 2010) - Coming to light are widespread reports of rapes of nuns -- young women from India's and Africa's poorest families atheists.org - 1312 http://www.atheists.org/news/Road_to_Radicalism%3A_The_Man_Behind_the_%5C%27South_Park%5C%27_Threats Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 23, 2010) - By all appearances, Zachary Adam Chesser was the boy next door. He played football and was on the crew team at one of the best high schools in the country. He even studied Japanese. He was hardly the sort of boy you'd expect would suggest on a radical Islamic website that the creators of the edgy cartoon series "South Park" will be targeted for death. atheists.org - 1313 http://www.atheists.org/news/May_20_Is_%5C%27Everybody_Draw_Mohammed_Day%5C%27_Blogger%5C%27s_idea_is_taking_off Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 24, 2010) - Get your pens, ready: May 20 is now "Everybody Draw Mohammed Day," declares Dan Savage's blog at the Stranger. atheists.org - 1314 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Year_of_Our_Lord%3A_Christian_Phrase_Still_Used_on_State_Documents Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 25, 2010) - A few days ago, I got curious about the wording of those proclamations issued by several state governors announcing Confederate History Month. atheists.org - 1315 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Everybody_Draw_Mohammed_Day%21%5C%27_grows_in_reaction_to_%5C%27South_Park%5C%27_%5BUPDATED%5D Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 25, 2010) - Postings on the Islamic website RevolutionMuslim.com led last week to Comedy Central bleeping a "South Park" speech about fear and intimidation. atheists.org - 1316 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Muslim_apostate_on_Islam%2C_South_Park_%26_death_threats_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 26, 2010) - Ayaan Hirsi Ali knows whereof she speaks when it comes to Islamic death threats. The Somali-born feminist, activist, writer and politician has been receiving them ever since 2002 when she publicly declared her atheism and apostasy from Islam. atheists.org - 1317 http://www.atheists.org/news/Boobquake%3A_Purdue_university_student_organizes_against_cleric%E2%80%99s_remark Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 26, 2010) - In response to an Iranian cleric's remarks that immodestly dressed woman cause earthquakes, a Purdue University student organized Monday's "Boobquake," an event designed to prove Hojatoleslam Kazem Sedighi wrong. atheists.org - 1318 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Battle_Over_Burqas_and_Multiple_Mistresses Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 27, 2010) - It began with a $30 traffic fine. On April 2, French police pulled over Anne Hebbadj in the city of Nantes and handed her a ticket for wearing a full Islamic veil. atheists.org - 1319 http://www.atheists.org/news/National_Day_of_Reason Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 27, 2010) - Did the Pentagon do the right thing by disinviting evangelist Franklin Graham from a National Day of Prayer event next week? Should government officials decide who can or cannot speak at such an event? Should the government proclaim a National Day of Prayer atheists.org - 1320 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cross_in_National_Preserve_Backed_by_U.S._High_Court____________ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 28, 2010) - A divided U.S. Supreme Court bolstered efforts to keep a Christian cross erected as a war memorial in a national preserve, reviving a federal law designed to protect the display and declaring that religion has a place in public life. atheists.org - 1321 http://www.atheists.org/news/Suntanned_women_to_be_arrested_under_Islamic_dress_code Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 28, 2010) - Iran has warned suntanned women and girls who looked like "walking mannequins" will be arrested as part of a new drive to enforce the Islamic dress code. atheists.org - 1322 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_cleavage_trigger_a_movement%2C_as_in_an_earthquake%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 28, 2010) - If you're a woman, your cleavage is to blame for earthquakes. atheists.org - 1323 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sex_Lives_of_Atheists_%28and_Everyone_Else%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 29, 2010) - Cindy Meston at the University of Texas and her colleagues interviewed more than 1,000 students in their survey of sexual behaviors and found almost no difference between different faith groups in what was reported. atheists.org - 1324 http://www.atheists.org/news/Group_Wants_Military_Units_Out_of_Prayer_Day_Events Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 29, 2010) - First it got evangelist Franklin Graham booted from a Pentagon prayer service. Now a watchdog group wants military color guards and bands to retreat from dozens of National Day of Prayer events across the country that are affiliated with the same group that had sponsored the Pentagon event. atheists.org - 1325 http://www.atheists.org/news/Noah%5C%27s_Ark_or_hopeful_hoax%3F_It%5C%27s_a_matter_of_belief_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 29, 2010) - When a band of amateur archaeologists announced via press conference (scholarly journals are for heathens) that they were "99.9 percent sure" they had uncovered Noah's Ark on Mount Ararat, biblical archaeologist Eric Cline probably said it best. atheists.org - 1327 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Resurrection Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 29, 2010) - Philip Pullman makes an unlikely hate figure. A 63-year-old grandfather, he speaks with the polite precision of the schoolteacher he once was, tough-minded but fair. atheists.org - 1328 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_atheists_irreligiously_united%2C_politically_divided Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (April 30, 2010) - American atheists irreligiously united, politically divided atheists.org - 1329 http://www.atheists.org/news/Breast_On_Virginia_Seal_Covered_Up_%28PHOTO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 1, 2010) - Virginia's attorney general Ken Cuccinelli is hard at work on the important issues of the day -- like making sure the Roman goddess depicted on his state's official seal isn't exposing herself. atheists.org - 1330 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27ALL_THE_POPE%5C%27S_PRIESTS%5C%27%3F_Deal_To_Develop_Catholic_Church_Scandal_Film_From_POV_Of_Boston_Globe_Jour Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 1, 2010) - The producers intend to frame the movie in the vein of All The President's Men. One of the planned film's hooks is that some of the journalists are themselves Catholic and were conflicted as they researched and wrote their stories. atheists.org - 1331 http://www.atheists.org/news/Spirituality_vs._religion%3A_It%5C%27s_not_what_you_might_think Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 1, 2010) - Who's most likely to call themselves “more spiritual than religious”? atheists.org - 1332 http://www.atheists.org/news/Abuse_Case_Offers_a_View_of_the_Vatican%E2%80%99s_Politics Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 2, 2010) - The two former Mexican seminarians had gone to the Vatican in 1998 to personally deliver a case recounting decades of sexual abuse by one of the most powerful priests in the Roman Catholic Church, the Rev. Marcial Maciel Degollado. atheists.org - 1333 http://www.atheists.org/news/Most_hated_group_of_people_in_America_are.....................atheists%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 3, 2010) - "Hi Jerry, you are really sticking your neck out by admitting you are agnostic," wrote Cindy of Chesterton regarding a humorous reference I made in a previous column. atheists.org - 1334 http://www.atheists.org/news/British_Judge%3A_Christian_Beliefs_Have_No_Legal_Standing_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 3, 2010) - A top British judge has ruled that Christian beliefs have no standing under secular law because they lack evidence and cannot be proven. atheists.org - 1335 http://www.atheists.org/news/Supreme_Court_declines_to_hear_Lesbian_couple%5C%27s_suit_against_Boy_Scouts_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 4, 2010) -- A lesbian couple and an agnostic couple are suing to prevent the Boy Scouts from using public land. The Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal in the case, which returns to the Ninth Circuit. atheists.org - 1336 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Gospel_According_to_Philip Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 4, 2010) - Philip Pullman tries to repair the most sacred story ever written. atheists.org - 1337 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_real_reason_atheists_have_higher_IQs Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 5, 2010) - Is atheism a sign of intelligence? atheists.org - 1338 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_right_leader_George_Rekers_takes_vacation_with_%5C%22rent_boy%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 5, 2010) -- The pictures on the Rentboy.com profile show a shirtless young man with delicate features, guileless eyes, and sun-kissed, hairless skin. The profile touts his "smooth, sweet, tight ass" and "perfectly built 8 inch cock (uncut)" and explains he is "sensual," "wild," and "up for anything" — as long you ask first. atheists.org - 1339 http://www.atheists.org/news/Another_Anti-Gay_Activist_Accused_of_Gay_Tryst Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 5, 2010) - -- Add to the growing list of anti-gay crusaders who have been entangled in alleged gay romps the name of one George Alan Rekers, a Baptist minister who co-founded the Family Research Council. atheists.org - 1340 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Don%5C%27t_drink_alcohol%2C_have_sex_or_even_hold_hands%5C%27%3A_Foreign_Office_advice_to_keep_Britons_out_of_jai Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 5, 2010) - British tourists and expats working in Dubai have been given a 'Dos and Don'ts' list in a bid to keep them out of jail. atheists.org - 1344 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ultimate_Praying_Championship Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 6, 2010) -- Check out this amusing video! atheists.org - 1345 http://www.atheists.org/news/Comedy_Central_Considers_%5C%27JC%2C%5C%27_Show_About_Jesus_Christ_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 7, 2010) - Having already caused a fuss this spring with the depiction of the prophet Muhammad on "South Park," Comedy Central said Thursday that it has a cartoon series about Jesus Christ in the works. atheists.org - 1346 http://www.atheists.org/news/Check_out_this_long_list_of_Christian_evangelist_scandals... Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 7, 2010) -- The list just keeps growing and growing and ... atheists.org - 1347 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_fails_in_bid_to_remove_%5C%27God%5C%27_from_presidential_oath_______ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 7, 2010)--A federal appeals court on Friday rejected an effort to strip the word "God" from presidential oaths. atheists.org - 1349 http://www.atheists.org/news/Archbishop_Sambi%5C%27s_Bizarre_War_of_Words_With_Sex_Abuse_Protester Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 8, 2010) - When Pope Benedict XVI named Archbishop Pietro Sambi as the Vatican's ambassador to the United Sates in 2005, he chose a man with broad international experience. atheists.org - 1350 http://www.atheists.org/news/Campus_atheist_group_draws_pictures_of_Muhammad_everywhere Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 8, 2010) - There's been a lot of talk in the media recently about South Park's second attempt to broadcast an image of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. atheists.org - 1351 http://www.atheists.org/news/To_replace_John_Paul_Stevens%2C_an_atheist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 8, 2010) - It's something Thomas Jefferson might have done: nominate a nonbeliever to the Supreme Court atheists.org - 1352 http://www.atheists.org/news/There_Were_Others%2C_Escort_Says Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 9, 2010) - The gay escort hired by George Alan Rekers as a travel companion told Miami New Times Thursday that he had been paid to give the anti-gay crusader body rubs in the nude before their March 30 trip to Europe. And Facebook exchanges seem to back up that claim. atheists.org - 1353 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_Brigham_Young%5C%27s_Great_Great_Gay_Progressive_Granddaughter_Oust_a_Blue_Dog_and_Win_a_House_Seat_I Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 9, 2010) - Those who were paying attention to politics yesterday, were probably watching the fascinating death struggle in Utah, between ultraconservative Senator Bob Bennett and a pack of seven vicious teabaggers trying to displace him... for not being extreme right enough. atheists.org - 1354 http://www.atheists.org/news/Swinger%3A__Christopher_Hitchens%E2%80%99_%5C%27Hitch-22%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 9, 2010) - At one point in Hitch-22: A Memoir (Atlantic Books, 352pp; $35.00) Christopher Hitchens writes: “As 1968 began to ebb into 1969 … people began to intone the words: ‘The personal is political’. At the instant I heard this deadly expression I knew … that it was – cliché is arguably forgivable here – very bad news.” atheists.org - 1355 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Besieged_and_the_Beautiful_in_Languedoc_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 10, 2010) - Under the noonday sun, I was scrambling up a rugged mountain trail toward four stone towers called the Châteaux de Lastours, each one perched on a perilous crag, when it struck me that I should have had more than a croissant and café au lait for breakfast. atheists.org - 1356 http://www.atheists.org/news/From_Point_of_Inquiry%3A_Are_First_and_Second_Generation_Atheists_Any_Different%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 10, 2010) - As I expected, some intriguing (and potentially controversial) points emerged in the interview with Elaine Ecklund (show website here; listen here; download/subscribe here). In particular, at around minute 15:10 or so, I ask Ecklund about her finding that there are two types of atheists in her scientist sample–first generation, and second generation. atheists.org - 1357 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_Liberals_Rally_Around_Kagan_or_Against_Her%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 10, 2010) - Potentially the most vexing questions for Elena Kagan and for the president himself: How much will the fierce, sustained liberal opposition to Kagan's nomination hurt her in the long run to the Supreme Court seat? atheists.org - 1358 http://www.atheists.org/news/From_Point_of_Inquiry%3A_Does_Studying_Science_Cause_Atheism%2C_or_Vice-Versa%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 10, 2010) - As I’ve said, there is much that is surprising or unexpected about Elaine Ecklund’s findings on religion among scientists. I’m going to be blogging on this all week, but again, as background, if you haven’t yet you should first check out our Point of Inquiry episode (show website here; listen here; download/subscribe here). atheists.org - 1359 http://www.atheists.org/news/Supreme_Court_nominee_Elena_Kagan_on_church_and_state_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 10, 200) - President Barack Obama has recently nominated Elena Kagan as his pick for the Supreme Court. Is it a good pick? What is her record and/or position on the issues of Church/State separation and other topics of interest to the atheist community? atheists.org - 1360 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Sci-Fi__roots_of_modern_evangelicalism%3F%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 May 11, 2010) - Radio on: March, 1950, station WING out of Dayton, Ohio, 1410 on the AM dial. “The Bible Speaks,” and your hosts Doyle D. Warner and G. Gene Honer are giving it voice over the air. Two two-bit radio preachers bringing you the news—on scripture time. atheists.org - 1361 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lars_Vilks%2C_Muhammad_Cartoonist%2C_Attacked_During_Lecture_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 11, 2010) - A Swedish artist who angered Muslims by depicting the Prophet Muhammad as a dog was assaulted Tuesday as furious protesters interrupted his university lecture about the limits of free speech. atheists.org - 1362 http://www.atheists.org/news/France%5C%27s_Burqa_Ban_Could_Drive_Off_Wealthy_Shoppers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 11, 2010) - Under a proposed law banning the burqa in France, wealthy women from the oil-rich Persian Gulf states who frequent some of Paris' luxury boutiques could be arrested and their husbands fined up to $20,000 and jailed for a year. atheists.org - 1363 http://www.atheists.org/news/Palin%3A_Base_Laws_on_the_Bible Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 11, 2010) - This will come as a shock to no one: Sarah Palin thinks we should make laws based on the Bible -- and that the founding fathers would have wanted that. In an interview on Bill O'Reilly last night about the National Day of Prayer, she peddled all kinds of dangerous nonsense. atheists.org - 1364 http://www.atheists.org/news/Defending_Free_Speech_Against_Fundamentalist_Islam%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 12, 2010) - A few days back, small groups of college students at Northwestern, Illinois and Wisconsin -- angry that Comedy Central had been intimidated into censoring a South Park episode depicting the Prophet Muhammad -- chalked their quads with stick figures and labeled these drawings "Prophet Muhammad."READ MORE atheists.org - 1365 http://www.atheists.org/news/Talk_the_Talk%2C_Don%E2%80%99t_Chalk_the_Chalk%3A_Drawing_a_Divide_With_the_%E2%80%9CDraw_Muhammad%E2%80%9D_Campaign Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 12, 2010) - Yesterday The Friendly Atheist reported that a student group, the Atheists, Humanists, & Agnostics (AHA) at the University of Wisconsin at Madison, is engaging in a “Draw Muhammad” project today. atheists.org - 1366 http://www.atheists.org/news/Supreme_Court_Nominee_Kagan_Should_Answer_Tough_Church-State_Questions Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 13, 2010) - For once, we may actually agree on something. Because Kagan is not a judge, she lacks a clear record on church-state issues. That's why Americans United is also calling on the Senate Judiciary Committee to fill in the picture by asking her questions about how religion and government should interact. atheists.org - 1367 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_Gets_a_Much-Needed_Rebranding Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 13, 2010) - Atheism, it could be argued, has an identity problem. atheists.org - 1368 http://www.atheists.org/news/Do_you_agree%3F__Draw_Muhammad_Day%3A_Collectively_Punishing_Muslim_Americans_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 14, 2010) - In the wake of the self-censorship controversy surrounding South Park's portrayal of the Prophet Muhammad, artists intent on defending freedom of speech have responded by organizing an event they call Draw Muhammad Day, to take place on May 20. atheists.org - 1369 http://www.atheists.org/news/Link_alleged_between_lawsuit_and_theft_of_Mojave_cross_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 14, 2010) - A spokesperson for the Mojave National Preserve said today ((May 14, 2010) that investigators don't know who stole a cross from the park but that the theft "was probably related to the court case" protesting the inclusion of a religious symbol on public land. atheists.org - 1370 http://www.atheists.org/news/Glenn_Beck_to_Address_Baptist_Grads%2C_but_His_Mormonism_Sparks_Debate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 14, 2010) - Glenn Beck is a darling of Fox News viewers and a must-see for legions of religious conservatives. atheists.org - 1371 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_curriculum_fight_was_orchestrated_over_more_than_a_decade Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 15, 2010) - State Board of Education conservatives set out to move learning to the right atheists.org - 1372 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lars_Vilks%2C_Swedish_Mohammed_Cartoonist%2C_Target_Of_Suspected_Arson_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 16, 2010) - The home of a Swedish artist who once drew a cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad as a dog has been hit by a suspected arson attack, police said Saturday. atheists.org - 1373 http://www.atheists.org/news/At_Board_of_Education%2C_church-state_fight_grows Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 16, 2010) - A leading social conservative on the State Board of Education will push for further doubt to be cast on separation of church and state when the board goes back to work on proposed curriculum standards for social studies next week. atheists.org - 1374 http://www.atheists.org/news/Check_out_video_coveragte_of_Texas_rally%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 Hundreds turn out at State Capitol to protest new guidelines proposed by the Texas Bord of Education. atheists.org - 1375 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_to_court%3A_Priests_are_not_our_employees Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 16, 2010) - Attorney outlines defense ahead of filing Monday in sex abuse case atheists.org - 1376 http://www.atheists.org/news/WATCH%3A_Glenn_Beck_Reads_From_Journal%2C_Says_God_Is_Truth_At_Liberty_University_Graduation_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 17, 2010) - Fox News Host Glenn Beck was recognized at Liberty University this weekend for his "tireless efforts to preserve the American ideal." atheists.org - 1377 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tornadoes%2C_Quakes%2C_and_the_Myth_of_Karma_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 17, 2010) - They say Karma's a bitch. They're too unkind. Recent floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes reveal her as a coolly indifferent, altogether inscrutable customer. atheists.org - 1378 http://www.atheists.org/news/Court_Forces_Hispanic_Catholic_Woman_To_Follow_Orthodox_Jewish_Rules_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 18, 2010) - Laura Derbigney tries to bring a little of her Hispanic upbringing into her family life. "I like to shop at Hispanic-owned stores," she said. "I make tacos, I make enchiladas, I make flautas." atheists.org - 1798 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_you_smarter_than_an_atheist%3F_A_religious_quiz Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 28, 2010) - Atheists and agnostics, Jews and Mormons are among the highest-scoring groups in a 32-question survey of religious knowledge by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life. atheists.org - 1799 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pew%3A_Atheists_and_Agnostics_Best_Informed_on_Religion_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 28, 2010) - A study from the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life found that Americans who don’t believe in God scored better on a religious study quiz than those who identify with a specific religion. atheists.org - 1380 http://www.atheists.org/news/ABSTINENCE_FOR_YOU%2C_MISTRESS_FOR_ME Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 May 18, 2010) - 'Family Values' Congressman Admits Affair.. Was Fierce Advocate Of Drug War... WATCH: Rep. Souder Filmed 'Abstinence' Video With Mistress atheists.org - 1381 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Room_Without_Rants%3A_Where_Reasonable_Theists_and_Atheists_Meet_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 19, 2010) - They talk a lot, and loudly, and all at the same time. If they were your family during Thanksgiving, they'd be talking with their mouths full. It would be almost amusing if it weren't, on some important level, rather tragic. atheists.org - 1382 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mark_Souder%3A_The_Hypocrisy_of_the_Hypocrite_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 19, 2010) - Although I grew up in a Methodist church in Baltimore, my grandfather had rejected religion and was quite vocal about his freethinker (that's what we used to call atheist) views. One day, when I was about eight, I asked him why he hated the church. "Because it is full of hypocrites," he replied. atheists.org - 1383 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pakistan_Bans_Facebook_Over_Muhammad_Cartoons Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 19, 2010) - Authorities in Pakistan today blocked access to Facebook in response to popular outrage over a page on the social networking site that encourages users to post sketches of the Islamic prophet. atheists.org - 1384 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_State_Board_Of_Education_Swamped_With_Criticism_Over_New_Textbook_Guidelines_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 20, 2010) - Conservatives on the Texas State Board of Education were defiant Wednesday as a parade of critics came before them, most urging a fresh rewrite of new classroom social studies guidelines and a delay of a scheduled vote to adopt them. atheists.org - 1385 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pakistan%E2%80%99s_Blocking_Binge%3A_First_Facebook%2C_Now_YouTube%3B_Others_Inaccessible__ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:36 -0400 (May 29, 2010) -- Pakistan has blocked the popular video sharing website YouTube indefinitely in a bid to contain “blasphemous” material, officials said on Thursday. atheists.org - 1386 http://www.atheists.org/news/THEIR_TURN%3A_12_top_cartoonists_offer_their_take_on_%5C%27Draw_Muhammad_Day%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 20, 2010) - "Shock for shock's sake." "Choreographed punditry." And "wrong, childish and needlessly provocative." That's what some critics think of today's Facebook-ignited campaign titled "Everybody Draw Muhammad Day." But those aren't Islamic extremists speaking. Those are the words of pro-free-speech political cartoonists. atheists.org - 1387 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_education_standards_spark_debate_on_slavery%2C_politics Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 20, 2010) - The Texas State Board of Education was set to vote Friday on changes to social studies standards that have angered and, in some cases, baffled critics, including President George W. Bush's first education secretary, who is protesting the politicization of the process. atheists.org - 1388 http://www.atheists.org/news/Son_leaves_%E2%80%98America%5C%27s_most_hated_family%2C%5C%27_and_God%2C_behind Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 20, 2010) - When Nate Phelps' son was about 5 years old and had been caught misbehaving, he taught his dad a lesson about ending the cycle of family abuse. atheists.org - 1389 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_Board_Of_Education_Tried_To_Keep_Word_%5C%27Slave%5C%27_Out_Of_%5C%27Slave_Trade%5C%27_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 21, 2010) - Public school students in Texas would be required to evaluate efforts by global organizations to undermine U.S. sovereignty in one of a series of changes that conservatives on the State Board of Education made Thursday to new social studies guidelines. atheists.org - 1390 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_Board_Of_Education_Approves_More_Conservative_Curriculum_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 21, 2010) - The Texas State Board of Education adopted new social studies and history guidelines Friday for classrooms in an ideological debate over academic standards that has drawn intense scrutiny. atheists.org - 1391 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_Cooks_the_Textbooks Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 21, 2010) - Who says school is boring? The Texas State Board of Education will make a final vote today on a long list of controversial changes to its textbook standards. The 15-person board, dominated by 10 Republicans, is expected to approve many alterations that give a conservative slant to the study of U.S. history and economics. atheists.org - 1392 http://www.atheists.org/news/Green_and_Atheist%3A_The_Incompatibility_of_Religion_and_Environmentalism_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 21, 2010) -We all know there are all kinds of things that religion is incompatible with -- democracy, science, social equity, rational debate, blind justice. But it is sometimes thought that being an environmentalist is compatible with religious belief. atheists.org - 1393 http://www.atheists.org/news/Divided_board_gives_final_OK_to_social_studies_standards Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 21, 2010) - The State Board of Education members kept up their bitter, year-long ideological tussling until the very end when they finally approved new social studies curriculum standards late Friday afternoon atheists.org - 1394 http://www.atheists.org/news/Opinion%3A_An_Atheist%5C%27s_Defense_of_%5C%22Everybody_Draw_Mohammed_Day%5C%22_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 22, 2010) - Posted on behalf of Mike Gillis, Board member of Seattle Atheists. "Everybody Draw Mohammed Day" was an idea conceived by Seattle cartoonist Molly Norris who jokingly floated the idea in reaction to South Park's debacle with portraying Mohammed in an episode of the animated series atheists.org - 1395 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_of_Florida_prevent_prayer_at_high_school_graduation_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 22, 2010) -- The Atheists of Florida successfully negotiated with Alonso High School and the Hillsborough County School District to prevent a prayer from being said at the graduation ceremony scheduled to take place on June 3rd. atheists.org - 1396 http://www.atheists.org/news/Saudi_woman_beats_up_virtue_cop Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 22, 2010) -- It was a scene Saudi women’s rights activists have dreamt of for years atheists.org - 1397 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pakistan%5C%27s_Web_Ban_Is_Part_of_Broader_Crackdown Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 22, 2010) - This nation's ban on Facebook and YouTube this week has reopened a fierce debate on freedom of information in a country that seemed on its way to being a developing-world leader in promoting citizen access to the Web. atheists.org - 1398 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_there_such_a_thing_as_an_ex-atheist%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 23, 2010) - I've never met a "real' ex-atheist. No doubt your first thought (if you're theist) is that I'm in denial. But no, I am pretty certain that I'm not, and I'll tell you why with a few more memorable examples. atheists.org - 1399 http://www.atheists.org/news/Evolution_and_the_volcano Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 23, 2010) - It's been 30 years since Mother Nature kicked off an experiment in creative destruction at Mount St. Helens, and today the volcano serves as a prime example of how life adapts to changing conditions. atheists.org - 1400 http://www.atheists.org/news/Martin_Gardner%2C_Layman%5C%27s_Mathematician_And_Fierce_Foe_Of_Pseudoscience%2C_Dies_At_95_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 23, 2010) - rolific mathematics and science writer Martin Gardner, known for popularizing recreational mathematics and debunking paranormal claims, died Saturday. He was 95. atheists.org - 1401 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ethics_of_an_atheist_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 23, 2010) - In my godless world, I feel we atheists need to confront ethical dilemmas. atheists.org - 1402 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bad_standards%3A_Not_just_in_Texas Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 24, 2010) - Texas isn’t the only place with lousy social studies standards, though you might be forgiven for thinking so considering all the attention that the Texas Board of Education has received in recent months as it adopted a new set of standards. atheists.org - 1403 http://www.atheists.org/news/Priest_Accused_Of_Abusing_Boy%2C_Turning_Home_Into_%5C%27Erotic_Dungeon%5C%27_Surrenders_To_Police_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 24, 2010) - A Polish priest accused of sexually abusing a former altar boy in Rio de Janeiro and turning his parish home into an "erotic dungeon" has surrendered and is now in police custody, a public safety official said Saturday. atheists.org - 1404 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_Atheism_Replace_Religion_in_America%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 25, 2010) - Belief in God and eternity and other basic religious assertions have dominated public opinion surveys for some time, but there are some who now believe that non-belief may become the new default. atheists.org - 1405 http://www.atheists.org/news/Blacks%2C_Mirroring_Larger_U.S._Trend%2C_%5C%27Come_Out%5C%27_As_Nonbelievers_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 25, 2010) - Standing before a room full of fellow African-Americans, Jamila Bey took a deep breath and announced she's come out of the closet. atheists.org - 1406 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sex_And_The_City_2_Reviews%3A_Critic_Calls_Film_%5C%27Anti-Muslim%5C%27_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 25, 2010) - Hollywood Reporter writer Stephen Farber thinks "Sex and the City 2" is going to be a "smash" hit. He also thinks the film is "anti-Muslim." atheists.org - 1407 http://www.atheists.org/news/_Would_You_Vote_For_A_GOP_Messiah%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 25, 2010) - North Carolina GOP candidate Tim D'Annunzio describes himself as a "religious zealot" and once called the U.S. government the AntichristAntichrist and told his ex-wife that he'd found the Ark of the Covenantthe Ark of the Covenant in Arizona, all of which has made the state and national Republican parties very unhappy. atheists.org - 1408 http://www.atheists.org/news/Friends_of_Bald_Knob_Cross%2C_atheist_to_meet_tonight Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 26, 2010) - One of Illinois' self-proclaimed leading atheists will meet tonight with a volunteer fundraising group for the Bald Knob Cross of Peace. atheists.org - 1409 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Brights%5C%27_vs._%5C%27benighted%5C%27_believers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 26, 2010) - A popular social critic is using her new book to take on some claims made by atheists. atheists.org - 1410 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pamela_Geller%5C%27s_%5C%22Leaving_Islam%3F%5C%22_Bus_Ads_Cause_Controversy_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 26, 2010) - The questions on the ads aren't subtle: Leaving Islam? Fatwa on your head? Is your family threatening you? atheists.org - 1411 http://www.atheists.org/news/Teacher_Accuses_Coworkers_of_Sprinkling_Her_With_%5C%27Holy_Water%5C%27_Because_She%5C%27s_an_Atheist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 26, 2010) - Two Florida teachers have been put on desk duty after a fellow teacher accused them of sprinkling "holy water" on her because she's an atheist. atheists.org - 1412 http://www.atheists.org/news/Female_Religious_Righter_Caught_in_Affair%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 27, 2010) - We're so used to seeing powerful men, especially "family values" conservatives, caught having affairs that it comes as something of a surprise to hear a woman accused of it. atheists.org - 1413 http://www.atheists.org/news/Elton_John_Concert_In_Morocco_Outrages_Islamists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 27, 2010) - RABAT, Morocco — A concert by Elton John has tested the limits of Morocco's drive for modernity, probing this Muslim nation's complex and ambiguous attitudes toward homosexuality like rarely before. atheists.org - 1414 http://www.atheists.org/news/Michelangelo%5C%27s_Secret_Message_in_the_Sistine_Chapel_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 27, 2010) - At the age of 17 he began dissecting corpses from the church graveyard. Between the years 1508 and 1512 he painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Rome. atheists.org - 1415 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_atheists_proselytizing_here%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 27, 2010) - The pastor/iReporter who told us how he devises his church sign messages has e-mailed about negative comments on his post: atheists.org - 1416 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_school_fires_teacher_for_her_lack_of_belief_in_God_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 28, 201`0) - A Catholic teacher from Fort Dodge has been fired because of a Facebook survey in which she said she did not believe in God. atheists.org - 1417 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fargo_man_wins_appeal_for_anti-God_license_plate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 28, 2010) - A Fargo atheist’s request for a personalized license plate that reads ISNOGOD has been approved by the North Dakota Department of Transportation. atheists.org - 1418 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Good_Faith_of_an_Infidel%3A_Examining_Ayaan_Hirsi_Ali%5C%27s_Nomad_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 28, 21010) - Ayaan Hirsi Ali's new memoir, Nomad, is the most powerful book you will have read in a long time. atheists.org - 1419 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Science_vs._Religion%5C%22_discovers_what_scientists_really_think_about_religion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 29, 2010) - Americans are almost evenly divided between those who feel science conflicts with religion and those who don't. atheists.org - 1420 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Anti-Muslim%5C%27_ad_sparks_suit Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 29, 2010) - Bus system refused to show ad aimed at those leaving Islam atheists.org - 1421 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_truth_behind_the_%E2%80%98Leaving_Islam%E2%80%99_campaign_in_Detroit Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 29, 2010) - Islamophobe Pamela Geller and her minions state that they are suing SMART Bus company in Michigan because SMART refuses to allow the “Leaving Islam’ anti-Muslim ads on their buses. atheists.org - 1671 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_win%21_Federal_appeals_court_says_highways%5C%27_crosses_are_unconstitutional Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 18, 2010) - Memorial crosses erected along Utah public roads to honor fallen state highway troopers have been found unconstitutional by a federal appeals court. atheists.org - 1423 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_reaches_out_to_atheists_%E2%80%93_but_not_you%2C_Richard_Dawkins Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 31, 2010) - The Vatican is planning a new initiative to reach out to atheists and agnostics in an attempt to improve the church's relationship with non-believers. atheists.org - 1424 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mark_Twain%5C%27s_Upcoming_Book_Promises_to_Be_Juicy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 31, 2010) - A century after his death, Mark Twain remains one of the hottest presences in the literary world. atheists.org - 1425 http://www.atheists.org/news/Child_Brides_Escape_Marriage%2C_but_Not_Lashes Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (May 31, 2010) -- The two Afghan girls had every reason to expect the law would be on their side when a policeman at a checkpoint stopped the bus they were in. atheists.org - 1426 http://www.atheists.org/news/Roundup%3A_New_Atheists_stand_firmly_on_truth Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 1, 2010) - Commentary writer Karl Giberson apparently is so rattled by the New Atheism that he cannot quote accurately ("Atheists, play well with others," On Religion, May 24). atheists.org - 1427 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Vatican_Archive%3A_the_Pope%5C%27s_private_library Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 1, 2010) - From Hitler to Henry VIII - the secret Vatican archives are a secret no more. atheists.org - 1428 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge_blocks_public_school_graduation_in_church Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 2, 2010) -- A federal judge on Monday ruled that Enfield High School and Enrico Fermi High School will not be able to hold their graduations at First Cathedral, culminating a months-long debate over whether it is unconstitutional to host students' ceremonies at the megachurch, Baltimore Sun sister paper (and this blogger's first employer) The Hartford Courant reports. atheists.org - 1429 http://www.atheists.org/news/_In_Memoir%2C_Christopher_Hitchens_Looks_Back Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 2, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens was in boarding school and barely out of short pants when he first learned that “words could function as weapons.” atheists.org - 1430 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_leaders_unite_against_planned_Jesus_cartoon Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 2, 2010) - It's not on the air yet. It's not shot yet. There's no pilot yet. There might not even be a script yet. atheists.org - 1431 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_the_Vatican_a_Sovereign_State%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:28:30 -0400 (June 2, 2010) - Elena Kagan and her colleagues in the solicitor general's office say it is. They should be ashamed. atheists.org - 1432 http://www.atheists.org/news/_BriefingNews_%26_PoliticsArtsLifeBusiness_%26_TechSciencePodcasts_%26_VideoBlogs_HOME_%2F_fighting_words_%3A_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 9June 2, 2010) - Elena Kagan and her colleagues in the solicitor general's office say it is. They should be ashamed. atheists.org - 1433 http://www.atheists.org/news/Friends_board_hears_out_atheist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 2, 2010) - Friends of the Cross board members said they will take the concerns of the atheist challenging the receipt of a $20,000 state grant into consideration, but they also must consult with others before deciding what to do with the money. atheists.org - 1434 http://www.atheists.org/news/Agora%3A_The_Great_Atheist_Film%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 6, 2010) - Alejandro Amenabar's excellent Agora opened this past week in limited release and I can't help but wonder why a film that resembles Gladiator (except smarter and more entertaining) is being dumped by its distributor at the end of May rather than given a wide-release on thousands of screens. atheists.org - 1435 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_atheism_and_Asperger%5C%27s_syndrome_share_in_common_and_a_look_at_purpose_driven_answers_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 3, 2010) - A recent post over at the Scientific American Mind and Brain blog has been getting a lot of attention in the past few days and not without reason. atheists.org - 1436 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conservative_Christians_Seek_to_Replace_Calif._Judges Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 3, 201`0) - Conservative Christians have launched a movement in an effort to replace four California judges with their own in a judicial election next week. atheists.org - 1437 http://www.atheists.org/news/HuffPost_Interview%3A_Rachel_Weisz_and_Agora_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 3, 2010) - Tall and willowy in a summery off-white ensemble, Rachel Weisz allows that she has a certain ignorance of science and astronomy. atheists.org - 1438 http://www.atheists.org/news/Love_Amid_the_Togas_and_the_Intolerant Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 3, 2010) - At first glance “Agora,” a rousing, finger-pointing drama from the Chilean-born director Alejandro Amenábar (“The Others,” “The Sea Inside”) is a bit of a puzzle. atheists.org - 1439 http://www.atheists.org/news/Movie_review%3A_%5C%27Agora%5C%27_shows_the_true_casualty_of_war Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 4, 2010) - "Agora" is a historical epic with an impressive pedigree. It misses some emotional connections and has pacing problems but covers a fascinating, overlooked period while depicting the eternal struggle between science and ideology. atheists.org - 1440 http://www.atheists.org/news/Invocation_targeted_by_atheists_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 4, 2010) - PINELLAS PARK – Prayer and the Bible were again the topic of discussion during the public comment session of the May 27 Pinellas Park Council meeting. atheists.org - 1441 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_Made_Us_Human%2C_Psychologist_Stresses_in_New_Book_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 4, 2010) - In the grim struggles of prehistory, early religion provided humans a way to relate to each other and the world around them, offering significant survival and reproductive advantages, a Southeastern Louisiana University evolutionary psychologist says in a new book. atheists.org - 1442 http://www.atheists.org/news/So_what_if_Egypt%5C%27s_Copts_find_a_book_insulting%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 4, 2010) - Following the lead of Islamists, Egyptian Christians are trying to ban an award-winning novel because it 'insults' Christianity atheists.org - 1443 http://www.atheists.org/news/Federal_judge_dismisses_Summum_suit_against_Pleasant_Grove Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 5, 2010) - SALT LAKE CITY — The Seven Aphorisms of Summum will not join the Ten Commandments on display in a Pleasant Grove park. atheists.org - 1444 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_famous_atheist_reimagines_the_gospels Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 5, 2010) - "His Dark Materials" author Philip Pullman takes on Jesus in a new book that isn't as anti-religious as he thinks null atheists.org - 1446 http://www.atheists.org/news/Comedy_Central%5C%27s_Jesus_Show_Draws_Protest_From_Religious_Groups_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 6, 2010) - NEW YORK — A coalition of religious and conservative leaders is trying to stop a proposed Comedy Central cartoon that puts Jesus Christ in a modern-day context – before it even gets started. atheists.org - 1447 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_Did_God_Create_Atheists%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 6, 2010) - Why did God create atheists? This is a question I always want to ask religious believers. (One of many questions, actually. "What evidence do you have that God is real?" and "Why are religious beliefs so different and so contradictory?" are also high on the list.) atheists.org - 1448 http://www.atheists.org/news/One_Question_for_God Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 8, 2010) - The famed British philosopher Bertrand Russell was known for being an outspoken atheist and social critic, in addition to his many contributions to the fields of mathematical logic and analytic philosophy. (You may have heard one of his most famous quotes: "No one can sit at the bedside of a dying child and still believe in God.") atheists.org - 1449 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tarnishing_the_Brand%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 9, 2010) - Have a look at this interview with Boston University religion professor Stephen Prothero. It contains a number of interesting nuggets, but this is the part that jumped out at me: atheists.org - 1450 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mother_Teresa_Rejected_By_Empire_State_Building_%28UPDATE%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 9, 2010) - The Empire State Building celebrates many cultures and causes in the world community with iconic lightings, and has a tradition of lightings for the religious holidays of Easter, Eid al Fitr, Hanukah, and Christmas. As a privately owned building, ESB has a specific policy against any other lighting for religious figures or requests by religions and religious organizations atheists.org - 1451 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Agora%5C%27_Scores_Best_Per-Theater_Average._Have_You_Seen_it_Yet%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 9, 2010) - It's all too rare when a film really impacts you. atheists.org - 1452 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ethics_Office_Investigates_C_Street_Residence Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 9, 2010) - The Office of Congressional Ethics is apparently investigating whether Members of Congress sharing a residence run by a religious organization have received an improper gift in the form of below-market rent in the building. atheists.org - 1453 http://www.atheists.org/news/Round_three%3A_The_battling_Hitchens_brothers Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 10, 2010) - Christopher and Peter both have new memoirs. While Peter wrestles with his absent sibling throughout, Christopher essentially ignores his brother. atheists.org - 1454 http://www.atheists.org/news/Islamic_Law_in_Oklahoma%3F_Vote_to_Bar_Sharia_May_Be_on_Fall_Ballot Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 10, 2010) - Oklahoma sure doesn't seem like the kind of place where the Islamic law code known as Sharia might take over. atheists.org - 1455 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Social_Cost_of_Atheism_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 10, 2010) - The results of an online survey published in the latest issue of Skeptic Magazine show that atheists in America fear paying a high social price in coming out as a non-believer. atheists.org - 1456 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_atheism_will_replace_religion_II_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 10, 2010) - Thanks to the many people who responded to my previous post. Some comment writers put words into my mouth by suggesting that this would happen "soon." Others claimed I said that religion would disappear completely. Let me clarify these and other issues. atheists.org - 1458 http://www.atheists.org/news/Stephen_Hawking_On_Religion%3A_%5C%27Science_Will_Win%5C%27_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 10, 2010) - Stephen Hawking, known for his groundbreaking work in physics, told Diane Sawyer that when it comes to reconciling science and religion, there is only one outcome: "science will win because it works." He also elaborated on his views about God. atheists.org - 1459 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sharron_Angle_Appeared_In_Scientology_Prisoner_Rehabilitation_Video_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 11, 2010) - Sharron Angle, whose come-from-behind victory in the Nevada Republican primary has catapulted the the Tea Party candidate into the national spotlight, immediately came under fire for her controversial views. atheists.org - 1460 http://www.atheists.org/news/Should_Atheists_Criticize_Other_Atheists%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 11, 2010) - The ethical theory I currently defend is desirism. But I mostly write about moral theory, so I rarely discuss the implications of desirism for everyday moral questions about global warming, free speech, politics, and so on. atheists.org - 1461 http://www.atheists.org/news/6th_Circuit_upholds_ban_on_Ky._courthouse_commandments_displays_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 11, 2010) - LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A split federal appeals panel yesterday upheld a ban on including the Ten Commandments in displays that featured multiple religious and government documents at two southern Kentucky courthouses. atheists.org - 1462 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kagan_Took_Broad_View_of_Religious_Freedom Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 11, 2010) -- As a young White House lawyer, Elena Kagan wrote that it was “quite outrageous” for the government to force a landlord to rent an apartment to an unwed couple if doing so violated the landlord’s religious beliefs against cohabitation outside the bonds of marriage. atheists.org - 1463 http://www.atheists.org/news/Empire_State_Building_Stands_Firm_in_Mother_Teresa_Ruling Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 11, 2010) - The Empire State Building is defending itself against what it says are "hateful words and messages" being generated over its refusal to honor Mother Teresa on Aug. 26 by bathing the tower in blue and white on what would have been her 100th birthday atheists.org - 1464 http://www.atheists.org/news/Agora%3A_Put_a_ring_system_on_it Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 12, 2010) - A quick Google search confirmed what I first guessed about halfway through this beautiful, pendulously thoughtful movie. Its director and co-writer, Alejandro Amenábar, is a fan of the 1980 TV series Cosmos and its visionary creator, philosopher-astronomer Carl Sagan. atheists.org - 1465 http://www.atheists.org/news/Grief_Links_Members_of_a_Persecuted_Muslim_Sect Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 12, 2010) - The phone rang early on the morning of May 28 in Tariq Malik’s home outside Chicago, the suburban sky still night-dark. atheists.org - 1466 http://www.atheists.org/news/iPhone_Apps_For_Atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 12, 2010) =- If you're a free-thinker or just want to banter or engage in discussions with your religious friends, here are some apps to help with the process. atheists.org - 1467 http://www.atheists.org/news/Secularist_Schism_Widens%2C_Threatening_a_Movement%5C%27s_Finances_--_and_Future%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 13, 2010) - For decades, and long before the recent arrival of ballyhooed and bully "New Atheists" like Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens, Paul Kurtz and the secular humanist movement that he birthed in the 1970s represented the gravitational center of unbelief in America. atheists.org - 1468 http://www.atheists.org/news/Nomad%3A_A_Personal_Journey_Through_the_Clash_of_Civilisations_by_Ayaan_Hirsi_Ali%3A_review Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 13, 2010) - Ayaan Hirsi Ali's view of the Islamic world, as seen in her new memoir, Nomad: A Personal Journey Through the Clash of Civilisations, is simplistic, says Mona Siddiqui atheists.org - 1469 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hitchens_As_Atheism%5C%27s_Drag_Queen Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 14, 2010) - In reading the recent comments on this subject I've noticed that we, as atheists, are often using the language of the gay rights movement to describe what it's like to be an atheist in a largely theistic society-- particularly the desire to 'come out' as atheists. atheists.org - 1470 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Right%5C%27s_Favorite_Atheist Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 14, 2010) - S.E. Cupp is the right wing’s current media darling who doesn’t believe in God but just penned a book attacking the liberal media and defending Christianity. Benyamin Cohen unravels the Cupp enigma.READ MORE atheists.org - 1471 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bachmann%5C%27s_Christian_Counseling_Business_Gets_Public_Funds Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 13m 2010) -- Andy Birkey at the Minnesota Independent reports that a Christian counseling center owned by Michele Bachmann and her husband has received more than $30,000 in public funds since 2007. It even comes from one of those "socialized medicine" systems the state of Minnesota runs for poor people. atheists.org - 1472 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bachmann%5C%27s_Christian_Counseling_Business_Gets_Public_Funds Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 14, 2010) - Andy Birkey at the Minnesota Independent reports that a Christian counseling center owned by Michele Bachmann and her husband has received more than $30,000 in public funds since 2007. It even comes from one of those "socialized medicine" systems the state of Minnesota runs for poor people. atheists.org - 1473 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bachmann%5C%27s_Christian_Counseling_Business_Gets_Public_Funds Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 14, 2010) - Andy Birkey at the Minnesota Independent reports that a Christian counseling center owned by Michele Bachmann and her husband has received more than $30,000 in public funds since 2007. It even comes from one of those "socialized medicine" systems the state of Minnesota runs for poor people. atheists.org - 1474 http://www.atheists.org/news/Touchdown_Jesus_On_Fire%2C_Ohio_Statue_Destroyed_By_Lightning_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 15, 2010) - A six-story-tall statue of Jesus Christ with his arms raised along a highway was struck by lightning in a thunderstorm Monday night and burned to the ground, police said. atheists.org - 1475 http://www.atheists.org/news/OPINION%3A_Not_knocking_on_heaven%E2%80%99s_door%3A_Black_atheists%2C_urban_America_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 15, 2010) - Late Saturday afternoon, like clockwork, the street corner preachers on Crenshaw and King Boulevard in South Los Angeles take to the “stage.” Decked out in flowing robes and dreadlocks, they fulminate into their mikes about the universe, God’s will and “unnatural” homosexuals to a motley audience waiting for the next express bus. atheists.org - 1477 http://www.atheists.org/news/Stephen_Colbert_Author_Interview%3A_Stephen_Prothero_On_The_8_Religions_That_Rule_The_World_And_Why_Th Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 16, 2010) - Stephen Prothero, Boston University professor and author of the new book "God Is Not One," spoke to Stephen Colbert last night about his book and why the eight religions that run the world have a lot of important differences that we shouldn't overlook as much as we do. atheists.org - 1478 http://www.atheists.org/news/Haley%5C%27s_path_to_Christianity_leaves_some_evangelicals_uneasy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 16, 2010) - Whispers about Nikki Haley's Sikh heritage burst into public view in the final days of South Carolina's Republican gubernatorial primary when state Sen. Jake Knotts called the Indian-American legislator a "raghead." atheists.org - 1479 http://www.atheists.org/news/Russian_Creationism_Sounds_Frighteningly_Familiar_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 16, 2010) - Religious fundamentalists have begun promoting creationism in Russia -- and they are doing so using many of the same strategies and buzzwords adopted by fellow extremists in the United States. atheists.org - 1480 http://www.atheists.org/news/Godless_billionaires_ask_super-rich_to_%5C%27give_it_up%5C%27_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 June 17, 2010) - Who says atheists, agnostics and freethinkers don't give a lot to charity? atheists.org - 1481 http://www.atheists.org/news/God_and_the_Political_Romantic Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 17, 2010) - Like most English-speaking scribes, I’ve spent the last few weeks dipping in and out of Christopher Hitchens’ memoir, “Hitch-22.” Of all the reviews to date, David Runciman’s essay in the London Review of Books seems to me to cut closest to the heart of Hitch. atheists.org - 1482 http://www.atheists.org/news/Weekly_Poll%3A_Should_Pope_Benedict_XVI_be_Arrested_and_Put_on_Trial%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 18, 2010) Austin Cline's weekly poll at About Atheism wants to know! atheists.org - 1483 http://www.atheists.org/news/God_and_the_Political_Romantic Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 18, 2010) - Hundreds of residents packed Thursday's Rutherford County Commission meeting where dozens voiced opposition to a planned Islamic center off Bradyville Pike in southeast Murfreesboro. atheists.org - 1484 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ethics_Office_Clears_C_Street_House_In_Rent_Probe Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 18, 2010) - The Office of Congressional Ethics has sent letters to several residents of the C Street Christian fellowship house informing them that there is no "probable cause" to believe legislators are getting improper gifts in the form of below-market rent, Roll Call reports. atheists.org - 1485 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ohio%5C%27s_Jesus_statue_is_latest_religious_statue_to_be_struck_by_lightning Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 18, 2010) - It appears God has sacrificed his only son. Again. atheists.org - 1486 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins_among_academics_calling_for_compulsory_evolution_teaching_at_primary_school Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 19, 2010) - Evolution should be taught to all primary school pupils, according to leading scientists and academics. atheists.org - 2335 http://www.atheists.org/news/Louis_Farrakhan%3A_Libya%5C%27s_Muammar_Gaddafi_Remains_A_Friend_ Mon, 28 Feb 2011 11:47:55 -0500 (February 28th, 2011) - Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan said Sunday that he considers Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi a friend and won't distance himself from him despite the deadly crackdown on protestors in the turbulent North Africa country. atheists.org - 1488 http://www.atheists.org/news/Initial_Speculations_On_Pagan_Atheism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 19, 2010) - Earlier this week I was down visiting Pagan friends in the Bay Area. atheists.org - 1489 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Hidden_Wealth_of_the_Catholic_Church Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 20, 2010) - The Catholic Church in Germany Faces Accusations of Theft and Opaque Accounting atheists.org - 1490 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Hitch_22%5C%27_by_Christopher_Hitchens Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 20, 2010) - The personal and political entwine in an entertaining memoir. atheists.org - 1491 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_challenged_by_Tea_Party_Patriots_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 20, 2010) - On Saturday June 19th, The Atheists of Florida hosted a “Meet the Atheists” event at the Pinellas Park library. atheists.org - 1492 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27We_are_all_enlisted%5C%27_-_Elder_Nelson_exhorts_young_adults_to_defend_faith Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 20, 2010) -- A Mormon elder calls for a united front by religious groups against Atheists... atheists.org - 1493 http://www.atheists.org/news/Should_Atheists_Take_the_Outsider_Test_for_Faith%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 22, 2010) - Assuming an outsider position in order to defend what we think is true is incumbent on everyone on every issue atheists.org - 1494 http://www.atheists.org/news/CathBlog_-_What_believers_share_with_atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 21, 2010) - In March of this year Melbourne was the venue for the Global Atheist Convention. atheists.org - 1495 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_GOP_Platform_Advocates_Criminalizing_Gay_Marriage%2C_Banning_Strip_Clubs%2C_Pornography_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 22, 2010) - Texas Republicans recently unveiled a policy platform that includes a statement of support for legislation that would make it a felony to issue a marriage license to same-sex couples as well as for an official to perform a marriage ceremony for gay partners wishing to wed. atheists.org - 1496 http://www.atheists.org/news/Adam_and_Eve_did_not_exist._Done. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 22, 2010) - One of the things I failed to mention when I discussed the Bergman-Enyart dialogue was that the spent some time talking about whether Adam had a navel or not, and the general historicity of Adam and Eve. I did not mention it because it was stupid, and that discussion already had a surfeit of stupid. atheists.org - 1498 http://www.atheists.org/news/Billboard_campaign_rebuts_%5C%27one_nation_under_God%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 23, 2010) - Religious billboards adorn the highways across the South. But a new billboard campaign in North Carolina deliberately snubs the Almighty. atheists.org - 1499 http://www.atheists.org/news/Federal_Jury%3A_Philadelphia_Can%5C%27t_Kick_Out_Boy_Scouts_For_Being_Anti-Gay_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 23, 2010) - The Boy Scouts of America an continue to discriminate against gay and Atheist youth, says a jury in Philadelphia. atheists.org - 1500 http://www.atheists.org/news/Legal_Battle_Brews_Over_Ban_on_%5C%27Anti-Islam%5C%27_Bus_Ads Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 23, 2010) - While a controversial ad campaign targeting Muslims is getting a cold shoulder in Detroit, its ads may soon be appearing on the side of Motown buses anyway. atheists.org - 1501 http://www.atheists.org/news/Belgian_Catholic_Church_Offices_Raided_Amid_Sex_Abuse_Allegations_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 June 24, 2010) - BRUSSELS — Police raided the home and former office of the recently retired archbishop of Belgium on Thursday, carrying off documents and a personal computer as part of an investigation into the sexual abuse of children by Roman Catholic priests, officials said. atheists.org - 1502 http://www.atheists.org/news/Finally%2C_Christian_Couples_Have_a_Place_to_Buy_Their_Dildos Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:28:34 -0400 (June 24, 2010) - Trying to get her spark back in the bedroom, a Christian woman went looking for "marital aids" and all she found was porn. atheists.org - 1503 http://www.atheists.org/news/Finally%2C_Christian_Couples_Have_a_Place_to_Buy_Their_Dildos Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 24, 2010) - Trying to get her spark back in the bedroom, a Christian woman went looking for "marital aids" and all she found was porn atheists.org - 1504 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins_interested_in_setting_up_%5C%27atheist_free_school%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 25, 2010) - Richard Dawkins has said he is interested in setting up an atheist “free school” under the Government’s plan to encourage independent education establishments. atheists.org - 1505 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_Moves_To_Block_Questioning_Of_Pope_In_Abuse_Lawsuit_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 25, 2010) - The Vatican is asking a federal judge to reject an attempt to question Pope Benedict XVI under oath in a Kentucky sex abuse lawsuit on the grounds that there has been no evidence of a link to church officials in Rome. 25, 2010) - atheists.org - 1506 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist-agnostic_coalition_promotes_its_patriotism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 25, 2010) - A statewide coalition of atheists and agnostics has placed billboards in six cities, including Winston-Salem, to show that the nonreligious also are patriotic, including one along a parkway named for a famous evangelist. atheists.org - 1507 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kids_wrestle_with_religion_at_Camp_Quest Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 25 ,2010) - Sleep-away camp offers usual summer fun with nonbeliever's twist atheists.org - 1508 http://www.atheists.org/news/Off_the_deep_end%3F_Consciousness_and_the_End_of_the_War_Between_Science_and_Religion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 26, 2010) - Nothing gets as vicious as fighting for a lost cause. If the proverbial Martian landed in a flying saucer today and saw how religionists war against scientists, he would be surprised at the vehemence on both sides. atheists.org - 1509 http://www.atheists.org/news/4_in_10_Americans_Expect_Jesus_to_Return_by_2050 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 26, 2010) - About four in ten Americans say they expect Jesus Christ to return within the next 40 years, according to a recent national survey by the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press. atheists.org - 1510 http://www.atheists.org/news/Should_skeptic_organizations_be_atheist_organizations%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 26, 2010) - Skeptic organizations often face a nagging dilemma: should they be openly skeptical about religion? atheists.org - 1511 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_Slams_%5C%27Deplorable%5C%27_Belgian_Sex_Abuse_Raids_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 27, 2010) - Pope Benedict XVI lashed out Sunday at what he called the "deplorable" raids carried out by Belgian police who detained bishops, confiscated computers, opened a crypt and took church documents as part of an investigation into priestly sex abuse. atheists.org - 1512 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kagan%5C%27s_a_not-so-leftist_liberal Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 27, 2010) - The daughter of a crusading New York street lawyer and protege of Justice Thurgood Marshall, the Supreme Court nominee has specialized in finding a middle position on the most contentious issues. atheists.org - 1513 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sunday_Sacrilege%3A_So_alone Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Junme 27, 2010) - Scientists and atheists do something that many believers find repellent: we shatter their perception of their relationship to the universe. And understandably, they don't like that. atheists.org - 1514 http://www.atheists.org/news/%E2%80%98Star_Trek%5C%27_franchise_an_homage_to_humanist_philosophy Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 ((jUNE 27, 2010) - If you're a big fan of the Star Trek science fiction genre, then there's a good chance that you're a humanist at heart. atheists.org - 1515 http://www.atheists.org/news/Seeking_God%E2%80%99s_Help_for_a_Wounded_Gulf Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 28, 2010) - In a small white building along the baptizing Bon Secour River, a building that once housed a shrimp-net business, the congregation of the Fishermen Baptist Church gathered for another Sunday service, with the preacher presiding from a pulpit designed to look like a ship captain’s wheel. atheists.org - 1516 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens%5C%27_%5C%22Hitch_22%5C%22%3A_Left%3F_Right%3F_Center%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 28, 2010) - Near the end of his new book, "Hitch-22," which is neither strictly a memoir nor quite a political essay but something in between, Christopher Hitchens informs the reader that he has, at long last, learned how to "think for oneself," implying that he had failed to do so before reaching the riper side of middle age. atheists.org - 1517 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Group_Can%5C%27t_Bar_Gays%2C_Get_Funding_At_Hastings_College%2C_Court_Says_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 28, 2010) - An ideologically split Supreme Court ruled Monday that a law school can legally deny recognition to a Christian student group that won't let gays join, with one justice saying that the First Amendment does not require a public university to validate or support the group's "discriminatory practices." atheists.org - 1518 http://www.atheists.org/news/Controversial_%5C%27atheist%5C%27_billboard_is_defaced Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 28, 2010) - The “Under God” spray-painted by vandals onto an atheist billboard on Billy Graham Parkway over the weekend won’t be gone until just before July 4, a spokesman for Charlotte Atheists & Agnostics said today. atheists.org - 1519 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sharron_Angle_Opposes_Abortion_Even_With_Rape%2C_Incest%3A_%5C%27God_Has_A_Plan%5C%27_%28AUDIO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 29, 2010) - Since winning the Republican nomination in the Nevada Senate race Sharron Angle has drawn attention and controversy for a host of conservative policy prescriptions that seem well outside the political mainstream. atheists.org - 1520 http://www.atheists.org/news/Defacing_the_Pledge_of_Allegiance_%28again%3F%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (Vandals inserted the words "Under God" into the original phrase from the Pledge of Allegiance -- "One Nation Indivisible" -- displayed on a billboard in North Carolina.June 29, 2010) - atheists.org - 1521 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_Churches_Filing_For_Bankruptcy_To_Protect_Assets_From_Sex_Abuse_Lawsuits Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 29, 2010) - This is written with a sense of sadness and some mixed feelings. While not a member of the Roman Catholic Church, I have great respect for the church and its followers. atheists.org - 1523 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens_suspends_book_tour_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 30, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens has begun canceling in-person events, from Raleigh to San Jose to Los Angeles to Seattle to Portland, regularly citing 'personal reasons.' atheists.org - 1524 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pick_your_slogan%3A_%5C%27I_know%2C%5C%27_%5C%27God_knows%2C%5C%27_or_%5C%27Celebrate_uncertainty%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 30, 2010) -- "I don't know" is the gets-no-respect response these days when everyone broadcasts or blast-tweets their very self-certain opinions. atheists.org - 1525 http://www.atheists.org/news/Roswell%5C%27s_Legacy%3A_How_a_Town_Became_UFO_Central Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 30, 2010) - Sixty-three years ago, something fell out of the sky near Roswell, N.M., launching decades of speculation about the true nature of the object. atheists.org - 1526 http://www.atheists.org/news/Summer_camp_caters_to_kids_of_atheists%2C_agnostics Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 30, 2010) - CLARKSVILLE, Ohio — The camp director's housekeeping lecture met the usual disinterest from the dining hall full of sweaty, bug-bitten kids. atheists.org - 1527 http://www.atheists.org/news/BREAKING%3A_Christopher_Hitchens%5C%27_Cancer%3A_Author_Undergoing_Chemotherapy_For_Esophageal_cancer_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 30, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer. atheists.org - 1664 http://www.atheists.org/news/On_Dawkins%E2%80%99s_Atheism%3A_A_Response Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 16, 2010) - My August 1 essay, “Philosophy and Faith,” was primarily addressed to religious believers. It argued that faith should go hand-in-hand with rational reflection, even though such reflection might well require serious questioning of their faith. atheists.org - 1529 http://www.atheists.org/news/Without_its_immunity%2C_can_the_Vatican_survive%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 1, 2010 - A US supreme court decision could have serious implications for the Holy See, historically protected by its sovereignty atheists.org - 1530 http://www.atheists.org/news/Such%2C_Such_Are_His_Joys Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 2, 2010) - On Wednesday, the essayist Christopher Hitchens announced that he has cancer of the esophagus and will soon begin chemotherapy. atheists.org - 1531 http://www.atheists.org/news/God_is_great_to_Christopher_Hitchens Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 2, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens, the famous atheist and author of “God is Not Great,” abruptly cut short a book tour this week to begin chemotherapy treatments, and news outlets reported that he has cancer. atheists.org - 1532 http://www.atheists.org/news/You_Say_God_Is_Dead%3F_There%E2%80%99s_an_App_for_That. Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 2, 2010) - An explosion of smart-phone software has placed an arsenal of trivia at the fingertips of every corner-bar debater with talking points on sports, politics and how to kill a zombie. Now it is taking on the least trivial topic of all: God. atheists.org - 1533 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fla._School_Sued_for_Banning_Bible_Distribution Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 July 2, 2010) - A mission group on Thursday sued a Florida district school board for banning Bible distribution on public school campuses on Religious Freedom Day. atheists.org - 1534 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_atheist_and_the_rabbi%3A_Arguing_about_God_with_Christopher_Hitchens Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 3, 2010) - Ambling across the lobby with a cigarette in one hand and a glass of wine in the other, my antagonist nodded to me and said, "Hello, darling." atheists.org - 1535 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_Enduring_Religious_Web_Site_Is_Poised_for_a_Next_Phase Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 3, 2010) - Rupert Murdoch sells topless Page 3 girls to England, and he sells “fair and balanced” television commentary to America. But until last week, his most eccentric product was Beliefnet.com. atheists.org - 1536 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens_has_cancer%2C_the_faithful_begin_to_respond_-_%5C%22gotcha%5C%22_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 3, 2010) - When news broke that outspoken atheist and author of "god is not Great" is being treated for cancer, comments were quick in coming - from well-wishers, and attacks from the faithful. atheists.org - 1537 http://www.atheists.org/news/Robert_Price_%26_Chris_Mooney_-_Must_Atheists_Also_Be_Liberals%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 3, 2010) - Recently in Amherst, New York, two of Point of Inquiry’s hosts sat down for a special in-studio episode of the show. atheists.org - 1538 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheist_Editor%3A_Christian_Daycare_is_%E2%80%98Child_Abuse%E2%80%99___Read_more%3A_http%3A%2F%2Fnewsbusters.org%2Fblog Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 4, 2010) - David Smalley, Editor of American Atheist Magazine, wrote in a personal blog post that Christian day care is a form of "child abuse." atheists.org - 1539 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_Editor%3A_Christian_day-care_is_%5C%22Child_Abuse%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 4, 2010) - American Atheist Magazine Editor speaks frankly about faith-based ch8ild care atheists.org - 1540 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_judge_rejects_creationist_master%5C%27s_degree Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 4, 2010) - Here’s education news from Texas that you can applaud: A federal judge has denied an effort by the Institute for Creation Research to issue master's degrees in science education from “a Biblical scientific creationist viewpoint,” instead siding with state officials who initially refused to allow the program to go forward. atheists.org - 1541 http://www.atheists.org/news/Australia%5C%27s_New_Leader_Is_An_Atheist%3A_Americans%2C_Don%5C%27t_Try_This_At_Home%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 4, 2010) - When Julia Gillard became Australia's first female prime minister last week she quickly earned international headlines and received a congratulatory call from President Obama for her accomplishment. atheists.org - 1542 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_gather_for_a_holiday_they_can_believe_in%3A_Independence_Day Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 5, 2010) - trouble with most major holidays in the United States, if you're an atheist, is that it's difficult to ignore the "holy day" etymology, what with Christmas (obvious), Easter (obvious) and Thanksgiving (whom do you think most people are giving thanks to?). atheists.org - 1543 http://www.atheists.org/news/Perhaps_throat_cancer_will_move_Christopher_Hitchens_to_a_change_of_heart Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 5, 2010) - The ‘Scourge of God’ has my sympathy, and prayers atheists.org - 1544 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sakineh_Mohammadie_Ashtiani%2C_Iran_Mother%2C_Could_Be_Stoned_To_Death_At_Any_Moment_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 6, 2010)m - A 42-year-old mother of two faces the punishment of death by stoning in Iran after authorities convicted her of adultery. And according to Mina Ahadi, who heads the International Committee Against Stoning and the Death Penalty, only international pressure can help save her. atheists.org - 1545 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kevin_Gray%2C_Waterbury_Priest%2C_Stole_%241.3_Million_To_Pay_For_Male_Escorts%2C_Say_Police_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 6, 2010) - A Roman Catholic priest in Connecticut was charged Tuesday with stealing $1.3 million in church money over seven years to use for male escorts, expensive clothing and luxury hotels and restaurants atheists.org - 1546 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Christopher_Hitchens%5C%27_cancer_news_prompts_conversion_debate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 6, 2010) - News that raging atheist Christopher Hitchens canceled his book tour for his Hitch-22 memoir to deal with throat cancer, has prompted some hot debate on conversions in dire distress. (Yes, I know, the phrase is "deathbed conversions," but, please, he's just begun treatment.) atheists.org - 1547 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_president_to_resign_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 7, 2010) - The president of the group American Atheists, Ed Buckner, will retire this fall after two years in office. atheists.org - 1548 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_Liberal_Creationists_Less_Intelligent%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 7, 2010) - According to a Discover magazine data analysis, liberal creationists are not that bright. atheists.org - 1549 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_Christopher_Hitchens_and_the_New_Atheists_Can_Learn_From_Malcolm_X Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 7, 2010) - As one of the most prominent public voices resisting the culture of Christian and religious dominance Christopher Hitchens earns himself a comparison to the freedom fighter who nearly fifty years ago urged the civil rights movement to “stop singing and start swinging.” atheists.org - 1551 http://www.atheists.org/news/WND_Columnist_Cheers_Vandalism Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 8, 2010) - Chrissy Saterfield, a Worldnutdaily columnist clearly preparing herself for a career as one of Fox News' Barbie doll talking heads, cheers on those who vandalized a billboard put up by an atheist group in North Carolina atheists.org - 1552 http://www.atheists.org/news/Federal_Judge_In_Boston_Rules_Gay_Marriage_Ban_Unconstitutional_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 9, 2010) - The federal law banning gay marriage is unconstitutional because it interferes with the right of a state to define the institution and therefore denies married gay couples some federal benefits, a federal judge ruled Thursday in Boston. atheists.org - 1553 http://www.atheists.org/news/Unbelievers_claim_a_new_label_for_friendly_skeptics_--_%5C%27Neo_Humanist%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 9, 2010) - Meet the newborn Neo Humanists. atheists.org - 1555 http://www.atheists.org/news/Billboard_seeks_to_tell_non-believers%3A_you_are_not_alone Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 10, 2010) - Don Rhoades isn't interested in stealing anyone's faith. His wife and many of his family members are Christian. atheists.org - 1556 http://www.atheists.org/news/Death_By_Stoning%3A_Iran%5C%27s_Internal_Debate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 11, 2010) - Iran's hard-line government holds fast to the belief that relenting under international pressure is a great blunder because, ultimately, it just invites more pressure. atheists.org - 1557 http://www.atheists.org/news/As_growing_numbers_leave%2C_the_Archdiocese_of_Detroit_tries_to_keep_young_people_in_the_flock Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 July 1Catholics in the U.S. have experienced the greatest percentage point loss of members of any major faith or denomination, according to a 2008 study by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life.1, 2010) - atheists.org - 1558 http://www.atheists.org/news/Clerics_to_Work_Within_Schools_of_Iran%E2%80%99s_Capital Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 12, 2010) - Iran’s educational authorities will send 1,000 religious clerics into schools in Tehran to tamp down Western influence and political opposition, newspapers reported on Sunday. atheists.org - 1559 http://www.atheists.org/news/Oak_Brook_Hotel_Backs_Out_Of_Hosting_Muslim_Group_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 12, 2010) - A controversial Muslim group has canceled its annual U.S. conference after a suburban Chicago hotel backed out of hosting the event. atheists.org - 1560 http://www.atheists.org/news/Playboy_Portugal%5C%27s_Jesus_Cover%3A_Magazine_Cancels_Portuguese_Edition_Following_Controversial_Spread_%28 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 12, 2010) - Playboy has shuttered its Portgual edition after a controversial cover and spread featuring a depiction of Jesus Christ among a topless model. atheists.org - 1561 http://www.atheists.org/news/Chrissy_Uttering_Nonsense_Typically Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 12, 2010) A WorldNetDaily.com columnist who praised the vandalism of an Atheist billboard in North Carolina gets a good dose of criticism from blogger Max II. atheists.org - 1562 http://www.atheists.org/news/France_BURQA_BAN%3A_French_Parliament_Approves_Ban_On_Face_Veils_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 13, 2010) - France's lower house of parliament overwhelmingly approved a ban on wearing burqa-style Islamic veils Tuesday, part of a concerted effort to define and protect French values that has disconcerted many in the country's large Muslim community. atheists.org - 1636 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens_On_Cancer%3A_I%5C%27m_%5C%27Realistic%5C%27_About_Odds_Of_Survival%2C_Pray_For_Me_If_You_Want_%28VID Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 August 6, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens appeared on "Anderson Cooper 360" Thursday in his first TV appearance since his diagnosis with esophageal cancer. atheists.org - 1637 http://www.atheists.org/news/Thinking_About_God_Stresses_Out_Atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 7, 2010) - But for believers, it's a source of peace atheists.org - 1638 http://www.atheists.org/news/Across_Nation%2C_Mosque_Projects_Meet_Opposition Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 7, 2010) - While a high-profile battle rages over a mosque near ground zero in Manhattan, heated confrontations have also broken out in communities across the country where mosques are proposed for far less hallowed locations. atheists.org - 1565 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_claim_Lakeland_prayers_discriminate_against_non-Christians Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 13, 2010) - If you want to pray before a Lakeland city commission meeting, the Atheists of Florida prefer you do it silently. atheists.org - 1566 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scientologists_vs._Anderson_Cooper%3A_Church_Attacks_CNN_Host_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (June 14, 2010) - rson Cooper has made himself a powerful enemy: the Church of Scientology. atheists.org - 1567 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_reject_prayers_for_Hitchens%2C_believers_doubt_he%5C%27s_a_child_of_God Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 14, 2010) - s of atheists are commenting on yesterday's post from a Catholic priest who says Christians should pray for the cancer-stricken Christopher Hitchens, even if he is an enemy of religion. atheists.org - 1569 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pray_for_Hitch%3F_Christian_healing_for_believers%2C_atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 15, 2010) - Celebrities with cancer have long piqued the public's curiosity, especially in these days of social media, when people can actually comment on their cases. atheists.org - 1570 http://www.atheists.org/news/Banned%3A_Bollywood_Comedy_With_bin_Laden_Look-Alike Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 15, 2010) - Two days before Osama bin Laden's big Bollywood debut, an Indian comedy starring a look-alike of the al-Qaida mastermind has been banned in Pakistan amid fears the movie could be used as a pretext for terrorist attacks, according to reports. atheists.org - 1571 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_Holy_Land_Archaeology_Being_Hyped_by_Politics%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 15, 2010) - Bible-era scholars say they are getting fed up with headline-grabbing archaeological discoveries that seem more influenced by modern political agendas and showmanship than by scholarship. atheists.org - 1572 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hanged_air_traffic_controller_sought_asylum_for_fear_of_religious_persecution Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 15, 2010) - Ismail Mohamed Didi, the 25 year-old air traffic controller who was found hanged from the control tower of Male International Airport at 4:00am on Tuesday morning in an apparent suicide, was seeking asylum in the UK for fear of persecution over his lack of religious belief. atheists.org - 1573 http://www.atheists.org/news/Maldives_atheist_who_felt_persecuted_%5C%27hangs_himself%5C%27_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 15,m 2010) - A man in the Indian Ocean island state of the Maldives has died, apparently by suicide, after complaining of being victimised for not being a Muslim atheists.org - 1575 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_Latest_Ban%2C_Hamas_Clamps_Down_on_Hookahs Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 16, 2010) - Gaza is not an easy place to have a good time. Racked by poverty and despair, bereft of cinemas and most other public entertainment, and still hobbled by a trade embargo on goods the Israeli military deems sensitive, the 1.5 million inhabitants of the coastal enclave have to make do with what they've got. atheists.org - 1609 http://www.atheists.org/news/Iran_stoning_mum%5C%27s_legal_rep_missing_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 29, 2010) - A lawyer who defended an Iranian woman sentenced to death by stoning has gone missing, Amnesty International said last night. atheists.org - 1610 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anne_Rice%3A_%5C%27I_Quit_Being_A_Christian%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:37 -0400 (July 30, 2010) - Anne Rice, the bestselling novelist most popularly known for "Interview with the Vampire" and her other creepy vampire novels, announced on Wednesday via Facebook that she has officially renounced Christianity. atheists.org - 1665 http://www.atheists.org/news/Russian_Tycoon_Orders_Workers_to_Find_God_or_Get_Fired Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 17, 2010) - A Russian tycoon has told 6,000 workers at his private dairy company that they'll be fired if they've ever had an abortion, or if those who are "living in sin" don't get married within two months. atheists.org - 1666 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Constitution_and_the_Mosque Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 17, 2010) - President Obama showed his understanding of the Constitution, and his respect for the American people, last week when he defended the right of a Muslim community group to build a mosque and Islamic center two blocks north of ground zero in Lower Manhattan atheists.org - 1668 http://www.atheists.org/news/Landover_Baptists_Denounce_%5C%22Avalanche_of_Atheists%5C%22_Coming_to_Des_Moines%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 17, 2010) - American Atheists, advocacy group for nonbeliever civil rights and state-church separation, announced today that it has chosen Des Moines, Iowa, as the host city for its April, 2011, National Convention. atheists.org - 1669 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens%3A_Despite_Cancer%2C_I%5C%27d_Drink_%26_Smoke_Again Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 18, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens is known as much for his hard-drinking, chain-smoking lifestyle as he is for his controversial writings. atheists.org - 1670 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hey_Fox_Fans%2C_Your_Favorite_Network_Is_Part-Owned_By_a_Saudi_Prince_Whose_Family_Rules_By_Sharia_Law Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 18, 2010) - The stridency with which Fox News personalities attack the downtown Islamic center — red meat for the millions who tune in each night — is an example of the often uneasy relationship and occasionally diverging interests between many of News Corp.’s properties, in this case Fox News and its parent corporation. atheists.org - 1672 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_Sharron_Angle_a_Christian_Reconstructionist%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 19, 2010) - A unified theory of the Nevada's Senate candidate's stranger musings. atheists.org - 1673 http://www.atheists.org/news/Islamic_nations_snub_UN_plea_to_help_flood_victims_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 19, 2010) - ISLAMIC nations are shunning a United Nations appeal for the worsening Pakistan floods, amid tensions with President Zardari. atheists.org - 1674 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mosque_Developer_Rejects_Moving_to_New_Location_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 9August 19, 2010) - But a meeting with Paterson may still be in the works atheists.org - 1675 http://www.atheists.org/news/Andrews_speaks_out_--_Shurtleff_to_fight_latest_ruling_on_memorial_crosses Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 19, 2010) - Utah's attorney general says if he has to, he'll take the case for roadside crosses all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. atheists.org - 1676 http://www.atheists.org/news/Quran-Burning_Church_Vows_To_Proceed_Without_Fire_Permit_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 20, 2010) - (RNS) Fire officials in Gainesville, Fla., have denied a permit to a church that wants to burn Qurans on Sept. 11, but church officials said they'll go ahead with the protest that has garnered worldwide attention. atheists.org - 1677 http://www.atheists.org/news/Read_the_court_decision_in_the_Utah_highway_cross_case Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 20, 2010) The court supported the claim made by American Atheists that these highway memorials were really unconstitutional religious symbols. READ THE DECISION atheists.org - 1678 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens%3A_My_Prayer_for_a_Worthy_Opponent_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 20, 2010) - This Sunday evening, August 22nd, Christopher Hitchens will appear on my radio show on 77 WABC in New York City to discuss his memoir, Hitch 22. It will not be our first meeting. atheists.org - 1679 http://www.atheists.org/news/U.S._Soldiers_Punished_for_Not_Attending_Christian_Concert_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 20, 2010) -- For the past several years, two U.S. Army posts in Virginia, Fort Eustis and Fort Lee, have been putting on a series of what are called Commanding General's Spiritual Fitness Concerts. atheists.org - 1680 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kirby%3A_Intolerance%2C_not_atheism%2C_is_dooming_America_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 20, 2010) - I knew it would happen. Five minutes after the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals declared unconstitutional the memorial crosses posted in honor of fallen Utah Highway Patrol troopers, the national media came looking for me. atheists.org - 1681 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sex_Scandal_Has_U.S._Buddhists_Looking_Within Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 21, 2010) - Sooner or later, every traditional faith has to confront sexual impropriety by its spiritual leaders: extramarital sex, or sex with the wrong people (members of the congregation, minors) or, for supposedly celibate clergy, any sex at all. atheists.org - 1682 http://www.atheists.org/news/http%3A%2F%2Fwww.huffingtonpost.com%2F2010%2F08%2F21%2Ftroops-skipping-christian_n_690032.html Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 21, 2010) - The Army said Friday it was investigating a claim that dozens of soldiers who refused to attend a Christian band's concert at a Virginia military base were banished to their barracks and told to clean them up. atheists.org - 1683 http://www.atheists.org/news/Troops%3A_Skipping_Christian_Concert_Got_Us_Punished_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 21, 2010) - The Army said Friday it was investigating a claim that dozens of soldiers who refused to attend a Christian band's concert at a Virginia military base were banished to their barracks and told to clean them up. atheists.org - 1684 http://www.atheists.org/news/Crime_%28Sex%29_and_Punishment_%28Stoning%29 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 21, 2010) - It may be the oldest form of execution in the world, and it is certainly among the most barbaric. atheists.org - 1685 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_doesn%E2%80%99t_Obama_wear_his_religion_on_his_sleeve%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 22, 2010) - What will it take for Obama to convince the world that he’s a Christian, or at least not a Muslim? Teaching Baptist Sunday School like Jimmy Carter? Putting a 'My Boss is a Jewish Carpenter' bumper sticker on Air Force One? atheists.org - 1686 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rallies_Over_Mosque_Near_Ground_Zero_Get_Heated Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 22, 2010) - The proposed mosque near ground zero drew hundreds of fever-pitch demonstrators Sunday, with opponents carrying signs associating Islam with blood, supporters shouting, "Say no to racist fear!" and American flags waving on both sides. atheists.org - 1687 http://www.atheists.org/news/Troops_Punished_After_Refusing_to_Attend_Evangelical_Concert Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 23, 2010) - Update: An Army spokesman now says the Pentagon will investigate soldiers' claims that they were punished for refusing to attend the Christian-themed concert. Pvt. Anthony Smith is the type of guy who stands up for what he believes in. That's why he decided to hold his commanding officers accountable for punishing him and fellow soldiers after they refused to attend an evangelical Christian rock concert at the Fort Eustis military post in Virginia. atheists.org - 1688 http://www.atheists.org/news/Stewart%3A_FOX_Failed_To_Mention_Co-Owner_Is_One_They_Accuse_Of_%5C%27Terror_Funding%5C%27_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 24, 2010) - Jon Stewart continued his coverage of the 'Ground Zero Mosque' debate last night, focusing on Fox News' incongruities harder than he ever has. In a segment called "The Parent Company Trap," Stewart shared with his viewers how Fox News' plan to "follow the money" from mosque builder Imam Rauf to terrorists will be a tricky one because it leads right back to Fox News. atheists.org - 1690 http://www.atheists.org/news/America%2C_Home_of_the_Free_--_Except_for_Muslims%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 24, 2010) - Religion stirs our deepest passions. That helps explain the furor over the planned construction of a mosque in lower Manhattan near Ground Zero. atheists.org - 1691 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ann_Coulter_Blasts_%5C%27Fake_Christians%5C%27_for_Opposing_Her_Speech_to_GOP_Gays Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 24, 2010) - First, Glenn Beck throws in the white flag on gay marriage, as Politics Daily reported earlier this month, and now Ann Coulter has gone AWOL on what just a short time ago was considered a battle flag issue for conservative culture warriors. atheists.org - 1692 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist%5C%27s_Top_Ten_List_of_Christian_Delusions Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 24, 2010) - There are so many delusions to mention that it's hard to choose just ten, and it's hard to rank them since they're all equally delusions. atheists.org - 1693 http://www.atheists.org/news/Westboro_Church_Protest_Against_Jews_Hilariously_Interrupted_By_Brick_Stone_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 25, 2010) - The loathsome Westboro Baptist Church (WBC), best known for "protesting" the funerals of U.S. soldiers with signs saying "God hates fags" and "God hates America," staged another "protest" on August 13th, this time of the Jewish Federation. Presumably, the Federation's sin is being Jewish. atheists.org - 1694 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Uncircumcised_Israel_Lobby Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 25, 2010) - What Jews misunderstand about Christian Zionism. atheists.org - 1695 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kentucky_State_Fair%5C%27s_atheist_booth_sparks_spirited_discussions Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 26, 2010) - In a small booth nestled between a vendor of roasted almonds and models of arch-style steel buildings and infrared saunas, Frank Lovell and Billy Joe Wright spent close to half an hour debating the existence of God, the afterlife and the role of Christianity in the nation’s founding. atheists.org - 1696 http://www.atheists.org/news/Far_From_Ground_Zero%2C_Obscure_Pastor_Is_Ignored_No_Longer Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 26, 2010) - If building an Islamic center near ground zero amounts to the epitome of Muslim insensitivity, as critics of the project have claimed, what should the world make of Terry Jones, the evangelical pastor here who plans to memorialize the Sept. 11 attacks with a bonfire of Korans? atheists.org - 1697 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Mosque%5C%27_Debate%2C_Taxi_Stabbing_Get_Animated%3A_Taiwanese_Video_Covers_Anti-Muslim_Events%2C_Obama%5C%27s_Reli Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 26, 2010) - The Taiwanese have done it again. Next Media Animation has released a CGI recreation of all the recent events surrounding the Park51 controversy and anti-Muslim incidents with immaculate detail. atheists.org - 1699 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bikini-Clad_Strippers_Protest_Church_In_Rural_Ohio_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 August 27, 2010) - Strippers dressed in bikinis sunbathe in lawn chairs, their backs turned toward the gray clapboard church where men in ties and women in full-length skirts flock to Sunday morning services. atheists.org - 1700 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_Would_Our_Founding_Fathers_Say_About_the_%5C%27Ground_Zero_Mosque%5C%27%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (aUGUST 27, 2010) - In the debate over the Islamic center and mosque near Ground Zero in New York, two competing arguments have emerged. atheists.org - 1701 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_Washington%2C_a_Call_for_Religious_Rebirth Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 28, 2010) - Tens of thousands of people rallied at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial Saturday at an event organized by the conservative broadcaster Glenn Beck, who called for a religious rebirth in America at the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have A Dream” speech 47 years ago to the day. atheists.org - 1702 http://www.atheists.org/news/Glenn_Beck_Goes_Messianic_at_America%5C%27s_Divine_Destiny_Event_Before_2%2C500_Screaming_Fans Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 28, 2010) - Beck madness continues as he tries to launch another religious Great Awakening to shape American history. atheists.org - 1703 http://www.atheists.org/news/No_Mosque_near_Ground_Zero%3F__Another_opinion_--_Pat_Condell_on_Ground_Zero_mosque%3A_%5C%22Is_it_possible_t Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 29, 2010) - Read, decide, and sound off on this o[pinion about the near-Grounmd Zero Mosque! atheists.org - 1704 http://www.atheists.org/news/Generation_X_More_Loyal_To_Religion_Than_Previous_Generation Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 30, 2010) - A recent survey analysis reveals that Gen-Xers are more likely than Baby Boomers to remain loyal to religion. Christie Nicholson reports. atheists.org - 1705 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bigot_starts_ground_zero_church%3A_Where%5C%27s_the_outrage%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 30, 2010) - A bigoted pastor who has assailed gays and Muslims is launching the "9-11 Christian Center at Ground Zero" a mere two blocks from the World Trade Center site this Sunday, but so far the project hasn't drawn a peep of protest from those who are outraged by the "ground zero mosque." atheists.org - 1706 http://www.atheists.org/news/White_Fright_%3AGlenn_Beck%5C%27s_rally_was_large%2C_vague%2C_moist%2C_and_undirected%E2%80%94the_Waterworld_of_white_sel Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 30, 2010) - By Christopher Hitchens One crucial element of the American subconscious is about to become salient and explicit and highly volatile. It is the realization that white America is within thinkable distance of a moment when it will no longer be the majority. atheists.org - 1707 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fire_at_Tennessee_Mosque_Site%3A_Part_of_a_%5C%27Perfect_Storm%5C%27%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 *(August 31, 2010) - As federal investigators search for the cause of an equipment fire at the future site of an Islamic center in Tennessee, a Muslim civil rights organization says the incident could be yet another instance of anti-Islam attacks. atheists.org - 1708 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mussolini_update Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (August 31, 2010) - I recently posted an item on Newt Gingrich's view that the U.S. should allow a mosque at ground zero when Saudi Arabia allows a church at Mecca and noted that it echoed an oft-quoted Mussolini line that substitutes Rome for ground zero. atheists.org - 1709 http://www.atheists.org/news/Carla_Bruni_%5C%27Deserves_To_Die%2C%5C%27_Iranian_Media_Says_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 1, 2010) - Iran on Tuesday sought to distance itself from harsh remarks by a hard-line newspaper, which called France's first lady a "prostitute" for condemning the stoning sentence against an Iranian woman convicted of adultery. atheists.org - 1710 http://www.atheists.org/news/Beck_Plays_Prophet%E2%80%94Politics_Pervade_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 1, 2010) - The media pundit tries on the role of Jeremiah, but instead of prophetic critique offers fervent nostalgia. atheists.org - 1711 http://www.atheists.org/news/Stephen_Hawking%3A_God_NOT_Needed_For_Creation_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 2, 2010) - Did creation need a creator? atheists.org - 1712 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_Evangelicals_Really_Think_of_Glenn_Beck Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 )September 2, 2010) - Glenn Beck's revival may appear to forecast him as less of a leader for America's evangelical base than one might think. In fact, many evangelical leaders suggest Beck's success could ultimately fail--if pulpits carefully parse the distinction Beck fails to make between Christianity and civil religion. atheists.org - 1713 http://www.atheists.org/news/Abstinence_program_partners_Chinese_officials_with_U.S._evangelicals Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 0Se[pte4mber 3, 2010) - If all goes according to plan, this fall a girl somewhere in China's Yunnan province will tell her boyfriend she can't have sex with him. And he'll have an abstinence program from the United States to thank. atheists.org - 1714 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_Glenn_Beck%E2%80%99s_rise_good_for_Mormonism%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 3, 2010) - Like conservative commentator Glenn Beck, Stephen Owens is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His in-laws traveled from Utah to Washington last weekend to join Beck’s rally on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. atheists.org - 1715 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_cleric_calls_for_beheading_of_Dutch_politician Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 3, 2010) - A well-known Australian Muslim cleric has called for the beheading of Dutch anti-Islamic politician Geert Wilders, a newspaper said on Friday. atheists.org - 1716 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lost_Boy_By_Brent_W._Jeffs_with_Maia_Szalavitz Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 3, 2010) - Reviewed by Andrea Moore-Emmett -- Lost Boy is the story of Brent Jeffs, a fourth-generation-born Mormon fundamentalist polygamist from the Fundamentalist Latter-day Saints (FLDS). atheists.org - 1717 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslims_tread_carefully_around_proposed_mosque_near_ground_zero Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (Septenmber 4, 2010) - As public opposition to the proposed mosque near ground zero grows and Sept. 11 approaches, Muslims are preparing for anti-Islamic acts, encouraging adherents to participate in 9/11 remembrance ceremonies, and changing how they celebrate the end of Ramadan. atheists.org - 1718 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Chaplain_and_an_Atheist_Go_to_War_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 4, 2010) - They say there are no atheists in foxholes. There's one on the front lines here, though, and the chaplain isn't thrilled about it. atheists.org - 1719 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Mormon_Ad_Campaign%3A_Seeking_to_Dispel_Myths_Or_PR_for_Romney_%5C%2712_Run%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 6, 2010) - Mormon leaders have launched an expansive ad campaign in some battleground states designed to rebrand the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as "normal," igniting speculation that the church is laying the groundwork for Mitt Romney to re-emerge next year for another presidential bid without an anti-Mormon stigma. atheists.org - 1720 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_Pakistani_youth_giving_up_Islam%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 5, 2010) - A handful of Pakistani Muslim youths are beginning to question the existence of God and in the process giving up Islam to become atheists. atheists.org - 1721 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Muslims_Ask%2C_Will_We_Ever_Belong%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 6, 2010) - For nine years after the attacks of Sept. 11, many American Muslims made concerted efforts to build relationships with non-Muslims, to make it clear they abhor terrorism, to educate people about Islam and to participate in interfaith service projects. atheists.org - 1722 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lawyer%3A_Iran_stoning_woman_has_been_whipped Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 6, 2010) - Contradictory reports swirled around an Iranian woman sentenced to be stoned to death for adultery, with one Iranian lawyer saying Monday she had been whipped 99 times for another alleged offense, but another casting doubt on it. atheists.org - 1723 http://www.atheists.org/news/French_minister_Kouchner_pledges_to_help_save_Ashtiani Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 6, 2010) - Ms Ashtiani's family say they have not been allowed to contact her in prison for two weeks atheists.org - 1724 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ground_Zero_Evangelist%3A_Glenn_Beck_a_%5C%27False_Prophet%5C%27 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 6, 2010) - Internet Evangelist Bill Keller held the first meeting for his “9/11 Christian Center at Ground Zero” yesterday, slamming Glenn Beck, Imam Feisal Rauf, and … Ghandi? atheists.org - 1726 http://www.atheists.org/news/Petraeus_Condemns_Dove_World_Outreach%5C%27s_Plan_To_Burn_Qurans%3A_%5C%27It_Could_Endanger_Troops%5C%27_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 6, 2010) - General David Petraeus has condemned a Florida church's plans to burn Qurans this week, warning that the scene "could endanger troops" in Afghanistan. atheists.org - 1727 http://www.atheists.org/news/No_Holds_Barred%3A_Shmuley_Boteach_vs_Christopher_Hitchens Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 7, 2010) - By SHMULEY BOTEACH -- In the upcoming debate on the afterlife with the famed author and self-proclaimed atheist I will dismiss the notion that religion comes from insecurity. atheists.org - 1728 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_author_Christopher_Hitchens_battles_cancer_but_ready_to_debate_David_Berlinski_in_Birmingham Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 7, 2010) - Bestselling writer Christopher Hitchens, the atheist author of "God is Not Great," has been battling esophageal cancer this year but made a rare public appearance today at the Birmingham Sheraton Hotel. atheists.org - 1729 http://www.atheists.org/news/Free_Exercise_of_Religion%3F_No%2C_Thanks Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 8, 2010) - The taming and domestication of religious faith is one of the unceasing chores of civilization. By CHRISTOPHER HITCHENS. atheists.org - 1730 http://www.atheists.org/news/Clinton_Calls_Koran_Burning_Plan_%5C%22Outrageous%2C%5C%22_Urges_Church_to_Cancel Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (Septmber 8, 2010) - Today Secretary of State Hillary Clinton joined a chorus of senior U.S. officials in calling on a tiny church in Florida to cancel its plans to burn copies of the Koran on the ninth anniversary of the September 11 attacks. atheists.org - 1731 http://www.atheists.org/news/Controversial_billboard_turns_eyes_upward Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 8. 2010) - Nick Singer with the Oklahoma City Coalition of Reason says, "Churches advertise all the time. They recruit people however they can, so we're just doing similarly." atheists.org - 1732 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pastor_Cancels_Koran_Burning_and_Plans_to_Meet_Imam Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 9, 2010) - The pastor planning a burning of the Koran on the anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks said Thursday he would not go forward with the event, adding he plans to meet with the imam planning to build an Islamic center near ground zero. atheists.org - 1733 http://www.atheists.org/news/Quran_Burning_CANCELED%3A_Dove_World_Outreach%5C%27s_Terry_Jones_Drops_Offending_%5C%27Stunt%5C%27_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 9, 2010) - The leader of a small Florida church that espouses anti-Islam philosophy says he is canceling plans to burn copies of the Quran on Sept. 11. atheists.org - 1734 http://www.atheists.org/news/Attorney_Brian_Barnard_Sounds_Off_on_Utah_Cross_Case Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 5, 2010) - Brian Barnard spoke to the September 5 meeting of Salt Lake Valley Atheists. Listen to his summary of fighting the unconstitutional establishment of religion in a state controlled by the Mormon Church! atheists.org - 1735 http://www.atheists.org/news/Florida_Pastor_May_Reconsider_Cancellation_of_Quran_Burning Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 9, 2010) - A Christian pastor today canceled his controversial plan to burn copies of the Quran, saying he had received a "sign from God" when a Muslim cleric agreed to move an Islamic center planned for a site near ground zero in New York. But the cleric said there was no such deal, and the preacher later said he was having second thoughts. atheists.org - 1738 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_Benedict_To_Encounter_Hostile_Audience_in_U.K._Visit Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 10, 2010) - Pope Benedict XVI travels to the United Kingdom next week (Sept. 16-19) for only the second papal visit to Britain in modern times, and like Pope John Paul II in 1982, Benedict will confront 400 years of Catholic-Protestant tensions as well as more recent controversies. atheists.org - 1739 http://www.atheists.org/news/Attorney_Brian_Barnard_speaks_to_Atheist_Brunch_on_UHP_Christian_Crosses_case_- Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 10, 2010) - The video is up! Attorney Brian Barnard speaks to the Salt Lake Valley Atheists about the Utah cross case atheists.org - 1740 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_Afghanistan_has_reacted_so_sharply_to_threat_of_Quran_burning Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 10, 2010) - Afghanistan's history is replete with examples of insults against religion -- real or imagined -- fueling uprisings against foreign powers.The Quran burning threat is just the latest. atheists.org - 1741 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Erect_Billboard_In_Oklahoma_City%2C_Critic_Says_It%5C%27s_%5C%27Like_They%5C%27re_Poking_A_Finger_In_Your_Eye Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 10, 2010) - Atheists in Oklahoma City have erected a billboard seeking fellow non-believers, and Satanists have scheduled a conference in a city-owned building, drawing criticism from ministers in a state where more than eight out of 10 people say they are Christians. atheists.org - 1742 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslims_in_America_increasingly_alienated_as_hatred_grows_in_Bible_belt Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 10, 2010) - the anniversary of 9/11, Chris McGreal reports from the Tennessee town where Muslims have lived in harmony with Christians for decades – but where they now feel under threat atheists.org - 1743 http://www.atheists.org/news/September_11_Anniversary%3A_Dueling_Demonstrations_Begin_After_9%2F11_Memorial_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 11, 2010) - Rites of remembrance and loss marked the ninth anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, familiar in their sorrow but observed for the first time Saturday in a nation torn over the prospect of a mosque near ground zero and the role of Islam in society. atheists.org - 1744 http://www.atheists.org/news/AS__COUNTRY_MOURNS_9-11%2C_A_DIFFERENT__ANNIVERSARY__MARKS_THE__SEPARATION_OF_CHURCH_AND__STATE Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 11, 2010) - With Americans marking the horrific attacks on September 11, 2001, and the heated culture war debate over construction of mosques and the issue of religious liberty, a different sort of anniversary occurs tomorrow. From AANEWS for September 11, 2010 atheists.org - 1745 http://www.atheists.org/news/Iranian_woman_facing_deportation_is_at_risk_of_stoning%2C_says_MP Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 13, 2010) - Farah Ghaemi, accused by Iran of circulating The Satanic Verses, faces removal from UK with her two children tomorrow atheists.org - 1746 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_smokes_pages_of_Bible%2C_Koran_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 13, 2010) -- A LAWYER who videoed himself smoking cigarettes made with pages from the Bible and the Koran expects to lose his job at a Queensland university. atheists.org - 1747 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_you_a_spiritual_atheist_like_Richard_Dawkins%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 13, 2010) - When science squares off with religion in the public square, it's sometimes a scholarly polite debate and sometimes a mixed martial arts throw down. atheists.org - 1748 http://www.atheists.org/news/Allen%3A_UHP_crosses_send_message_of_intolerance Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 13, 2010) - If we said, "with liberty and justice for Christians" in our Pledge of Allegiance, that would be one thing, but that's not how it goes. atheists.org - 1750 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hansen%3A_Atheists_believe_Des_Moines_will_suit_them_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 14, 2010) - Perhaps you're wondering how the American Atheists organization chose Des Moines as the site of its annual convention. atheists.org - 1751 http://www.atheists.org/news/French_Senate_Passes_Full_Islamic_Veils_Ban_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 14, 2010) - The French Senate on Tuesday overwhelmingly passed a bill banning the burqa-style Islamic veil on public streets and other places, a measure that affects less than 2,000 women but that has been widely seen as a symbolic defense of French values. atheists.org - 1752 http://www.atheists.org/news/Imam_Rauf_Accused_of_Being_a_Slumlord_by_NJ_Town Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 14, 2010) - Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf is in some hot water today that's shockingly unrelated to Park51, aka the ground zero mosque, formerly known as Cordoba House. atheists.org - 1753 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_Maher%3A_I%5C%27ll_Never_Win_An_Emmy_Because_I%5C%27m_Atheist_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 15, 2010) - Bill Maher's Emmy curse is legendary: he has been nominated 22 times — 11 for "Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher," nine for "Real Time with Bill Maher," and twice for comedy specials — but he's never won. atheists.org - 1754 http://www.atheists.org/news/Top_Papal_Adviser%3A_UK_Third_World_Country_Of_New_Agressive_Atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 15, 2010) - Vatican City, Italy (AHN) - A day before Pope Benedict XVI lands in Britain to begin a four-day visit, a top Vatican adviser has charged that England is a Third World country filled with atheists. atheists.org - 1755 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope%5C%27s_UK_Visit_Stirs_Animosities_Old_and_New Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 15, 2010) - England has been a thorn in the side of the Vatican since the days of Henry VIII. And Thursday's planned papal visit -- the first-ever state trip to Britain by any pontiff in history -- isn't likely to be any different. atheists.org - 1756 http://www.atheists.org/news/Antonio_Federici_Ice_Cream_Ad_Featuring_Pregnant_Nun_Banned_%28PHOTO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 15, 2010) - Britain's advertising watchdog has banned an Italian ice cream ad featuring a pregnant nun, saying it causes offense to Catholics. atheists.org - 1757 http://www.atheists.org/news/Utah_troopers_want_rehearing_of_highway_cross_case Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 15, 2010) - The Utah Highway Patrol on Wednesday asked the federal appeals court in Denver to rehear a case involving 14 memorial crosses on Utah highways that had been ruled unconstitutional by an appellate panel. atheists.org - 1758 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_Benedict%5C%27s_visit%3A_schoolchildren%2C_tourists_and_atheists_turn_out Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 16, 2010) - Trip down Edinburgh's Princes Street lacks intensity and emotion of visit by John Paul II in 1982 atheists.org - 1759 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christine_O%5C%27Donnell_Energizes_Religious_Right_Crowd%3A_We%5C%27re_Not_Just_A_Bunch_Of_%5C%27Aging_Former_Reagan_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (Septembertr 17, 2010) - The most anticipated speaker at the 2010 Values Voter Summit in Washington, D.C. was newly elected Delaware GOP Senate nominee Christine O'Donnell, who was added to the line-up on Thursday. atheists.org - 1761 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_standing_by_QUT%5C%27s_holy_smoker Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 17, 2010) - THE Bible and Koran-smoking Brisbane lawyer whose YouTube video satirising holy book burning this week made international headlines, has the backing of the Brisbane Atheists. atheists.org - 1762 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hindus_denounce_Pope_for_being_offensive_to_atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 17, 2010) - Hindus have criticized His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for rough handling of atheists in his speech at Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh (United Kingdom) on September 16, where he appeared to associate atheism with the Nazis. atheists.org - 1763 http://www.atheists.org/news/Citing_%5C%22Mental_Anguish%2C%5C%22_Christine_O%5C%27Donnell_Sought_%246.9_Million_in_Gender_Discrimination_Lawsuit_Ag Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 17, 2010) - ...and falsely implied she was taking master's degree classes at Princeton. From the conservative Weekly Standard! atheists.org - 1764 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Ingrams%3A_Atheism_could_do_without_Dawkins_as_its_advocate Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 18, 2010) - The motley gang of people writing to protest about the Pope's visit are not protesting just about the Pope. atheists.org - 1765 http://www.atheists.org/news/On_the_Advice_of_the_FBI%2C_Cartoonist_Molly_Norris_Disappears_From_View Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 18, 2010) - u may have noticed that Molly Norris' comic is not in the paper this week. That's because there is no more Molly. atheists.org - 1766 http://www.atheists.org/news/Odonnell_Practiced_Witchcraft%21 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 18, 2010) - Another damaging past statement from Tea Party favorite Christine O'Donnell was revealed on Bill Maher's HBO show "Real Time" last night. atheists.org - 1767 http://www.atheists.org/news/Newt_Gingrich_Fires_Up_Conservative_%5C%27Values%5C%27_Voters_in_Attack_on_%5C%27Secular Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 18, 2010) - Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich told conservative voters Saturday that a "secular socialist machine" led by President Obama and his Democratic allies in Congress is challenging "the survival of America as we know atheists.org - 1768 http://www.atheists.org/news/Out_of_mouths_of_babes_-_religious_will_rise_as_secular_birth_rates_fall_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 19, 2010) - Pope Benedict's recent visit to Britain has been just as controversial as John Paul II's tour of 1982. But the 180-degree shift in the axis of conflict reveals how British society has changed over the past 28 years. atheists.org - 1769 http://www.atheists.org/news/Washington__GOP_candidate_claims_Girl_Scouts_Are_Lesbian_Atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 19, 2010) - Hans Zeiger, a Republican candidate for the Washington State House of Representatives, is desperately trying to cover up disturbing claims he made about the Girl Scouts of America. atheists.org - 1770 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_Social_Conservatives_Derail_the_Tea_Party%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 19, 2010) - After more than a year of agitating for smaller government and fiscal austerity, the tea party may be getting religion. atheists.org - 1771 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_paranoid_style_in_American_punditry Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 20, 2010) - Richard Hofstadter's seminal take on right-wing crackpots sheds light on the current anti-Muslim panic I spent most of August more or less disconnected from TV, the Internet and print news outlets, so when I caught up with a friend on the phone, I asked him to brief me on which stories had captured the nation's attention. He tried to explain the controversy over the Park51 Islamic culture center, but it wasn't easy. atheists.org - 1772 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bad_Faith_%28in_Science%29%3A_Darwin_as_All-Purpose_Boogey_Man%3F_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 20, 2010) - In a press release at the Discovery Institute's Evolution News, Institute Fellow John G. West recently attacked British scientist Denis Alexander for downplaying Darwin's use of the term "survival of the fittest" in his work. atheists.org - 1773 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Hitchens_skipping_prayer_day_in_his_honor Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 20, 2010) - Stricken with cancer and fragile from chemotherapy, author and outspoken atheist Christopher Hitchens sits in an armchair before an audience and waits for the only question that can come first at such a time. atheists.org - 1774 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_Are_the_New_Go-To_Movie_Villains%3F_How_About_Atheists%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 20, 2010) - 60% of Americans believe the country is headed in the wrong direction. Could big-city atheists be to blame? atheists.org - 1775 http://www.atheists.org/news/Meet_the_religious_right%5C%27s_new_favorite_for_2012 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 20, 2010) - Rep. Mike Pence puts a non-threatening -- often downright boring -- face on extreme Christian Right politics atheists.org - 1776 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Pope_vs._Britain%5C%27s_Secularists%3A_Who_Won%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 20, 2010) - As protest chants go, "What do we want? A secular Europe! When do we want it? Now!" isn't exactly catchy. atheists.org - 1777 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_Bank_Facing_Money_Laundering_Probe Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 21, 2010) - Italian authorities seized euro23 million ($30 million) from a Vatican bank account Tuesday and said they have begun investigating top officials of the Vatican bank in connection with a money-laundering probe. atheists.org - 1778 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christine_O%5C%27Donnell_Stirs_Interest_in_Witchcraft Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 21, 2010) - Once a witch always a witch? atheists.org - 1779 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pray_for_me%3F_Christopher_Hitchens%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 21, 2010) - Even the nicest and most caring religious people are often unaware of quite how rude they are being. atheists.org - 1780 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gwynne_Dyer%3A_Pope_Benedict_XVI_takes_on_the_atheists Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 21, 2010) -- The best defence is a good offense. atheists.org - 1781 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_Atheists_The_Answer_To_Religious_Strife%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (Septembr 21, 2010)-- A meeting between a prominently local Muslim and a group of atheists happens quietly. atheists.org - 1782 http://www.atheists.org/news/Wind_may_explain_Red_Sea_parting Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 22, 2010) - Scientists from the National Center for Atmospheric Research and the University of Colorado used computer modeling to come up with a scenario for how the Red Sea could have parted to let people through. atheists.org - 1783 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anger_over_papal_visit_shows_religious_freedom_is_alive_and_well_in_Britain Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 22, 2010) - "In all my years as a campaigner I have never felt such animus against any individual as I do against this creature. His views are so disgusting, so repellent and so hugely damaging to the rest of us, that the only thing to do is to get rid of him." atheists.org - 1784 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Pledge_To_America%5C%27_Is_Just_%5C%27Satisfactory%2C%5C%27_Says_Family_Research_Council%5C%27s_Tony_Perkins_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 23, 2010) - The religious right offered a hesitant embrace of the Republican Party's new "Pledge to America," with several groups saying they are happy the GOP included mentions of social issues but now expect Republicans, if they win back the majority, to follow through on their promises. atheists.org - 1785 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christine_O%5C%27Donnell_Will_Stop_America_From_Sexing_Each_Other_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 24, 2010) - Sweet sassy molassey! People are still finding clips of GOP Delaware Senate nominee Christine O'Donnell saying strange things on the teevee? atheists.org - 1786 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christine_O%5C%27Donnell%3A_%5C%27Evolution_Is_A_Myth._Why_Aren%5C%27t_Monkeys_Still_Evolving_Into_Humans%3F%5C%27_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 25, 2010) - Bill Maher has so far kept his promise to air an embarrassing clip of Tea Party favorite and Delaware Republican Senate candidate Christine O'Donnell every week that she refuses to be a guest on his HBO show, "Real Time." atheists.org - 1787 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_battle_for_Turkey%5C%27s_secular_future Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 25, 2010) - Turkey is at the crossroads of continents and civilizations and the place where cultures cross fertilize. atheists.org - 1788 http://www.atheists.org/news/Georgia_pastor_to_address_sex_claims Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 25, 2010) - Five days after the first of four lawsuits was filed claiming he coerced young males into sexual relationships, Georgia pastor Eddie Long will take to the pulpit Sunday to tell his side of the story. atheists.org - 1789 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hitchens_on_Life%2C_Death%2C_and_%5C%22the_False_Promise_of_Eternity%5C%22 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 25, 2010) - Video: Sally Quinn interviews Slate columnist Christopher Hitchens. atheists.org - 1790 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Pulpit_Freedom_Sunday%5C%27_to_Defy_IRS Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 26, 2010) - Nearly 100 pastors across the country planned to take part in Pulpit Freedom Sunday, an in-your-face challenge Sunday to what the government says can and cannot be said in church. atheists.org - 1791 http://www.atheists.org/news/John_Boehner_%5C%27Affair%5C%27_To_Be_Focus_Of_New_York_Times_Expose%2C_NY_Post_Reports_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 26, 2010) - Minority Leader John Boehner was asked by a liberal blogger Thursday to answer questions about an affair with a lobbyist, an allegation that will reportedly be the focus of an upcoming New York Times expose. Boehner ignored the question outright. atheists.org - 1792 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hitler_and_separation_of_church%2C_state Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 25, 2010) - Listen to an argument long enough, especially one filled with passion and politics, and there is a good chance that someone will eventually invoke the name of Adolph Hitler. I've heard it done by liberals and conservatives, Democrats and Republicans. atheists.org - 1793 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tiny_Upstate_New_York_Town_Wants_Local_Muslims_to_Dig_Up_Their_Cemetery_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 27, 2010) - A town in upstate New York is trying to force a local Muslim religious community to dig up a small cemetery on its property and never bury anyone there again because it says it's illegal. atheists.org - 1797 http://www.atheists.org/news/Banned_Books_Week_2010%3A_10_Graphic_Novels_And_The_Shocking_Reasons_They_Frequently_Come_Under_Fire_%28 Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 28, 2010) - Banned Books Week is a chance for all of us to celebrate our freedom to read and to bring attention to the harms of censorship. atheists.org - 1795 http://www.atheists.org/news/Survey%3A_Americans_don%5C%27t_know_much_about_religion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 28, 2010) - A new survey of Americans' knowledge of religion found that atheists, agnostics, Jews and Mormons outperformed Protestants and Roman Catholics in answering questions about major religions, while many respondents could not correctly give the most basic tenets of their own faiths. atheists.org - 1796 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_Literacy%3A_Americans_Don%5C%27t_Know_Much_About_Religion_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 28, 2010) - A new survey of Americans' knowledge of religion found that atheists, agnostics, Jews and Mormons outperformed Protestants and Roman Catholics in answering questions about major religions, while many respondents could not correctly give the most basic tenets of their own faiths. atheists.org - 1800 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_food_drive_at_Metro_State_gives_donors_ideas_to_chew_on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 29, 2010) - It's not enough that a national survey released Tuesday found atheists were the highest-scoring group on basic religious knowledge — now members of Metro State Atheists are being regular goody-two-shoes. atheists.org - 1802 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Ground_Zero_Synagogue Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 29, 2010) - Should Jews build a synagogue near a site of Jewish terrorism? atheists.org - 1803 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ron_Johnson%2C_WI_Senate_Candidate%2C_Opposed_Wisconsin_Child_Victims_Act_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 29, 2010) - Last week, I encouraged readers to get to know their Ron Johnson, the GOP insurgent who's lately been up in the polls against veteran Democratic Senator Russ Feingold in the Wisconsin Senate election. atheists.org - 1804 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_Do_Atheists_Know_More_About_Religion%3F Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 30, 2010) - Earlier Jamelle Bouie argued that atheists, Mormons, and Jews know more about religion than Christians because as "a matter of simple survival, minorities tend to know more about the dominant group than vice versa." atheists.org - 1805 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Underground%5C%22_Group_of_Cadets_Say_Air_Force_Academy_Controlled_by_Evangelicals Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 30, 2010) - An anonymous cadet at the US Air Force Academy (USAFA ) spoke out against alleged religious discrimination at the school last week, saying that some cadets must pretend to be evangelical Christians in order to maintain standing among their peers and superiors. atheists.org - 1806 http://www.atheists.org/news/IRS_Complaint_Filed_Against_Okla._Church_Over_Pulpit_Politics Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (September 30, 2010) - A liberal church-state separation group filed an IRS complaint Tuesday against an Oklahoma church whose pastor voiced support for a gubernatorial candidate from the pulpit. atheists.org - 1807 http://www.atheists.org/news/7_Politicians_Who_Claim_God_Is_on_Their_Side Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (October 1, 2010) - This week, Delaware senatorial candidate Christine O'Donnell declared that God himself had a hand in her long pursuit to attain political office. atheists.org - 1808 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_physician_praying_for_atheist%5C%27s_healing Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:51:27 -0400 (October 1, 2010) - Collins grateful for Hitchens' friendship atheists.org - 1809 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_taps_investigator_for_group_tied_to_Legion Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (October 1, 2010) - The Vatican has named a Spanish archbishop to investigate a cult-like group affiliated with the Legionaries of Christ, the conservative religious order disgraced by revelations its founder sexually abused seminarians and fathered three children. atheists.org - 1811 http://www.atheists.org/news/Syrian_Actress_Tests_Boundaries_Again Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (October 2, 2010) - NIHAD ALAEDDIN was once one of the great sirens of Syrian cinema. Working under the stage name Igraa, or Seduction, she embodied the openness and liberalism that reigned in the Arab world during the 1960s and ’70s, performing the region’s first cinematic nude scene and flippantly telling journalists that “we have to bring sex to the cinema because our audience is frustrated.” atheists.org - 1812 http://www.atheists.org/news/US_judge_asks_Vatican_to_serve_court_paper_to_pope Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (October 2, 2010) - A federal U.S. judge is asking the Vatican to cooperate in serving the pope and two other top officials with court papers that stem from decades-old allegations of sexual abuse by a priest in Wisconsin. atheists.org - 1814 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Science_Museums_Are_Promoting_Civil_Religion-Science_Dialogue_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 04:22:38 -0400 (October 4, 2010) - One of the most impressive aspects of the human origins exhibit at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History -- along with the only Neanderthal skeleton in the United States and realistic reconstructions of our ancestors -- is the completely interactive character of the hall. atheists.org - 1816 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mormon_Prophesy_Behind_Glenn_Beck%5C%27s_Message_ Tue, 05 Oct 2010 10:18:43 -0400 (October 5th, 2010) - In one of his first appearances on Fox News, Glenn Beck sent a coded message to the nation's six million Mormons -- or at least those Mormons who believe in what the Latter-day Saints call "the White Horse Prophecy." atheists.org - 1817 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church_and_state_conflict_in_Kentucky_law_creating_Office_of_Homeland_Security Tue, 05 Oct 2010 10:37:50 -0400 (October 5th, 2010) - American Atheists is challenging two Kentucky statutes that promote religion under the excuse of "homeland security." atheists.org - 1818 http://www.atheists.org/news/Science_Knows_Best Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:42:38 -0400 (October 5th, 2010) - Sam Harris heads the youth wing of the New Atheists. “The End of Faith,” his blistering take-no-­prisoners attack on the irrationality of religions, found him many fans and, not surprisingly, a great body of detractors. atheists.org - 1819 http://www.atheists.org/news/Silverman%2C_Yount%3A_A_snapshot_of_Americans%5C%27_knowledge_of_religion Wed, 06 Oct 2010 16:33:23 -0400 (October 6th, 2010) - In the first-ever national test of Americans' knowledge of religion, churchgoing Christians were beaten by atheists, agnostics, Jews and Mormons. atheists.org - 1820 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tea_Party_Closely_Linked_to_Religious_Right%2C_Poll_Finds Thu, 07 Oct 2010 02:36:20 -0400 (October 6th, 2010) - ABC News' Huma Khan reports: Nearly half of those who identify with the Tea Party movement are part of the religious right, according to a Public Religion Research Institute poll released today. atheists.org - 1821 http://www.atheists.org/news/Baptist_Leader%3A_Yoga_is_not_Christianity Thu, 07 Oct 2010 08:21:04 -0400 (October 7th, 2010) - Southern Baptist Seminary President Albert Mohler says the stretching and meditative discipline derived from Eastern religions is not a Christian pathway to God. atheists.org - 1822 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Congressional_Candidate_Takes_on_Theocratic_Incumbent Thu, 07 Oct 2010 17:35:00 -0400 (October 7th, 2010) - Last year, President Obama travelled to Turkey in order to restate America’s case to the Muslim world, taking care to emphasize that the United States is “not a Christian nation or a Jewish nation or a Muslim nation,” but rather a republic “bound by ideals and a set of values.” atheists.org - 1823 http://www.atheists.org/news/Godless%2C_but_not_valueless%3A_Blair_Scott_is_new_communications_director_for_American_Atheists Fri, 08 Oct 2010 18:05:31 -0400 (October 8th, 2010) - Blair Scott has protested alongside Christians against the rabid anti-homosexual Baptists from Kansas. atheists.org - 1825 http://www.atheists.org/news/Interfaith_Dialogue_Must_Include_Atheists_ Sat, 09 Oct 2010 11:04:08 -0400 (October 9th, 2010) - In my work as an interfaith activist, I've fought to bring an end to religious division. Lately this has increasingly meant speaking out against the rise in anti-Muslim rhetoric and violence sweeping America. atheists.org - 1826 http://www.atheists.org/news/Utah_gay_activists_protest_Mormon_church_remarks Mon, 11 Oct 2010 23:44:36 -0400 (October 10th, 2010) - Gay rights activists staged a silent protest Thursday outside the headquarters of the Mormon church in Salt Lake City in response to a church leader's remarks that homosexuality is an immoral condition that can and should be overcome. atheists.org - 1827 http://www.atheists.org/news/Winemakers_want_to_block_church_expansion_ Sun, 10 Oct 2010 17:38:45 -0400 (October 10th, 2010) - After the Mediterranean climate and sandy soil, winemaker Ray Falkner said his greatest asset is the view of rolling vine-covered hills from the top of his property in Southern California. atheists.org - 1828 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27God_in_America%3A%5C%27_A_Question_of_Religious_Liberty_%28VIDEO%29_ Mon, 11 Oct 2010 23:35:22 -0400 (October 11th, 2010) - On October 12, 1492, Christopher Columbus thrust the banner of the Catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella into the sands of the island he named San Salvador, or "Holy Savior," claiming the territory for Spain and announcing that henceforth its people would be Spanish subjects. atheists.org - 1829 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jailed_Iranian_Woman%5C%27s_Son_Reported_Missing Mon, 11 Oct 2010 23:41:35 -0400 (October 11th, 2010) - The son of an Iranian woman sentenced to death by stoning for adultery is reportedly missing after two foreign nationals, believed to be German journalists, were arrested after trying to interview him. atheists.org - 1830 http://www.atheists.org/news/Riner_Opponent_Haney_Hitting_The_Mail Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:46:15 -0400 (October 12th, 2010) - Nathan Haney, the Republican running against Democrat Tom Riner for the 41st District State House seat, is hitting mailboxes with his first mailer atheists.org - 1831 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Comic_Launched Tue, 12 Oct 2010 12:38:36 -0400 (October 12th, 2010) - Atheists.Org and Jared Alessandroni launch a new comic about Atheism and other salient matters. atheists.org - 1832 http://www.atheists.org/news/Social_Progress_vs._Endless_War%3A_Why_do_Atheists_and_Humanists_Disagree%3F Tue, 12 Oct 2010 21:05:07 -0400 (October 12th, 2010) - Tension was evident as humanists and atheists gathered this weekend, reported Mitchell Landsberg at the Los Angeles Times. At issue among the attendees at the annual conference of the Council for Secular Humanism was how humanists and atheists should participate as citizens in society. atheists.org - 1833 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Caprica%5C%27_Gets_Too_Religious_on_Us Tue, 12 Oct 2010 22:31:52 -0400 (October 12th, 2010) - Was there a more a disappointing moment in childhood than the Sunday-morning realization that the only thing on TV was televangelists and 'The 700 Club'? atheists.org - 1834 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_the_religious_right_has_a_permanent_political_edge_over_secular_America Tue, 12 Oct 2010 23:23:06 -0400 (October 12th, 2010) - If you believe any of the hogwash about the irrelevance of the religious right to this election, take a look at the numerous right-wing evangelical websites promoting the 40/40 Prayer Vigil, which began in September with a prayer for Christian voter registration and ends--you guessed it--just before election day, Nov. 2. atheists.org - 1835 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_is_cool_on_SNL%21 Wed, 13 Oct 2010 08:43:29 -0400 (October 13th, 2010) - Check out the video from Saturday Night Live... atheists.org - 1836 http://www.atheists.org/news/Science_and_religion_are_not_friends Wed, 13 Oct 2010 13:23:52 -0400 (October 13th, 2010) - Religion in America is on the defensive. atheists.org - 1837 http://www.atheists.org/news/Number_of_atheists_and_non-believers_increases Wed, 13 Oct 2010 17:06:07 -0400 (October 13th, 2010) - Observations of a growing trend in atheists and non-believers in organized religion were presented by Professor Mark Silk of Trinity College from Hartford, Conn. in "New Secularism: Threat or Promise," Tuesday evening. atheists.org - 1838 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mormon_church_reiterates_its_stance_on_marriage_in_response_to_petition_from_gay_rights_group Wed, 13 Oct 2010 20:36:49 -0400 (October 13th, 2010) - The LDS Church reiterated its position on marriage and sexual activity outside of marriage as well as its love and concern for members with same-sex attractions as it responded Tuesday afternoon to a petition delivered to the church by national gay-rights leaders. atheists.org - 1839 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_New_Creation_Story%3A_Beyond_Religion_and_Science_ Thu, 14 Oct 2010 11:10:53 -0400 (October 14th, 2010) - Stephen Hawking made worldwide news with his sound bite about how the universe was created. Specifically, he said that a Creator is not needed to explain how the universe began. atheists.org - 1840 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hitchens_Brothers_Agree_To_Disagree_Over_God Thu, 14 Oct 2010 15:43:36 -0400 (October 14th, 2010) - Journalist Christopher Hitchens is one of the world's most famous atheists. His brother, Peter, insists that a civilized world must believe in God. atheists.org - 1841 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rescue%2C_Reason_and_Religion_at_Camp_Esperanza Thu, 14 Oct 2010 16:35:16 -0400 (October 14th, 2010) - The drama that unfolded in Chile over the rescue of trapped miners raises questions about faith, reason and global media. AANEWS Editor Conrad Goeringer gives the back story to this evocative event. atheists.org - 1842 http://www.atheists.org/news/MacKillop_celebrations_funding_a_waste%2C_say_atheists Thu, 14 Oct 2010 20:21:43 -0400 (October 14th, 2010) - The Atheist Foundation of Australia has criticised the amount of Federal Government funding for celebrations over the canonisation of Mary MacKillop. atheists.org - 1843 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mormons_Divided_On_LDS_Apostle%5C%27s_Speech_On_Gays_ Thu, 14 Oct 2010 21:30:20 -0400 (October 14th, 2010) - Scores of Mormons say they felt confused and bruised after Apostle Boyd K. Packer unequivocally condemned same-sex marriage and insisted that gays can change their attractions with enough faith. atheists.org - 1844 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_Ignorance_as_a_Threat_to_Civil_Liberty_ Fri, 15 Oct 2010 17:25:00 -0400 (October 15th, 2010) - How do you define blind faith? Consider America's romance with religion, (regularly chronicled by the Pew Forum). atheists.org - 1845 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_Bans_Carla_Bruni_From_the_Vatican Fri, 15 Oct 2010 18:54:41 -0400 (October 15th, 2010) - It's not often a former model and pop singer gets scratched from a guest list. But earlier this month French first lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy was warned to stay away from the Vatican - by the Pope himself. atheists.org - 1846 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Debate_How_Pushy_to_Be Fri, 15 Oct 2010 23:27:13 -0400 (October 15th, 2010) - Energized by a recent Pew Research Center poll showing that atheists are more educated about religion than religious people, 370 atheists, humanists and other skeptics packed a ballroom at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel last weekend to debate the future of their movement. atheists.org - 1847 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_As_Morality%3A_Is_This_the_Way_Forward_in_the_Science-Religion_Debate%3F_ Sat, 16 Oct 2010 18:55:34 -0400 (October 16th, 2010) - "Accommodationism" is the word used today to speak of the position that believes science and religion can exist together harmoniously, or at least without conflict. It is disliked strongly both by the New Atheists, who loathe religion, and by the fundamentalists, who reject science. atheists.org - 1848 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%2C_faithful_discuss_poll_claiming_nonbelievers_know_more_about_world_religions Sun, 17 Oct 2010 17:28:30 -0400 (October 17th, 2010) - Don't try to convince Bryan Schilligo there is a God. atheists.org - 1849 http://www.atheists.org/news/Succour_for_the_quacks%3F Sun, 17 Oct 2010 18:37:09 -0400 (October 17th, 2010) - Oh St Mary! You so ruined my weekend! atheists.org - 1850 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_must_The_Tribune_apologize_for_LDS_reporting%3F_ Sun, 17 Oct 2010 19:18:01 -0400 (October 17th, 2010) - Every Utahn who appreciates honest and civil debate can also appreciate The Salt Lake Tribune’s explanation of why it feels so strongly justified in reporting the stand of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on homosexuality. atheists.org - 1851 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_and_believers_can_get_along Sun, 17 Oct 2010 21:22:19 -0400 (October 17th, 2010) - My atheist 'sermon' in Westminster Abbey seems incongruous, but it shows good faith is more important than the right beliefs atheists.org - 1852 http://www.atheists.org/news/America%E2%80%99s_Holy_Writ Sun, 17 Oct 2010 21:51:29 -0400 (October 17th, 2010) - Tea Party evangelists claim the Constitution as their sacred text. Why that’s wrong. atheists.org - 1853 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_Takes_Science_Push_to_%E2%80%98Mythbusters%E2%80%99 Mon, 18 Oct 2010 09:25:23 -0400 (October 18th, 2010) - President Obama, following up on last fall’s White House “astronomy night” (above), is hosting a science fair at the White House today. atheists.org - 1854 http://www.atheists.org/news/Morals_Without_God%3F Mon, 18 Oct 2010 11:15:07 -0400 (October 18th, 2010) - I was born in Den Bosch, the city after which Hieronymus Bosch named himself. atheists.org - 1856 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_is_becoming_the_new_religion%2C_evangelicals_warned Mon, 18 Oct 2010 18:28:17 -0400 (October 18th, 2010) - Delegates at the Lausanne Congress in Cape Town urged to uphold biblical truth. atheists.org - 1857 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Moral_Landscape%3A_Why_science_should_shape_morality Mon, 18 Oct 2010 18:42:15 -0400 (October 18th, 2010) - Sam Harris, the notorious atheist, explains his controversial stance on religion -- and his provocative new book atheists.org - 1858 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christine_O%5C%27Donnell_Questions_Separation_Of_Church_%26_State_%28VIDEO%29_ Tue, 19 Oct 2010 15:32:10 -0400 (October 19th, 2010) - Republican Senate nominee Christine O'Donnell of Delaware on Tuesday questioned whether the U.S. Constitution calls for a separation of church and state, appearing to disagree or not know that the First Amendment bars the government from establishing religion. atheists.org - 1859 http://www.atheists.org/news/Give_us_a_state_that%5C%27s_not_religious_nor_atheist%2C_but_secular Tue, 19 Oct 2010 23:06:18 -0400 (October 19th, 2010) - RITE AND REASON: Atheists can enjoy the benefits many get from religion, without the harmful effects atheists.org - 1860 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kentucky_Senate%3A_Atheists_Need_Not_Apply Wed, 20 Oct 2010 07:53:28 -0400 (October 20th, 2010) - The open bigotry against those who do not believe in God continues to play a part in American political campaigns, with politicians who probably know better casting aspersions on their opponents for real or assumed nonbelief. atheists.org - 1861 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_sort_of_God_do_you_believe_in%3F Wed, 20 Oct 2010 10:40:31 -0400 (October 20th, 2010) - One atheist pronounced my column two weeks ago “good,” but the overwhelming reaction from nonbelievers ranged from “rather unsettling” to “toxic shock.” atheists.org - 1862 http://www.atheists.org/news/Turkey_fails_to_resolve_dispute_over_head_scarves Wed, 20 Oct 2010 14:09:27 -0400 (October 20th, 2010) - Turkey's governing party failed to win key opposition support on Wednesday for plans to lift a ban on the wearing of Islamic head scarves at universities, a deeply divisive issue in a country with secular laws and a Muslim population. atheists.org - 1863 http://www.atheists.org/news/Appeals_Court_Upholds_Ill._%5C%27Period_of_Silence%5C%27_in_Schools Wed, 20 Oct 2010 17:14:52 -0400 (October 20th, 2010) - An Illinois law mandating a period of silence in public schools does not advance or inhibit religion and is therefore constitutional, a federal appeals court ruled Friday. atheists.org - 1864 http://www.atheists.org/news/Glenn_Beck%3A_%5C%27I_Haven%5C%27t_Seen_A_Half-Monkey%2C_Half-Person_Yet%5C%27_%28AUDIO%29_ Thu, 21 Oct 2010 11:57:33 -0400 (October 21st, 2010) - If it's Wednesday in America, then someone, somewhere, is probably saying something astonishingly crazy about evolution. atheists.org - 1865 http://www.atheists.org/news/Should_the_Boy_Scouts_Stop_Banning_Gay_Men_and_Atheists%3F Thu, 21 Oct 2010 16:41:09 -0400 (October 21st, 2010) - Jon Langbert, a father in Dallas, was told recently that he was no longer allowed to hold a leadership position in his son's Cub Scout troop because he is gay. He was also asked not to wear his Scout uniform at troop events. atheists.org - 1866 http://www.atheists.org/news/Let%5C%27s_Hear_It_For_the_Atheists_ Fri, 22 Oct 2010 01:33:53 -0400 (October 22nd, 2010) - Most of us have been taught to stay away from discussing politics and religion, so as not to disturb the dinner guests. Well, as most of you know, I've been covering politics for so long I can barely discuss anything else. atheists.org - 1867 http://www.atheists.org/news/Suzette_Martinez_Standring%3A_Chilean_miracle%2C_atheists_stop_grumbling Fri, 22 Oct 2010 20:08:44 -0400 (October 22nd, 2010) - With a wondrous working-together of faith and technology, the rescue of the 33 Chilean miners is celebrated worldwide. However, it is the ‘faith’ part that has set many in the atheistic ranks to grumbling. atheists.org - 1868 http://www.atheists.org/news/Prosecutors%3A_Vatican_bank_defying_laundering_laws Fri, 22 Oct 2010 20:34:35 -0400 (October 22nd, 2010) - Church tries to lift $30M seizure, says it is complying with rules; investigator says "the opposite" is happening atheists.org - 1869 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_knows_what_secularism_is Sat, 23 Oct 2010 01:15:46 -0400 (October 23rd, 2010) - Once again, Turkey is in the middle of the headscarf debate. Once again, the overwhelming majority of Parliament is in favor of setting the headscarf free in universities. atheists.org - 1870 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christians_more_wary_of_Bible_at_work_than_atheist_colleagues Sat, 23 Oct 2010 11:00:49 -0400 (October 23rd, 2010) - "The Bible is everything, isn’t it?" says Graham Ledger, 55, a bus driver from Cheltenham. He has one next to him on his bus. It sits, everyday, beside the ticket machine. atheists.org - 1871 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Atheist%5C%27s_Guide_to_Christmas_by_various_authors_%E2%80%93_review Sun, 24 Oct 2010 08:08:53 -0400 (October 24th, 2010) - This compendium of essays is the perfect godless curmudgeon's stocking-filler, writes Jessica Holland atheists.org - 1872 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens%3A_A_humanist_at_heart Sun, 24 Oct 2010 20:03:51 -0400 (October 24th, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens -- bald from cancer treatments, speaking between doctor's appointments -- has a special disdain for deathbed religious conversions. atheists.org - 1873 http://www.atheists.org/news/Unsealed_Calif._church_docs_show_abuse_allegations Sun, 24 Oct 2010 23:56:18 -0400 (October 24th, 2010) - Attorneys for nearly 150 people who claim sexual abuse by Roman Catholic priests made nearly 10,000 pages of previously sealed internal church documents public Sunday, revealing at least one previously unknown decades-old case in which a priest under police investigation was allowed to leave the U.S. after the Diocese of San Diego intervened. atheists.org - 1874 http://www.atheists.org/news/It%5C%27s_already_beginning_to_look_a_lot_like_Christmas_._._._and_its_opposite Mon, 25 Oct 2010 19:01:29 -0400 (October 25th, 2010) - You know how people say Christmas seems to come earlier and earlier every year? Well, the opposite of Christmas is coming earlier, too. atheists.org - 1875 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_ungodly_row%3A_Dawkins_sues_his_disciple Tue, 26 Oct 2010 06:12:31 -0400 (October 26th, 2010) - Evolutionist's charity accuses protégé of stealing hundreds of thousands of poundsJosh Timonen was one of a small coterie of young protégés around Richard Dawkins, sharing his boss's zealous atheism. atheists.org - 1876 http://www.atheists.org/news/O%5C%27Donnell_says_prayer_may_have_boosted_her_polling Tue, 26 Oct 2010 06:44:59 -0400 (October 26th, 2010) - WASHINGTON -- Delaware Republican Christine O'Donnell says prayer could be boosting support for her Senate campaign. atheists.org - 1877 http://www.atheists.org/news/GOP_Candidate_Ken_Buck%3A_%5C%27I_Disagree_Strongly_With_The_Concept_Of_Separation_Of_Church_And_State%5C%27_%28VI Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:26:28 -0400 (October 26th, 2010) - WASHINGTON -- Colorado Republican Senate candidate and Tea Party favorite Ken Buck last year said he "strongly" disagrees with one of the bedrock principles of American society: the separation of church and state. atheists.org - 1878 http://www.atheists.org/news/9th_Circuit_Says_Catholic_Group_Has_Standing_to_Sue_San_Francisco Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:46:03 -0400 (October 26th, 2010) - With the judges split into unusual voting blocs, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Friday issued an 8-3 ruling (pdf) in an Establishment Clause case that is thought to be prime for Supreme Court review. atheists.org - 1879 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Don%5C%27t_say_you%5C%27re_religious%5C%27%3A_Atheists_launch_census_campaign Wed, 27 Oct 2010 08:11:48 -0400 (October 27th, 2010) - Atheists are set to launch a campaign calling on people who are not religious to explicitly say so during the next census. atheists.org - 1880 http://www.atheists.org/news/Americans_Say_Religious_Messages_Fuel_Negative_Views_of_Gays_ Wed, 27 Oct 2010 19:19:27 -0400 (October 27th, 2010) - Most Americans believe messages about homosexuality coming from religious institutions contribute to negative views of gays and lesbians, and higher rates of suicide among gay youths, a new poll reports. atheists.org - 1881 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mystic_dies_in_stand-off_with_a_volcano Wed, 27 Oct 2010 20:29:45 -0400 (October 27th, 2010) - A MAN appointed by the late sultan of Yogyakarta to keep Indonesia’s Mount Merapi under control with a cocktail of mysticism and Islamic prayer lost his latest battle with the volcano this week. atheists.org - 1882 http://www.atheists.org/news/What%5C%27s_really_hurting_Christianity_in_America Wed, 27 Oct 2010 22:23:52 -0400 (October 27th, 2010) - A grand combination of secure prosperity, mass consumerism and advanced technology is deeply eroding Western faith. atheists.org - 1883 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Evangelicals_Will_Likely_Rebound_After_Christine_O%5C%27Donnell%5C%27s_Faith-Based_Campaign Wed, 27 Oct 2010 23:25:27 -0400 (October 27th, 2010) - If Republican Senate candidate and tea party favorite Christine O'Donnell loses next week in Delaware as polls now predict, she will have been undone by faith -- not her own Roman Catholicism, but by evangelical Christianity. atheists.org - 1884 http://www.atheists.org/news/These_Creation_%5C%22Museums%5C%22_are_everywhere Thu, 28 Oct 2010 05:48:29 -0400 (October 28th, 2010) - The big overpriced embarrassment in Kentucky gets all the attention, but the creation 'museums' are sprinkled all over our country, like flyspecks on a sugar cookie. Mmm-mmmm. atheists.org - 1885 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Atheist_Encounter_with_Christianity%3A_A_Failure_to_Disbelieve%3F_ Thu, 28 Oct 2010 10:58:22 -0400 (October 28th, 2010) - Skepticism means, among other things, having the courage to suspend one’s set of beliefs long enough to take another set of beliefs really seriously. That is, real skepticism means disbelieving. atheists.org - 1886 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_and_the_Enlightenment%3A__In_the_name_of_godlessness Thu, 28 Oct 2010 14:08:03 -0400 (October 28th, 2010) - ATHEISM is a hot topic. In recent years writers from Richard Dawkins and Daniel Dennett to Christopher Hitchens and Sam Harris have penned popular tracts advancing the cause of godlessness. atheists.org - 1887 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church-state_divide_hits_another_GOP_candidate Thu, 28 Oct 2010 19:22:11 -0400 (October 28th, 2010) - Colorado Republican Senate candidate Ken Buck has questioned the separation of government and religion, drawing criticism from Democrats who last week chided another tea party candidate for the same view. atheists.org - 1888 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_Civilization_Survive_Without_God%3F Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:28:08 -0400 (October 29th, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens is the author of more than 10 books, including his recent memoir Hitch-22 and the best-selling manifesto God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything. atheists.org - 1889 http://www.atheists.org/news/City_of_Man%3A_Politics_and_Religion_in_a_New_Era_ Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:48:52 -0400 (October 29th, 2010) - While marveling at the iconoclastic wit of H.L. Mencken, what many forget about the Scopes Monkey Trial is that Clarence Darrow did not sway the judge, and that, shortly thereafter, the combative strain of secularism that he and Mencken championed fell into popular disrepute. atheists.org - 1890 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jon_Stewart%5C%27s_Rally_to_Restore_Sanity_draws_atheist_group Fri, 29 Oct 2010 23:26:12 -0400 (October 29th, 2010) - Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert's joint effort, the Rally to Restore Sanity and to Restore Fear is scheduled to take place Saturday, Oct. 30 at the National Mall in Washington, DC. atheists.org - 1891 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_says_Hawking_wrong_on_God Sat, 30 Oct 2010 00:09:59 -0400 (October 30th, 2010) - Pope Benedict XVI says he believes scientists who deny the existence of God are wrong, that God exists and that he did create the universe. atheists.org - 1892 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gallup%3A_Very_religious_Americans_have_higher_levels_of_well-being Sat, 30 Oct 2010 05:20:39 -0400 (October 30th, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens' atheist manifesto was subtitled "how religion poisons everything," but a new polling analysis challenges that notion, finding that very religious Americans have higher levels of well-being than the rest of the country. atheists.org - 1893 http://www.atheists.org/news/Former_O%5C%27Donnell_manager_doubles_down_on_the_stupid Sat, 30 Oct 2010 08:41:46 -0400 (October 30th, 2010) - Apparently not content to let her humiliating performance at the Widener Law School debate die, Christine O'Donnell's 2008 campaign manager, Jonathon Moseley, is doubling down on her ignorance and making himself a buffoon by offering a $1000 reward to anyone who can find the phrase "separation of church and state" in the constitution. atheists.org - 1894 http://www.atheists.org/news/Boo%21_Superstitious_Beliefs_on_the_Rise_in_America Sat, 30 Oct 2010 09:54:15 -0400 (October 30th, 2010) - Just in time for Halloween, a new book by two sociologists concludes that more Americans than ever buy into a variety of superstitious beliefs -- from ghosts and hauntings to UFOs. atheists.org - 1895 http://www.atheists.org/news/Russia%E2%80%99s_Atheists_Organize_to_Protect_and_Promote_Secularism_ Sat, 30 Oct 2010 12:53:01 -0400 (October 30th, 2010) - At a time when religious organizations are seeking an ever greater role in Russia’s public life and when clashes among them are increasingly frequent, Russia’s atheist community has formed a new public movement to defend secularism, a principle enshrined in the Russian Constitution but increasingly ignored by the powers that atheists.org - 1896 http://www.atheists.org/news/America_has_no_atheists Sat, 30 Oct 2010 22:28:37 -0400 (October 30th, 2010) - How sad. There are atheists everywhere else, but here in the United States, Robert Putnam says there are almost no atheists. atheists.org - 1897 http://www.atheists.org/news/Police_given_advice_on_witches_and_pagans_ Sun, 31 Oct 2010 19:58:18 -0400 (October 31st, 2010) - Police officers will be in a strong position to handle witchcraft-related incidents after receiving official advice on dealing with pagans and witches as part of a 300-page diversity handbook. atheists.org - 1899 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conservative_candidates_question_the_Constitution%E2%80%99s_separation_of_Church_and_State_ Sun, 31 Oct 2010 20:59:44 -0400 (October 31st, 2010) - During the election campaign, some conservative candidates, including Christine O'Donnell in Delaware, Sharron Angel in Nevada, and Ken Buck in Colorado, have questioned the separation of church and state. atheists.org - 1901 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist%2C_Scholar_Ken_Pulliam_Dead Mon, 01 Nov 2010 00:55:17 -0400 (November 1st, 2010) - Very sad news. Ken Pulliam has died of a heart attack. His Facebook memorial page is here. atheists.org - 1902 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens_On_Suffering%2C_Beliefs_And_Dying Mon, 01 Nov 2010 01:35:21 -0400 (November 1st, 2010) - Christopher Hitchens — an outspoken atheist, a gleeful provocateur and writer who has skewered everyone from Bill Clinton to Henry Kissinger to Mother Teresa — was diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus in June as he was on book tour for his memoir Hitch 22. atheists.org - 1903 http://www.atheists.org/news/Police_Block_March_to_the_Vatican_by_Abuse_Victims Mon, 01 Nov 2010 04:43:54 -0400 (November 1st, 2010) - Italian paramilitary police blocked a boulevard Sunday to prevent a march by victims of sexual abuse by Roman Catholic clerics from reaching St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican. atheists.org - 1904 http://www.atheists.org/news/Witchcraft%2C_masturbation_and_creationism_shake_up_US_polls Mon, 01 Nov 2010 13:45:48 -0400 (November 1st, 2010) - Little shocks Americans raised in the colorful world of US politics, but when an upstart conservative candidate launched her Senate campaign declaring "I'm not a witch," eyebrows were raised. atheists.org - 1905 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pamela_Anderson%5C%27s_%5C%27Playboy%5C%27_Charity_Donation_Denounced_By_Indonesian_Islamic_Group_ Mon, 01 Nov 2010 19:56:30 -0400 (November 1st, 2010) - Actress Pamela Anderson has frequently grabbed media attention for her charity work, usually promoting the animal rights group PETA. atheists.org - 1906 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fears_that_alleged_adulterer%5C%27s_execution_by_hanging_%5C%27is_imminent%5C%27_ Mon, 01 Nov 2010 21:25:24 -0400 (November 1st, 2010) - SUPPORTERS of the Iranian woman sentenced to death by stoning for alleged adultery warned yesterday that her execution may be imminent. atheists.org - 1907 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_%E2%80%9CNew_Atheism%E2%80%9D_Make_Room_For_Women%3F Tue, 02 Nov 2010 06:22:14 -0400 (November 2nd, 2010) - If you’ve been following the rise of so-called “New Atheism” movement, you may have noticed that it sure looks a lot like old religion. atheists.org - 1908 http://www.atheists.org/news/Latest_report_on_Ashtiani_death_sentence Tue, 02 Nov 2010 07:00:11 -0400 (November 2nd, 2010) - Human-rights activists warned last night that a woman sentenced to death by stoning in Iran for adultery may be executed as early as tomorrow. atheists.org - 1909 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_and_the_Liberal_State_Once_Again Tue, 02 Nov 2010 08:29:46 -0400 (November 2nd, 2010) - Nothing gets the juices and the comments flowing better than a column on religion and the liberal state. atheists.org - 1910 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Grand_Accident_ Tue, 02 Nov 2010 09:39:38 -0400 (November 2nd, 2010) - Stephen Hawking is no doubt the most celebrated scientist in the world. Deservedly so, since he has for decades made outstanding contributions to physics and cosmology while suffering from amyotropic lateral sclerosis that leaves him almost completely paralyzed. atheists.org - 1912 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conan_O%5C%27Brien%5C%27s_Fans_Are_Atheists%2C_Clueless_About_His_New_TBS_Show Tue, 02 Nov 2010 22:29:15 -0400 (November 2nd, 2010) - Yesterday we relayed the results of a study that revealed what your primetime TV viewing habits said about your personality (any of you boring folks out there catch last night's 200th episode of Dancing With the Stars?). atheists.org - 1913 http://www.atheists.org/news/Activists%3A_Iranian_Woman_to_Be_Hanged_Soon Wed, 03 Nov 2010 01:09:29 -0400 (November 3rd, 2010) - An Iranian woman originally sentenced to be stoned to death for adultery will instead be hanged for murder as soon as Wednesday, a human rights group said. atheists.org - 1914 http://www.atheists.org/news/France%3A_Iran_denies_reports_that_execution_imminent_for_woman_sentenced_to_death_by_stoning Wed, 03 Nov 2010 07:29:00 -0400 (November 3rd, 2010) - France says Iran's foreign minister insists that no final decision about a woman who could be stoned to death for adultery. atheists.org - 1915 http://www.atheists.org/news/Supreme_Court_To_Decide_On_Govt._Scholarships_To_Religious_Schools_ Wed, 03 Nov 2010 21:09:58 -0400 (November 3rd, 2010) - The Supreme Court appeared closely divided Wednesday about an Arizona tax-break program that provides millions of dollars in scholarships for students at private religious schools. atheists.org - 1916 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sakineh_Ashtiani_Was_Not_Executed%2C_Leaders_React Wed, 03 Nov 2010 22:03:11 -0400 (November 3rd, 2010) - Sakineh Ashtiani was not executed today; news reports that Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani was stoned to death today are false, confirm officials tonight. Sakineh Ashtiani’s case has drawn international outrage, and tonight world leaders are denouncing Iran’s handling of the case and demanding her release. atheists.org - 1917 http://www.atheists.org/news/GOP_Sen._David_Vitter_overcomes_%E2%80%98serious_sin%2C%E2%80%99_topples_Melancon_in_Senate Wed, 03 Nov 2010 22:52:53 -0400 (November 3rd, 2010) - Democratic Rep. Charlie Melancon built his Senate campaign around Sen. David Vitter’s self-admitted “serious sin.” atheists.org - 1918 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_Group_to_Sue_Okla._Over_Shariah_Law_Amendment Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:13:43 -0400 (November 4th, 2010) - The answer to that question depends in part on who you ask and on which religion is being considered. atheists.org - 1919 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%3A_Utah_Trooper_Crosses_%5C%22Offensive_%26_Unconstitutional%5C%22 Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:23:02 -0400 (November 4th, 2010) - I received an email today asking why American Atheists was “attacking” the Utah Highway Patrol Memorial. The email accused American Atheists of having an “issue with honoring fallen Utah peace officers.” atheists.org - 1920 http://www.atheists.org/news/More_atheists_speak_out_ Thu, 04 Nov 2010 07:15:36 -0400 (November 4th, 2010) - Matt Juba spent decades wondering who else in the community believed as he did about God and the supernatural. atheists.org - 1921 http://www.atheists.org/news/Have_Democrats_Lost_Faith_In_Faith-Based_Outreach%3F_ Thu, 04 Nov 2010 07:28:51 -0400 (November 4th, 2010) - As Democrats conduct a grim postmortem on Tuesday's (Nov. 2) elections, some liberal leaders say one diagnosis is already clear: the party's outreach to religious voters was lifeless from the start. atheists.org - 1922 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_Atheism_Be_Proven_Wrong%3F Thu, 04 Nov 2010 09:40:49 -0400 (November 4th, 2010) - Can Atheism Be Proven Wrong? Religion has to do more than come up with some good evidence for its hypothesis. atheists.org - 1923 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ralph_Reed%5C%27s_Teavangelicals Thu, 04 Nov 2010 10:30:17 -0400 (November 4th, 2010) - Does the GOP slam-dunk herald a Christian conservative revival? Not so fast. atheists.org - 1924 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Tea_Party_Illusion_ Thu, 04 Nov 2010 13:41:10 -0400 (November 4th, 2010) - Dems Lose Big, but it was to Establishment Republicans and the Religious Right atheists.org - 1925 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_loses%3A_Forbes_posts_solid_win_in_congressional_race Thu, 04 Nov 2010 13:54:29 -0400 (November 4th, 2010) - Incumbent J. Randy Forbes swept easily to a sixth term in Congress on Tuesday as a vigorous campaign by a political newcomer failed to attract many voters. atheists.org - 1926 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sam_Harris%3A_How_Science_Can_Determine_Human_Values_%28Review%29_ Thu, 04 Nov 2010 22:51:13 -0400 (November 4th, 2010) - Reading Sam Harris, one might be reminded of Thomas Hobbes, whose indispensability in the annals of public intellectualism, it is generally agreed, stems from his ideation -- the groundbreaking approach whereby he derived his philosophical elixir for mankind. atheists.org - 1927 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%2C_gays%2C_unions_set_to_condemn_Pope%5C%27s_visit_to_Spain_ Fri, 05 Nov 2010 08:30:31 -0400 (November 5th, 2010) - Atheists, gay rights activists, unions and dozens of diverse groups opposed to the visit to Spain this weekend by Pope Benedict XVI are taking to the streets in protest. atheists.org - 1928 http://www.atheists.org/news/Justices_Revisit_Tax_Credits_for_Religious_Schools Fri, 05 Nov 2010 08:46:13 -0400 (November 5th, 2010) - The Supreme Court on Wednesday returned to a subject that produced a major and closely divided decision eight years ago: how far may the government go in aiding religious schools? atheists.org - 1930 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_is_fundamental_to_a_child%5C%27s_development._ Fri, 05 Nov 2010 12:08:54 -0400 (November 5th, 2010) - Or is it? Australian columnist and atheist Malcolm Knox sounds off. atheists.org - 1931 http://www.atheists.org/news/Oklahoma_voters_may_have_accidentally_outlawed_the_10_Commandments Fri, 05 Nov 2010 13:20:45 -0400 (November 5th, 2010) - Lawmakers in the Sooner State put a constitutional amendment banning the application of Islamic law by Oklahoma courts on the ballot for Tuesday's election. atheists.org - 1932 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Students_Find_Their_Place_in_the_Interfaith_Movement_ Fri, 05 Nov 2010 14:09:26 -0400 (November 5th, 2010) - Atheists are leading the charge for interfaith cooperation. If that sounds contradictory, allow me to confirm: I just saw it with my own eyes. atheists.org - 1933 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_in_the_2010_Elections%3A_A_Preliminary_Look Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:51:08 -0400 (November 5th, 2010) - Two of the largest religious groups in the electorate followed the same basic voting patterns in the 2010 elections for the U.S. House of Representatives as they have in prior elections: white Protestants voted overwhelmingly Republican and religiously unaffiliated voters cast their ballots overwhelmingly for Democrats. atheists.org - 1934 http://www.atheists.org/news/ATHEIST_BILLBOARD__TO_CHALLENGE_THE__CHRISTIAN_MONOPOLY_ON_%5C%22CHRISTMAS%5C%22 Fri, 05 Nov 2010 16:04:42 -0400 (November 5th, 2010) - "You KNOW" it's a myth! This season, celebrate Reason." atheists.org - 1935 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_tournament_of_atheists%2C_then_and_now_ Sat, 06 Nov 2010 06:47:02 -0400 (November 6th, 2010) - Proponents of atheism have found their comfort zone in the modern Western world, where penalties for infidelity are few but the residual sense of outrage is still strong enough to propel their attacks on a no-longer vengeful God to the top of the bestseller lists. atheists.org - 1936 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_atheists_be_our_leaders%3F Sat, 06 Nov 2010 06:58:03 -0400 (November 6th, 2010) - Atheists and agnostics are among the most educated citizens in the United States. They rank highest not only in knowledge about science, American history, literature, politics and the role of religion in public life, but also in awareness about world religions. atheists.org - 1937 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_can_be_stupid%2C_too Sat, 06 Nov 2010 23:12:30 -0400 (November 6th, 2010) - This is the worst case of atheist buttery I've ever seen. I'm left with this terribly greasy, bloated feeling after going through it, and I think my arteries were clogging up just reading it. atheists.org - 1938 http://www.atheists.org/news/Visiting_Spain%2C_Pope_Sees_Rise_of_Antichurch_Sentiment Sat, 06 Nov 2010 23:51:31 -0400 (November 6th, 2010) - Pope Benedict XVI on Saturday strongly criticized the “aggressive” antichurch sentiment that he said was flourishing in Spain as he sought to rekindle the faith in a once staunchly Roman Catholic nation that is now among Europe’s most liberal. atheists.org - 1939 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_Agnostic%5C%27s_Manifesto Sun, 07 Nov 2010 00:58:12 -0400 (November 7th, 2010) - Lost in the great debate between atheists and theists is the hapless agnostic who just doesn’t really know either way, says Reza Aslan. But a new book by Michael Krasny offers a helpful path to the unknowable. atheists.org - 1940 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cancel_the_Apocalypse%3A_Key_to_world_peace_may_be_open-mindedness_in_faith Sun, 07 Nov 2010 04:21:43 -0500 (November 7th, 2010) - The New York Times reported Sept. 28 that Americans are "by all measures a deeply religious people, but they are also deeply ignorant about religion." atheists.org - 1941 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_urges_Spain_to_shun_secularism Sun, 07 Nov 2010 08:28:29 -0500 (November 7th, 2010) - Pope Benedict XVI defended religion from critics Sunday as he dedicated the Sagrada Familia church, a still-unfinished emblem of the Spanish city of Barcelona. atheists.org - 1944 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_Ms._Magazine%5C%27s_Story_on_Atheist_Women_Misses_the_Mark Sun, 07 Nov 2010 21:05:23 -0500 (November 7th, 2010) - To say it was disappointing is an understatement. atheists.org - 1945 http://www.atheists.org/news/For_Afghan_Wives%2C_a_Desperate%2C_Fiery_Way_Out Mon, 08 Nov 2010 07:06:50 -0500 (November 8th, 2010) - Even the poorest families in Afghanistan have matches and cooking fuel. The combination usually sustains life. But it also can be the makings of a horrifying escape: from poverty, from forced marriages, from the abuse and despondency that can be the fate of Afghan women. atheists.org - 1946 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gay_suicides_and_the_Mormon_Church Mon, 08 Nov 2010 07:36:35 -0500 (November 8th, 2010) - IN July of this year – following the suicide of Todd Ransom, a 28-year-old gay man from Orem, Utah, who was reportedly struggling to reconcile his sexual orientation with his Mormon upbringing – horrifying statistics emerged regarding suicide, particularly among teenagers, in Utah. atheists.org - 1947 http://www.atheists.org/news/Young_rappers_arrested_in_Iran Mon, 08 Nov 2010 13:51:41 -0500 (November 8th, 2010) - Police in Tehran have arrested several members of underground Iranian rap groups, the semi-offical ILNA news agency reported. atheists.org - 1948 http://www.atheists.org/news/Poll%3A_Christians_More_Likely_To_Want_Park51_Moved_Than_Muslims%2C_Jews%2C_Atheists Mon, 08 Nov 2010 17:09:29 -0500 (November 8th, 2010) - Christians -- including Catholics, Mormons and Protestants -- are more likely to think the Park51 Islamic center in downtown Manhattan should be re-located further away from Ground Zero than non-Christians, says a new poll atheists.org - 1949 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church-state_separation_opponents_cost_Republicans_dear Tue, 09 Nov 2010 04:58:13 -0500 (November 9th, 2010) - Three high-profile Tea Party-backed Senate candidates who disputed the constitution's first amendment all lost. Coincidence? atheists.org - 1950 http://www.atheists.org/news/Did_the_Democrats%5C%27_Loss_of_Faith_Lose_Them_the_House%3F Tue, 09 Nov 2010 07:56:30 -0500 (November 9th, 2010) - Of the many reasons cited for the Election Day "shellacking" administered by Republicans to President Obama and the Democrats, perhaps none is as puzzling to political analysts -- or as maddening to religious progressives who put so much faith and work into Obama's success -- than the Democrats' failure to mobilize the Religious Left and reach out to conservative believers. atheists.org - 1952 http://www.atheists.org/news/School_district_ending_Bible_distribution_program_at_elementary_school_after_parent_raises_concerns Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:20:24 -0500 (November 9th, 2010) - Jonesville Community Schools is ending a Bible distribution program at Williams Elementary School after a parent raised concerns, the superintendent said. atheists.org - 1953 http://www.atheists.org/news/Parents_voice_problems_with_religious_holiday_policy Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:30:29 -0500 (November 9th, 2010) - Though many parents attended Monday night’s Community Consolidated Elementary District 181 board meeting to see their children congratulated on a cross-country championship, a handful stuck around to voice concern with a policy that prevented 130 runners from competing in two meets in September. atheists.org - 1954 http://www.atheists.org/news/Faith_Groups_Differ_Over_Mosque_Near_Ground_Zero Tue, 09 Nov 2010 23:06:42 -0500 (November 9th, 2010) - A new public poll reveals that faith communities are split over the best way to resolve the disagreements regarding the Islamic center planned near Ground Zero in New York. atheists.org - 1955 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Groups_Promote_a_Holiday_Message%3A_Join_Us Wed, 10 Nov 2010 06:21:49 -0500 (November 10th, 2010) - Just in time for the holiday season, Americans are about to be hit with a spate of advertisements promoting the joy and wisdom of atheism. atheists.org - 1956 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_politician_claims_that_he_was_forced_by_Michelle_Obama_to_shake_hands Wed, 10 Nov 2010 07:24:29 -0500 (November 10th, 2010) - A CONSERVATIVE Muslim government minister admits he shook hands yesterday with US first lady Michelle Obama in welcoming her to Indonesia – but says he really didn’t want to as it was against his religion. atheists.org - 1957 http://www.atheists.org/news/Solicitor_general_surprises_justices_in_religious_schools_case Wed, 10 Nov 2010 10:14:11 -0500 (November 10th, 2010) - The Obama administration says taxpayers have no right to sue if a state uses tax funds for parochial school tuitions. One advocate for separation of church and state calls the stance 'inexplicable.' atheists.org - 1959 http://www.atheists.org/news/Steve_Martin_Sings_An_Atheist_Gospel_Song__%28VIDEO%29__ Thu, 11 Nov 2010 05:36:35 -0500 (November 11th, 2010) - Over the last few months, Steve Martin has reminded us why he's regarded as one of the most inventive and hilarious comedians of all time. He recently launched a wild and crazy Twitter account, and his recent tour (in which he's performing bluegrass on the banjo) gave him the excuse to "leak" his very specific rider. atheists.org - 1960 http://www.atheists.org/news/Classes_Start_Soon_for_Bachmann%5C%27s_Constitutional_Conservative_Caucus Thu, 11 Nov 2010 05:55:28 -0500 (November 11th, 2010) - Is Glenn Beck University opening a satellite campus on Capitol Hill? atheists.org - 1961 http://www.atheists.org/news/Comment_of_the_Day%3A_A_Godless_Atheist_Speaks Thu, 11 Nov 2010 07:49:25 -0500 (November 11th, 2010) - Today we learned that Christmas is more warred-upon than ever, with terrible, hell-bound atheists trying to co-opt the world's best birthday party. atheists.org - 1962 http://www.atheists.org/news/John_Shimkus_cites_Genesis_on_climate_change Thu, 11 Nov 2010 08:49:34 -0500 (November 11th, 2010) - Rep. John Shimkus is standing by a controversial comment that global warming isn't something to worry about because God said he wouldn't destroy the Earth after Noah's flood. atheists.org - 1963 http://www.atheists.org/news/Controversial_Radio_Host_Won%5C%27t_Be_Congressional_Staffer_After_All Thu, 11 Nov 2010 16:56:03 -0500 (November 11th, 2010) - Joyce Kaufman's controversial statements have afforded her a radio career, but now they appear to have cost her a job on Capitol Hill. atheists.org - 1964 http://www.atheists.org/news/Asia_Bibi%2C_Pakistan_Blasphemy_Case_Defendant%2C_Death_Sentence_Handed_Down_ Thu, 11 Nov 2010 17:08:13 -0500 (November 11th, 2010) - Asia Bibi, a Christian woman and mother of five, has been sentenced to death for "blasphemy" in Pakistan, the first conviction of its kind for a woman, the AFP is reporting. atheists.org - 1965 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christmas_wars_come_early Thu, 11 Nov 2010 17:40:59 -0500 (November 11th, 2010) - If you've been appalled by this year's ever-earlier, commercial Christmas creep - the profusion of red and green that bleeds into our lives before the orange and black has even left the shelves - just wait until you see how quickly the war over the meaning of Christmas is heating up. atheists.org - 1966 http://www.atheists.org/news/Aziz_Ansari_is_not_a_Muslim%2C_he_is_an_atheist Thu, 11 Nov 2010 20:37:19 -0500 (November 11th, 2010) - A few days ago a friend was asking me about Aziz Ansari, the brown American comedian who grew up in South Carolina, and is of Tamil Muslim heritage. atheists.org - 1967 http://www.atheists.org/news/Officials_Say_No_Discrimination_In_Seeking_%5C%27Christian_Roommate%5C%27_ Fri, 12 Nov 2010 02:59:40 -0500 (November 12th, 2010) - A Michigan woman did not violate fair housing law when she posted a flier at her church seeking a "Christian roommate," federal officials have ruled. atheists.org - 1968 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_Atheists_Are_Better_Prepared_for_Death_Than_Believers Fri, 12 Nov 2010 05:23:28 -0500 (November 12th, 2010) - When religious people are faced with the possibility that death might really, truly be the end, they're often not prepared. atheists.org - 1969 http://www.atheists.org/news/KATHLEEN_JOHNSON_RESPONDS%3B_%5C%22WHERE_DID_GOD_GO_IN__AFGHANISTAN%3F%5C%22 Fri, 12 Nov 2010 05:30:26 -0500 (November 12th, 2010) - (Editor's note: the following is a response by KathleenJohnson, Vice President and Military Director of American Atheists, to a recent New York Times piece, "Where Did God Go in Afghanistan?" atheists.org - 1970 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Apologist%3A_Atheist_Ads_Criticizing_Bible_Ridiculous_Yet_Effective Fri, 12 Nov 2010 09:31:34 -0500 (November 12th, 2010) - A Christian apologist at Biola University responded Thursday to a new atheist ad campaign that criticizes the Bible, saying it is "ridiculous" for humanists to lecture on morality without God in the picture. atheists.org - 1971 http://www.atheists.org/news/Justice_of_Iran_wants_more_time_to_consider_condemnation_of_woman_facing_stoning Fri, 12 Nov 2010 09:42:28 -0500 (November 12th, 2010) - An analysis of the murder charge hanging over Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani takes precedence over that of adultery, which resulted in a death sentence by stoning, Iran and Justice need more time to review the case, said the prosecutor general of Teheran. atheists.org - 1972 http://www.atheists.org/news/Palestinian_jailed_for_logging_on_to_Facebook_as_%5C%27God%5C%27_to_criticize_Islam Fri, 12 Nov 2010 16:05:35 -0500 (November 12th, 2010) - Residents of Qalqiliya say they had no idea that Walid Husayin - the 26-year-old son of a Muslim scholar - was leading a double life. atheists.org - 1977 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Burning_Bush_They%E2%80%99ll_Buy%2C_but_Not_ESP_or_Alien_Abduction Sat, 13 Nov 2010 09:29:56 -0500 (November 13th, 2010) - Practically anything goes at the American Academy of Religion’s annual conference, where scholars of dozens of religions convene annually to debate, relate and on occasion mate. atheists.org - 1978 http://www.atheists.org/news/For_Catholics%2C_Interest_in_Exorcism_Is_Revived Sat, 13 Nov 2010 17:45:36 -0500 (November 13th, 2010) - The rite of exorcism, rendered gory by Hollywood and ridiculed by many modern believers, has largely fallen out of favor in the Roman Catholic Church in the United States. atheists.org - 1979 http://www.atheists.org/news/Humanist_Groups_Aim_to_Push_Back_at_%5C%27Bible-Derived_Morality%5C%27 Sat, 13 Nov 2010 18:05:33 -0500 (November 13th, 2010) - Right in time to spur awkward theological discussions with extended family members, the American Humanist Association and other related groups are preparing to launch a holiday advertising blitz aimed at drawing stark distinctions between believers and their less devout brethren. atheists.org - 1980 http://www.atheists.org/news/Peel_back_the_number_to_see_the_faces_of_3_social_trends_%28video%29 Sun, 14 Nov 2010 07:34:15 -0500 (November 14th, 2010) - Until recently, Vlad Chituc, a Yale University junior, had no idea he was a trendsetter. atheists.org - 1981 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_Bishops%3A_More_Exorcists_Needed Sun, 14 Nov 2010 08:29:08 -0500 (November 14th, 2010) - Citing a shortage of priests who can perform the rite, the nation's Roman Catholic bishops are holding a conference on how to conduct exorcisms. atheists.org - 1982 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens%3A_%5C%27You_have_to_choose_your_future_regrets%5C%27 Sun, 14 Nov 2010 14:14:30 -0500 (November 14th, 2010) - In June Christopher Hitchens, the hard-drinking polemicist and atheist, met his toughest opponent yet when he was diagnosed with cancer. atheists.org - 1983 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jim_Swilley%2C_Georgia_Megachurch_Pastor_Comes_Out_To_Congregation_After_Gay_Teen_Suicides_ Mon, 15 Nov 2010 08:01:39 -0500 (November 15th, 2010) - Jim Swilley, the pastor of a Georgia megachurch, recently revealed to his congregation that he is gay. atheists.org - 1984 http://www.atheists.org/news/Oklahoma_Surprise%3A_Islam_as_an_Election_Issue Mon, 15 Nov 2010 10:30:39 -0500 (November 15th, 2010) - Cory Williams, a Democratic state representative from Stillwater, expected his opponent in the recent election to label him a free-spending liberal allied with President Obama. atheists.org - 1985 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rep._Joseph_Cao_Calls_Christian_Group_%5C%27Ignorant%5C%27_for_Costing_Him_Election Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:23:26 -0500 (November 15th, 2010) - Louisiana GOP Rep. Anh "Joseph" Cao is still smarting over the successful efforts of a leading lobby of the Christian right to defeat him in last week's election, a loss that denied Republicans a chance to hold a traditionally Democratic seat and ensure a second term for the first Vietnamese-American in Congress. atheists.org - 1986 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sakineh_Mohammadi_Ashtiani%2C_Iran_Stoning_Defendant%2C_Shown_On_State_TV_ Mon, 15 Nov 2010 19:31:26 -0500 (November 15th, 2010) - Iranian state television has broadcast a purported statement by an Iranian woman sentenced to death by stoning for adultery in which she calls herself a "sinner." atheists.org - 1987 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Oklahoma_Referendum_Prohibiting_State_Courts_from_Applying_International_or_Sharia_Law Tue, 16 Nov 2010 11:32:41 -0500 (November 16th, 2010) - On Election Day, Oklahoma voters approved a referendum that serves as an interesting microcosm of some of the most difficult challenges facing the United States now. atheists.org - 1975 http://www.atheists.org/news/Man_promotes_%5C%22Secular_Grace%5C%22_in_time_for_Turkey_Day Sat, 13 Nov 2010 04:50:44 -0500 (November 13th, 2010) - Pearson Veit wants to thank friends and family for the goodness of life... atheists.org - 1976 http://www.atheists.org/news/OPINION%3A_Heretics%2C_Humanism%2C_and_%E2%80%9Cthe_Hood%E2%80%9D_ Sat, 13 Nov 2010 05:31:02 -0500 (November 13th, 2010) - As a radical humanist critic of America’s Christian slavocracy Frederick Douglass once wrote, “I prayed for twenty years and received no answer until I prayed with my legs.” atheists.org - 1988 http://www.atheists.org/news/Palestinian_Blogger_Angers_West_Bank_Muslims Tue, 16 Nov 2010 18:07:14 -0500 (November 16th, 2010) - QALQILYA, West Bank — It is hard to imagine that a dingy Internet cafe buzzing with flies in this provincial Palestinian town could have spawned a blogger who has angered the Muslim cyberworld by promoting atheism, composing spoofs of Koranic verses, skewering the lifestyle of the Prophet Muhammad and chatting online using the sarcastic Web name God Almighty. atheists.org - 1989 http://www.atheists.org/news/FBI_files_shed_light_on_Ezra_Taft_Benson%2C_Ike_and_the_Birch_Society_ Tue, 16 Nov 2010 21:25:30 -0500 (November 16th, 2010) - His letter to FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover was packed with political dynamite, so Ezra Taft Benson marked it “personal-confidential.” atheists.org - 1990 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mayor_backs_off_plan_for_Ten_Commandments_display_ Wed, 17 Nov 2010 02:58:36 -0500 (November 17th, 2010) - Mayor John Sullivan likely won't move forward with a proposal to display the Ten Commandments in city hall after he gained little support from the dais at Monday's city council meeting. atheists.org - 1991 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_and_ordained_OK_AFA%5C%27s_religious_tolerance_plan Wed, 17 Nov 2010 17:13:35 -0500 (November 17th, 2010) - A panel of experts including an atheist and a Baptist has signed off on a new plan to teach religious tolerance at the Air Force Academy. atheists.org - 1992 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_accidental_exclusion_of_non-white_atheists Wed, 17 Nov 2010 17:25:07 -0500 (November 17th, 2010) - To be a true 'community', atheism needs to move away from its white, male image and encourage black and Asian people to join atheists.org - 1993 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_makes_changes_to_faith-based_partnerships Wed, 17 Nov 2010 18:53:45 -0500 (November 17th, 2010) - President Barack Obama signed off Wednesday on what the White House says are significant improvements to federally funded partnerships between the government and religious-based and neighborhood organizations. atheists.org - 1994 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_holiday_display_discriminated_against_by_county Wed, 17 Nov 2010 19:24:36 -0500 (November 17th, 2010) - It isn’t even December yet and Christians are already trying to claim the monopoly on the entire winter season. Once again the Freethought Society’s planned winter display; “The Tree of Knowledge” is in jeopardy. atheists.org - 1995 http://www.atheists.org/news/Israel_Finds_Common_Cause_With_Evangelicals_ Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:04:38 -0500 (November 18th, 2010) - When Texas megachurch pastor John Hagee wrapped up a visit to Israel on Monday (Nov. 15) with 40 pastors in tow, he sought out the places where Jesus walked, preached and prayed some 2,000 years ago. atheists.org - 1996 http://www.atheists.org/news/Abdel_Kareem_Nabil%2C_Egyptian_Blogger_Jailed_For_Slamming_Islam%2C_Released_After_4_Years_ Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:11:26 -0500 (November 18th, 2010) - An Egyptian blogger jailed for four years for criticizing the Muslim faith and President Hosni Mubarak has been released, but sources say his first moments of freedom were plagued with additional ailments. atheists.org - 1997 http://www.atheists.org/news/Most_atheists_are_not_white_%26_other_non-fairy_tales Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:33:15 -0500 (November 18th, 2010) - Over at Comment is Free Belief (where I am an occasional contributor) there is an interesting post up, The accidental exclusion of non-white atheists. Actually, I disagree with the thrust of the post pretty strongly. atheists.org - 1998 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_in_the_Middle_East_--_blogger_arrested Thu, 18 Nov 2010 12:48:43 -0500 (November 18th, 2010) - America -- and international freethinkers -- need to speak out now in defense of a Palestinian atheist! atheists.org - 1999 http://www.atheists.org/news/Michele_Bachmann_to_have_far-right_crank_teach_Constitution_to_new_representatives Thu, 18 Nov 2010 13:28:48 -0500 (November 18th, 2010) - Boy, does this sound like fun. Michele Bachmann, veteran lawmaker of four years, wants to teach all the congressional newcomers the ropes. atheists.org - 2000 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Devil_and_your_computer Thu, 18 Nov 2010 13:43:59 -0500 (November 18th, 2010) - FOLLOWING on from a warning sounded in Rev Jim Peasboro’s book The Devil in the Machine: Is your computer possessed by a demon? comes a warning from a bunch of fundamentalist wackos in Brazil that USB connectors should under no circumstances be used as they all bear a mark of the Beast, as shown below. atheists.org - 2001 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kentucky%5C%27s_National_Defense_Strategy%3A_%5C%22Reliance_on_Almighty_God%5C%22 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 16:47:13 -0500 (November 18th, 2010) - Members of the Kentucky House of Representatives and Senate are demanding the state acknowledge "reliance upon Almighty God" in its Homeland Security department. atheists.org - 2002 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Circle_game%3A_Commissioners_pass_resolution_58-10%3B_but_what_was_accomplished%3F Thu, 18 Nov 2010 17:26:34 -0500 (November 18th, 2010) - For now, the Religious right in West Chester, PA, thinks they have won. atheists.org - 2003 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Bit_of_Gay_Bashing_at_the_United_Nations_ Fri, 19 Nov 2010 07:00:15 -0500 (November 19th, 2010) - African and Arab nations succeeded by a whisker in deleting three words from a resolution that would have included gays in a denunciation of arbitrary killings. Europeans protested in vain. atheists.org - 2004 http://www.atheists.org/news/West_Chester_votes_to_end_all-denomination_holiday_displays_at_courthouse Fri, 19 Nov 2010 07:13:58 -0500 (November 19th, 2010) - Visions of sugarplums and Santas are premature in West Chester, where the county commissioners voted Thursday to shake up the holiday scene on the courthouse lawn. atheists.org - 2005 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tenn._Judge_Refuses_To_Block_Mosque_Construction_ Fri, 19 Nov 2010 10:56:02 -0500 (November 19th, 2010) - A Tennessee judge on Wednesday (Nov. 17) declined to halt the construction of a mosque in Murfreesboro in a case that drew national attention after opponents sought to put Islam itself on trial. atheists.org - 2006 http://www.atheists.org/news/Asian_Buddhists_are_not_atheists Fri, 19 Nov 2010 19:06:21 -0500 (November 19th, 2010) - In response to my two posts below on atheism statistics, people in the comments and around the web (e.g., Facebook) have pointed out that Buddhism is necessarily/can be atheistic, and that Buddhism, is not/not necessarily a religion, and therefore that explains the statistics. atheists.org - 2007 http://www.atheists.org/news/Philadelphia_Offers_Settlement_to_Boy_Scouts Sat, 20 Nov 2010 10:16:04 -0500 (November 20th, 2010) - Ten years ago, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the right of the Boy Scouts of America to discriminate based on sexual orientation. The 5-4 ruling said that since the Boy Scouts are a “member organization,” it had the right to exclude gays. atheists.org - 2008 http://www.atheists.org/news/Thanksgiving%3A_A_Holiday_For_Believers_and_Non-Believers_ Sat, 20 Nov 2010 13:48:05 -0500 (November 20th, 2010) - Ken Guthrie and his partner will be at his aunt's house for Thanksgiving, sharing a table with his grandmother, siblings and cousins -- a veritable holiday crowd. atheists.org - 2009 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cedric_Miller_AFFAIR%3A_Facebook-Banning_Pastor_Admits_To_Threesome_With_Wife_And_Male_Church_Assistan Sat, 20 Nov 2010 19:00:38 -0500 (November 20th, 2010) - A New Jersey pastor who said Facebook was a "portal to infidelity" and told married church leaders to delete their accounts or resign once testified that he had a three-way sexual relationship with his wife and a male church assistant. atheists.org - 2010 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tree_of_Knowledge_to_be_excluded_from_county_winter_display Sun, 21 Nov 2010 08:29:47 -0500 (November 21st, 2010) - On Thursday November 18th, the Chester County Commissioners voted 2 to 1 in favor of Resolution 58-10. The resolution was created with the specific intent to exclude the Freethought Society (a local atheist group) from erecting their winter display known as the Tree of Knowledge. atheists.org - 2011 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%2C_agnostics_gather_for_convention_in_Springfield_MO Sun, 21 Nov 2010 13:37:04 -0500 (November 21st, 2010) - 'Skepticon' is one of the largest events of its kind in the nation atheists.org - 2012 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_the_Palestinian_Authority_becoming_an_Islamic_Theocracy%3F Sun, 21 Nov 2010 14:16:54 -0500 (November 21st, 2010) - A Palestinian blogger faces life imprisonment for criticizing Islam on Facebook. The 26-year-old blogger, Waleed al-Husseini, was arrested recently by the Western-backed Palestinian Authority security forces in the West Bank. atheists.org - 2013 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Right_Activist_Blasts_Medal_of_Honor_as_%5C%27Feminized%2C%5C%27_Sparks_Fury Sun, 21 Nov 2010 17:37:23 -0500 (November 21st, 2010) - While a divided nation last Tuesday finally rallied around one bright shining moment of patriotic glory -- President Obama's awarding of the Medal of Honor to Afghan hero Army Sgt. Salvatore Giunta -- a popular right-wing Christian commentator sharply split opinions even within his own camp. He blasted the award as "feminized" because it honors Giunta for saving his comrades rather than killing the enemy. atheists.org - 2014 http://www.atheists.org/news/50_governors_sent_nativity_scenes Mon, 22 Nov 2010 13:47:47 -0500 (November 22nd, 2010) - A Catholic group has sent small nativity scenes to all 50 U.S. state governors, describing its gifts as an inoffensive way to mark the Christmas season. atheists.org - 2015 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens_Stares_Death_in_Face%3A_Does_He_See_God%3F Mon, 22 Nov 2010 13:56:43 -0500 (November 22nd, 2010) - They say there are no atheists in a fox hole. But author Christopher Hitchens is in a pretty deep hole - stage IV cancer - and as he stares into the abyss of death he says he still doesn't see God. atheists.org - 2016 http://www.atheists.org/news/Time_for_a_%5C%22Secular_Grace%5C%22_at_Thanksgiving%3F Mon, 22 Nov 2010 14:06:55 -0500 (November 22nd, 2010) - Pearson Veit wants to thank friends and family for the goodness oflife... and thinks that a "Secular Grace" is the way... atheists.org - 2017 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pakistani%3A_Christian_%5C%27Wrongly_Sentenced%5C%27_to_Die Mon, 22 Nov 2010 15:03:05 -0500 (November 22nd, 2010) - A Pakistani Christian mother sentenced to hang for committing blasphemy is not guilty and should be granted clemency by President Asif Ali Zardari, a top government official says. atheists.org - 2018 http://www.atheists.org/news/Op-Ed%3A_True_colors_of_atheism_are_as_vibrant_as_those_of_other_beliefs Mon, 22 Nov 2010 18:54:33 -0500 (November 22nd, 2010) - When I say I’m an atheist if it comes up in conversation, the most common response I receive is the look of disbelief — in all its irony. If I stood in the middle of a grocery store aisle shouting profanities, I would most likely elicit a similar response. That look, that shock. atheists.org - 2019 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ground_Zero_mosque_developers_apply_for_federal_funding_ Mon, 22 Nov 2010 19:58:26 -0500 (November 22nd, 2010) - The developers of an Islamic community centre and mosque near Ground Zero in New York have applied for millions of dollars in public money from a post-September 11 reconstruction fund. atheists.org - 2020 http://www.atheists.org/news/Has_the_Pope_gone_soft_on_condoms%3F Mon, 22 Nov 2010 21:34:26 -0500 (November 22nd, 2010) - A FLURRY of reports at the weekend suggest that a welcome chink may have opened up in the Vatican’s armoury of opposition to condoms, but these have been quashed by the Vatican’s chief spokesman. atheists.org - 2021 http://www.atheists.org/news/McDonnell_to_display_tabletop_Nativity_scene Tue, 23 Nov 2010 10:17:15 -0500 (November 23rd, 2010) - The Catholic civil-rights organization, based in New York, has sent Nativity scenes to all state governors in an attempt to counteract high-profile seasonal messaging by American Atheists. atheists.org - 2023 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_prepare_to_brave_the_holidays Wed, 24 Nov 2010 10:46:53 -0500 (November 24th, 2010) - The city may be decorating for December, but non-believers are steeling themselves for a season of messages they don’t believe — and, frankly, can’t stand. atheists.org - 2025 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conservatives_Reject_Vatican_Explanation_On_Condoms_ Thu, 25 Nov 2010 12:35:42 -0500 (November 25th, 2010) - Faced with a changing outlook from Pope Benedict XVI on condoms and their role in preventing the spread of HIV, many prominent conservative Roman Catholics in the U.S. are rejecting the Vatican's own explanation of what the pope said. atheists.org - 2026 http://www.atheists.org/news/Faithful_states_also_the_fattest%2C_atheist_concludes_A_holy_zeal_for_meals_ Thu, 25 Nov 2010 12:59:54 -0500 (November 25th, 2010) - Praise the Lord, and pass the potatoes. atheists.org - 2027 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ten_Commandments_rise_again_in_Texas Thu, 25 Nov 2010 13:28:20 -0500 (November 25th, 2010) - A bill introduced in Texas letting teachers display the Ten Commandments in public schools would again test church-state laws if passed, observers say. atheists.org - 2028 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_-_a_force_for_good%3F_Tony_Blair_debates_atheist_Christopher_Hitchens Thu, 25 Nov 2010 20:34:08 -0500 (November 25th, 2010) - A former British prime minister will pit his faith against the atheism of a prominent journalist as both try to sway the passions of a Toronto crowd on whether religion is a force for good in the world. atheists.org - 2029 http://www.atheists.org/news/Blasphemy_Resolution_Passes_U.N._Committee_ Fri, 26 Nov 2010 12:01:21 -0500 (November 26th, 2010) - A resolution combating the "vilification of religions" was adopted Tuesday by a United Nations committee, but religious freedom advocates who oppose the measure say support for it continues to diminish. atheists.org - 2030 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_Religious_Believers_Are_So_Desperate_for_the_Atheist_Seal_of_Approval Fri, 26 Nov 2010 12:26:23 -0500 (November 26th, 2010) - Many religious believers are intent on getting atheists' approval for their beliefs. If you're hoping for that -- don't hold your breath. atheists.org - 2265 http://www.atheists.org/news/Get_Ready_to_Compete_With_the_Muslim_Brotherhood%3A_Egypt_Could_Chart_a_%5C%27Third_Way%5C%27_ Wed, 09 Feb 2011 18:38:54 -0500 (February 9th, 2011) - In 1985 as a teenager in Kenya, I was an adamant member of the Muslim Brotherhood. atheists.org - 2266 http://www.atheists.org/news/God%2C_the_Army%2C_and_PTSD Thu, 10 Feb 2011 05:30:48 -0500 (February 10th, 2011) - Is religion an obstacle to treatment? atheists.org - 2267 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_is_pandering_to_religion Thu, 10 Feb 2011 06:11:50 -0500 (February 10th, 2011) - The Spirited Atheist, like a great many secularists at this political juncture, is feeling somewhat dispirited. President Obama's "how-I-came-to-know-Jesus" speech at that sanctimonious annual ritual known as the National Prayer Breakfast might as well have been titled, "How I plan to be a two-term president by convincing loonies I am not a Muslim or atheist." atheists.org - 2269 http://www.atheists.org/news/Georgia_Lawmaker_Equates_Gays_With_Criminals%2C_%5C%27Unrepentant%5C%27_Drug_Dealers_ Thu, 10 Feb 2011 17:19:48 -0500 (February 10th, 2011) - Bobby Franklin, a Republican state representative from Georgia, said this week that letting gays serve openly in the military was the "same thing" as allowing "unrepentant drug dealer[s]" into its ranks. atheists.org - 2033 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Global_Blasphemy_Code_Would_Undermine_Rights Fri, 26 Nov 2010 14:48:24 -0500 (November 26th, 2010) - Yesterday, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Michael Posner announced the release of the State Department’s 2010 International Religious Freedom Report. atheists.org - 2034 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%E2%80%99_ad_blitz_calls_Christmas_a_myth_ Fri, 26 Nov 2010 22:49:10 -0500 (November 26th, 2010) - A billboard scheduled to be displayed near the New Jersey entrance to the tunnel until the end of the holidays shows a silhouetted manger scene with the message, “You KNOW it’s a Myth. This Season, Celebrate REASON.” atheists.org - 2035 http://www.atheists.org/news/Former_UK_Prime_Minister_Loses_In_Religion_Debate_With_Charismatic_Atheist Sat, 27 Nov 2010 13:33:21 -0500 (November 27th, 2010) - In a sold-out debate in Canada, former British prime minister Tony Blair lost to charismatic atheist Christopher Hitchens on the proposition that religion was a force for good in the world. atheists.org - 2036 http://www.atheists.org/news/Blair_and_Hitchens_keep_the_gloves_on_ Sat, 27 Nov 2010 14:03:08 -0500 (November 27th, 2010) - The former prime minister, Tony Blair, has defended the role of religion in global affairs in a debate with the prominent British-born atheist intellectual, Christopher Hitchens before an audience in Toronto. Our correspondent Paul Adams was there. atheists.org - 2038 http://www.atheists.org/news/UN_again_votes_to_condemn_vilification_of_religion%2C_but_support_is_shrinking Sat, 27 Nov 2010 19:48:21 -0500 (November 27th, 2010) - A UN General Assembly committee has once again voted to condemn the “vilification of religion”, but support narrowed for a measure that Western powers say is a threat to freedom of expression. atheists.org - 2039 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_declares_embryo_humanity Sat, 27 Nov 2010 20:57:51 -0500 (November 27th, 2010) - After his controversial condom-support Benedict XVI speaks on behalf of "nascent life" atheists.org - 2040 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bible_Protects_Against_Global_Warming%3F_Energy_Chair_Hopeful_Tells_Us_So Sun, 28 Nov 2010 11:56:28 -0500 (November 28th, 2010) - The House's new Republican leadership will begin doling out coveted committee chairs after the Thanksgiving break, and it's unclear whether Rep. John Shimkus is helping his chances to lead the powerful Energy and Commerce Committee by arguing that climate change is a myth because God told Noah he would never again destroy the Earth by flood. atheists.org - 2041 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conservative_radio_host_supports_the_Tree_of_Knowledge Sun, 28 Nov 2010 18:08:04 -0500 (November 28th, 2010) - The Freethought Society has erected a holiday Tree of Knowledge display in the Free Speech Zone in West Chester, which was located on the lawn of the Chester County Courthouse, for the past 3 years. atheists.org - 2042 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_war_on_Christmas_heats_up Mon, 29 Nov 2010 12:47:30 -0500 (November 29th, 2010) - An atheists group's new billboard proclaims the holiday is a myth -- and controversy erupts atheists.org - 2045 http://www.atheists.org/news/Megyn_Kelly_Spars_With_Prominent_Atheist_Over_Anti-Christmas_Billboard Mon, 29 Nov 2010 19:35:37 -0500 (November 29th, 2010) - Fox reporter Megyn Kelly frantically tries to take on American Atheists President Dave Silverman in an "interview" over our MYTH billboard. atheists.org - 2046 http://www.atheists.org/news/Okla._Judge_Grants_Permanent_Injunction_on_%5C%27Shariah_Law_Amendment%5C%27 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 22:20:51 -0500 (November 29th, 2010) - An Oklahoma federal judge has put a hold on Ballot Question 755 -- aka the "Shariah law amendment" -- which forbids state courts from implementing international laws, including Islamic Shariah law. The permanent injunction will grant the judge additional time to consider issues surrounding the amendment. atheists.org - 2048 http://www.atheists.org/news/Grinchy_Billboard_Calls_On_People_To_Celebrate_Reason_This_Holiday Tue, 30 Nov 2010 10:57:34 -0500 (November 30th, 2010) - "People are upset, and rightfully so. It's kind of an asshole move." Do you agree? atheists.org - 2049 http://www.atheists.org/news/Get_over_yourselves%2C_timid_atheists Tue, 30 Nov 2010 11:06:13 -0500 (November 30th, 2010) - That is a billboard that's appeared in New Jersey, thanks to American Atheists. It is assertive and strong and clearly expresses an idea of atheism, that the tales we are told about religious ideas are superstitious myths, and I approve of that message. atheists.org - 2050 http://www.atheists.org/news/Leaked_documents_reveal_War_on_Christmas%21 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 14:51:54 -0500 (November 30th, 2010) - Bill O'Reilly has the scoop on how Jews, liberals, Scientologists and Obama will ruin Jesus' birthday for everyone atheists.org - 2051 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fort_Worth_T_buses_will_feature_ads_with_message_refuting_God Tue, 30 Nov 2010 19:21:56 -0500 (November 30th, 2010) - Starting Wednesday, four buses operating in the Fort Worth area will be sporting large advertisements that tout an ungodly message. atheists.org - 2052 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_billboard_responds_to_atheist_message_outside_Lincoln_Tunnel_ Tue, 30 Nov 2010 21:59:33 -0500 (November 30th, 2010) - Days after an atheist group posted a billboard mocking the Christmas holiday at the New Jersey approach to the Lincoln Tunnel, a Catholic organization has responded with its own message on the New York side. atheists.org - 2053 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_billboard%3A_Bloggers_debate_Christmas-doubting_ad_near_Lincoln_Tunnel Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:53:08 -0500 (December 1st, 2010) - Merry Christmas, there is no God. atheists.org - 2054 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kentucky_Gov._Steve_Beshear_announces_creationism_theme_park_to_open_in_2014%2C_with_%24250_million_impa Wed, 01 Dec 2010 15:16:19 -0500 (December 1st, 2010) - Gov. Steve Beshear said Wednesday that a creationism theme park, expected to open in Northern Kentucky in 2014, would have a $250 million annual impact on the state's economy. atheists.org - 2055 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_to_display_%5C%27Reason%5C%27s_Greetings%5C%27_banner_at_holiday_parade Wed, 01 Dec 2010 18:00:25 -0500 (December 1st, 2010) - When this year's holiday parade kicks off Saturday morning in downtown, one of the newest additions will be the Atheists of Santa Cruz and Monterey counties, whose members will march down Pacific Avenue with a banner bearing the words "Reason's Greetings." atheists.org - 2056 http://www.atheists.org/news/Egypt_election_routs_popular_Muslim_Brotherhood_from_parliament_ Wed, 01 Dec 2010 18:18:09 -0500 (December 1st, 2010) - A tightly controlled Egypt election appears to have given President Hosni Mubarak's ruling party its biggest share of the legislature in 15 years. atheists.org - 2057 http://www.atheists.org/news/Do_Religious_People_Make_Easy_Targets_For_Scams%3F_ Wed, 01 Dec 2010 19:28:15 -0500 (December 1st, 2010) - Convicted Ponzi schemer Bernard Madoff bilked billions of dollars out of thousands of fellow Jews, including charities like the Elie Wiesel Foundation and Steven Spielberg Wunderkinder Foundation. atheists.org - 2058 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_placing_billboard_ads_to_protest_Denver_nativity_display Wed, 01 Dec 2010 22:52:04 -0500 (December 1st, 2010) - It's a holiday tradition that often sparks lawsuits in cities across the country, nativity scenes on public property or in public buildings. atheists.org - 2059 http://www.atheists.org/news/Private_investors_look_to_build_Noah%5C%27s_Ark_in_Ky. Thu, 02 Dec 2010 10:21:15 -0500 (December 2nd, 2010) - Modern-day investors want to do in three years what took Noah and his sons more than 100 years to do: Build an ark to the dimensions specified in the Bible. atheists.org - 2062 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_hope_to_spark_debate_by_bringing_controversial_ad_campaign_to_B.C. Thu, 02 Dec 2010 12:54:47 -0500 (December 2nd, 2010) - The debate over the existence of God could be coming to a transit vehicle near you. atheists.org - 2064 http://www.atheists.org/news/Getting_into_the_Christmas_spirit%3F_Billboards_over_Lincoln_Tunnel_debate_existence_of_religion Thu, 02 Dec 2010 17:19:41 -0500 (December 2nd, 2010) - The debate over the existence of Jesus has a new home — billboards over the Lincoln Tunnel. atheists.org - 2065 http://www.atheists.org/news/Morality%3A_Created_By_Evolution_or_Religion%3F Thu, 02 Dec 2010 23:23:23 -0500 (December 2nd, 2010) - Biologist Frans De Waal Says Hugging, Kissing, Mourning Inherited From Primates atheists.org - 2066 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Blitzkrieg_On_Grinchitude_-_Atheist_Billboard_%26_Capitol_Christmas_Tree Fri, 03 Dec 2010 13:23:07 -0500 (December 3rd, 2010) - Atheists attack religion outside the Lincoln Tunnel, and the official Capitol Christmas tree has a Twitter account. atheists.org - 2067 http://www.atheists.org/news/Official_Mormon_%5C%27Handbook%5C%27_Made_Public Fri, 03 Dec 2010 15:00:43 -0500 (December 3rd, 2010) - For Mormons, or anyone else who might be wondering, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints takes no stand on drinking Coca-Cola. atheists.org - 2068 http://www.atheists.org/news/Churches_plan_boycott_over_atheist_ads_on_Fort_Worth_buses Sat, 04 Dec 2010 14:59:54 -0500 (December 4th, 2010) - A small group of black church leaders says it will proceed with plans to boycott Fort Worth buses starting Monday after the area's transportation agency allowed a group of atheists and agnostics to buy ads on the buses that will read: "Millions of Americans are Good Without God." atheists.org - 2069 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_woman_fights_Boulder_jail_to_keep_hijab_for_mug_shot Sun, 05 Dec 2010 17:08:14 -0500 (December 5th, 2010) - A University of Colorado student who started wearing hijab after converting to Islam is fighting the Boulder County Jail's insistence that she remove her headscarf for a booking photo, saying that to do so would violate her religious beliefs. atheists.org - 2070 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ad_Campaign_Promoting_Atheism_Across_U.S._Draws_Ire_and_Protest Sun, 05 Dec 2010 20:01:43 -0500 (December 5th, 2010) - This holiday season, after the marathon of shopping and stressful travel comes to a close, the masses will finally gather to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. atheists.org - 2071 http://www.atheists.org/news/Controversial_Atheist_billboard_makes_Saturday_Night_Live%21 Sun, 05 Dec 2010 23:27:37 -0500 (December 5th, 2010) - All publicity is good publicity, right? SNL mentions our controversial billboard outside the Holland Tunnel... atheists.org - 2072 http://www.atheists.org/news/Critics_await_holiday_display Mon, 06 Dec 2010 08:36:38 -0500 (December 6th, 2010) - Chester County officials anticipate that the holiday display at the county's Historic Courthouse will be complete either today or early this week. atheists.org - 2073 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_Kentucky%2C_Noah%E2%80%99s_Ark_Theme_Park_Is_Planned Mon, 06 Dec 2010 15:03:44 -0500 (December 6th, 2010) - Facing a rising tide of joblessness, the governor of Kentucky has found one solution: build an ark. atheists.org - 2074 http://www.atheists.org/news/War_on_Christmas%3F_Why_this_atheist_wants_family_time_and_banana_pudding%2C_not_a_holiday_fight Tue, 07 Dec 2010 16:43:28 -0500 (December 7th, 2010) - Lately, there's been talk about the so-called "War on Christmas" heating up again, about how the evil atheist conspiracy is once more out to destroy our way of life by denuding the holiday of its Christian roots and the sort of steps that must be taken to stop them. atheists.org - 2075 http://www.atheists.org/news/Threatened_boycott_of_Fort_Worth_buses_has_no_noticeable_impact Tue, 07 Dec 2010 18:45:26 -0500 (December 7th, 2010) - A threatened boycott of Fort Worth buses did not appear to seriously hurt ridership Monday, despite vocal criticism about the transit agency’s decision to accept ads from atheists and agnostics proclaiming “Millions of Americans Are Good Without God.” atheists.org - 2076 http://www.atheists.org/news/Michele_Bachmann_%26_Allies%3A_Obama_Doesn%5C%27t_Say_%5C%27God%5C%27_Enough_ Thu, 09 Dec 2010 14:37:10 -0500 (December 8th, 2010) - Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.) and her colleagues on the Congressional Prayer Caucus penned a letter to President Obama Monday, attacking him for his alleged failure to the use the word "God" and "Creator" more in his public speeches, especially abroad. atheists.org - 2077 http://www.atheists.org/news/Billboard_campaign_claims_Jesus_will_return_in_May Thu, 09 Dec 2010 21:28:31 -0500 (December 9th, 2010) - At least, that's according to organizers of a billboard campaign slated to hit metro Atlanta next week. Allison Warden of Raleigh, N.C.-based WeCanKnow.com said the Christian Web site plans to place 50 billboards in the metro area proclaiming the rapture and Jesus' imminent return, based on analysis of Scripture and biblical genealogy. atheists.org - 2078 http://www.atheists.org/news/AP_Exclusive%3A_Jailed_Palestinian_atheist_sorry Thu, 09 Dec 2010 22:17:37 -0500 (December 9th, 2010) - A Palestinian atheist jailed for more than a month for sharing his anti-Islam views on the Internet has apologized for offending Muslims, and a Palestinian military spokesman said he expected "positive" developments in the case. atheists.org - 2079 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_not_allowed Fri, 10 Dec 2010 15:01:37 -0500 (December 10th, 2010) - What do you do in a country where you have to belong to a religion? atheists.org - 2080 http://www.atheists.org/news/Louisiana_Board_Rejects_Creationism_Challenge_to_Biology_Textbooks_ Fri, 10 Dec 2010 19:07:36 -0500 (December 10th, 2010) - By an 8-2 margin, the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education voted yesterday to approve Biology textbooks, despite demands from religious conservatives to question the validity of evolution in, and add intelligent design to the curriculum. The National Center for Science Education has more: atheists.org - 2081 http://www.atheists.org/news/Leaked_Cables_Show_Vatican_Tensions_and_Diplomacy_With_U.S. Fri, 10 Dec 2010 23:23:20 -0500 (December 10th, 2010) - Recently released diplomatic cables show the Vatican fighting to shore up its eroding control over sexual abuse scandals in the United States and Ireland, highlighting complex tensions between the Vatican hierarchy, local bishops and civil authorities. atheists.org - 2082 http://www.atheists.org/news/War_On_Christmas_Spreads_To_Lincoln_Tunnel Sat, 11 Dec 2010 18:09:11 -0500 (December 11th, 2010) - Holidays are time for traditions, and one of the biggest American traditions this time of year is arguing about religion. atheists.org - 2083 http://www.atheists.org/news/Oregon_Releases_Policy_For_Religious_Clothing_At_Schools Sat, 11 Dec 2010 20:32:55 -0500 (December 11th, 2010) - Oregon state officials released a policy on Wednesday intended to give school districts guidance in applying Oregon's new law on religious clothing. atheists.org - 2084 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_of_the_week%3A_Ayaan_Hirsi_Ali Sun, 12 Dec 2010 15:48:37 -0500 (December 12th, 2010) - Ayaan Hirsi Ali is a Dutch feminist activist, writer, politician and founder of the women’s rights organization the AHA Foundation. atheists.org - 2085 http://www.atheists.org/news/Poland%2C_Bastion_of_Religion%2C_Sees_Rise_in_Secularism Sun, 12 Dec 2010 17:19:41 -0500 (December 12th, 2010) - A statue of Jesus, one of the tallest in the world, stands on the flat frozen fields of this small western Poland town, its arms outstretched and gaze fixed straight ahead at a community trying to push back a rising tide of secularism. atheists.org - 2086 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_Right_Attacks_Elizabeth_Edwards%5C%27_Deism Sun, 12 Dec 2010 18:51:43 -0500 (December 12th, 2010) - The Christian maniacs of the Westboro Baptist Church were protesting the life and death of Elizabeth Edwards at her funeral Saturday. atheists.org - 2087 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion%5C%27s_Secret_to_Happiness%3A_It%5C%27s_Friends%2C_Not_Faith Sun, 12 Dec 2010 20:27:12 -0500 (December 12th, 2010) - Religion can be good for your health, and especially your mental health, according to the latest studies, which show that church-goers are happier and more satisfied with their lives than those who don't attend services. But what exactly is it about religion that is so beneficial to health? atheists.org - 2088 http://www.atheists.org/news/Author_Christopher_Hitchens_in_conversation Mon, 13 Dec 2010 17:41:01 -0500 (December 13th, 2010) - On his Jewish grandmother, his atheism, his writing—and facing his own mortality atheists.org - 2089 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Catholic_League%2C_the_American_Atheists%2C_and_the_Spirit_of_Christma Mon, 13 Dec 2010 23:58:38 -0500 (December 13th, 2010) - Not since World War II has it been more imperative that Americans come together as a united people against a common enemy. The jihadists want to destroy all that is good about America. atheists.org - 2090 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Ads_on_Buses_Rattle_Fort_Worth Tue, 14 Dec 2010 08:23:15 -0500 (December 14th, 2010) - Stand on a corner in this city and you might get a case of theological whiplash. atheists.org - 2092 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_sit_down%2C_and_make_their_voices_heard Wed, 15 Dec 2010 19:38:42 -0500 (December 15th, 2010) - Connecticut Valley Atheists held their promised protest on Monday at a meeting of the Hartford City Council. Wearing t-shirts with their group’s logo, a handful of protestors stayed pointedly seated during a Christian prayer delivered by a local pastor. atheists.org - 2093 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_edge_out_Christians_in_free-speech_battle_in_Loudoun_this_year Thu, 16 Dec 2010 09:02:07 -0500 (December 16th, 2010) - In ancient Rome, the contest was Christians vs. lions. In Loudoun County today, it's Christians vs. atheists. atheists.org - 2094 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fort_Worth_transit_bans_religious_ads_on_buses_ Thu, 16 Dec 2010 17:32:11 -0500 (December 16th, 2010) - Fort Worth buses will no longer carry religious advertisements because of a furor sparked by an atheist group's ads that proclaim, "Millions of Americans are Good Without God." atheists.org - 2096 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_accuse_Cape_council_of_intimidation Fri, 17 Dec 2010 14:45:29 -0500 (December 17th, 2010) - Cape Coral City Council is under fire, accused of trying to violate free speech. atheists.org - 2097 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27In_God_We_Trust%5C%27_license_plates_to_be_available_in_January Fri, 17 Dec 2010 21:16:40 -0500 (December 17th, 2010) - Kentuckians will be able to buy "In God We Trust" license plates starting early next year, the state Transportation Cabinet said Friday. atheists.org - 2098 http://www.atheists.org/news/Washington_Atheists_Put_Tree_Up Sat, 18 Dec 2010 16:26:38 -0500 (December 18th, 2010) - With little fanfare or complaints, Seattle Atheists have erected a decorated tree and a sign on the Capitol campus in honor of not-Christmas. A tree? As in, a Christmas Tree? Not exactly. atheists.org - 2100 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Holiday_Message_from_Ricky_Gervais%3A_Why_I%E2%80%99m_An_Atheist Mon, 20 Dec 2010 06:16:06 -0500 (December 19th, 2010) - Why don’t you believe in God? I get that question all the time. I always try to give a sensitive, reasoned answer. atheists.org - 2101 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_can_Raise_More%3F Mon, 20 Dec 2010 06:20:37 -0500 (December 20th, 2010) - Christians and atheists are fighting again -- this time over who can raise more money for charity. atheists.org - 2102 http://www.atheists.org/news/Four_in_10_Americans_Believe_in_Strict_Creationism Mon, 20 Dec 2010 14:00:28 -0500 (December 20th, 2010) - Belief in evolutionary origins of humans slowly rising, however Four in 10 Americans, slightly fewer today than in years past, believe God created humans in their present form about 10,000 years ago. atheists.org - 2103 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Win%21_Appeals_Court_Refuses_to_Hear_Utah_Crosses_Case Tue, 21 Dec 2010 14:15:31 -0500 (December 21st, 2010) - The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals has denied a request to have an entire panel of judges to rehear whether the 14 large, white crosses that currently commemorate fallen Utah Highway Patrol troopers are unconstitutional. atheists.org - 2109 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge_weighs_tossing_out_atheist%5C%27s_suit_over_grant Wed, 22 Dec 2010 13:58:27 -0500 (December 22nd, 2010) - A federal magistrate is recommending that an atheist's lawsuit challenging an Illinois state grant to an 11-story cross landmark in southern Illinois be tossed out. atheists.org - 2112 http://www.atheists.org/news/Appeals_court_won%5C%27t_reconsider_highway_cross_case Thu, 23 Dec 2010 20:00:22 -0500 (December 23rd, 2010) - A federal appeals court has rejected a petition for a rehearing in a case involving 14 memorial crosses on Utah highways that an appellate panel said were unconstitutional. atheists.org - 2113 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27God_is%5C%27_billboard_replaces_controversial_Lincoln_Tunnel_atheist_billboard Fri, 24 Dec 2010 01:19:57 -0500 (December 24th, 2010) - An atheist billboard on the New Jersey side of the Lincoln Tunnel that declared Christmas a "myth" has been replaced by a pro-Christian billboard. atheists.org - 2116 http://www.atheists.org/news/Some_American_Atheists_Celebrate_Their_Own_Holiday Fri, 24 Dec 2010 17:36:42 -0500 (December 24, 2010) - All over the United States, people are celebrating Christmas. People of other faiths also have their holidays. But a minority of Americans who do not believe in religion can feel left out during this time of year. atheists.org - 2117 http://www.atheists.org/news/40%25_of_Americans_Still_Believe_in_Creationism Sat, 25 Dec 2010 17:23:55 -0500 (December 25th, 2010) - At least things are moving in the right direction, although the numbers remain depressing. According to the latest Gallup Poll, four out of ten Americans still believe that God created man in his image about 10,000 years ago: atheists.org - 2118 http://www.atheists.org/news/US_Army_discrimination_towards_Atheists%3A_Story_Update Sat, 25 Dec 2010 21:11:17 -0500 (December 25th, 2010) - We recently covered a story about the United States Army and how it is concerned with the spiritual well-being of their soldiers, and that if a soldier choose not to believe in the supernatural that the United States Army can consider you unfit to serve? atheists.org - 2119 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican%3A_Pope_Compares_Fundamentalism_With_Secularism Sun, 26 Dec 2010 08:04:07 -0500 (December 26th, 2010) - Pope Benedict XVI compared religious fundamentalism to secularism on Thursday, decrying violent attacks on Christians in the Middle East and more subtle hostility from Western institutions. atheists.org - 2120 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_posthumans_all_be_atheists%3F Sun, 26 Dec 2010 19:20:00 -0500 (December 26th, 2010) - There is good reason for thinking that posthumans will, on the whole, be atheists. And there is good reason for thinking that widespread apostasy would, on the whole, be desirable. atheists.org - 2121 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Billboard_Outside_NYC_Replaced_With_Christian_One Mon, 27 Dec 2010 12:44:33 -0500 (December 27th, 2010) - AA Communications Director Blair Scott sounds off about our billboard! "Before going any further, I would like to point out that our lease simply ran out. We only rented the billboard for a month. There is no foul play here or discrimination. Lamar kept our billboard up for the designated time per our contract. Have you heard the news?" atheists.org - 2122 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Group_Asks_City_Council_To_Diversify Tue, 28 Dec 2010 09:44:32 -0500 (December 28th, 2010) - Grand Junction City Council Meetings Traditionally Start With A Christian Prayer atheists.org - 2123 http://www.atheists.org/news/First_Atheist_invocation_in_Colorado_ Tue, 28 Dec 2010 22:21:01 -0500 (December 28th, 2010) - An atheist will give the invocation at Grand Junction City Council's first meeting of 2011. It will be the crowning achievement of a two-and-a-half-year effort by the Western Colorado Atheists & Freethinkers to get their voice heard at City Hall. And it will be the first atheist invocation in Colorado, says WCAF boardmember Anne Landman. "This is historic." atheists.org - 2124 http://www.atheists.org/news/Prophet_Cartoon_Paper_Terror_Plot_Foiled%3B_5_Arrested_In_Denmark_Before_%5C%27Imminent_Attack%5C%27_ Wed, 29 Dec 2010 19:26:48 -0500 (December 29th, 2010) - Police in Denmark and Sweden said they thwarted a terrorist attack possibly hours before it was to begin Wednesday, arresting five men they say planned to shoot as many people as possible in a Copenhagen building housing the newsroom of a paper that published cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad. atheists.org - 2125 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_says%3A_In_lawsuits_we_trust_%E2%80%94_even_if_I_never_win Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:48:00 -0500 (December 29th, 2010) - For 14 years, Michael Newdow, an emergency room doctor and attorney, has challenged what he sees as violations of the First Amendment’s protection against established religion. He works alone from his Sacramento home, his only tools a computer, a printer and a razor-sharp sense of injustice. atheists.org - 2126 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Demand_Equal_Time_at_New_D.C._Mayor%5C%27s_Prayer_Service Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:56:32 -0500 (December 30th, 2010) - Here's a brain-teaser for the day: The capital's leading lobby of atheists and humanists is complaining because they have been excluded from an ecumenical prayer service on Sunday morning that will launch inaugural festivities ahead of Mayor-elect Vincent Gray's swearing-in. atheists.org - 2127 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_%5C%22Family%5C%22_-_Who_Really_Is_Behind_This_Secret_Organization%3F Thu, 30 Dec 2010 18:44:42 -0500 (December 30th, 2010) - What if someone were to tell you that your Congressman routinely bandies around phrases such as "Jesus plus nothing," used to mean the complete rule of Jesus, and compares the desired reach to that of Hitler or Ho Chi Minh? atheists.org - 2128 http://www.atheists.org/news/Whatever_happened_to_the_%5C%22ground_zero_mosque%5C%22%3F Fri, 31 Dec 2010 20:03:43 -0500 (December 31st, 2010) - A manufactured story disappeared just as suddenly as it burst onto the media scene in 2010 atheists.org - 2129 http://www.atheists.org/news/Alert_to_mission-supporting%2C_God-fearing%2C_neighbor-helping_Christians%3A Fri, 31 Dec 2010 22:49:16 -0500 (December 31st, 2010) - 'You know' : American Atheists' nationwide billboard campaign comes to Huntsville atheists.org - 2130 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group__calls_technical_foul_on_hoops_gift Sat, 01 Jan 2011 16:32:09 -0500 (January 1st, 2011) - While EllenBeth Wachs knew Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd’s position would be opposite hers and the organization she represents, she expected better of him in his response to the complaint lodged over the basketball goals he donated to area churches. atheists.org - 2131 http://www.atheists.org/news/Iran_May_Commute_Sakineh_Mohammadi_Ashtiani%5C%27s_Stoning_Sentence_ Sun, 02 Jan 2011 09:37:00 -0500 (January 2nd, 2011) - Authorities reviewing a death by stoning sentence against an Iranian woman convicted of adultery could still halt the punishment, a senior judiciary official said Sunday as Iran struggles to mute an international outcry over the case. atheists.org - 2132 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_put_up_controversial_billboard Mon, 03 Jan 2011 14:52:26 -0500 (January 3rd, 2011) - A controversial billboard put up by the American Atheist organization in Huntsville has many people upset. atheists.org - 2133 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%5C%27_diversity_woes_have_no_black-and-white_answers Mon, 03 Jan 2011 23:13:23 -0500 (January 3rd, 2011) - Alix Jules is an atheist, but for years he felt uncomfortable at gatherings of nonbelievers. The reason: he's black. atheists.org - 2134 http://www.atheists.org/news/Local_Atheist_Says_Billboard_Isn%5C%27t_Targeting_Religious_Groups Tue, 04 Jan 2011 12:56:10 -0500 (January 4th, 2011) - A new billboard on South Memorial Parkway is the talk of the town. It's intended to promote an upcoming event in Huntsville. But it's also turning a lot of heads. atheists.org - 2135 http://www.atheists.org/news/More_atheists_to_come_out_in_2011%2C_leader_predicts Tue, 04 Jan 2011 16:53:12 -0500 (January 4th, 2011) - We kicked off this new year by asking thinkers representing various traditions to offer predictions for 2011. atheists.org - 2136 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group__calls_technical_foul_on_hoops_gift Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:15:05 -0500 (January 5th, 2011) - While EllenBeth Wachs knew Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd’s position would be opposite hers and the organization she represents, she expected better of him in his response to the complaint lodged over the basketball goals he donated to area churches. atheists.org - 2137 http://www.atheists.org/news/Court_Rules_Mt._Soledad_Cross_is_Unconstitutional_ Wed, 05 Jan 2011 20:25:50 -0500 (January 5th, 2011) - The 43-foot cross atop Mount Soledad is unconstitutional, but that doesn't mean it has to be taken down, according to a federal appeals court ruling handed down Tuesday. atheists.org - 2139 http://www.atheists.org/news/Faith_On_The_Hill%3A_Religious_Makeup_of_the_New_Congress_Looks_LIke_The_Old_ Wed, 05 Jan 2011 19:02:30 -0500 (January 5th, 2011) - Many analysts described the November 2010 midterm elections as a sea change, with Republicans taking control of the U.S. House of Representatives and narrowing the Democratic majority in the Senate. atheists.org - 2140 http://www.atheists.org/news/UHP_can_keep_crosses_in_place_%E2%80%94_for_now_ Wed, 05 Jan 2011 21:06:11 -0500 (January 5th, 2011) - A federal appeals court in Denver has stayed an order demanding the Utah Highway Patrol Association remove crosses placed along the state’s highways to commemorate troopers killed in the line of duty. atheists.org - 2143 http://www.atheists.org/news/Where_Are_the_Atheists_in_Congress%3F Thu, 06 Jan 2011 19:28:02 -0500 (January 6th, 2011) - Even with a new Republican majority, the religious makeup of the 112th Congress is virtually identical to that of its predecessor, according to a recent Pew analysis. atheists.org - 2144 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Not_to_Fight_Atheism Thu, 06 Jan 2011 22:43:20 -0500 (January 6th, 2011) - There is nothing so short-sighted and unhelpful as Christian insecurity - and this kind of insecurity recently led to predictable results in Fort Worth, Texas. In early December, the Dallas-Fort Worth Coalition of Reason - a group dedicated to raising the profile of secularists, atheists, and agnostics - began running advertisements on Fort Worth public buses that read, “Millions of Americans are Good Without God.” atheists.org - 2145 http://www.atheists.org/news/LifePoints%3A_Atheist_explains_pain%2C_joy_of_%5C%27one-way_trip%5C%27 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 13:01:42 -0500 (January 7th, 2011) - A religionist would likely tell you that suffering is a result of free will or a way for their god to give them something to compare the good to. Maybe it's just me, but I do not need my child to suffer through cancer to appreciate when she is not suffering. atheists.org - 2146 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_Are_Believers_So_Hostile_Toward_Atheists%3F Fri, 07 Jan 2011 17:07:01 -0500 (January 7th, 2011) - Atheists get labeled as offensive and bitter when we express anger, when we express hope, morality and meaning. What are believers scared of? atheists.org - 2147 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_Assassination_in_Pakistan Fri, 07 Jan 2011 18:06:37 -0500 (January 7th, 2011) - The cold-blooded murder this week of Salman Taseer, the governor of Punjab Province, answers a few questions with stark clarity, just as it raises others. atheists.org - 2148 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bible_Believers_Can%5C%27t_Shake_Intolerant_Image%2C_Says_Atheist Sat, 08 Jan 2011 14:37:26 -0500 (January 8th, 2011) - A Texas atheist says “changing the face of Christianity” may mean throwing out the Good Book. atheists.org - 2149 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%5C%27_diversity_woes_have_no_clear_answers Sat, 08 Jan 2011 18:43:59 -0500 (January 8th, 2011) - Alix Jules is an atheist, but for years he felt uncomfortable at gatherings of nonbelievers. The reason: he's black. atheists.org - 2151 http://www.atheists.org/news/Military_Freethinkers__prez_speaks_out_on_O%5C%27Reilly%2C_ Sat, 08 Jan 2011 23:01:48 -0500 (January 8th, 2011) - MRFF Founder and President Mikey Weinstein discusses the shockingly unconstitutional mandatory U.S. Army “Comprehensive Soldier Fitness” survey with blatant “spiritual fitness” component. atheists.org - 2152 http://www.atheists.org/news/God_Behind_the_Big_Bang%2C_Pope_Says Sat, 08 Jan 2011 23:03:37 -0500 (January 8th, 2011) - The Big Bang was an act of God, with divine will bringing the universe into being, Pope Benedict XVI told a gathering of Catholics at the Vatican. atheists.org - 2153 http://www.atheists.org/news/RICKY_THOMASON%3A_Atheists%2C_believers_and_learning_to_get_along Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:19:34 -0500 (January 9th, 2011) - My gods, it's funny, isn't it? Sinners who sit atop piles of stones as large as my own get self-righteously lathered enough to cast stones at godless unknowns over a billboard. atheists.org - 2154 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_upset_over_donation_to_churches_ Mon, 10 Jan 2011 00:49:39 -0500 (January 10th, 2011) - An atheist group is upset over the Polk County Sheriff's recent decision to donate jailhouse basketball equipment to eight churches. atheists.org - 2155 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tennessee%2C_Kentucky_have_different_approach_to_biblical_parks Mon, 10 Jan 2011 14:12:10 -0500 (January 10th, 2011) - Residents of this small Grant County town are preparing to welcome a new amusement park in 2014 featuring a life-size Noah's Ark, which some believe will transform the area's economic landscape with hotels, restaurants and tourists. atheists.org - 2156 http://www.atheists.org/news/Where_Do_Atheists_Rank_Among_World%5C%27s_Biggest_Religions%3F Mon, 10 Jan 2011 19:24:06 -0500 (January 10th, 2011) - I just thought we need to check in on how God is doing in the world. atheists.org - 2157 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_%5C%22God_is%5C%22_billboard_that_replaced_atheist_billboard_in_NJ_has_been_vandalized Mon, 10 Jan 2011 19:57:57 -0500 (January 10th, 2011) - Last December, an American Atheist billboard outside the NY/NJ Lincoln Tunnel made headlines with a message implying that the Christmas story was a myth. atheists.org - 2158 http://www.atheists.org/news/CNN%5C%27s_Erickson_Suggests_Government_Should_Not_%5C%22Accommodate%5C%22_Atheists Tue, 11 Jan 2011 17:39:17 -0500 (January 11th, 2011) - As we noted yesterday, CNN's Erick Erickson used President Obama's call for a moment of silence as an excuse to question Obama's faith: atheists.org - 2159 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Theory_for_Tucson_Tragedy%3A_Blame_the_Atheists_ Tue, 11 Jan 2011 20:38:41 -0500 (January 11th, 2011) - I hadn't wanted to weigh in on the political debate over accused killer Jared Loughner's motives in Tucson. atheists.org - 2160 http://www.atheists.org/news/Islamic_Leader_to_Pope_on_Blasphemy%3A_Mind_Your_Own_Business Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:12:18 -0500 (January 12th, 2011) - An influential Islamic leader says Pope Benedict XVI should mind his own business after the pontiff called on Pakistan to repeal its anti-blasphemy laws. atheists.org - 2161 http://www.atheists.org/news/Supreme_Court_again_is_asked_to_rule_on_%5C%27In_God_We_Trust%5C%27 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 18:49:34 -0500 (January 12th, 2011) - California attorney and dedicated atheist Michael Newdow is making another run at "In God We Trust," with a new Supreme Court petition challenging the national motto. atheists.org - 2162 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Blood_Libel%5C%27_and_Sarah_Palin%3A_Christian_Conservatives%5C%27_Infatuation_with_Judaism Wed, 12 Jan 2011 19:06:47 -0500 (January 12th, 2011) - When Sarah Palin invoked the "blood libel" charge in lashing out against critics, she was destined to spark controversy given the long, fraught history of that myth, which for centuries has been used by Christians to justify anti-Semitism and the brutal persecution of Jews. atheists.org - 2163 http://www.atheists.org/news/Does_CNN_Condone_Erickson%5C%27s_Tirades_Against_Nonbelievers%3F Thu, 13 Jan 2011 16:52:19 -0500 (January 13th, 2011) - Following the shooting in Arizona, CNN contributor and RedState.com editor Erick Erickson has repeatedly lashed out on his blog against nonbelievers. atheists.org - 2164 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lawyer_wants_religious_post_off_Utah_sheriff_site_ Thu, 13 Jan 2011 20:46:52 -0500 (January 13th, 2011) - Utah civil rights attorney Brian Barnard says a religion-laced post on the Weber County sheriff’s office Facebook page violates state and federal laws separating church and state. atheists.org - 2165 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_billboard_spurs_local_pastor_to_action Fri, 14 Jan 2011 03:22:33 -0500 (January 14th, 2011) - George Lucas had $6 in his car and a dream in his heart. atheists.org - 2166 http://www.atheists.org/news/No_gods%2C_no_masters%2C_no_members_of_Congress Fri, 14 Jan 2011 16:54:22 -0500 (January 14th, 2011) - You know the old saying: "There are no atheists in foxholes." atheists.org - 2167 http://www.atheists.org/news/God%2C_gays%2C_blackbirds_and_blizzards Fri, 14 Jan 2011 19:07:55 -0500 (January 14th, 2011) - The deaths of thousands of blackbirds in Arkansas at the start of the New Year may have been caused by the recent repeal in America of the notorious “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” military rule. atheists.org - 2168 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church_leaders_address_sheriff%5C%27s_letter_on_capital_punishment Fri, 14 Jan 2011 23:08:47 -0500 (January 14th, 2011) - Several area church leaders disagreed Thursday with Weber County Sheriff Terry Thompson's letter to his staff telling them they were doing God's work and that God approves of capital punishment. atheists.org - 2169 http://www.atheists.org/news/Game_Show_Will_Pit_Religious_Leaders_Against_Atheists Sat, 15 Jan 2011 17:46:08 -0500 (January 15th, 2011) - In Turkey, there is a game show in which representatives of several religious cults (Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Judaism) attempt to convert one or more of a group of ten atheists to their religion. atheists.org - 2170 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_soldier_complains_about_spiritual_fitness_test%2C_rating Sun, 16 Jan 2011 19:32:52 -0500 (January 16th, 2011) - Sgt. Justin Griffith was furious last month when a mandatory Army test asked him questions about his spirituality and found him lacking. atheists.org - 2171 http://www.atheists.org/news/Billboard_says_that_Christ_is_coming_in_May Sun, 16 Jan 2011 21:12:15 -0500 (January 16th, 2011) - This could be the most important story you'll ever read. Or not. atheists.org - 2172 http://www.atheists.org/news/It%E2%80%99s_OK_to_be_gay_says_US_evangelist%2C_but_UK_psychotherapist_disagrees Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:18:47 -0500 (January 17th, 2011) - A RECENT shock declaration by a young American evangelist that homosexuality is not a sin seems not to have sunk into the consciousness of Lesley Pilkington, 60, a British psychotherapist who agreed to “convert” a gay man who said he wanted to change his sexual orientation. atheists.org - 2173 http://www.atheists.org/news/WaPo%E2%80%99s_Jordan_Sekulow_Mocks_Atheists%2C_Demonstrates_Poor_Reading_Skills Mon, 17 Jan 2011 19:50:40 -0500 (January 17th, 2011) - Washington Post Religious Right Now blogger Jordan Sekulow takes time out from bashing Muslims to mock atheists... atheists.org - 2174 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_angry_over_Army%5C%27s_%5C%27Spiritual_Fitness%5C%27_test Mon, 17 Jan 2011 23:20:40 -0500 (January 17th, 2011) - When Justin Griffith, an Army sergeant at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, saw his results from the Army's mandatory Spiritual Fitness Test, he pounded his fist. atheists.org - 2175 http://www.atheists.org/news/EU_Calendar_Omits_Christian_Holidays%2C_While_Noting_Jewish%2C_Muslim_Celebrations Tue, 18 Jan 2011 08:42:00 -0500 (January 18th, 2011) - The European Union has published a school calendar that omits Christian holidays, like Christmas and Easter, while noting significant Jewish and Muslim celebrations. atheists.org - 2176 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ark%5C%27s_prospects Tue, 18 Jan 2011 08:53:35 -0500 (January 18th, 2011) - The more that's learned about Ark Encounter — the creationist theme park planned for Northern Kentucky — the less it seems like something state government should be engaging. atheists.org - 2177 http://www.atheists.org/news/Alabama_Governor%3A_Only_Christians_are_my_Brothers Tue, 18 Jan 2011 17:56:27 -0500 (January 18th, 2011) - Alabama Republican Governor Robert Bentley said in a Martin Luther King Jr. Day message Monday that he does not consider Americans who do not accept Jesus Christ as their savior to be his brothers and sisters. atheists.org - 2178 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gov.-elect_Robert_Bentley_intends_to_be_governor_over_all%2C_but_says_only_Christians_are_his_%5C%27brother Tue, 18 Jan 2011 19:34:17 -0500 (January 18th, 2011) - Gov.-elect Robert Bentley in a speech at a Baptist church this afternoon said he plans to be the governor of all Alabamians and be color-blind, but he also said people who aren't ''saved" Christians aren't his brothers and sisters. atheists.org - 2180 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cancel_the_Apocalypse%3A_Coming_out_of_the_atheist_closet_isn%5C%27t_easy_in_the_Bible_Belt Wed, 19 Jan 2011 06:32:19 -0500 (January 19th, 2011) - America doesn't particularly celebrate its growing atheist community. atheists.org - 2181 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_and_Christians_Compete_to_Give_More_ Wed, 19 Jan 2011 18:08:42 -0500 (January 19th, 2011) - I get so weary of hearing that unless someone believes in a being who will condemn them to Hell if they don’t behave, they can’t possibly be a good person. atheists.org - 2182 http://www.atheists.org/news/Robert_Bentley%2C_Alabama_Governor%2C_Apologizes_for_%5C%27Christian_Brother%5C%27_Comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 18:58:40 -0500 (January 19th, 2011) - Controversy closed? Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley apologized to those he may have offended with remarks that seemed to reject the notion of friendship with non-Christians. atheists.org - 2184 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_there_Fundamentalist_Atheists%3F Thu, 20 Jan 2011 04:54:41 -0500 (January 20th, 2011) - Though I can honestly understand that there are many processes that occur when religion builds an hierarchy in men that can lead to violence. atheists.org - 2185 http://www.atheists.org/news/Militant_atheists_tackle_Extraordinary_Claims Thu, 20 Jan 2011 10:24:25 -0500 (January 20th, 2011) - Jesus Christ has been many things to multitudes of people for many centuries. atheists.org - 2186 http://www.atheists.org/news/Franklin_Graham_Says_Obama%2C_Tucson_Memorial_Service_%5C%27Scoffed%5C%27_at_Jesus Thu, 20 Jan 2011 15:55:43 -0500 (January 20th, 2011) - President Obama garnered praise from across the political spectrum for his moving speech last week at the memorial service for the Tucson shooting victims, including from his usual critics on the right, but the Rev. Franklin Graham can't be counted among them. atheists.org - 2187 http://www.atheists.org/news/From_Godfather_to_God_the_father%3A_Ex-Colombo_mob_goons_are_now_ministers Thu, 20 Jan 2011 19:29:38 -0500 (January 20th, 2011) - Meet the Godfellas. In previous incarnations, mob rats Joe Campanella and William Cutolo Jr. were entrenched in the Colombo crime family. atheists.org - 2188 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_Elizabeth_Edwards_Left_God_Out_of_Her_Last_Goodbye Thu, 20 Jan 2011 20:55:33 -0500 (January 20th, 2011) - A dying person's last words are often, and perhaps too easily, held out as the key to understanding all that went before, and so it has been with Elizabeth Edwards. atheists.org - 2189 http://www.atheists.org/news/Berlusconi_Sex_Scandal%3A_Vatican_Breaks_Silence%2C_Demands_%5C%27More_Robust_Morality%5C%27 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 21:57:24 -0500 (January 20th, 2011) - A top Vatican official has subtly but clearly rebuked Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi over allegations that Berlusconi paid a 17-year-old prostitute and other women for sex at parties in his villa near Milan. atheists.org - 2191 http://www.atheists.org/news/Seymour_Hersh%3A_Military_Branch_Being_Run_By_%5C%27Crusaders%5C%27_ Fri, 21 Jan 2011 18:21:28 -0500 (January 21st, 2011) - The New Yorker's Seymour Hersh alleged in a speech in Qatar that key branches of the U.S. military are being led by Christian fundamentalist "crusaders" who are determined to "turn mosques into cathedrals." atheists.org - 2192 http://www.atheists.org/news/High-ranking_members_of_US_military_part_of_%E2%80%98Knights_of_Malta%2C%E2%80%99_%E2%80%98Opus_Dei%2C%E2%80%99_reporter_claims Fri, 21 Jan 2011 18:58:09 -0500 (January 21st, 2011) - Veteran investigative reporter Seymour Hersh has broken some massive stories in his day, but uncovering secret societies within the highest echelons of America's military would probably be the biggest of his career. atheists.org - 2193 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bright_star_of_the_atheist_universe Fri, 21 Jan 2011 21:53:46 -0500 (January 21st, 2011) - Humorous and entertaining, Daniel Dennett is one of the few people able to do ‘philosophy in public’ – but when he comes to Dublin next week he’ll be on a serious mission atheists.org - 2194 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ricky_Gervais_says_atheism_shouldn%5C%27t_offend Sat, 22 Jan 2011 00:33:07 -0500 (January 22nd, 2011) - Ricky Gervais tells CNN's Piers Morgan why he's an atheist, and why his jokes about God shouldn't offend believers. atheists.org - 2195 http://www.atheists.org/news/Orthodox_Church_clown_infuriates_feminists Sat, 22 Jan 2011 02:35:49 -0500 (January 22nd, 2011) - RUSSIAN Orthodox Church representative, Archpriest Vsevolod Chaplin, made a proper charlie of himself this week. atheists.org - 2196 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_isn%5C%27t_anyone_talking_about_the_weakness_and_stupidity_of_the_New_Theism%3F Sat, 22 Jan 2011 19:04:00 -0500 (January 22nd, 2011) - Do you remember those ridiculous childhood arguments, "My big brother can beat up your big brother"? atheists.org - 2197 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_is_always_right_--_or_wrong_--_on_sex_abuse Sat, 22 Jan 2011 19:52:48 -0500 (January 22nd, 2011) - On matters of dealing with the sexual abuse crisis, the Vatican is always right -- or always wrong. atheists.org - 2198 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_prez_asks_for_meeting_with_Alabama_guv_over_Christians-only_remarks Sun, 23 Jan 2011 03:01:20 -0500 (January 23rd, 2011) - American Atheists President Dave Silverman asks for a meeting with the Governor of Alabama over the latter's remarks praising his "Christian brothers and sisters." Should public officials be promoting sectarian religion? atheists.org - 2199 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cash-Strapped_Cities_Look_To_Tax_Churches_ Sun, 23 Jan 2011 10:21:11 -0500 (January 23rd, 2011) - When a community needs to rebuild crumbling roads, should houses of worship pay fees for the number of times their congregants drive on them? atheists.org - 2200 http://www.atheists.org/news/Study%3A_Rising_Religious_Tide_in_China_Overwhelms_Atheist_Doctrine_ Sun, 23 Jan 2011 21:45:32 -0500 (January 23rd, 2011) - One of the last great efforts at state-sponsored atheism is a failure. atheists.org - 2201 http://www.atheists.org/news/Creationists_have_gotten_clever%2C_but_there%5C%27s_still_no_debate_over_evolution Mon, 24 Jan 2011 01:32:13 -0500 (January 24th, 2011) - Creationists and intelligent design proponents have gotten clever. Instead of pushing for creationism to be taught in science classes, they're merely asking that schools fairly present 'the scientific evidence' against evolution. The only problem? There isn't any. atheists.org - 2202 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_president_ejected_from_meeting_after_mayor_takes_issue_with_T-shirt Mon, 24 Jan 2011 22:52:22 -0500 (January 24th, 2011) - The right to free speech became a heated exchange between Mayor John Sullivan and a non-profit atheist group when one of their members was removed from council chambers. atheists.org - 2203 http://www.atheists.org/news/15_celebrities_you_didn%E2%80%99t_know_were_atheist Mon, 24 Jan 2011 23:27:53 -0500 (January 24th, 2011) - We can count Brad Pitt and Angeline Jolie as one person, right? According to Brad Pitt, he is “probably 20 percent atheist and 80 percent agnostic.” atheists.org - 2204 http://www.atheists.org/news/Joel_Osteen%3A_%5C%27Homosexuality_Is_A_Sin%5C%27 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 12:31:33 -0500 (January 25th, 2011) - In an interview which will air Wednesday on CNN's Piers Morgan Tonight, megachurch pastor Joel Osteen declares that homosexuality is a sin based on his understanding of Christian scripture. atheists.org - 2205 http://www.atheists.org/news/Billy_Graham%5C%27s_Regret%3A_%5C%27I_Would_Have_Steered_Clear_of_Politics%5C%27 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 12:59:31 -0500 (January 25th, 2011) - Billy Graham, the beloved evangelist known as "America's pastor," says that looking back on his long life and public ministry, one thing he would do differently is to avoid the political entanglements that have been one of the rare blots on his otherwise hallowed legacy. atheists.org - 2206 http://www.atheists.org/news/ADL_changes_its_tune_on_mosques Tue, 25 Jan 2011 16:51:53 -0500 (January 25th, 2011) - After opposing Park51, the Anti-Defamation League now goes to bat for mosques around the country atheists.org - 2207 http://www.atheists.org/news/Settlement_in_the_Gaskell_case Tue, 25 Jan 2011 19:50:14 -0500 (January 25th, 2011) - A settlement was reached in C. Martin Gaskell v. University of Kentucky, and the parties are moving for a dismissal of the lawsuit. atheists.org - 2208 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anti-Westboro_Baptist_Demonstration_at_Sundance_Film_Festival%2C_2011_ Wed, 26 Jan 2011 18:14:13 -0500 (January 26th, 2011) - American Atheists were present to counter - demonstrate at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, in January 2011 to protest the Westboro Baptist church. atheists.org - 2209 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_University_Scientists_Do_Not_Discuss_Religion Wed, 26 Jan 2011 18:46:39 -0500 (January 26th, 2011) - There is strong evidence that religion is resurging among students on America's top university campuses. atheists.org - 2210 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_New_Theists_narrow_worldview Wed, 26 Jan 2011 19:11:19 -0500 (January 26th, 2011) - Stephen T Asma has written an article accusing the “Four Horsemen” of having a narrow worldview when it comes to non-Western religion. They apparently just don’t get out enough to have encourntered animism. atheists.org - 2212 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_secular_governments_stop_the_spread_of_radical_Islam%3F Thu, 27 Jan 2011 02:48:28 -0500 (January 27th, 2011) - Can secular governments stop the spread of a radical and militant Islam? Vitaly Naumkin, director of the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Oriental Studies and president of the Russian Center for Strategic Studies, shares his thoughts in an interview with Yevgeny Shestakov. atheists.org - 2213 http://www.atheists.org/news/Family_Sees_Virgin_Mary_and_Baby_Jesus_in_a_Tortilla Thu, 27 Jan 2011 04:30:58 -0500 (January 27th, 2011) - It's the immaculate comestible. atheists.org - 2214 http://www.atheists.org/news/Shrine_of_the_Miracle_Tortilla Thu, 27 Jan 2011 11:19:37 -0500 (January 27th, 2011) - No one realized at the time, but the 1977 appearance of Jesus Christ on a flour tortilla set the international standard for miracle sightings. atheists.org - 2215 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ugandan_Gay_Rights_Activist_Slain_After_Being_Named_on_%5C%27Hit_List%5C%27 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:40:59 -0500 (January 27th, 2011) - An outspoken Ugandan gay rights campaigner, whose photo was published by a homophobic newspaper next to the headline "Hang Them," has been killed after receiving numerous death threats. atheists.org - 2216 http://www.atheists.org/news/Stoned_to_death_with_her_lover%3A_Horrific_video_of_execution_of_girl%2C_19%2C_killed_by_Afghan_Taliban_fo Thu, 27 Jan 2011 13:29:28 -0500 (January 27th, 2011) - TALIBAN SPOKESMAN: 'Anyone who knows about Islam knows that stoning is in the Koran, and that it is Islamic law. atheists.org - 2217 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anthony_Hopkins_reveals_the_secret_atheist_message_he_put_into_The_Rite Thu, 27 Jan 2011 18:49:32 -0500 (January 27th, 2011) - In the exorcism thriller The Rite, Anthony Hopkins plays an unconventional priest locked in mortal combat with Satan. atheists.org - 2218 http://www.atheists.org/news/Escondido_native%5C%27s_interest_in_exorcisms_led_to_%5C%27The_Rite%5C%27 Thu, 27 Jan 2011 19:59:38 -0500 (January 27th, 2011) - For more than five years, journalist Matt Baglio has been possessed by exorcists atheists.org - 2219 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ophelia_Benson%2C_Public_Atheist Fri, 28 Jan 2011 12:58:09 -0500 (January 28th, 2011) - The fearless writer, at UBC tonight, says feminists should take on the major monotheist religions. atheists.org - 2220 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_To_Reach_Out_To_Atheists_ Fri, 28 Jan 2011 19:13:59 -0500 (January 28th, 2011) - The Vatican announced a new initiative aimed at promoting dialogue between theists and atheists to be launched with a two-day event this March in Paris. atheists.org - 2221 http://www.atheists.org/news/From_the_religious_minority Fri, 28 Jan 2011 22:40:41 -0500 (January 28th, 2011) - I did not admit I was an Atheist until I was in seventh grade, but the truth is, I have been all my life. atheists.org - 2222 http://www.atheists.org/news/Egyptian_revolt_not_only_political_but_also_spiritual_and_Islamic_ Fri, 28 Jan 2011 23:02:11 -0500 (January 28th, 2011) - Muslim intellectuals and theologians draw the prospects for a change even in Islam: the value of women and fraternisation of sexes; rejection of fundamentalist Salafism, seeking a religion of the heart and freedom, against the formalism of the veil, the beard and abstruse ritual practices. atheists.org - 2223 http://www.atheists.org/news/4_Reasons_Why_Egypt%E2%80%99s_Revolution_Is_Not_Islamic Sat, 29 Jan 2011 18:19:16 -0500 (January 29th, 2011) - Just as in the case of Tunisia, we’ve been caught off guard by the rapid pace of events in Egypt. atheists.org - 2224 http://www.atheists.org/news/Study%3A_Most_high_school_biology_teachers_don%E2%80%99t_endorse_evolution Sun, 30 Jan 2011 00:45:56 -0500 (January 30th, 2011) - The central theory of biology is evolution, yet a new study shows that most high school biology teachers are reluctant to endorse it in class. atheists.org - 2225 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Compton_Effect Sun, 30 Jan 2011 01:32:14 -0500 (January 30th, 2011) - The following track is from the album The compton Effect by Greydon Square. He is an outspoken atheist. atheists.org - 2226 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_right-wing_agenda_of_the_exorcism_movie Sun, 30 Jan 2011 02:24:02 -0500 (January 30th, 2011) - "The Rite" is the latest film in a genre with a surprisingly conservative message about power and faith atheists.org - 2227 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jack_Kingston%3A_%5C%27I_Came_From_God_Not_From_A_Monkey%5C%27_%28VIDEO%29_ Sun, 30 Jan 2011 09:58:36 -0500 (January 30th, 2011) - During an appearance on HBO's "Real Time with Bill Mahr" on Friday night, Rep. Jack Kingston (R-Ga.) stated clearly that he does not believe in the process of evolution. atheists.org - 2228 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_new_Arab_revolt Sun, 30 Jan 2011 10:30:58 -0500 (January 30th, 2011) - What if democracy brings Islamist government? atheists.org - 2229 http://www.atheists.org/news/Anti-gay_lunatic_Scott_Lively_attempts_to_wash_his_hands_of_David_Kato%E2%80%99s_murder Sun, 30 Jan 2011 13:26:52 -0500 (January 30th, 2011) - A LEADING player in a US-rooted campaign to stoke up hatred against homosexuals in Uganda is denying that that his visit to that country in 2009, along with other US evangelicals, had anything to do with the brutal killing this week of human rights champion David Kato. atheists.org - 2230 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_Murdered_Gay_Activist_David_Kato_the_Gabrielle_Giffords_of_Uganda%3F Sun, 30 Jan 2011 13:48:47 -0500 (January 30th, 2011) - The bludgeoning death of gay activist David Kato this week in Uganda stunned the gay community around the world and prompted Kato's angry allies to point the finger of blame at Christian-fueled homophobia in the East African nation, and at conservative Christians in the United States who have long ties to anti-gay forces in Uganda. atheists.org - 2231 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Convention_in_Huntsville_Creates_Buzz Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:29:02 -0500 (January 31st, 2011) - A national atheist group was in the Tennessee Valley for a convention over the weekend. Roughly 200 people attended the event, held at the Holiday Inn in downtown Huntsville. atheists.org - 2232 http://www.atheists.org/news/Could_the_Muslim_Brotherhood_Seize_Power_in_Egypt%3F Mon, 31 Jan 2011 18:04:07 -0500 (January 31st, 2011) - One of the most powerful players in Egypt's popular uprising is the Muslim Brotherhood, a fundamentalist opposition group formed in Egypt in 1928 but legally banned in the country. atheists.org - 2233 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_want_votes_for_a_secular_State Mon, 31 Jan 2011 19:24:33 -0500 (January 31st, 2011) - ATHEIST IRELAND plans to write “to all election candidates asking their views on six questions that are central to building a rational, ethical society with a secular State that does not support any religion”. atheists.org - 2234 http://www.atheists.org/news/Defeating_Creationism_in_the_Courtroom%2C_But_Not_in_the_Classroom Tue, 01 Feb 2011 02:35:54 -0500 (February 1st, 2011) - Just over 5 years ago, the scientific community turned its attention to a courtroom in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. atheists.org - 2235 http://www.atheists.org/news/God_is_dead._Now_what%3F_ Tue, 01 Feb 2011 11:52:01 -0500 (February 1st, 2011) - Let's say Richard Dawkins and his compatriots are right: there is no God. Is that it? End of story? Unfortunately, no. atheists.org - 2236 http://www.atheists.org/news/PZ%5C%27s_food_for_thought Tue, 01 Feb 2011 21:34:05 -0500 (February 1st, 2011) - PZ has decided he hasn't peeved enough people, and made a list of atheist arguments he dislikes. atheists.org - 2238 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_God_Get_Credit_For_Winning_The_Super_Bowl%3F_ Wed, 02 Feb 2011 07:04:44 -0500 (February 2nd, 2011) - When the Auburn Tigers won the BCS college football championship against the Oregon Ducks, Auburn coach Gene Chizik thanked God. atheists.org - 2239 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_O%5C%27Reilly_Doubles_Down_On_God_Controlling_The_Tides%3A_%5C%27How_Did_The_Moon_Get_There%3F%5C%27_%28VIDEO%29_ Wed, 02 Feb 2011 17:43:19 -0500 (February 2nd, 2011) - In a video for Premium Members of his website, Bill O'Reilly doubled down on his statement that the existence of the tides is definitive evidence that God exists. atheists.org - 2240 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_atheists_trade_porn_for_Bibles Wed, 02 Feb 2011 22:33:07 -0500 (February 2nd, 2011) - Porn for Bibles: A student atheist group, the Atheist Agenda, located at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), is once again engaged in their annual "Smut for Smut" campaign, in which they offer pornography in exchange for Bibles, or other so called "holy" texts. atheists.org - 2241 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27All_Atheists_Are_Muslim%5C%27%3A_Boy_meets_girl%2C_dogma Thu, 03 Feb 2011 07:43:09 -0500 (February 3rd, 2011) - Zahra Noorbakhsh's "All Atheists Are Muslim" might sound like a typical East-meets-West comedy of errors - complete with misunderstandings ensuing from different cultural paradigms that are hastily smoothed over by the end of the second act. atheists.org - 2242 http://www.atheists.org/news/To_Be_Atheist%2C_Feminist%2C_and_Black_ Thu, 03 Feb 2011 22:06:15 -0500 (February 3rd, 2011) - As an African American feminist atheist I found that there were virtually no books that explicitly addressed the intersection of gender, race, sexual orientation, and humanist ideology from the lens of progressive politics. atheists.org - 2243 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jury_convicts_Danish_cartoonist%5C%27s_attacker Thu, 03 Feb 2011 23:23:43 -0500 (February 3rd, 2011) - A 29-year-old Somali man was found guilty Thursday of attacking a Danish political cartoonist known for his drawing of the Muslim prophet Mohammed with a turban shaped as a bomb, authorities said. atheists.org - 2244 http://www.atheists.org/news/Top_10_Over-the-Top_Religious_Quotes_from_Presidential_Candidates Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:13:35 -0500 (February 4th, 2011) - Fifty years ago Thursday, John F. Kennedy placed his hand on the Bible and took the presidential oath of office. atheists.org - 2245 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_call_on_like-minded_to_declare_lack_of_religion_in_census_ Fri, 04 Feb 2011 23:03:00 -0500 (February 4th, 2011) - THE godless will soon be asked to stand up and be counted in Sydney's Bible Belt, part of a campaign to counter the influence of religion on politics. atheists.org - 2246 http://www.atheists.org/news/More_OK_not_to_believe_God%3F_University_of_Michigan-Flint_group_for_agnostics%2C_atheists_joins_growing Sat, 05 Feb 2011 05:07:57 -0500 (February 5th, 2011) - Angeline Misiura walked by the tables of religious student organizations recruiting new members at the University of Michigan-Flint. atheists.org - 2247 http://www.atheists.org/news/Opinion%3A_Muslims_too_prefer_secular_government Sat, 05 Feb 2011 05:23:33 -0500 (February 5th, 2011) - Are Muslims more religious than non-Muslims? To many people, it appears that they are. Furthermore, Muslims often seem to be intent on fusing religious and political authority. atheists.org - 2249 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ministers_want_state_to_reverse_ban_on_God_phrases Sat, 05 Feb 2011 19:45:14 -0500 (February 5th, 2011) - A state curator faced the ire of some lawmakers and ministers on Friday for his refusal to allow excerpts from historical documents that reference God to be posted in a Capitol walkway. atheists.org - 2250 http://www.atheists.org/news/Virgin_Mary_Appears_in_Chunk_of_Ice Sat, 05 Feb 2011 22:06:16 -0500 (February 5th, 2011) - While ice has caused countless accidents in cities from Dallas to New York this week, it may have also brought a miracle. atheists.org - 2251 http://www.atheists.org/news/Faith_Wars%3A_How_holiness_drives_the_Israeli-Arab_conflict Sun, 06 Feb 2011 01:21:53 -0500 (February 6th, 2011) - Jerusalem is an overwhelming city. atheists.org - 2252 http://www.atheists.org/news/Canadians_increasingly_polarized_about_religion Mon, 07 Feb 2011 07:04:13 -0500 (February 7th, 2011) - Studies show our attitudes toward faith are most similar to far-off countries like Australia — and differ from our American neighbours atheists.org - 2253 http://www.atheists.org/news/Places_that_prove_Darwin_was_right Mon, 07 Feb 2011 07:16:49 -0500 (February 7th, 2011) - Forget the Creation Museum. This slide show of vacation spots showcases the splendor, and the mystery, of evolution atheists.org - 2254 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rape_Victim%2C_14%2C_Dies_After_Public_Flogging_in_Bangladesh Mon, 07 Feb 2011 15:36:08 -0500 (February 7th, 2011) - A 14-year-old Bangladeshi girl allegedly raped by a much older cousin has died after being publicly flogged for adultery, media reports said. atheists.org - 2255 http://www.atheists.org/news/Iran%5C%27s_Execution_Binge Mon, 07 Feb 2011 16:51:46 -0500 (February 7th, 2011) - As political unrest shakes Egypt, the Iranian government has quietly hanged at least 73 people in recent weeks in what may be an effort to discourage new uprisings in Tehran. atheists.org - 2256 http://www.atheists.org/news/John_3%3A16_Ad_Airs_Unexpectedly_during_Super_Bowl Mon, 07 Feb 2011 17:02:22 -0500 (February 7th, 2011) - Millions of Super Bowl viewers got a dose of Scripture Sunday night when a Christian group’s John 3:16 commercial was unexpectedly aired. atheists.org - 2257 http://www.atheists.org/news/Josh_Brolin%3A_Scientology_%5C%27Really_F%2A%2Aking_Bizarre%5C%27_ Tue, 08 Feb 2011 07:08:31 -0500 (February 8th, 2011) - There are many celebrity adherents to Scientology -- Josh Brolin isn't one of them. atheists.org - 2258 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_anti-porn_crusaders%3A_The_next_generation Tue, 08 Feb 2011 07:15:35 -0500 (February 8th, 2011) - XXXChurch.com founder Craig Gross is among a crop of hip young believers sermonizing against the adult industry atheists.org - 2259 http://www.atheists.org/news/Federal_judge_affirms_recommendation_that_atheist%5C%27s_lawsuit_over_cross_landmark_be_thrown_out Tue, 08 Feb 2011 07:59:12 -0500 (February 8th, 2011) - A federal magistrate has refused to reverse his recommendation that an atheist's lawsuit over a state grant to an 11-story Christian landmark in southern Illinois be thrown out, standing by his finding that the state's economic-development agency has discretion in how it doles out its money. atheists.org - 2260 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins%2C_the_Protestant_atheist Tue, 08 Feb 2011 10:38:20 -0500 (February 8th, 2011) - Dawkins does not recognise that experimental science is not value-free but deeply enmeshed with a Protestant myth atheists.org - 2261 http://www.atheists.org/news/Report%3A_Tom_Cruise%2C_Scientology_Under_Investigation_for_Human_Trafficking%2C_Free_Labor Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:21:39 -0500 (February 9th, 2011) - Tom Cruise and the Church of Scientology are reportedly under federal investigation for human trafficking and using unpaid labor, according to the New Yorker (via Huffington Post). atheists.org - 2262 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_David_Silverman%3A_Hidden_Bill_O%5C%27Reilly Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:46:07 -0500 (February 9th, 2011) - I find this interview fascinating. atheists.org - 2264 http://www.atheists.org/news/Catholic_Church_Approves_Confession_App Wed, 09 Feb 2011 01:57:15 -0500 (February 9th, 2011) - The term "Jesus phone" has just taken on a whole new meaning. atheists.org - 2270 http://www.atheists.org/news/Afghan_Proposal_Would_Clamp_Down_on_Women%E2%80%99s_Shelters Fri, 11 Feb 2011 07:10:07 -0500 (February 11th, 2011) - After her parents threw her out of the house for refusing to marry a 52-year-old widower with five children, Sabra, 18, boarded a bus that dropped her, afraid and confused, in downtown Kabul. atheists.org - 2271 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pete_Stark_jabs_at_religious_right_with_%5C%27Darwin_Day%5C%27_resolution Fri, 11 Feb 2011 07:20:32 -0500 (February 11th, 2011) - Rep. Pete Stark, who made waves in 2007 by coming out as Congress' only avowed atheist, delighted secular humanists and took a jab at religious conservatives this week by offering a resolution to proclaim Saturday as "Darwin Day." atheists.org - 2272 http://www.atheists.org/news/32_Percent_of_Russians_Think_the_Sun_Revolves_Around_Earth Fri, 11 Feb 2011 07:25:08 -0500 (February 11th, 2011) - Does the sun revolve around Earth? Is radioactivity a human invention? Did humans ever live side by side with dinosaurs? A surprising number of people in Russia answered those and other questions with a resounding "yes." atheists.org - 2273 http://www.atheists.org/news/%E2%80%98Forgive_me_Father%2C_for_I_have_sinned_using_my_brand_new_iPhone_application%E2%80%99 Fri, 11 Feb 2011 13:50:16 -0500 (February 11th, 2011) - A NEWLY-LAUNCHED iphone application for Catholics may not be used for confessions, says a Vatican spokesman. atheists.org - 2274 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_O%E2%80%99Reilly%E2%80%99s_Tidal_Skepticism_Launches_%E2%80%9CYou_Can%E2%80%99t_Explain_That%E2%80%9D_Meme Fri, 11 Feb 2011 21:26:12 -0500 (February 11th, 2011) - Last month, Fox News host Bill O’Reilly stepped into instant Internet infamy when, in a debate with American Atheists president David Silverman, O’Reilly attempted to prove the existence of God by citing the mystery of the tides: “I’ll tell you why [religion is] not a scam, in my opinion. atheists.org - 2275 http://www.atheists.org/news/Greene%3A_Actually%2C_neo-atheists_have_a_couple_of_good_points Sat, 12 Feb 2011 06:53:18 -0500 (February 12th, 2011) - I am not much of a fan of the “neo-atheists,” whose basic position seems to be that religion is the last refuge of the feeble-minded, and that religion is pretty much responsible for all bigotry that has gone on through humanity’s history. atheists.org - 2276 http://www.atheists.org/news/Celebrating_Darwin_Day_ Sat, 12 Feb 2011 16:03:09 -0500 (February 12th, 2011) - Considered the Father of Modern Biology, it's hard to imagine Charles Darwin falling asleep during a medical lecture. atheists.org - 2277 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ralph_Reed_changes_tone_on_Egypt_protests Sun, 13 Feb 2011 11:00:28 -0500 (February 13th, 2011) - The evangelical leader, who had been critical of Egyptian protest leaders, talks to Salon at CPAC atheists.org - 2278 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fossil_find_puts_%5C%27Lucy%5C%27_story_on_firm_footing Sun, 13 Feb 2011 13:59:17 -0500 (February 13th, 2011) - New fossil evidence seems to confirm that a key ancestor of ours could walk upright consistently - one of the major advances in human evolution. atheists.org - 2279 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_in_Texas%3A_Tax_Churches_to_Support_Education Sun, 13 Feb 2011 19:22:31 -0500 (February 13th, 2011) - They’re going to be out there every weekday in front of the Texas Capitol Building in Austin, Texas: and they’re demanding that lawmakers begin levying a small tax on the wealthy churches of the Lone Star State in order to rescue public education. atheists.org - 2280 http://www.atheists.org/news/Darwin_Day_recognized_by_Sask._Ministry_of_Education Mon, 14 Feb 2011 10:06:33 -0500 (February 14th, 2011) - Today marks what would have been the 202nd birthday of Charles Darwin. And for the first time, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education has declared it Darwin Day. atheists.org - 2282 http://www.atheists.org/news/Iran_protests_see_reinvigorated_activists_take_to_the_streets_in_thousands Mon, 14 Feb 2011 17:17:40 -0500 (February 14th, 2011) - Riot police and basiji militia use teargas on protesters, with reports that one demonstrator was killed in clashes atheists.org - 2284 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_Proposed_%E2%80%98Ark_Park%E2%80%99_Discriminate_in_Hiring%3F_ Mon, 14 Feb 2011 21:00:39 -0500 (February 14th, 2011) - As Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear and a group of investors continue to promote the job-creation possibilities of their Noah’s Ark theme park, unsettling questions over discriminatory hiring by the fundamentalist ministry that will run the park remain murky. atheists.org - 2285 http://www.atheists.org/news/Post-grad_degrees_don%5C%27t_lead_to_atheism%3A_Study_ Tue, 15 Feb 2011 08:47:38 -0500 (February 15th, 2011) - Old wisdom: Post-graduate degrees, benchmark of the intelligentsia, lead people astray from religion and promote atheism. atheists.org - 2286 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Nationwide_Day_for_Honoring_Charles_Darwin%2C_but_Handled_With_Caution Tue, 15 Feb 2011 10:41:26 -0500 (February 15th, 2011) - There was trepidation on both sides when a squadron of biologists set out to celebrate Darwin Day in rural America during the weekend. atheists.org - 2287 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_One_Slice_of_a_New_Egypt%2C_Few_Are_Focusing_on_Religion Tue, 15 Feb 2011 10:59:49 -0500 (February 15th, 2011) - A generation ago, Ahmed Mitwalli’s parents were Islamists in this neighborhood along the Nile once nicknamed the Islamic Republic of Imbaba. atheists.org - 2288 http://www.atheists.org/news/Champion%2C_Wisconsin_Deemed_Site_Of_Virgin_Mary_Apparition_By_Catholic_Church_ Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:13:38 -0500 (February 15th, 2011) - The Vatican has named a tiny shrine in a small northeast Wisconsin town as a holy site. atheists.org - 2289 http://www.atheists.org/news/Victorian_Sex_Rebels_and_Atheists%3A_How_Brave_Artists_Shook_Up_Prudish_Mores Wed, 16 Feb 2011 09:09:07 -0500 (February 16th, 2011) - How artists flouted religious fundamentalism, patriarchy, industrialism, and sexism with in-your-face challenges of eroticism and sexual identity. atheists.org - 2290 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Sweet_Show%2C_With_Blasphemy_and_Cussing Wed, 16 Feb 2011 14:57:46 -0500 (February 16th, 2011) - NOT long into Act I of “The Book of Mormon,” a new Broadway musical comedy written and composed by Trey Parker, Matt Stone and Robert Lopez, two young Mormon missionaries arrive in Uganda after an arduous journey from Salt Lake City, during which they have suffered a cramped flight and the theft of their luggage. atheists.org - 2291 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_To_Polk_Sheriff%3A_Show_us_the_documents_ Wed, 16 Feb 2011 17:56:57 -0500 (February 16th, 2011) - A group known as Atheists of Florida is continuing its attempts to get information from Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd about his decision to give county equipment to eight churches. atheists.org - 2292 http://www.atheists.org/news/Exorcist_Priest_and_Abortion_Scold_Falls_From_Grace%2C_Rocks_the_Catholic_Right Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:46:06 -0500 (February 16th, 2011) - A Catholic priest who traveled the country performing exorcisms and launching fierce attacks against anyone he viewed as insufficiently tough on abortion -- he once suggested Fox News host Sean Hannity was a "heretic" for saying birth control could be a better option than abortion -- has been removed from ministry for sexually exploiting at least one woman he was treating for demonic possession. atheists.org - 2293 http://www.atheists.org/news/News_Flash%3A_The_Taliban_Violate_Human_Rights Wed, 16 Feb 2011 19:59:57 -0500 (February 16th, 2011) - The human rights community finally notices the Taliban's war crimes. atheists.org - 2294 http://www.atheists.org/news/GOP_Lawmaker_Mike_Beard_Claims_God_Will_Provide_Unlimited_Natural_Resources_ Thu, 17 Feb 2011 09:20:39 -0500 (February 17th, 2011) - Mike Beard, a Republican state representative from Minnesota, recently argued that coal mining should resume in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, in part because he believes God has created an earth that will provide unlimited natural resources. atheists.org - 2295 http://www.atheists.org/news/Boston_cardinal_weighing_sale_of_closed_churches Thu, 17 Feb 2011 12:02:13 -0500 (February 17th, 2011) - Cardinal Sean O'Malley is seeking opinions from Catholics who attended seven closed parishes as he decides whether to sell their churches, some of which have been occupied in protest for six years. atheists.org - 2296 http://www.atheists.org/news/Billy_Ray_Cyrus_equates_atheism_with_darkness%2C_Satan Thu, 17 Feb 2011 13:09:34 -0500 (February 17th, 2011) - Billy Ray Cyrus, best known for being the father of Miley Cyrus, despite having quite a popular achy breaky heart back in the day, sat down in a darkened room in his Tennessee mansion with Chris Heath, writing for GQ. atheists.org - 2297 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_That_a_Christian_Cross_or_a_Plus_Sign%3F_Ohio_School_in_%5C%27Crossfire%5C%27 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:05:40 -0500 (February 17th, 2011) - The architect saw the building decoration as a plus sign. A local resident saw a cross. atheists.org - 2298 http://www.atheists.org/news/Islamists_bent_on_killing_Jordan%E2%80%99s_nightlife Thu, 17 Feb 2011 21:23:56 -0500 (February 17th, 2011) - JORDAN, an Islamic country surrounded by Syria, Iraq, Israel and Saudi Arabia, has – according to this guide – a night “that simply rocks”. atheists.org - 2299 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Myth_of_Militant_Atheism Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:26:31 -0500 (February 18th, 2011) - Why are atheists vilified? What is a militant atheist? atheists.org - 2300 http://www.atheists.org/news/High_School_Senior_Leads_Effort_to_Repeal_Louisiana_Anti-Evolution_Law_ Fri, 18 Feb 2011 08:57:23 -0500 (February 18th, 2011) - I’ve long had a soft spot for young people standing up to religious bullying. So I want to give a shout out to Zack Kopplin, a Baton Rouge Magnet High School Senior. Kopplin is leading a campaign to repeal the stealth creationist law that is the 2008 Louisiana Science Eduction Act. atheists.org - 2301 http://www.atheists.org/news/Renowned_atheist_draws_crowd_at_Nova_Southeastern Fri, 18 Feb 2011 10:40:30 -0500 (February 18th, 2011) - Renowned atheist and evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins addressed hundreds at Nova Southeastern University. atheists.org - 2302 http://www.atheists.org/news/What%5C%27s_So_New_About_the_New_Atheism%3F Sat, 19 Feb 2011 10:43:02 -0500 (February 19th, 2011) - The editors of Wired magazine in 2006 used the term "new" to describe the atheistic movement initiated by Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett, Christopher Hitchens and Sam Harris. atheists.org - 2303 http://www.atheists.org/news/Crosses_to_honor_fallen_troopers_passes_committee Sat, 19 Feb 2011 14:08:11 -0500 (February 19th, 2011) - A resolution supporting the use of crosses or other symbols along Utah roadsides to commemorate fallen Utah Highway Patrol troopers was passed unanimously by a House committee Thursday. atheists.org - 2304 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_O%E2%80%99Reilly%E2%80%99s_Tidal_Skepticism_Launches_%E2%80%9CYou_Can%E2%80%99t_Explain_That%E2%80%9D_Meme Sat, 19 Feb 2011 19:36:12 -0500 (February 19th, 2011) - Last month, Fox News host Bill O’Reilly stepped into instant Internet infamy when, in a debate with American Atheists president David Silverman, O’Reilly attempted to prove the existence of God by citing the mystery of the tides: “I’ll tell you why [religion is] not a scam, in my opinion. atheists.org - 2305 http://www.atheists.org/news/Freedom%3A_secularism%5C%27s_gift_to_the_world Sun, 20 Feb 2011 08:36:35 -0500 (February 20th, 2011) - In light of the continuing political uprising throughout the Middle East, American leaders are reported to be recalculating their approach to the Muslim world. atheists.org - 2306 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Genesis_Code_draws_Sharron_Angle_to_South_Carolina%2C_Haley_Barbour_to_New_Hampshire_and_local_pol Sun, 20 Feb 2011 17:16:06 -0500 (February 20th, 2011) - Mixing science and religion seems a good recipe for on-screen fireworks. Add politics and things will erupt off the screen, too. atheists.org - 2308 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bible_class_in_public_schools_questioned Mon, 21 Feb 2011 11:08:02 -0500 (February 21st, 2011) - Legislation calls for creating curriculum atheists.org - 2309 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_encounter_bigotry%2C_lack_civil_rights Mon, 21 Feb 2011 21:21:59 -0500 (February 21st, 2011) - No one likes discrimination. Civil rights are fought for around the country every day: women and non-whites can vote, homosexuals can marry in some states and there are laws to protect these rights. atheists.org - 2310 http://www.atheists.org/news/Opinion%3A_Was_George_Washington_a_Christian%3F Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:11:04 -0500 (February 22nd, 2011) - Today, 279 years ago, George Washington was born. Over the course of the past year, I have spent a considerable amount of time thinking about Washington for my book on Christianity and the founding of the American republic. In that text, I explore his religious beliefs and wonder whether or not we can truly call him a Christian. atheists.org - 2311 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Unbelievers_ Tue, 22 Feb 2011 16:22:22 -0500 (February 22nd, 2011) - What is most interesting about contemporary atheists is not what they have in common but rather their differences. atheists.org - 2312 http://www.atheists.org/news/Glenn_Beck%3A_Reform_Judaism_like_%5C%22radicalized_Islam%5C%22 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 16:41:04 -0500 (February 22nd, 2011) - Glenn Beck said something stupid about Jewish people, today. atheists.org - 2313 http://www.atheists.org/news/Thousands_march_for_secularism_in_Tunisia_ Tue, 22 Feb 2011 19:14:13 -0500 (February 22nd, 2011) - After the murder of a priest shocked Tunisia, thousands turned out to criticise the increasing role of religion in the country's public life. atheists.org - 2314 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Arrested_at_Polk_School_Board_Meeting Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:49:40 -0500 (February 22nd, 2011) - A member of the Atheists of Florida group was arrested by Bartow police after a disturbance during a pre-meeting prayer at today’s Polk County School Board meeting. atheists.org - 2315 http://www.atheists.org/news/Obama_Health_Care_Lawsuit_Rejected_By_U.S._District_Judge_Gladys_Kessler_ Tue, 22 Feb 2011 22:10:38 -0500 (February 22nd, 2011) - A federal judge on Tuesday threw out a lawsuit claiming that President Barack Obama's requirement that all Americans have health insurance violates the religious freedom of those who rely on God to protect them. atheists.org - 2316 http://www.atheists.org/news/Top_10_Misconceptions_About_Atheists Wed, 23 Feb 2011 09:37:50 -0500 (February 23rd, 2011) - Let me correct some of the most egregious misconceptions believers have about us, in reverse order: atheists.org - 2317 http://www.atheists.org/news/Yount%3A_Religious_people_produce_more_children_than_atheists_do Wed, 23 Feb 2011 18:01:45 -0500 (February 23rd, 2011) - Religious people the world over produce more children than do atheists, whose low birthrate threatens to reduce their ranks. atheists.org - 2318 http://www.atheists.org/news/Satan%2C_Atheists_Still_Awaiting_Apology_From_Billy_Ray_Cyrus Thu, 24 Feb 2011 11:03:35 -0500 (February 24th, 2011) - Billy Ray Cyrus says he's focused on "mending my family" after a magazine article last week in which he said the success of "Hannah Montana" tore his family apart and blamed Hollywood, Satan and atheists. atheists.org - 2319 http://www.atheists.org/news/Surprise%2C_right-wing_atheists_do_exist Thu, 24 Feb 2011 13:30:00 -0500 (February 24th, 2011) - The world, it seems, is waking up to the existence of politically right-wing atheists, who prove that you don't have to believe in God to believe in the innate superiority of white and Asian brains... atheists.org - 2320 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conservatives%3A_Government_Butt_Out..._Government_Butt_In_ Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:54:30 -0500 (February 24th, 2011) - ''Two pending measures in Tennessee reveal the stark contrast in how religious conservatives view the role of government. atheists.org - 2321 http://www.atheists.org/news/Influential_Evangelical%3A_Mideast_Uprisings_Violate_Biblical_Command Thu, 24 Feb 2011 15:45:33 -0500 (February 24th, 2011) - Influential evangelical John MacArthur doesn't believe the uprisings that are spreading across the Arab world will lead to the freedom that hundreds of thousands of protesters are demanding. atheists.org - 2322 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kagin_argues_before_Kentucky_panel_in_Homeland_Security_case Thu, 24 Feb 2011 17:42:03 -0500 (February 24th, 2011) - A three-judge panel is weighing questions of God, public safety and whether putting the two in the same law amounts to a state's establishment of religion. atheists.org - 2323 http://www.atheists.org/news/Court_weighs_God_in_homeland_security Thu, 24 Feb 2011 18:56:49 -0500 (February 24th, 2011) - Kentucky has a right to legislate a government reliance on God for safety and security, a state prosecutor argued Thursday before a Kentucky appeals court. atheists.org - 2324 http://www.atheists.org/news/Glenn_Beck_Eats_Crow_Over_Judaism_Comments_%5BVIDEO%5D Thu, 24 Feb 2011 22:32:43 -0500 (February 24th, 2011) - It could be "one of the worst analogies of all time." atheists.org - 2326 http://www.atheists.org/news/TN_Legislature_May_Force_Schools_to_Teach_Science_%5C%22Controversies%5C%22 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 14:19:58 -0500 (February 25th, 2011) - The Tennessee House of Representatives is debating a bill on Wednesday that would push teachers to frame evolution, global warming, and other science topics as controversial in their classrooms, creating the impression that their validity is open for debate. atheists.org - 2327 http://www.atheists.org/news/Appeals_court_considers_law_crediting_God_for_Kentucky%5C%27s_security Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:54:47 -0500 (February 25th, 2011) - According to the lawyers on opposing sides, the decision should be as easy as either affirming what everybody learns in grade school or dismissing a profession of faith in the “Flying Spaghetti Monster.” atheists.org - 2328 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_in_politics%3F_Yesterday%E2%80%99s_man_makes_yesterday%E2%80%99s_argument Fri, 25 Feb 2011 19:19:00 -0500 (February 25th, 2011) - Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown gave a speech at Lambeth Palace on 16 February entitled “Faith in Politics.” atheists.org - 2329 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pat_Robertson_misses_the_good_old_days_of_anti-sodomy_laws Sat, 26 Feb 2011 10:00:27 -0500 (February 26th, 2011) - Ever mourn the passing of the good ol' days? 81-year-old Pat Robertson does. He misses the days when boys were boys, girls were girls, and gays knew their place... hiding under a rock. atheists.org - 2330 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kagin_argues_Homeland_Security_case_before_Appeals_Court Sat, 26 Feb 2011 17:24:46 -0500 (February 26th, 2011) - American Atheists Legal Director Edwin Kagin tells an appeals court that the Commonwealth of Kentucky should not be using religion as part of the "war on terror." atheists.org - 2331 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lake_Zurich_School_Board_Candidates_Want_Creationism_Taught Sun, 27 Feb 2011 15:33:40 -0500 (February 27th, 2011) - The entire slate of candidates running for school board in Oklahoma Lake Zurich say that they are all for science teachers introducing creationism in their classrooms. atheists.org - 2332 http://www.atheists.org/news/On_the_Stump%2C_Gingrich_Puts_Focus_on_Faith Sun, 27 Feb 2011 15:57:02 -0500 (February 27th, 2011) - Newt Gingrich needs no introduction to most Republican audiences. It is the reintroduction that is the challenge. atheists.org - 2333 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fact-Free_Science Sun, 27 Feb 2011 17:47:56 -0500 (February 27th, 2011) - President Obama has made scientific innovation the cornerstone of his plans for “winning the future,” requesting in his recent budget proposal large financing increases for scientific research and education and, in particular, sustained attention to developing alternative energy sources and technologies. atheists.org - 2334 http://www.atheists.org/news/Proposed_Georgia_Law%3A_Death_Penalty_for_Abortions Sun, 27 Feb 2011 18:53:37 -0500 (February 27th, 2011) - Legislatively speaking, some might say this year has been tough on women (see here, here, and here), but Jen Phillips thinks she’s found the bill that takes the cake: In Georgia, State Rep. Bobby Franklin wants to criminalize not just abortions—but miscarriages as well. atheists.org - 2336 http://www.atheists.org/news/Controversy_follows_atheist_arrest Mon, 28 Feb 2011 19:33:41 -0500 (February 28th, 2011) - The Polk County School Board meeting got off to an ominous start when two Atheist of Florida members, John Kieffer and EllenBeth Wachs, mounted a protest to a prayer invocation — which led to one arrest — immediately prior to the start of the session. atheists.org - 2337 http://www.atheists.org/news/%E2%80%98Threats%E2%80%99_prompt_atheist_rep_to_cancel_meeting_ Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:26:55 -0500 (March 1st, 2011) - A scheduled meeting between the leader of a Lake City-based atheist group and the Suwannee superintendent of schools was canceled for fear of violence, according to Randy Lewis, director of Atheists of North Florida. atheists.org - 2338 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Rock_Beyond_Belief%5C%22_Festival_at_Fort_Bragg%2C_NC%2C_Scheduled_For_April_2nd Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:05:50 -0500 (March 1st, 2011) - There’s a time in the genesis of a project when it passes that milestone from the “planning” stage to a bona-fide event. atheists.org - 2339 http://www.atheists.org/news/Secularism_is_what_the_Arab_world_needs_ Tue, 01 Mar 2011 15:57:08 -0500 (March 1st, 2011) - The wave of anti-government protests sweeping through the Arab world, which has already toppled governments in Tunisia and Egypt, raises very serious questions about religion and politics in the Middle East, and reinforces the need for Arab secularism atheists.org - 2340 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Scopes_Strategy%3A_Creationists_Try_New_Tactics_to_Promote_Anti-Evolutionary_Teaching_in_Public_Sc Tue, 01 Mar 2011 22:36:00 -0500 (March 1st, 2011) - Under the guise of "academic freedom" creationists are co-opting some old heroes of the fight to teach evolution in the classroom for their anti-science campaign atheists.org - 2341 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Ads%3A_You_Can_Live_Moral%2C_Meaningful_Lives_without_God Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:35:29 -0500 (March 2nd, 2011) - A humanist group launched on Tuesday a multimedia ad campaign, declaring that atheists and the nonreligious can live good, meaningful lives without God. atheists.org - 2342 http://www.atheists.org/news/Grant_Storms_Arrested%3A_Anti-Gay_Christian_Pastor_Charged_Over_Public_Masturbation_ Wed, 02 Mar 2011 13:54:50 -0500 (March 2nd, 2011) - Rev. Grant Storms, a renowned anti-gay Christian pastor from Louisiana, was arrested last week for masturbating at a public park, in the vicinity of a carousel and playground where children were present. atheists.org - 2343 http://www.atheists.org/news/Supreme_Court_Rules_in_Favor_of_Military_Funeral_Protesters Wed, 02 Mar 2011 16:03:50 -0500 (March 2nd, 2011) - The Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that the First Amendment protects fundamentalist church members who mount anti-gay protests outside military funerals, despite the pain they cause grieving families. atheists.org - 2344 http://www.atheists.org/news/Creationism_still_exists_in_the_classroom Thu, 03 Mar 2011 14:02:48 -0500 (March 3rd, 2011) - Despite a Supreme Court decision nearly 30 years ago barring creationism from being taught in science classrooms, a recent study has found that over 900 high schools in the United States still teach this theory in schools. atheists.org - 2346 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Night_of_the_Farting_Dog%3A_An_Atheist_in_Freefall_ Thu, 03 Mar 2011 17:59:48 -0500 (March 3rd, 2011) - The small school of so-called “new atheists,” whose pop commentaries on religion, science, and political life have proven incendiary in recent years, have lately come up against the charge that they’re conspicuously homogenous: white, male, and squarely professional class [there are exceptions, however —ed.]. atheists.org - 2347 http://www.atheists.org/news/Secular-themed_concert_at_Fort_Bragg_canceled Fri, 04 Mar 2011 14:27:14 -0500 (March 4th, 2011) - A Fort Bragg soldier canceled a concert with a secular theme and no ties to religion, saying Thursday that base leadership failed to honor promises to support his show as it had a Christian rally last fall. atheists.org - 2348 http://www.atheists.org/news/Philadelphia_Fears_Abusive_Priests_Are_Still_Active Fri, 04 Mar 2011 14:50:14 -0500 (March 4th, 2011) - Three weeks after a scathing grand jury report accused the Philadelphia Archdiocese of providing safe haven for as many as 37 priests who have been credibly accused of sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior toward minors, most of those priests remain active in the ministry. atheists.org - 2349 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_of_Florida_Official_Arrested Fri, 04 Mar 2011 22:32:00 -0500 (March 4th, 2011) - The legal coordinator for the Atheists of Florida was arrested Thursday on charges that she illegally posed as a licensed lawyer, according to the State Attorney's Office. atheists.org - 2351 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conservative_Faith_Coalition_Urges_Congress_To_Defend_DOMA_ Sat, 05 Mar 2011 15:32:38 -0500 (March 5th, 2011) - House Speaker John Boehner said on Friday (March 4) that he and fellow lawmakers will defend the Defense of Marriage Act after the Obama administration dropped its support for the law last month. atheists.org - 2352 http://www.atheists.org/news/Evolution_Abroad%3A_Creationism_Evolves_in_Science_Classrooms_around_the_Globe Sat, 05 Mar 2011 17:32:42 -0500 (March 5th, 2011) - Education experts suggest that in some cultural contexts one way to encourage acceptance of evolution is by not shunning religious beliefs atheists.org - 2353 http://www.atheists.org/news/Eleven_Freedoms_That_Drunks%2C_Slackers%2C_Prostitutes_And_Pirates_Pioneered_And_The_Founding_Fathers_Op Sun, 06 Mar 2011 12:08:18 -0500 (March 5th, 2011) - On the heels of the Supreme Court decision in SNYDER v. PHELPS, re-visit Thaddeus Russell's poignant insights into how freedom in America has often been advanced by those on the social and political fringe. atheists.org - 2354 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rail_stations_no_place_for_humanist_ads Sun, 06 Mar 2011 12:26:44 -0500 (March 6th, 2011) - Posters encouraging British atheists and agnostics to check the "no religion" box when they fill out their census forms have been banned from train stations. atheists.org - 2355 http://www.atheists.org/news/Inside_a_troubled_fundamentalist_Mormon_sect Sun, 06 Mar 2011 12:49:48 -0500 (March 6th, 2011) - As Warren Jeffs sends a bizarre doomsday warning to Obama from jail, we look at the continuing strife of the FLDS atheists.org - 2356 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_an_Alberta_town%2C_parents_fight_for_a_secular_education_ Sun, 06 Mar 2011 16:52:35 -0500 (March 6th, 2011) - It wasn’t until her seven-year-old son asked her if he’d burn in hell that Marjorie Kirsop became concerned. atheists.org - 2358 http://www.atheists.org/news/FOR__ONCE%2C_THE_RIGHT-WING_COURT_GETS_IT_RIGHT Sun, 06 Mar 2011 21:16:39 -0500 (March 6th, 2011) - Last week's ruling in the case of SNYDER v. PHELPS ET AL has generated surprisingly sparse comment in America's freethought community. atheists.org - 2359 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mike_Huckabee_Holds_Strong_Lead_Among_Conservative_Christian_Bloc Sun, 06 Mar 2011 19:38:36 -0500 (March 6th, 2011) - Mike Huckabee has been making waves lately for his comments about Natalie Portman's out-of-wedlock pregnancy and Barack Obama's "anti-colonial" boyhood, but a new poll shows the former Arkansas governor and Republican presidential hopeful still seems to be the hands-down favorite of conservative Christian voters who will be critical to securing the nomination. atheists.org - 2360 http://www.atheists.org/news/Q%26A%3A_Did_you_know_that_park_rangers_at_the_Grand_Canyon_are_now_banned_from_telling_people_how_old_i Mon, 07 Mar 2011 12:37:23 -0500 (March 7th, 2011) - Qυеѕtіοn: Dіd уου know thаt park rangers аt thе Grand Canyon аrе now banned frοm telling people hοw οld іt іѕ? atheists.org - 2361 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens_on_60_Minutes Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:22:48 -0500 (March 7th, 2011) - Author Christopher Hitchens is profiled on the latest installment of 60 Minutes. atheists.org - 2362 http://www.atheists.org/news/Court_won%5C%27t_hear_challenge_to_%5C%27In_God_We_Trust%5C%27 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:24:22 -0500 (March 7th, 2011) - The Supreme Court won't hear an atheist's latest challenge to the U.S. government's references to God. atheists.org - 2363 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tyson_Responds%3B_Atheism_vs._Agnosticism Tue, 08 Mar 2011 00:15:59 -0500 (March 8th, 2011) - Neil Tyson has responded extensively to comments over at the Point of Inquiry forums–comments that were, in turn, triggered by our interview. atheists.org - 2364 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%3A_Top_10_Signs_You_are_a_Deluded_Christian Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:06:07 -0500 (March 8th, 2011) - Below in no particular order are what I consider the ten marks (or characteristics) of a deluded person. atheists.org - 2365 http://www.atheists.org/news/London_imam_threatened_after_telling_Muslims_to_grow_up_and_accept_evolution Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:44:59 -0500 (March 8th, 2011) - DR USAMA Hasan, Vice Chairman of the Masjid Madrasah al-Tawhid mosque in Leyton High Road has invoked the wrath of fundamentalist hotheads who want him dead for daring to suggest that Muslims need to accept the theory of evolution. atheists.org - 2366 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ralph_Reed%3A_Social_issues_up_front Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:58:15 -0500 (March 8th, 2011) - The Iowa political season is set to kick off with Monday’s Faith and Freedom Coalition forum featuring a slew of potential 2012 hopefuls — an event that group’s national chairman says will show that social issues “shouldn’t ride in the back of the bus” in the Republican primaries. atheists.org - 2367 http://www.atheists.org/news/Blue_Laws_%26_Sabbatarianism_in_Modern_America Tue, 08 Mar 2011 21:40:05 -0500 (March 8th, 2011) - Theocratic & Political Agenda Behind Resurrection of American Blue Laws atheists.org - 2368 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%3A_God_is_a_Liar Wed, 09 Mar 2011 18:39:39 -0500 (March 9th, 2011) - Does God lie? He most certainly does according to the Bible. atheists.org - 2369 http://www.atheists.org/news/21_priests_put_on_leave%3B_so_far%2C_names_withheld Wed, 09 Mar 2011 18:59:15 -0500 (March 9th, 2011) - Who are the 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia? atheists.org - 2370 http://www.atheists.org/news/Egyptian_women_attacked_after_demanding_an_end_to_sexual_harassment Wed, 09 Mar 2011 21:30:05 -0500 (March 9th, 2011) - OH, the irony! Just hours after the fool Iftikhar Ahmad, of the London School of Islamics, posted ­ – beneath this report – a rambling defense of “the most peaceful religion in the world”, and the respect Islam has for females, comes news from Egypt that a protest by hundreds of Egyptian women demanding equal rights and an end to sexual harassment turned violent yesterday. atheists.org - 2371 http://www.atheists.org/news/Should_Rep._Peter_King_Investigate_the_Catholic_Church%3F Wed, 09 Mar 2011 22:11:30 -0500 (March 9th, 2011) - Rep. Peter King, the Long Island congressman who for years supported the Irish Republican Army as it waged a terror campaign to eject the British from Northern Ireland, says that track record has no bearing on his controversial decision to hold hearings this week on what he calls the "radicalization" of Islam in America. atheists.org - 2372 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_deity_by_any_other_name%3A_Army_resilience_program_gets_a_thumbs_down_from_atheists Thu, 10 Mar 2011 13:58:28 -0500 (March 10th, 2011) - The best thing about writing a story as a journalist is that you get to interact with astute readers who are never reticient about telling you what you missed in your reporting. atheists.org - 2373 http://www.atheists.org/news/UK_Atheists_Hope_to_Eliminate_Jedi_Population Thu, 10 Mar 2011 17:03:07 -0500 (March 10th, 2011) - The non-religious in the UK hope to pull a Darth Vader and get rid of anyone claiming to be a Jedi. atheists.org - 2374 http://www.atheists.org/news/Against_the_high_tide_of_secularism_ Fri, 11 Mar 2011 14:11:06 -0500 (March 11th, 2011) - SIXTEEN thousand kilometres is a long way for the Vatican's highest judicial officer, second to the Pope, to travel for a lecture organised by students. atheists.org - 2375 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sponsor_of_Bible_bill_questions_separation_of_church%2C_state Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:35:46 -0500 (March 11th, 2011) - An Arkansas legislator who has sponsored a bill on school Bible classes said today he included language in the bill to require that the classes be “nonreligious” to adhere to the principle of the separation of church and state — a principle with which he disagrees. atheists.org - 2376 http://www.atheists.org/news/Wives_per_GOP_presidential_candidate%2C_1988-2012 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 20:31:27 -0500 (March 11th, 2011) - As he has inched toward a full-fledged presidential bid, Newt Gingrich has been scrambling to explain away his two divorces and three marriages. atheists.org - 2377 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_family_opportunity_at_the_Atheist_Convention Sat, 12 Mar 2011 00:33:59 -0500 (March 12th, 2011) - Are you going to the American Atheists National Convention in Des Moines, Iowa this April? Are you bringing the family? atheists.org - 2378 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_says_arrest_baseless%2C_questions_timing Sat, 12 Mar 2011 15:34:23 -0500 (March 12th, 2011) - This is the first of a series on the arrest of EllenBeth Wachs, a member and officer with Atheists of Florida, a Tampa-based organization.) atheists.org - 2379 http://www.atheists.org/news/Record_Number_of_Stealth_Creationism_Bills_Introduced_in_2011_ Sat, 12 Mar 2011 21:52:54 -0500 (March 12th, 2011) - The National Center for Science Education has tracked a record-setting number of nine anti-evolution bills introduced in state legislatures since Jan. 1. atheists.org - 2380 http://www.atheists.org/news/Reader%5C%27s_view%3A_Pawlenty_needs_to_study_up_on_church-state Sun, 13 Mar 2011 18:24:52 -0400 (March 13th, 2011) - Speaking at an evangelical church near Des Moines, Iowa, on March 7, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty said, “The Constitution was designed to protect people of faith from government, not to protect government from people of faith,” according to Minnesota Public Radio. atheists.org - 2381 http://www.atheists.org/news/Civil_Unions_Pass_Judiciary_Committee_In_Colorado_Amid_Religious_Arguments_And_Anal_Sex_Obsession Sun, 13 Mar 2011 22:53:51 -0400 (March 13th, 2011) - For some reason, opponents of LGBT rights are hung up on anal intercourse. atheists.org - 2382 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_Ordained_Minister_Visits_the_Creation_Museum_with_Atheists_ Mon, 14 Mar 2011 16:31:34 -0400 (March 14th, 2011) - What in the world is an ordained minister doing on the speaker's bureau of the Secular Student Alliance. It's a question I get asked a lot and the answer comes from an event that happened three years ago. atheists.org - 2383 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Japan%5C%27s_religions_confront_tragedy Mon, 14 Mar 2011 19:57:49 -0400 (March 14th, 2011) - oud of their secular society, most Japanese aren't religious in the way Americans are: They tend not to identify with a single tradition nor study religious texts. atheists.org - 2384 http://www.atheists.org/news/God_Gives_Japan_%5C%22a_Little_Shake%5C%22_to_Punish_the_Atheists_ Tue, 15 Mar 2011 12:53:57 -0400 (March 15th, 2011) - In this clip, a supposedly devout Christian celebrates the ongoing tragedy in Japan, because... well, you know, they asked for it! atheists.org - 2385 http://www.atheists.org/news/Federal_court_rules_in_favor_of_atheists Tue, 15 Mar 2011 17:09:08 -0400 (March 15th, 2011) - Federal District Court today ruled in favor of the Atheists of Florida denying the City of Lakeland’s Motion to Dismiss. atheists.org - 2388 http://www.atheists.org/news/Book_reviews%3A_3_books_about_atheism Tue, 15 Mar 2011 23:45:25 -0400 (March 15th, 2011) - Despite the number of titles published since the “new atheists” took up their battle cry against religion with Sam Harris’s “The End of Faith” in 2004, there is still no core, authoritative history — no atheist’s bible, if you will. atheists.org - 2389 http://www.atheists.org/news/Candidate_advocates_for_creationism Wed, 16 Mar 2011 22:22:33 -0400 (March 16th, 2011) - Dickson wants theory taught. atheists.org - 2390 http://www.atheists.org/news/VILE%2C_DISGUSTING%2C_HATEFUL_%28AND_MAYBE_A_HOAX%29%3B_BUT_MORE_COMMON__THAN_WE_MAY_THINK... Wed, 16 Mar 2011 23:51:33 -0400 (March 16th, 2011) - It was only a matter of time before the religious would begin framing last week's horrific tragedy in Japan in eschatological terms. atheists.org - 2391 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%3A_Donate_to_Dawkins_Fund%2C_Not_Religious_Groups_for_Japan Thu, 17 Mar 2011 17:42:02 -0400 (March 17th, 2011) - The group American Atheists is urging people who want to contribute to relief efforts in Japan to donate to secular charities rather than "religious buffoons." atheists.org - 2393 http://www.atheists.org/news/TriMet_loses_free_speech_case_over_bus%2C_train_ads_--_again_%28poll%29 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 20:25:18 -0400 (March 17th, 2011) - Atheism. Booze. Sex. Charlie Sheen reruns. Political agendas. Anyone selling anything can keep plastering TriMet buses and MAX trains with ads, despite the transit agency's objections. atheists.org - 2394 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Is_That_Crazy%3F%5C%22_Beck_Responds_To_Earthquake_Controversy Thu, 17 Mar 2011 23:24:46 -0400 (March 17th, 2011) - In the opening moments of his radio show on Monday, Glenn Beck informed his audience that "today's show may be a little apocalyptic, but that's only - no, that's only because Japan has moved eight feet." atheists.org - 2440 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Spreading_the_Good_News_About_Atheism%5C%22%3A_Why_We_Need_Atheist_Ad_Campaigns Thu, 31 Mar 2011 22:52:16 -0400 (March 31st, 2011) -The hostility that the atheist ad campaigns generate proves why we need them so badly. atheists.org - 2395 http://www.atheists.org/news/Des_Moines%2C__Iowa%3A_Where_right_wing_Christian_nationalists_and_atheists_agendas_may_collide Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:20:32 -0400 (March 18th, 2011) - If the American Atheists have their billboards all over the city in time, Des Moines may be ground zero when it comes to a debate about freedom from religion. atheists.org - 2396 http://www.atheists.org/news/Minn._Senator_Objects_to_Religious_Prayer_in_Senate_Chamber Fri, 18 Mar 2011 12:24:53 -0400 (March 18th, 2011) - A debate over prayer and its place in Minnesota's state Legislature is heating up at the Capitol and it's Minnetonka's own state senator, Terri Bonoff who is at the heart of the fight. atheists.org - 2397 http://www.atheists.org/news/Museum_Restores_Jefferson%5C%27s_Unique_Bible_ Fri, 18 Mar 2011 12:46:20 -0400 (March 18th, 2011) - A Smithsonian museum is restoring the "Jefferson Bible," a unique volume the third president cut and pasted himself -- omitting lots of theology -- from portions of the New Testament. atheists.org - 2398 http://www.atheists.org/news/Nonreligious_must_embrace_White_House%E2%80%99s_Interfaith_Service_Challenge Fri, 18 Mar 2011 16:04:44 -0400 (March 18th, 2011) - Yesterday, the White House Office of Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships unveiled an unprecedented new initiative: The President’s Interfaith and Community Service Campus Challenge. atheists.org - 2399 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_reaches_out_to_atheists%3B_Paris_initiative_aimed_at_dialogue_with_nonbelievers Fri, 18 Mar 2011 16:50:51 -0400 (March 18th, 2011) - VATICAN CITY — The Vatican is reaching out to atheists with a series of series of encounters and debates aimed at fostering intellectual dialogue and introducing nonbelievers to God, officials said Friday. atheists.org - 2400 http://www.atheists.org/news/Soldier_will_try_again_for_atheist_Bragg_event Sat, 19 Mar 2011 01:27:15 -0400 (March 19th, 2011) - A concert at one of the military's largest bases aimed at a non-religious audience is still a possibility, but organizers and Fort Bragg leaders remain far apart on just what such an event would look like. atheists.org - 2401 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Atheist%E2%80%99s_Guide_to_Catholics Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:25:27 -0400 (March 19th, 2011) - Leah Libresco runs down a quick guide to Catholicism. I think this is pretty neat. And I do think that a lot of people don’t really understand other people’s religions. atheists.org - 2402 http://www.atheists.org/news/European_Court_Upholds_Crucifixes_in_Public_Schools Sat, 19 Mar 2011 19:21:00 -0400 (March 19th, 2011) - The European Court of Human Rights ruled Friday that public schools in Italy can continue to display crucifixes in the classrooms. atheists.org - 2403 http://www.atheists.org/news/Raiding_the_Creation_Museum_with_Peaceful_Pirate_Atheists_ Sun, 20 Mar 2011 17:23:42 -0400 (March 20th, 2011) - As I stood in line, I looked around at everyone in line. Science T-shirts abounded with sayings like, "Stand Back, I'm about to do Science," "Evolve" and "Teach the Controversy." atheists.org - 2405 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_turns_%E2%80%9Cthe_Other%E2%80%9D_into_one_of_us%3F Mon, 21 Mar 2011 00:43:52 -0400 (March 21st, 2011) - The sympathetic coverage of the devastation wrought by the Japanese earthquake and tsunami has overwhelmed the nasty little story of Rep. Peter King’s loyalty hearings aimed at American Muslims. atheists.org - 2407 http://www.atheists.org/news/Two_Pakistani_atheist_sisters_seek_asylum Mon, 21 Mar 2011 19:51:35 -0400 (March 21st, 2011) - We are two Pakistani atheist sisters that are seeking asylum in Sri Lanka. My name is Asmaa Azeem and my sister’s, Fatima Azeem. atheists.org - 2408 http://www.atheists.org/news/Comment%3A_Egypt_must_tame_sectarianism Mon, 21 Mar 2011 21:20:51 -0400 (March 21st, 2011) - Egyptians turned out in their millions to vote in Saturday’s referendum on constitutional amendments. For nearly all those involved, this was the first time they had taken part in a free and fair vote. atheists.org - 2409 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religion_may_become_extinct_in_nine_nations%2C_study_says Tue, 22 Mar 2011 13:37:56 -0400 (March 22nd, 2011) - A study using census data from nine countries shows that religion there is set for extinction, say researchers. atheists.org - 2410 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_formalize_plans_for_national_convention Tue, 22 Mar 2011 20:15:35 -0400 (March 22nd, 2011) - Gathering scheduled to convene in Des Moines next month atheists.org - 2411 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_throws_in_towel%3A_6-year_lawsuit_challenging_Pledge_of_Allegiance_in_California Wed, 23 Mar 2011 11:36:54 -0400 (March 23rd, 2011) - Atheist activist Dr. Michael Newdow announced on his website that after 6 years of litigation in federal courts, his constitutional challenge to the Pledge of Allegiance in California public schools is "over." atheists.org - 2413 http://www.atheists.org/news/LHS_Teacher_Teaching_Creationism%2C_%5C%27Remediable_Behavior%5C%27 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:59:11 -0400 (March 23rd, 2011) - District 128 board members voted to retain Beau Schaefer, who taught creationism in a biology class. atheists.org - 2414 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_are_%5C%27coming_out%5C%27_all_this_week Wed, 23 Mar 2011 19:30:15 -0400 (March 23rd, 2011) - March 20-26th is "A" Week for atheists all over the world. The idea, which has spread worldwide via internet social network sites, is for atheists to "come out" and let people know that we're here and part of the world community too. atheists.org - 2415 http://www.atheists.org/news/On_the_Death_of_Elizabeth_Taylor%3A_Cleopatra%5C%27s_Progress Wed, 23 Mar 2011 22:12:09 -0400 (March 23rd, 2011) - The re-make of the infamous 1963 biopic promises a more thoughtful look at the Egyptian Queen, and should stir memories of a period when the Roman Catholic Church sought to control what Americans could see on the silver screen. atheists.org - 2416 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_wants_to_go_through_life_defining_themselves_as_a_%5C%27non-believer%5C%27%3F Thu, 24 Mar 2011 11:44:08 -0400 (March 24th, 2011) - It’s Census Day on Sunday, and campaigning atheists are teeth-gnashingly worried that insufficient numbers of people will tick the “No Religion” box. atheists.org - 2417 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_talks_seek_%E2%80%98common_ground%E2%80%99_with_atheists Thu, 24 Mar 2011 21:07:38 -0400 (March 24th, 2011) - The Vatican launched a series of public dialogues with non-believers on Thursday, choosing leading intellectual institutions in Paris to present its belief that modern societies must speak more openly about God. atheists.org - 2418 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_Wins_When_Bible_is_Blamed_for_Gay_Bashing%3F_ Thu, 24 Mar 2011 21:29:33 -0400 (March 24th, 2011) - The news item is both grisly and depressingly familiar: a young man is accused of killing an older man for making sexual advances. atheists.org - 2419 http://www.atheists.org/news/%E2%80%9CA%E2%80%9D_Week_excites_local_atheists Fri, 25 Mar 2011 19:12:51 -0400 (March 25th, 2011) - This week is “A” week on Facebook. atheists.org - 2420 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_open_letter_to_the_old_atheists Fri, 25 Mar 2011 22:55:49 -0400 (March 25th, 2011) - Biology is considered quite a technical field – with many areas of it that are quite impenatrable, or even uninteresting to your average layperson atheist. atheists.org - 2421 http://www.atheists.org/news/Defamation_of_Religion_resolution_finally_dropped_at_the_United_Nations Sat, 26 Mar 2011 02:50:45 -0400 (March 26th, 2011) - Defamation of Religion resolution finally dropped at the United Nations A 12-year campaign by Islamic countries to have religion protected from “defamation” via a series of United Nations resolutions finally came off the rails yesterday when Western countries and their Latin American allies – strong opponents of the defamation concept – joined Muslim and African states in backing a new approach that switches the focus from protecting beliefs to protecting believers. atheists.org - 2422 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Christopher_Hitchens_could_be_%5C%27saved%5C%27_by_evangelical_Christian Sat, 26 Mar 2011 19:54:59 -0400 (March 26th, 2011) - Christopher Hitchens, one of the world's best known atheists, is receiving a revolutionary new treatment for his cancer pioneered by an evangelical Christian scientist, he has revealed in an interview with the Telegraph Magazine. atheists.org - 2423 http://www.atheists.org/news/Wisconsin_Church_Members_Charged_With_Abusing_Infants Sun, 27 Mar 2011 20:19:06 -0400 (March 27th, 2011) - The pastor and seven members of a small church in central Wisconsin have been charged with using wooden rods to spank infants as young as 2 months old for "being emotional, grumpy or crying," the Dane County Sheriff's office said. atheists.org - 2424 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_Opens_Dialogue_With_Atheists_ Sun, 27 Mar 2011 20:40:48 -0400 (March 27th, 2011) - A new Vatican initiative to promote dialogue between believers and atheists debuted with a two-day event on Thursday and Friday (March 24-25) in Paris. atheists.org - 2425 http://www.atheists.org/news/Theocrats_agitating_hard_for_influence_in_Egypt%2C_but_the_banning_of_religious_parties_may_thwart_the Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:37:24 -0400 (March 27th, 2011) - The hopes of the young protestors in Egypt that the country would embrace secular democracy after the fall of the dictator Hosni Mubarak seemed to have suffered a setback as the country went to the polls last week to vote on constitutional changes. atheists.org - 2426 http://www.atheists.org/news/CNN%3A_Atheists_Die_First_In_Survival_Situations_%28VIDEO%29_ Mon, 28 Mar 2011 20:15:01 -0400 (March 28th, 2011) - Proving that they will not be outdone by Fox News in the pretty, blonde and vapid talking head department, CNN produced Dr. Wendy Walsh, "journalist, mother, doctor of psychology and popular culture junkie" in a segment about the worldwide decline in religious affiliation. atheists.org - 2428 http://www.atheists.org/news/Was_the_Bible_forged%3F_Author_claims_some_New_Testament_books_were_written_by_%5C%27people_pretending_to_b Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:14:16 -0400 (March 29th, 2011) - Parts of the Bible were written by people who lied about their identity, an author has claimed. atheists.org - 2431 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gingrich_warns_of_%E2%80%98a_secular_atheist_country%E2%80%99_ Tue, 29 Mar 2011 17:21:14 -0400 (March 29th, 2011) - Newt Gingrich acknowledges a messy past private life, with three marriages and extramarital affairs, but the ex-House Speaker is emerging as a “values” champion and cultural warrior in his 2012 presidential quest. atheists.org - 2433 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_billboard_campaign_hits_Des_Moines Wed, 30 Mar 2011 00:59:42 -0400 (March 30th, 2011) - The Atheists are coming! The atheists are coming! atheists.org - 2434 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_use_billboards_to_create_interest_in_their_convention Wed, 30 Mar 2011 17:54:26 -0400 (March 30th, 2011) - New billboard ads are turning some heads in Des Moines this week. atheists.org - 2435 http://www.atheists.org/news/House_passes_D.C._school_voucher_bill Wed, 30 Mar 2011 21:22:16 -0400 (March 30th, 2011) - The House signed off Wednesday on reviving a school voucher program for low-income students in the District of Columbia. atheists.org - 2437 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gingrich_on_the_radical_Islamist_wing_of_secular_atheism Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:25:35 -0400 (March 31st, 2011) - Perhaps no other news lede better demonstrates how bloated modern presidential elections have become -- and how Newt Gingrich will say anything to fatten his base with those questioning whether Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.) is too sane for their tastes -- than the opening sentence to this piece on CNN.com: atheists.org - 2438 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_I_Pledge_Allegiance_to_an_Atheist_America Thu, 31 Mar 2011 19:45:00 -0400 (March 31st, 2011) - The Puritans of England were a devout people who distinguished themselves in the mid-1500s by adopting and adhering to John Calvin's doctrine of Total Depravity. atheists.org - 2441 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%2C_believers_alike_invited_to_public_event Fri, 01 Apr 2011 10:57:07 -0400 (April 1st, 2011) - One of the enduring questions of our times -- whether there is a God -- will be the subject of a public April 7 event in Cobourg. atheists.org - 2442 http://www.atheists.org/news/Florida_Prosecutors_Charge_Leading_Atheist_Advocate_With_Unauthorized_Practice_of_Law_Due_To_The_Use Fri, 01 Apr 2011 12:14:46 -0400 (April 1st, 2011) - There is a disturbing case out of Florida where EllenBeth Wachs, 48, the legal coordinator for the Atheists of Florida had been arrested for unauthorized practice of law because she signed letters using “Esq.” for esquire. atheists.org - 2443 http://www.atheists.org/news/Army_group_says_there_ARE_atheists_in_foxholes Fri, 01 Apr 2011 20:51:23 -0400 (April 1st, 2011) - The cliche notwithstanding, there are atheists in foxholes. atheists.org - 2444 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mike_Huckabee_Wants_Americans_to_Be_Indoctrinated_at_Gunpoint Sat, 02 Apr 2011 23:03:43 -0400 (April 2nd, 2011) - Did Mike Huckabee just flush his presidential aspirations down the proverbial toilet? atheists.org - 2445 http://www.atheists.org/news/An_Iowa_Stop_in_a_Broad_Effort_to_Revitalize_the_Religious_Right Sun, 03 Apr 2011 01:55:06 -0400 (April 3rd, 2011) - Hundreds of conservative pastors in Iowa received the enticing invitation. atheists.org - 2446 http://www.atheists.org/news/When_the_King_Saved_God Sun, 03 Apr 2011 04:12:18 -0400 (April 3rd, 2011) - An unbeliever argues that our language and culture are incomplete without a 400-year-old book—the King James translation of the Bible. Spurned by the Establishment, it really represents a triumph for rebellion and dissent. Accept no substitutes! atheists.org - 2447 http://www.atheists.org/news/N.C._atheists_promote_beliefs_on_signs Sun, 03 Apr 2011 17:25:19 -0400 (April 3rd, 2011) - Taking a cue from the gay rights movement, Triangle atheists are coming out of the closet with a new billboard campaign that attempts to project a friendly, wholesome image of a group long stigmatized for its unconventional beliefs. atheists.org - 2448 http://www.atheists.org/news/Teenagers_Speak_Up_for_Lack_of_Faith Sun, 03 Apr 2011 21:45:28 -0400 (April 3rd, 2011) - Every other Wednesday, right after school at 2:45, the newest club at Rutherford High, the atheist club, meets in Room 13-211. atheists.org - 2449 http://www.atheists.org/news/Do_atheists_need_their_own_bible%3F_ Mon, 04 Apr 2011 17:10:23 -0400 (April 4th, 2011) - In the beginning was the word and the word was... good? Four hundred years after the publication of the King James Bible, philosopher AC Grayling has written a book which offers atheists a "bible" of their very own. atheists.org - 2450 http://www.atheists.org/news/Terry_Jones%3A_How_the_Mad_Pastor_Oozed_Back Mon, 04 Apr 2011 18:40:17 -0400 (April 4th, 2011) - The world tried to ignore Terry Jones' "Koran trial"—until it incited deadly riots. The fringe preacher tells The Daily Beast's Leon Dische Becker how he pulled off the bloody stunt. atheists.org - 2451 http://www.atheists.org/news/Madonna%E2%80%99s_Malawi_scheme_collapses Mon, 04 Apr 2011 19:13:07 -0400 (April 4th, 2011) - ALLEGED dodgy dealings within an a mystical outfit described by some as “Jewish Scientology” may have led to the collapse of Madonna’s $15-million girls’ school in Malawi. atheists.org - 2452 http://www.atheists.org/news/Private_Education_Tax_Credits_Upheld_by_U.S._Supreme_Court Mon, 04 Apr 2011 20:13:10 -0400 (April 4th, 2011) - The U.S. Supreme Court put new limits on the power of citizens to challenge government programs as unconstitutionally promoting religion, upholding an Arizona tax credit aimed at helping cover private-school tuition costs. atheists.org - 2454 http://www.atheists.org/news/Panelists_criticize_media_portrayal_of_atheism Tue, 05 Apr 2011 19:52:24 -0400 (April 5th, 2011) - Cecil Bothwell, Cecile Holmes and Yonat Shimron shared anecedotes and experiences pertaining to the portrayal of atheism in the media Monday for the second annual Religion and Media Conference. Tom Arcaro, sociology professor, moderated the conversation. atheists.org - 2455 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_in_Foxholes_Demand_Recognition Tue, 05 Apr 2011 21:47:49 -0400 (April 5th, 2011) - There is a saying that “There are no atheists in foxholes,” meaning that in times of war, every soldier believes in God. Wrong. atheists.org - 2456 http://www.atheists.org/news/In_God_We_Teach_--_A_film_by_Vic_Losick Tue, 05 Apr 2011 22:31:01 -0400 (April 5th, 2011) - Are teachers allowed to express their personal opinions in the classroom? atheists.org - 2457 http://www.atheists.org/news/Irrational_atheists_on_the_loose%3F Wed, 06 Apr 2011 18:27:25 -0400 (April 6th, 2011) - An outspoken band of atheists has chalked up an impressive record of articles, best-selling books, and wide public recognition. atheists.org - 2458 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge%5C%27s_sentence_involving_Christian_book_causes_controversy Wed, 06 Apr 2011 20:15:44 -0400 (April 6th, 2011) - A new judge in Texas is trying to find a new way to punish criminals, but one of his ideas, involving a book report, is drawing fire. atheists.org - 2459 http://www.atheists.org/news/Extreme_Over_Easter%3A_AFA_Declares_War_On_Ohio_Town%5C%27s_%60Spring_Egg_Hunt%5C%27 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 21:58:50 -0400 (April 6th, 2011) - Every year around Halloween, Religious Right groups start whining about an alleged "war on Christmas." According to them, advocates of church-state separation have teamed up with politically correct secularists to drive all mention of the December holiday out of public life. atheists.org - 2460 http://www.atheists.org/news/Just_ordinary_people_all_smiles%2C_but_no_gods Thu, 07 Apr 2011 18:23:38 -0400 (April 7th, 2011) - Taking a cue from the gay rights movement, some atheists are coming out of their own closets with a new billboard campaign that attempts to project a friendly, wholesome image of a group long stigmatized for its unconventional beliefs. atheists.org - 2461 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_%5C%27Birther%5C%27_Movement_Dangerous%3F_Look_at_Ivory_Coast_Crisis Thu, 07 Apr 2011 22:26:32 -0400 (April 7th, 2011) - Have you ever heard of a once-prosperous nation, the envy of bordering countries, where the economy suddenly soured? atheists.org - 2462 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pro_teams_adding_religion_to_promotional_fan_days Fri, 08 Apr 2011 19:05:22 -0400 (April 8th, 2011) - Pro teams are increasingly promoting Christian, Jewish and Mormon fan days, because they help drive group ticket sales in a recession. atheists.org - 2463 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_are_just_ordinary_people_%E2%80%94_all_smiles%2C_but_no_gods_ Sat, 09 Apr 2011 21:21:15 -0400 (April 9th, 2011) - Taking a cue from the gay rights movement, some atheists are coming out of their own closets with a new billboard campaign that attempts to project a friendly, wholesome image of a group long stigmatized for its unconventional beliefs. atheists.org - 2464 http://www.atheists.org/news/Farrakhan_Using_Libyan_Crisis_to_Bolster_His_Nation_of_Islam Sat, 09 Apr 2011 21:33:15 -0400 (April 9th, 2011) - When Louis Farrakhan, leader of the Chicago-based Nation of Islam, staunchly defended Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi recently, he seized headlines for an organization that has made little news in recent years. atheists.org - 2465 http://www.atheists.org/news/Smyrna_Atheist_Helps_Revive_140-Year-Old_Primitive_Baptist_Church_ Sun, 10 Apr 2011 13:47:15 -0400 (April 10th, 2011) - Lew Southern and other members of his civic group have worked tirelessly to save Collins Springs Primitive Baptist Church at 4775 North Church Lane in Smyrna. atheists.org - 2466 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_Allowing_Teachers_to_Challenge_Evolution_Passes_Tennessee_House Sun, 10 Apr 2011 18:10:35 -0400 (April 10th, 2011) - In a 70-28 vote today, the Tennessee House of Representatives passed HB 368, a bill that encourages science teachers to explore controversial topics without fear of reprisal. atheists.org - 2467 http://www.atheists.org/news/God%2C_We_Need_Atheists_ Mon, 11 Apr 2011 20:10:55 -0400 (April 11th, 2011) - The discourse between evangelical Christians and atheists has been antipodal at best. atheists.org - 2468 http://www.atheists.org/news/Florida_lawmakers_take_up_religion_in_funding%2C_courts Mon, 11 Apr 2011 20:20:02 -0400 (April 11th, 2011) - Church and state are intermingling in Tallahassee, as lawmakers consider bills critics say could both help and harm religion in Florida. atheists.org - 2469 http://www.atheists.org/news/Thomas_Jefferson_On_The_Lawn Mon, 11 Apr 2011 21:21:35 -0400 (April 11th, 2011) - Beltway Atheists and Northern Virginia Atheists have erected their latest monthly banner in front of the Loudon County Courthouse. atheists.org - 2470 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lady_Gaga_Upsets_Catholic_League%2C_Worries_Video_Creative_Director_With_Controversial_%5C%27Judas%5C%27 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 03:07:35 -0400 (April 12th, 2011) - Lady Gaga loves to ruffle peoples' feathers with her out-of-this-world outfits, shock-and-awe live performances and unapologetic cultural commentaries. Her upcoming single and video 'Judas' is apparently no exception. atheists.org - 2471 http://www.atheists.org/news/France%5C%27s_burqa_ban%3A_5_ways_Europe_is_targeting_Islam Tue, 12 Apr 2011 17:58:59 -0400 (April 12th, 2011) - France issued its first ticket to a woman wearing an Islamic veil on Monday, the day a national ban on face coverings in public took effect. atheists.org - 2472 http://www.atheists.org/news/Did_Journalist_Find_%5C%27THE_Nails%5C%27_Used_to_Crucify_Jesus%3F Tue, 12 Apr 2011 20:40:13 -0400 (April 12th, 2011) - Controversial journalist Simcha Jacobovici says he may have found the nails that were used to crucify Jesus more than 2,000 years ago. atheists.org - 2473 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_can_science_say_about_atheism%3F Wed, 13 Apr 2011 06:30:01 -0400 (April 13th, 2011) - Is there anything that the tools which science uses to study religion can tell us about unbelief? atheists.org - 2474 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_My_Atheism_Hurt_My_Career%3F Wed, 13 Apr 2011 20:06:50 -0400 (April 13th, 2011) - Dear Evil HR Lady, I’m a graduate student at a top international relations program, currently searching for internships and soon to be searching for jobs. atheists.org - 2475 http://www.atheists.org/news/Did_US_Christian_Right_Know_Gbagbo%5C%27s_Other_Wife_Is_Muslim%3F Thu, 14 Apr 2011 14:05:47 -0400 (April 14th, 2011) - Prominent members of the U.S. religious right have trumpeted their support of Ivory Coast's just-captured former president, Laurent Gbagbo -- and some of their rhetoric emphasizes that Gbagbo is an evangelical Christian, unlike incoming Muslim leader Alassane Ouattara. atheists.org - 2476 http://www.atheists.org/news/TheAtheist_Signs_of_Loudoun_County Thu, 14 Apr 2011 19:54:55 -0400 (April 14th, 2011) - Atheists in the Washington, DC - Virginia area are erecting a series of thoughtful and provocative signs on the lawn of the Loudoun County courthouse... atheists.org - 2477 http://www.atheists.org/news/Inhofe%2C_Beck%2C_And_Pat_Robertson_Defend_Brutal_Ivory_Coast_Dictator_ Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:55:42 -0400 (April 14th, 2011) - Fighting is raging in the Ivory Coast capital Abidjan today after forces loyal to opposition leader Alassane Ouattara — who won last year’s presidential election according to the U.N., the African Union, and other international observers — have pinned down Laurent Gbagbo, the incumbent president who refuses to relinquish power, in “a bunker beneath his residence.” atheists.org - 2478 http://www.atheists.org/news/ATHEIST_JOY%21 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 05:36:11 -0400 (April 15th, 2011) - The following is contributed by one of our CFI-Freethought board members, Stephen Uhl. Dr. Uhl is a former Catholic priest who left the Church and earned a Ph. D. in psychology, a profession from which he is now retired. He is the author of the excellent book, Out of God’s Closet. atheists.org - 2479 http://www.atheists.org/news/Beyond_Grayling%2C_Dawkins_and_Hitchens%2C_a_new_kind_of_British_atheism Fri, 15 Apr 2011 05:44:01 -0400 (April 15th, 2011) - Social researchers have been investigating the attitudes of the growing numbers of non-religious young Britons atheists.org - 2480 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pat_Robertson_Gaga_for_Gbagbo_ Fri, 15 Apr 2011 11:38:00 -0400 (April 15th, 2011) - As Justin Elliott reported last week, and Media Matters continues to track, American Christian right figures are supporting Laurent Gbagbo, who is violently clinging to power in Cote D'Ivoire, despite losing the presidential election there in November 2010. atheists.org - 2481 http://www.atheists.org/news/Four_Reasons_Why_Christians_Should_Not_Date_Or_Be_Friends_With_Atheists Sat, 16 Apr 2011 19:25:50 -0400 (April 16th, 2011) - YouTube video producer Lord Hathor reviewed a post made by a gal named Cindy on Facebook which explains why Christians should not date or be friends with atheists. atheists.org - 2482 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Ricky_Gervais_%E2%80%93_A_Better_Christian_than_Christians%3F Sat, 16 Apr 2011 21:55:38 -0400 (April 16th, 2011) - Are atheists better Christians than Christians are today? Famous comedian and English actor Ricky Gervais likes to think so. atheists.org - 2483 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Gaga_song_shocks_religious_leaders Sat, 16 Apr 2011 21:57:28 -0400 (April 16th, 2011) - Well, that didn't take long. atheists.org - 2484 http://www.atheists.org/news/Spanish_officials_ban_atheists%5C%27_march_ Sun, 17 Apr 2011 22:55:00 -0400 (April 17th, 2011) - Madrid's government banned a march by atheists next week because it would conflict with a traditional Holy Week procession, officials said. atheists.org - 2485 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Helping_the_Homeless_Running_Strong_in_Austin Mon, 18 Apr 2011 09:06:47 -0400 (April 18th, 2011) - For 20 months now, Atheists Helping the Homeless has been handing out toiletries, clothing, supplies and food to the homeless in Austin, Texas. atheists.org - 2486 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_filed_to_repeal_Louisiana%5C%27s_antievolution_law Mon, 18 Apr 2011 23:28:02 -0400 (April 18th, 2011) - Senate Bill 70 , prefiled in the Louisiana Senate on April 15, 2011, and provisionally referred to the Senate Committee on Education, would, if enacted, repeal Louisiana Revised Statutes 17:285.1, which implemented the so-called Louisiana Science Education Act, passed and enacted in 2008. atheists.org - 2487 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_will_protest_prayer_meeting Tue, 19 Apr 2011 08:37:25 -0400 (April 19th, 2011) - The list of speakers is being finalized and the time is drawing near for the 27th annual Cobb County Prayer Breakfast. atheists.org - 2488 http://www.atheists.org/news/ATHEISTS_EXPAND_BILLBOARD__CAMPAIGN_--_NO_APOCALYPSE%2C___NO_RAPTURE... Tue, 19 Apr 2011 09:12:54 -0400 (April 19th, 2011) - American Atheists has launched another round in its "MYTH billboard campaign with signs going up this week in Oakland, Houston and Ft. Lauderdale. The message declares: "THE RAPTURE -- You KNOW it's Nonsense. 2000 Years of 'Any Day Now'." atheists.org - 2489 http://www.atheists.org/news/Lady_Lake_will_continue_prayers_at_the_start_of_meetings Tue, 19 Apr 2011 21:21:12 -0400 (April 19th, 2011) - Prayers will continue to be said at the start of Town Commission meetings, elected leaders decided Monday night in response to calls to end the practice by a resident who is an atheist and the American Humanist Association. atheists.org - 2490 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens%3A_Don%5C%27t_pray_for_me Tue, 19 Apr 2011 21:37:23 -0400 (April 19th, 2011) - Despite his battle with advanced cancer, the celebrated atheist Christopher Hitchens still maintains that God is not great, even in Tumourville. atheists.org - 2491 http://www.atheists.org/news/SUPPORTING_DICTATORS_IN_THE__NAME__OF__JESUS Tue, 19 Apr 2011 22:53:56 -0400 (April 19th, 2011) - Televangelist Pat Robertson continues his sordid legacy of embracingpolitical thugs, terrorists, thieves and dictators if it advances the cause of fundamentalist Christianity... and his own bottom line. atheists.org - 2492 http://www.atheists.org/news/Palm_Bay_clerk%5C%27s_memo_raises_invocation_concerns Wed, 20 Apr 2011 22:34:19 -0400 (April 20th, 2011) - The Rev. Ken Delgado invoked the names of God and Jesus Christ before saying "amen" at this week's Palm Bay city council meeting. atheists.org - 2493 http://www.atheists.org/news/Unreasonable_Doubt%3A_Vincent_Bugliosi_Defends_Agnosticism_ Wed, 20 Apr 2011 23:42:46 -0400 (April 20th, 2011) - Famed “Helter Skelter” prosecutor lends his voice to the God debates When he’s not writing bestselling books, Vincent Bugliosi is a legendary prosecuting attorney. As such, he is certainly well acquainted with the legal policy of presumption of innocence. atheists.org - 2494 http://www.atheists.org/news/Long-Lost_Letter_Sheds_Light_On_Lincoln%5C%27s_Faith_ Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:28:46 -0400 (April 21st, 2011) - On the eve of the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War, a long-lost letter has surfaced that describes President Abraham Lincoln's belief in God. atheists.org - 2495 http://www.atheists.org/news/Utah_seeks_U.S._Supreme_Court_ruling_on_roadside_memorial_crosses Thu, 21 Apr 2011 17:10:42 -0400 (April 21st, 2011) - Utah has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to decide whether fallen state troopers may be honored with roadside crosses placed on public land. atheists.org - 2496 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Texas_climate_change_solution%3A_God Thu, 21 Apr 2011 23:00:55 -0400 (April 21st, 2011) - As drought and wildfires rage, Gov. Rick Perry takes drastic action: It's time to pray atheists.org - 2497 http://www.atheists.org/news/ATHEIST_CONVENTION%3A_Scheduled_for_Easter_Weekend_VIDEO Fri, 22 Apr 2011 08:07:59 -0400 (April 22nd, 2011) - The president of American Atheists said that the group selected Easter weekend to hold its national convention. atheists.org - 2498 http://www.atheists.org/news/State%3A_The_cross_is_a_nonreligious%2C_secular_symbol._American_Atheists%3A_Um%2C_no. Fri, 22 Apr 2011 08:25:04 -0400 (April 22nd, 2011) - Is the cross secular? The group American Atheists doesn’t think so (you can view their Texas page here). atheists.org - 2499 http://www.atheists.org/news/Good_Friday_crucifixions_in_Philippines Fri, 22 Apr 2011 17:18:30 -0400 (April 22nd, 2011) - DEVOTEES re-enacted Jesus's crucifixion in gory scenes while millions of other less extreme faithful across the Catholic Philippines prayed with their families on Good Friday. atheists.org - 2500 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hitchens%5C%27_address_to_American_Atheists Fri, 22 Apr 2011 17:30:19 -0400 (April 22nd, 2011) - Christopher Hitchens was scheduled to appear at the American Atheist convention, but had to cancel because of his illness. atheists.org - 2501 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope%3A_Humanity_Isn%5C%27t_Random_Product_of_Evolution Sun, 24 Apr 2011 04:13:15 -0400 (April 24th, 2011) - Pope Benedict XVI marked the holiest night of the year for Christians by stressing that humanity isn't a random product of evolution. atheists.org - 2502 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hansen%3A_Atheists_are_in_town%2C_so_Scriptural_spats_heat_up_ Sun, 24 Apr 2011 04:17:08 -0400 (April 24th, 2011) - Standing in the drizzle outside the Embassy Suites, Larry Carter Center and Dan Holman somehow found themselves arguing about the Bible. atheists.org - 2503 http://www.atheists.org/news/Martin_Rees%3A_Atheists_should_drop_anti-religion_campaigns Sun, 24 Apr 2011 10:05:19 -0400 (April 24th, 2011) - Astronomer royal urges Darwinists to adopt 'peaceful coexistence' with moderate groups to beat fundamentalism atheists.org - 2504 http://www.atheists.org/news/At_Mayor%E2%80%99s_Breakfast%2C_%E2%80%98Interfaith%E2%80%99_Means_Atheists%2C_Too Sun, 24 Apr 2011 14:06:41 -0400 (April 24th, 2011) - Six newcomers to Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg’s annual interfaith breakfast stood out in the crowd of more than 400 religious leaders draped in vestments varying from turban to cassock. atheists.org - 2505 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_vs._May_21%2C_2011_Judgment_Day Mon, 25 Apr 2011 01:41:07 -0400 (April 25th, 2011) - Chances are, you have seen a sign declaring that May 21, 2011 is Judgment Day because the Bible says it's so. atheists.org - 2506 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rainmaker__Rick Mon, 25 Apr 2011 02:36:23 -0400 (April 25th, 2011) - The Governor of Texas is telling citizens to pray -- for rain! atheists.org - 2507 http://www.atheists.org/news/Franklin_Graham%3A_Look_for_Christ%5C%27s_2nd_Coming_on_Facebook%2C_Twitter Mon, 25 Apr 2011 09:49:02 -0400 (April 25th, 2011) - The Rev. Franklin Graham says he knows what could be the ultimate trending topic on Twitter: the second coming of Christ. atheists.org - 2508 http://www.atheists.org/news/Amis_on_Hitchens%3A_%5C%27He%5C%27s_one_of_the_most_terrifying_rhetoricians_the_world_has_seen%5C%27 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 10:11:31 -0400 (April 25th, 2011) - Martin Amis hails the peerless intelligence and rhetorical ingenuity of his exceptional friend, Christopher Hitchens atheists.org - 2509 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Mock_Rapture_Prediction_as_%5C%27Nonsense%5C%27 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 22:23:52 -0400 (April 25th, 2011) - Jesus is returning next month, according to one controversial group, and atheists are ready for it. They're throwing a "rapture party." atheists.org - 2510 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge_Denies_Muslim_Inmate%5C%27s_Lawsuit_Over_Grooming_Rights Tue, 26 Apr 2011 04:37:02 -0400 (April 26th, 2011) - Virginia's prison system did not violate a Muslim inmate's religious rights when it refused to allow him to grow a 1/8-inch beard, which he believes is required by his religion, a federal judge has ruled. atheists.org - 2511 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Tea_Party_and_Ayn_Rand Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:13:33 -0400 (April 27th, 2011) - Ayn Rand is a cult figure for Tea Party types, but if a bad movie gets them reading, they may be surprised by her ideas. atheists.org - 2512 http://www.atheists.org/news/Army_Move_on_Atheist_Chaplains_Could_Lead_To_%E2%80%98Church_of_Evoluton%E2%80%99 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 08:52:38 -0400 (April 28th, 2011) - The report in the New York Times that atheists are looking for official recognition as chaplains in the American military in order to cater to the needs of non-believing servicemen is interesting. atheists.org - 2513 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens_defiantly_atheist_in_the_face_of_death Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:14:09 -0400 (April 28th, 2011) - Christopher Hitchens disclosed to his atheist comrades on Friday that he has now lost his voice to esophageal cancer but his atheistic beliefs remain stronger than ever. atheists.org - 2514 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_seek_footing_at_MacDill Fri, 29 Apr 2011 06:42:35 -0400 (April 29th, 2011) - Air Force Staff Sgt. Brandon Crilley admits he sometimes felt out of place when he was deployed in the Middle East or even back home at MacDill Air Force Base. atheists.org - 2515 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fox_News_Affiliate_Investigates_May_21_Judgment_Day_%E2%80%94_American_Atheists_Billboard_Shown_As_Part_of_N Fri, 29 Apr 2011 16:29:10 -0400 (April 29th, 2011) - It's less than a month away from Harold Camping and his Family Radio's Judgment Day on May 21 (see the End Times Countdown Clock). Family Radio's billboards says the bible guarantees it. atheists.org - 2516 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_do_Americans_still_dislike_atheists%3F Fri, 29 Apr 2011 22:12:13 -0400 (April 29th, 2011) - Long after blacks and Jews have made great strides, and even as homosexuals gain respect, acceptance and new rights, there is still a group that lots of Americans just don’t like much: atheists. atheists.org - 2517 http://www.atheists.org/news/Polling_creationism_and_evolution_around_the_world Fri, 29 Apr 2011 22:28:11 -0400 (April 29th, 2011) - A new poll conducted by Ipsos for Reuters News in twenty-four countries found that 41% of respondents identified themselves as "evolutionists" and 28% as "creationists," with 31% indicating that they "simply don't know what to believe," according to a press release issued by Ipsos on April 25, 2011. atheists.org - 2518 http://www.atheists.org/news/TORNADOS__AND_OTHER_ACTS__OF_GOD_--_AND_THE__BIBLE__BELT Sat, 30 Apr 2011 09:50:51 -0400 (April 30th, 2011) - It's hard not to notice; but the part of the country being devastated by a slew of tornadofloods, tornados and other natural disasters seems to be, well, the most religious... atheists.org - 2519 http://www.atheists.org/news/Drop_prosecution_of_Polk_County_atheist_leader Sat, 30 Apr 2011 16:56:33 -0400 (April 30th, 2011) - Let’s see if we have this straight. EllenBeth Wachs, a noted Polk County atheist who belongs to Atheists of Florida, was arrested in early March, charged with practicing law without a license, simply based upon the say-so of three individuals with whom she has clashed: Gow Fields, the mayor of Lakeland; Ann Gibson, legal affairs coordinator for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office; and Stacy Butterfield, a board member of the homeowners association in the subdivision where Wachs resides. atheists.org - 2520 http://www.atheists.org/news/LIFE_WITHOUT_GOD%3A_JUST_ORDINARY_PEOPLE_ Sun, 01 May 2011 09:40:22 -0400 (May 1st, 2011) - Taking a cue from the gay rights movement, some atheists are coming out of their own closets with a new billboard campaign that attempts to project a friendly, wholesome image of a group long stigmatized for its unconventional beliefs. atheists.org - 2521 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rhode_Island_Catholic_Diocese_Fights_Against_Civil_Unions_ Sun, 01 May 2011 10:29:51 -0400 (May 1st, 2011) - After playing a key role in defeating a push for gay marriage, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence has urged Rhode Island lawmakers to reject an alternative establishing civil unions for gay couples, calling them a "stepping stone" to gay marriage. atheists.org - 2522 http://www.atheists.org/news/Advice_for_%E2%80%9CComing_Out%5C%22_as_an_Atheist Mon, 02 May 2011 11:15:39 -0400 (May 2nd, 2011) - Many people contact me for advice about what to do now that they’ve become an atheist. How should they ‘come out’ to their religious friends and family? It’s a tricky situation. atheists.org - 2523 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_the_Military_Should_Have_Non-Theist_Chaplains Mon, 02 May 2011 13:25:55 -0400 (May 2nd, 2011) - The New York Times reports on a group of atheists, including several I've gotten to know during the process of planning the Rock Beyond Belief event, who want the military to allow the appointment of atheist or humanist chaplains. atheists.org - 2524 http://www.atheists.org/news/Kopplin_lobbies_an_empty_Legislature Mon, 02 May 2011 18:03:39 -0400 (May 2nd, 2011) - Baton Rouge Magnet High School senior Zach Kopplin pitched a solid argument last week when he stood on the steps of the state Capitol and rallied for the repeal of a controversial state law that’s largely interpreted as a tool to allow creationism (i.e. religion) in state public schools. atheists.org - 2525 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ray_Comfort%3A_Atheists_Are_the_Criminal_Offspring_of_Adam Tue, 03 May 2011 09:22:10 -0400 (May 3rd, 2011) - Before heading off to Israel, Ray Comfort of Living Waters penned a blog post about "the revival of the senselessness of atheism." atheists.org - 2529 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Jihadi_Revolution_is_Dead_%28But_Bin_Laden%E2%80%99s_Death_Didn%E2%80%99t_Kill_It%29_ Tue, 03 May 2011 13:47:33 -0400 (May 3rd, 2011) - In the first moments after the announcement that Osama bin Laden had been killed by an American military raid in Pakistan, some commentators observed that the War on Terror was also, now, officially dead. atheists.org - 2530 http://www.atheists.org/news/NDOP%2C_PRAY-FOR-RAIN_PROTESTS_SCHEDULED_FOR_THURSDAY Tue, 03 May 2011 16:01:05 -0400 (May 3rd, 2011) - From Atlanta, GA. to Boise, Idaho, atheists and fellow First Amendment activists will be protesting the National Day of Prayer, and calls by governors in two states that citizens pray for relief from inclement weather. atheists.org - 2531 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Official_Wachs_Charged_With_Simulating_Sex_Act Wed, 04 May 2011 12:10:28 -0400 (May 4th, 2011) - In her second arrest this year, the Atheists of Florida's legal coordinator was jailed Sunday on a charge of simulating a sex act in the presence of a 10-year-old boy. atheists.org - 2532 http://www.atheists.org/news/Does_the_Sun-Sentinel_Hate_Atheists%3F Wed, 04 May 2011 17:32:41 -0400 (May 4th, 2011) - Could the Sun-Sentinel's corporate overlords at Tribune Co. please explain why Barbara Hijek has a job? atheists.org - 2533 http://www.atheists.org/news/DAVE_SILVERMAN_ON_CBC_FRIDAY_--_RAPTURE%2C_BILLBOARDS_%26_MORE_ Thu, 05 May 2011 13:23:06 -0400 (May 5th, 2011) - Dave Silverman, President of American Atheist will be interviewed on the Canadian Broadcasting Co. tomorrow (Friday, May 5, 2011) beginning at approximately 7:38 AM ET. Tune in to CBC Radio One for The Current, an public affairs program hosted by Erica Johnson. atheists.org - 2535 http://www.atheists.org/news/Are_Atheists_More_Moral_Than_the_Religious%3F Thu, 05 May 2011 18:54:59 -0400 (May 5th, 2011) - An interesting Washington Post op-ed last week written by Gregory Paul and Phil Zuckerman on atheism makes the point that while atheists, in many respects, are actually more ethical than people of faith, they still face distrust and criticism. atheists.org - 2536 http://www.atheists.org/news/Cobb_Holds_Prayer_Breakfast%2C_Group_Protests_Outside_ Thu, 05 May 2011 19:20:11 -0400 (May 5th, 2011) - The event coincided with today's National Day of Prayer. atheists.org - 2537 http://www.atheists.org/news/Yes%2C_they_have_no_religion_%E2%80%94_and_they_feel_misunderstood Fri, 06 May 2011 11:21:42 -0400 (May 6th, 2011) - Stockton atheists, standing up to be counted, have put up "Godless" billboards on Highway 99 - even as elsewhere Christian billboards warn the world ends May 21. atheists.org - 2538 http://www.atheists.org/news/Creationism_on_the_rise_in_Texas%3F Fri, 06 May 2011 11:50:07 -0400 (May 6th, 2011) - Everything is bigger in Texas, the saying goes, which is why advocates for science education are concerned about proposed supplemental, web-based instructional materials for biology courses that appear to promote creationist arguments. atheists.org - 2539 http://www.atheists.org/news/Righteous_Anger_Sweeps_AA_Convention_--_A_Report_From_Jane_Everhart Fri, 06 May 2011 17:45:32 -0400 (May 6th, 2011) - Des Moines, Iowa-Righteous anger, apparently long pent-up, permeated the corridors of the hotel, hung in the air, pervaded nearly every speech and panel and was so prevalent you could almost chop your hand through it in the air at the American Atheists (AA) convention in this Midwest city atheists.org - 2540 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jews_and_Muslims_united_for_sharia%3F Fri, 06 May 2011 19:58:48 -0400 (May 6th, 2011) - We're a bit late to this one, but Ron Kampeas of JTA has a fascinating recent piece on fears that anti-sharia initiatives brewing around the country could also threaten observance of traditional Jewish law, or halachah. atheists.org - 2541 http://www.atheists.org/news/Doomsday_Cranks_Descend_On_Washington%2C_Ironies_Abound_ Sat, 07 May 2011 12:02:08 -0400 (May 7th, 2011) - Do you have plans for the summer of 2011? I know I do. I'm going to visit London, and redecorate my apartment, and maybe go see some movies or something. atheists.org - 2542 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge_Gives_Embattled_Atheist_Ellenbeth_Wachs_Bail_and_A_Warning Sat, 07 May 2011 13:53:57 -0400 (May 7th, 2011) - A circuit judge granted bail Friday for Ellenbeth Wachs, the embattled legal coordinator for the Atheists of Florida who's facing criminal allegations that she made sexual noises inside her home that were heard by a 10-year-old neighbor. atheists.org - 2543 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_billboard_sparks_controversy_in_OC Sun, 08 May 2011 13:42:09 -0400 (May 8th, 2011) - There is a billboard controversy in Orange County. atheists.org - 2544 http://www.atheists.org/news/Spiritual_scientists_without_God Mon, 09 May 2011 10:37:01 -0400 (May 9th, 2011) - I’ve mentioned Elaine Ecklund’s research before on ‘spiritual atheists.’ Though I had a hard time understanding the thrust of her conclusions or inferences on occasion atheists.org - 2545 http://www.atheists.org/news/Paul_Thomas_Anderson%5C%27s_Scientology_Movie_Bought_By_Weinstein_Company_ Mon, 09 May 2011 21:39:35 -0400 (May 9th, 2011) - It's not uncommon for a film to hit out at organized religion, but a long-gestating Paul Thomas Anderson script is ready to do the uncomfortable: take on, in metaphor, the Hollywood-centric Church of Scientology. atheists.org - 2546 http://www.atheists.org/news/Unleashed%3A_Who_will_care_for_pets_left_behind_after_Judgment_Day%3F__Atheists. Tue, 10 May 2011 18:31:59 -0400 (May 10th, 2011) - In case you'd forgotten, the Rapture is coming in 11 Days. Who will care for the pets of those swept up to join the Lord? atheists.org - 2547 http://www.atheists.org/news/Public_prayer_constitutional_amendment_heading_to_Missouri_voters Tue, 10 May 2011 18:34:01 -0400 (May 10th, 2011) - A proposed constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to privately pray in public places, including schools, unanimously cleared the Missouri Senate Tuesday and will appear on the ballot in November 2012. atheists.org - 2548 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens%3A_A_fading_voice_ Tue, 10 May 2011 20:56:18 -0400 (May 10th, 2011) - Christopher Hitchens, one of the most incisive voices of the last three decades, is marking the end of his ability to speak in a moving article for Vanity Fair. atheists.org - 2550 http://www.atheists.org/news/Online_Creationist_Textbook_Proposed_In_Texas_ Wed, 11 May 2011 13:12:01 -0400 (May 11th, 2011) - An online biology textbook up for approval by the Texas State Board of Education is drawing fire from scientific and education groups for tacitly pushing creationism. atheists.org - 2551 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_the_world_might_end_next_Saturday Wed, 11 May 2011 15:28:28 -0400 (May 11th, 2011) - A group of Christian activists believe the apocalypse is May 21. We look at the evidence, and the man behind it atheists.org - 2552 http://www.atheists.org/news/May_21%2C_2011%3A_Judgment_day%3F_Atheists_scoff_ Wed, 11 May 2011 19:43:26 -0400 (May 11th, 2011) - Is the judgment day coming on May 21, 2011? One group of Christians with a radio show is spreading the word that the rapture is happening this month, and you’d better be ready. atheists.org - 2553 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_challenges_C-Street_Congressman_in_Democratic_Primary Thu, 12 May 2011 16:39:30 -0400 (May 12th, 2011) - Atheist city councilman Cecil Bothwell, has recently declared his intention to run for North Carolina’s 11th Congressional district against fellow Democrat Joseph Heath Shuler. atheists.org - 2554 http://www.atheists.org/news/Philadelphia_skeptics_set_to_poke_fun_at_Friday_the_13th Fri, 13 May 2011 12:44:09 -0400 (May 13th, 2011) - Skeptics, heathens, and infidels can have a field day Friday night, smashing mirrors, walking under ladders, and sipping cocktails with famously outspoken atheists. atheists.org - 2555 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_Atheists_are_Saying_About_May_21%2C_2011_%5C%22Rapture%5C%22 Fri, 13 May 2011 17:50:13 -0400 (May 13th, 2011) - We've all heard from Harold Camping and his dire prediction that May 21, 2011 will be the Armageddon -- the day Jesus comes back to earth to take his believers to Heaven, sending everyone else down South. atheists.org - 2556 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_Atheists_are_Saying_About_May_21%2C_2011_%5C%22Rapture%5C%22 Sat, 14 May 2011 18:21:43 -0400 (May 14th, 2011) - We've all heard from Harold Camping and his dire prediction that May 21, 2011 will be the Armageddon -- the day Jesus comes back to earth to take his believers to Heaven, sending everyone else down South. atheists.org - 2557 http://www.atheists.org/news/Robert_Fitzpatrick_Spent_Life_Savings_Telling_People_World_Will_End_May_21%2C_2011_ Sat, 14 May 2011 18:45:48 -0400 (May 14th, 2011) - Robert Fitzpatrick does not lack conviction. The 60-year-old ex-MTA employee has plunked down $140,000, his life savings, to help spread the word that the world will end on May 21, 2011. atheists.org - 2558 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tim_Rutten%3A_Catholic_scholars_vs._John_Boehner Sun, 15 May 2011 17:02:55 -0400 (May 15th, 2011) - At the nation's Roman Catholic universities, controversy over the choice of commencement speakers has become almost as regular an annual ritual as graduation itself. atheists.org - 2559 http://www.atheists.org/news/Selling_the_Idea_of_a_Christian_Nation%3A_David_Barton%E2%80%99s_Alternate_Intellectual_Universe_ Sun, 15 May 2011 17:44:15 -0400 (May 15th, 2011) - Barton’s ideological entrepreneurialism does not rely on historical scholarship—but it doesn’t need to. Gomer Pyle charisma in service of a Christian Nation atheists.org - 2560 http://www.atheists.org/news/Supreme_Court_declines_to_hear_%5C%27So_help_me_God%5C%27_lawsuit Mon, 16 May 2011 15:11:33 -0400 (May 16th, 2011) - Michael Newdow, whose previous First Amendment challenge sought to strike 'under God' from the Pledge of Allegiance, tried to block the use of 'So help me God' in the inauguration ceremony. atheists.org - 2561 http://www.atheists.org/news/Should_atheists_attack_end_of_times_prediction%3F_ Mon, 16 May 2011 15:29:10 -0400 (May 16th, 2011) - The key to success in predicting the end of the world is consistency. If it keeps getting predicted from generation to generation, eventually someone will get it right. atheists.org - 2562 http://www.atheists.org/news/Stephen_Hawking%3A_%5C%27There_Is_No_Heaven%5C%27_ Mon, 16 May 2011 15:56:34 -0400 (May 16th, 2011) - Famed theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking finds no room for heaven in his vision of the cosmos. atheists.org - 2563 http://www.atheists.org/news/Seattle_Atheists_collect_for_%5C%22Rapture_Relief_Fund%5C%22 Tue, 17 May 2011 15:00:34 -0400 (May 17th, 2011) - A fringe Christian group has been busy lately warning the world about the coming Rapture, which it claims will be here on May 21. atheists.org - 2564 http://www.atheists.org/news/Restraining_Order_Request_Dropped_Against_Atheist_Official Wed, 18 May 2011 15:41:53 -0400 (May 18th, 2011) - A neighbor had sought the order against Ellenbeth Wachs, an Atheists of Florida official.. atheists.org - 2565 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Scheduling_May_21st_%5C%27Rapture_Parties%5C%27 Wed, 18 May 2011 18:13:43 -0400 (May 18th, 2011) - This weekend, a confused elderly pastor will marshal his worldwide band of followers for judgment day while bored atheists plan theoretical good-riddance "Rapture parties" to mark the non-event. atheists.org - 2566 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sounding_The_Trumpet Thu, 19 May 2011 16:53:30 -0400 (May 19th, 2011) - A Portrait Of True Believers In The 'End of the World' atheists.org - 2567 http://www.atheists.org/news/This_Saturday%E2%80%99s_Rapture%3A_What_You_Need_To_Know_ Thu, 19 May 2011 17:11:36 -0400 (May 19th, 2011) - The world is ending this weekend … or is it? atheists.org - 2569 http://www.atheists.org/news/Moses_Kaput%21_New%2C_Christian_Ten_Commandments_To_Serve_Looming_Theocracy Thu, 19 May 2011 23:43:42 -0400 (May 19th, 2011) - So, did you think religion would get gov't off your back? atheists.org - 2570 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_End_of_the_World_As_We_Know_It%3F_Prediction_of_Saturday_%5C%27Rapture%5C%27_is_Fuel_for_Faithful%2C_Doubters Fri, 20 May 2011 00:23:21 -0400 (May 20th, 2011) - RALEIGH, North Carolina -- For some, it's Judgment Day. For others, it's party time. atheists.org - 2571 http://www.atheists.org/news/Another_Handy_Guide_to_TEOTWAWKI Fri, 20 May 2011 16:33:18 -0400 (May 20th, 2011) - And this one goes back 5000 years! atheists.org - 2572 http://www.atheists.org/news/Student_challenges_prayer_at_Bastrop_graduation Fri, 20 May 2011 18:19:34 -0400 (May 20th, 2011) - hreatens to contact ACLU if prayer is offered atheists.org - 2573 http://www.atheists.org/news/Harold_Camping_is_at_the_heart_of_a_mediapocalypse Fri, 20 May 2011 22:32:00 -0400 (May 20th, 2011) - Doomsday predictor Harold Camping is less than rapturous over the focus on him as a result of his prediction that the world will end Saturday. atheists.org - 2575 http://www.atheists.org/news/With_Reason_on_Their_Side%3A_Is_Secularism_a_Movement%3F_ Fri, 20 May 2011 23:12:49 -0400 (May 20th, 2011) - With news last week that Pitzer College, a small liberal arts college in California, is instituting the first ever major in "secular studies," it is clear that sociologists need to catch up with what is rapidly becoming a "movement" of sorts. atheists.org - 2576 http://www.atheists.org/news/Oakland_Atheists_Mount_Anti-Rapture_Billboard%2C_Host_Rapture_Day_Party Fri, 20 May 2011 23:22:55 -0400 (May 20th, 2011) - The East Bay Express this week pointed us to the "coffee klatsch" of local atheists behind this billboard, near the foot of the Bay Bridge, which cost $27,000 to produce. atheists.org - 2577 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rapture_2011%3A_Other_%5C%27End_Of_The_World%5C%27_Predictions_From_Around_The_World_%28PHOTOS%29_ Sat, 21 May 2011 16:29:44 -0400 (May 21st, 2011) - A fringe Christian radio group's prediction that "Judgment Day" will be upon us May 21 has created an international sensation, with devotees vowing to repent for their sins as atheists plan to party it up in the last 24 hours before the "rapture." atheists.org - 2578 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rapture%3A_the_end_was_not_nigh%2C_after_all Sat, 21 May 2011 16:38:16 -0400 (May 21st, 2011) - The apocalypse did not arrive at 6pm on May 21st, despite the predictions by Christian doomsday prophet Harold Camping. atheists.org - 2579 http://www.atheists.org/news/Broadcaster_silent_as_%5C%22Judgment_Day%5C%22_hours_tick_by Sat, 21 May 2011 16:58:22 -0400 (May 21st, 2011) - With no sign of Judgment Day arriving as he had forecast, the 89-year-old California evangelical broadcaster and former civil engineer behind the pronouncement seemed to have gone silent on Saturday. atheists.org - 2580 http://www.atheists.org/news/Harold_Camping%3A_Rapture_fails_to_arrive_in_Europe%3B_atheist_party_to_begin_in_Oakland Sat, 21 May 2011 18:38:21 -0400 (May 21st, 2011) - The rapture has so far failed to materialize as predicted by an Oakland-based evangelical broadcaster, who warned that each time zone would experience cataclysmic events Saturday at 6 p.m. atheists.org - 2581 http://www.atheists.org/news/No_Rapture%2C_No_Judgment%3A_May_21_Doomsday_Prediction_Fails Sat, 21 May 2011 18:57:27 -0400 (May 21st, 2011) - Are you relieved or disappointed? Doomsday came and went without a peep, as May 21 failed to bring about earthquakes, a rapture or the mass excavation of all the world's dead. atheists.org - 2582 http://www.atheists.org/news/Believers%5C%27_Reactions_Mixed_to_Unfulfilled_Doomsday Sun, 22 May 2011 09:22:40 -0400 (May 22nd, 2011) - The hour of the apocalypse came quietly and went the same way — leaving those who believed that Saturday evening would mark the world's end confused, or more faithful, or just philosophical. atheists.org - 2583 http://www.atheists.org/news/Separation_of_Church_and_State_Gets_High_School_Senior_Bullied_in_Louisiana Sun, 22 May 2011 19:57:32 -0400 (May 22nd, 2011) - The Separation of Church and State is guaranteed for every American citizen under the First Amendment. atheists.org - 2584 http://www.atheists.org/news/May_21_%5C%27Judgment_Day%5C%27_Believers_React_To_Being_Alive_On_May_22_ Sun, 22 May 2011 21:32:09 -0400 (May 22nd, 2011) - 'Judgment Day' came and went on Saturday, and John Ramsey hasn't been able to sleep. atheists.org - 2585 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_atheist_perspective%3A_Laughing_off_the_%5C%27Rapture%5C%27_when_we_should_be_laughing_off_religion Mon, 23 May 2011 18:17:26 -0400 (May 23rd, 2011) - So no Rapture this weekend, eh? atheists.org - 2586 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judgment_Day_Predictor_Harold_Camping_Speaks_Out_%28Live_Blog%29_ Tue, 24 May 2011 00:26:45 -0400 (May 24th, 2011) - Harold Camping, the California preacher who via his multimillion-dollar Christian Family Radio stations had convinced a few thousand followers that the Rapture would happen on May 21, spoke at length for the first time Monday evening since his failed prediction. atheists.org - 2587 http://www.atheists.org/news/Do_atheists_have_better_sex%3F Tue, 24 May 2011 18:09:13 -0400 (May 24th, 2011) - A poll finds they enjoy themselves more than believers -- but is it because of skill, or just less guilt? atheists.org - 2589 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christians_study_Bible_under_atheist_billboard Tue, 24 May 2011 23:05:38 -0400 (May 24th, 2011) - A group of Christians who have been gathering to conduct Bible studies under a "Godless billboard" erected by a national atheist organization say they will do so until the sign comes down. atheists.org - 2590 http://www.atheists.org/news/Seattle_Atheists_Demand_Fraud_Investigation_into_Harold_Camping%5C%27s_Doomsday_Debacle Wed, 25 May 2011 17:23:41 -0400 (May 25th, 2011) - A whole bunch of people invested a whole bunch of money into spreading the word that the world would end on May 21. atheists.org - 2591 http://www.atheists.org/news/Irish_Church%5C%27s_Forgotten_Victims_Take_Case_to_U.N. Wed, 25 May 2011 17:44:25 -0400 (May 25th, 2011) - For years, it was Ireland’s hidden scandal: an estimated 30,000 women were sent to church-run laundries, where they were abused and worked for years with no pay. atheists.org - 2592 http://www.atheists.org/news/Taxpayers_To_Build_the_Ark%3A_Kentucky_Grants_Creationist_Theme_Park_%2443M_in_Tax_Incentives Wed, 25 May 2011 20:33:36 -0400 (May 25th, 2011) - Last week, Kentucky's state tourism board approved up to $43 million in tax incentives for the construction of Ark Encounter, a creationist theme park. atheists.org - 2593 http://www.atheists.org/news/Has_Atheism_Become_a_Religion%3F_ Thu, 26 May 2011 16:32:55 -0400 (May 26th, 2011) - Before you dismiss the question out of hand, consider these four inter-related bits of evidence: atheists.org - 2595 http://www.atheists.org/news/La._senators_reject_repeal_of_science_act Thu, 26 May 2011 22:25:47 -0400 (May 26th, 2011) - A Louisiana law that allows public school science teachers to use supplemental materials in their classrooms in addition to state-approved textbooks will stay on the books. atheists.org - 2596 http://www.atheists.org/news/Amnesty_rapped_over_caning_criticism Thu, 26 May 2011 23:41:59 -0400 (May 26th, 2011) - A CALL by Amnesty International to end the barbaric practice of caning in the province of Banda Aceh, Indonesia, stems from the organisation’s “dislike” of Islam , and its “ignorance” of sharia law. atheists.org - 2597 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_creationists_tour_France_denouncing_Darwin Fri, 27 May 2011 11:44:24 -0400 (May 27th, 2011) - Four years after they first frightened France, Muslim creationists are back touring the country preaching against evolution and claiming the Koran predicted many modern scientific discoveries. atheists.org - 2598 http://www.atheists.org/news/Veterans_defending_%5C%27religious%2C_offensive%5C%27_memorials Fri, 27 May 2011 17:15:27 -0400 (May 27th, 2011) - A patriotic veterans organization is defending memorials to fallen Utah Highway Patrol officers and is taking the case to the U.S. Supreme Court with help from the Liberty Institute. atheists.org - 2599 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rapture_Ready%3A_The_Science_of_Self_Delusion Fri, 27 May 2011 20:26:49 -0400 (May 27th, 2011) - Why Harold Camping's flock won't give up the faith. atheists.org - 2600 http://www.atheists.org/news/British_physicist%E2%80%99s_%E2%80%98No_heaven%E2%80%99_comment_continues_to_spark_debate_ Sun, 29 May 2011 09:10:52 -0400 (May 28th, 2011) - Several Oklahomans, including believers and nonbelievers, share their views about British physicist Stephen Hawking’s assertion that heaven is simply “a fairy story.” atheists.org - 2601 http://www.atheists.org/news/Philosophy_Lite%3A_Atheist_defiant_in_the_face_of_death Sun, 29 May 2011 09:13:09 -0400 (May 29th, 2011) - Christopher Hitchens is one of the world's leading atheists today, but he may not be with us much longer. atheists.org - 2602 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Devil_wears_evolution_ Sun, 29 May 2011 18:03:32 -0400 (May 29th, 2011) - I have looked the enemy of godlessness in the eye and that devil's name is evolution! atheists.org - 2603 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Call_for_Fraud_Probe_Into_Family_Radio%5C%27s_Rapture_Deception Mon, 30 May 2011 23:08:54 -0400 (May 30th, 2011) - While there has been no shortage of jokes surrounding Harold Camping's rapture prediction, at least one group is calling for a serious investigation for fraud. atheists.org - 2604 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27God%5C%27_Motto_on_Election_Stickers_Stirs_Controversy_in_Ohio Tue, 31 May 2011 18:03:46 -0400 (May 31st, 2011) - Voting stickers on election day are common and popular in Ohio, but when it comes to including the state’s motto, “With God, All Things are Possible,” on them, it has generated controversy in the Buckeye state. atheists.org - 2605 http://www.atheists.org/news/Remembering_atheists_in_foxholes_on_Memorial_Day Tue, 31 May 2011 22:17:33 -0400 (May 31st, 2011) - Those who remember the heroism of soldiers like Pat Tillman (Born November 6, 1976 in Fremont, California – Killed in Action April 22, 2004, Sperah Afghanistan), an avowed atheist who gave up a lucrative pro-football career to join the Army Rangers, may think that old canard, "there are no atheists in foxholes," no longer has any currency. atheists.org - 2606 http://www.atheists.org/news/Late_Returns%3A_God_Gives_Bachmann_The_All-Clear_ Tue, 31 May 2011 22:25:29 -0400 (May 31st, 2011) - Apparently, Michele Bachmann is now confirming that she has received the long-awaited go-ahead from the Lord on her presidential run. Per Eric Kleefeld, she revealed that she had received His blessing in an interview with Iowa Public Television: atheists.org - 2607 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_file_lawsuit_after_bus_ad_rejected Wed, 01 Jun 2011 18:21:27 -0400 (June 1st, 2011) - An national atheist organization filed a federal lawsuit today against the Central Arkansas Transit Authority over its rejection of an atheist ad the group wanted to place on the sides of city buses. atheists.org - 2608 http://www.atheists.org/news/Conflicting_Reports_Over_Death_Of_Katya_Koren%2C_19-Year-Old_Muslim_Beauty_Queen%2C_Emerge_ Wed, 01 Jun 2011 19:00:25 -0400 (June 1st, 2011) - Ukrainian officials have slammed media claims that a teenage beauty queen was stoned to death by three Muslim suspects who alleged the 19-year-old violated Sharia law by participating in pageants. atheists.org - 2609 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bay_Area_Atheists_Keep_Focus_On_Polk_School_Board%5C%27s_Prayer_Issue Wed, 01 Jun 2011 23:29:05 -0400 (June 1st, 2011) - Since February, atheists from Pinellas and Hillsborough counties have made appearances before the Polk County School Board requesting that it no longer pray at its meetings. atheists.org - 2610 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_Christopher_Hitchens_a_Religious_Apologist%3F Thu, 02 Jun 2011 10:28:03 -0400 (June 2nd, 2011) - The popular atheist writer/blogger Greta Christina calls one of Hitchens’ ideas about religion a “terrible argument.” atheists.org - 2611 http://www.atheists.org/news/Michele_Bachmann_thinks_the_world_is_ending_and_the_pope_is_the_antichrist Thu, 02 Jun 2011 10:43:54 -0400 (June 2nd, 2011) - Mother Jones writes about Rep. Michele Bachmann's, R-Minn., connections to Olive Tree Ministries, an evangelical Christian operation founded by a former Jew for Jesus and longtime friend of Bachmann's named Jan Markell. atheists.org - 2612 http://www.atheists.org/news/Republican_Presidential_Candidates_To_Address_Evangelical_Christians_At_Faith_And_Freedom_Coalition_ Thu, 02 Jun 2011 20:45:12 -0400 (June 2nd, 2011) - When the Faith and Freedom Coalition kicks off its annual conference on Friday with a who's who lineup of conservative political speakers, it will be a coming out for a little-known organization aiming to become a powerful new force of the religious right. atheists.org - 2613 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_Experiences_Shrink_Part_of_the_Brain Fri, 03 Jun 2011 19:34:22 -0400 (June 3rd, 2011) - A study links life-changing religious experiences, like being born again, with atrophy in the hippocampus atheists.org - 2614 http://www.atheists.org/news/Court_Lifts_Prayer_Ban_At_Texas_High_School_Graduation_ Fri, 03 Jun 2011 21:33:10 -0400 (June 3rd, 2011) - Public prayer will be allowed at a Texas high school graduation after a federal appeals court on Friday reversed a ban won by an agnostic family that claimed ceremony traditions such as invocations were unconstitutional. atheists.org - 2615 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_gives_deposition_in_Lakeland_prayer_case Sat, 04 Jun 2011 10:15:37 -0400 (June 4th, 2011) - Today Ellenbeth Wachs, legal coordinator for the Atheists of Florida and the plaintiff in a lawsuit against the City of Lakeland was finally able to give her deposition in that case, thus allowing the case to move forward. atheists.org - 2616 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_in_Dublin_for_Religion_Censure_ Sat, 04 Jun 2011 14:54:40 -0400 (June 4th, 2011) - Amid reports about its growing atheist population, the Irish capital is hosting this weekend the world's first atheist convention, raising questions on the constitution of Europe’s most religious nation. atheists.org - 2617 http://www.atheists.org/news/Stepford_Wives_Club_gains_a_new_branch_in_Malaysia%3B_obedience_is_the_watchword Sat, 04 Jun 2011 21:01:00 -0400 (June 4th, 2011) - COOKING for a husband and taking care of his clothes isn’t good enough; a dutiful wife needs to keep her man “entertained” as well. atheists.org - 2618 http://www.atheists.org/news/World_atheist_convention_chairman_of_irish_group_explains_atheist_%5C%27arrogance%5C%27 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 20:05:38 -0400 (June 5th, 2011) - ATHEISTS WERE arrogant “because we do not believe that the entire universe was created for our benefit”, Michael Nugent, chairman of Atheist Ireland told the convention. atheists.org - 2619 http://www.atheists.org/news/Attorney_general_exploits_graduation_prayer_fight Sun, 05 Jun 2011 22:00:36 -0400 (June 5th, 2011) - Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott chose the right venue for the stand he took last week on whether a prayer could be led at the Medina Valley High School graduation. atheists.org - 2620 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_creationists%2C_same_as_the_old_creationists Mon, 06 Jun 2011 12:09:07 -0400 (June 6th, 2011) - There were Muslims lurking about here at the Dublin conference, and I spent a few minutes talking to them and grabbing some of their literature. atheists.org - 2621 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Richard_Dawkins%3A_Delete_Church_Influence_in_Irish_Constitution Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:44:00 -0400 (June 6th, 2011) - Atheist spokesman Richard Dawkins, while in Ireland to attend the World Atheist Convention, said the Irish Constitution should be reformed to remove the influence of the church. atheists.org - 2622 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ayn_Rand_%5C%27Atheists%5C%27_vs._Liberal_Christians%3B_A_Battle_of_Dogma Mon, 06 Jun 2011 21:27:38 -0400 (June 6th, 2011) - Liberal Christians are attacking Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) for his budget due to the influence author Ayn Rand has had on his political beliefs. atheists.org - 2623 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_governor_convenes_day_of_prayer_and_fasting Tue, 07 Jun 2011 17:54:16 -0400 (June 7th, 2011) - On August 6, Texas Gov. Rick Perry wants you to drop the Texas BBQ, grab a moist towelette and fold your hands to pray. On Monday, Perry declared the date a “day of prayer and fasting for our nation’s challenges.” atheists.org - 2625 http://www.atheists.org/news/Six_in_10_Americans_wouldn%5C%27t_vote_for_an_atheist%3A_Good_news_for_New_Atheists%3F Tue, 07 Jun 2011 21:44:26 -0400 (June 7th, 2011) - Jerry Coyne is trying to do math. A new survey out from Pew finds that, as in 2007, 61% of Americans say they'd be less likely to vote for someone who did not believe in God. Coyne thinks: atheists.org - 2626 http://www.atheists.org/news/Nothing_Found_After_Psychic%5C%27s_Tip_Leads_To_Search_For_Bodies Tue, 07 Jun 2011 22:28:40 -0400 (June 7th, 2011) - The Liberty County Sheriff's Office initially said 25 to 30 bodies were reported on a property at the intersection of County Roads 2049 and 2048 between Hardin and Daisetta. atheists.org - 2627 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hitchens_feted_with_standing_ovation_at_UW_video_link_debate_ Wed, 08 Jun 2011 15:25:34 -0400 (June 8th, 2011) - Although prominent intellectual Christopher Hitchens wasn’t at the University of Waterloo in person for a scheduled debate this weekend, he was larger than life, bringing the audience to their feet in a standing ovation. atheists.org - 2628 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_Ayn_Rand%E2%80%99s_Atheism_An_Inconvenient_Truth%3F Wed, 08 Jun 2011 20:35:45 -0400 (June 8th, 2011) - Ayn Rand, novelist and conservative political thinker, has an impassioned following among some of today’s Republicans. They embrace her defense of laissez-faire capitalism and individualism. atheists.org - 2629 http://www.atheists.org/news/I_Do_Not_Believe_in_Atheism Thu, 09 Jun 2011 11:07:34 -0400 (June 9th, 2011) - I would say that many of us who are atheists would not view our position as a belief. Rather we would defend it as a fact. atheists.org - 2630 http://www.atheists.org/news/Editorial%3A_Provocations_and_convictions_ Thu, 09 Jun 2011 19:43:05 -0400 (June 9th, 2011) - It's possible to emblazon yourself with an expression of your atheism, or your ardent opposition to Christianity, without it being much of anyone else's business. atheists.org - 2631 http://www.atheists.org/news/Gwyneth_Paltrow%2C_homosexuality%2C_the_Bible_and_GOOP Thu, 09 Jun 2011 21:30:27 -0400 (June 9th, 2011) - The actress/advocate's misguided attempt to understand religious intolerance goes off track atheists.org - 2632 http://www.atheists.org/news/Secularism_to_the_rescue_of_the_Arab_Spring Fri, 10 Jun 2011 19:27:41 -0400 (June 10th, 2011) - Spring has come early this year to the Arab world. Climate change has awakened the once comatose Middle East from the stupor of singular leaderships. A new dawn of democracy and freedom is sprouting from Morocco to Oman. Or so we are told. atheists.org - 2633 http://www.atheists.org/news/Image_Of_Virgin_Mary_Appears_In_Bird_Dropping_On_Area_Family%E2%80%99s_Truck_ Fri, 10 Jun 2011 20:55:24 -0400 (June 10th, 2011) - An image of the Virgin Mary that appeared in a bird dropping on the side mirror of a Central Texas family’s truck is causing a neighborhood stir. atheists.org - 2634 http://www.atheists.org/news/Do_Atheists_Belong_in_the_Interfaith_Movement%3F_ Sat, 11 Jun 2011 09:01:57 -0400 (June 11th, 2011) - Yes, because interfaith work is not just a religions-only Kumbaya club... atheists.org - 2635 http://www.atheists.org/news/US_State_governors_invited_to_parade_their_Christian_piety_at_a_Texas_prayer_marathon Sat, 11 Jun 2011 19:13:43 -0400 (June 11th, 2011) - REPUBLICAN Rick Perry – who replaced George W Bush as Governor of Texas – is partnering with the crazy Christian American Family Association (AFA) to hold an all-day prayer event in Houston this August. Perry has invited his fellow governors to join him at the event to: atheists.org - 2636 http://www.atheists.org/news/God_Caught_Backing_Multiple_GOP_Candidates_for_President Sat, 11 Jun 2011 20:39:08 -0400 (June 11th, 2011) - After a thorough investigation, Daily Intel has discovered that God is separately backing at least three different contenders for the Republican presidential nomination. atheists.org - 2637 http://www.atheists.org/news/Utah_gathering_explores_what_it_means_to_be_Mormon_ Sun, 12 Jun 2011 08:53:54 -0400 (June 12th, 2011) - More than 150 gays and lesbians, fundamentalists and feminists, intellectuals, deists, atheists and true believers came together on Saturday to consider one question: What does it mean to be Mormon? atheists.org - 2638 http://www.atheists.org/news/Poll%3A_Egyptians_Don%5C%27t_Want_Theocracy_ Sun, 12 Jun 2011 16:25:23 -0400 (June 12th, 2011) - Four months after the fall of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, a new Gallup survey says a majority of Egyptians want religious leaders to advise the nation's officials but they do not want a theocracy. atheists.org - 2639 http://www.atheists.org/news/Report%3A_Perry%5C%27s_religious_giving_below_average_ Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:44:49 -0400 (June 12th, 2011) - Gov. Rick Perry, who often displays his faith at prayer breakfast speeches and has called the nation's governors to a prayer meeting, has fallen far short of the scriptural mandate for financial support for the church, according to a published report Sunday. atheists.org - 2640 http://www.atheists.org/news/Perry_Prayer_Event_Faces_New_Criticism Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:44:03 -0400 (June 13th, 2011) - Gov. Rick Perry’s call for a “day of prayer and fasting on behalf of our troubled nation,” which has been criticized for being exclusively Christian, is open to people of any faith — “who will feel the love, grace and warmth of Jesus Christ in that assembly hall,” the event’s chief spokesman explained on Monday in a statement that provoked new charges that the event is intended to convert non-Christians. atheists.org - 2642 http://www.atheists.org/news/More_curiosity_about_atheists%3F Tue, 14 Jun 2011 15:23:56 -0400 (June 14th, 2011) - Josh Rosenau has a post up discussing the impact of “New Atheism” on public perceptions of atheists. atheists.org - 2643 http://www.atheists.org/news/High_court_spurns_atheist%5C%27s_%5C%27under_God%5C%27_challenge Wed, 15 Jun 2011 10:15:07 -0400 (June 15th, 2011) - A Sacramento atheist's challenge to the addition of "under God" to the Pledge of Allegiance, which stirred a legal and political frenzy nearly a decade ago, has quietly expired in the U.S. Supreme Court. atheists.org - 2644 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_There_a_Place_for_Atheists_in_Alcoholics_Anonymous%3F Wed, 15 Jun 2011 18:44:04 -0400 (June 15th, 2011) - A long-simmering feud is spreading around the world, after one AA establishment voted to expel two atheist/agnostic groups in Canada. atheists.org - 2645 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Raise_Funds_For_Vandalized_Bend_Churches Thu, 16 Jun 2011 10:54:26 -0400 (June 16th, 2011) - Nearly $3,000 Raised and Growing Through Online Donations atheists.org - 2646 http://www.atheists.org/news/After_Controversy%2C_Baptists_Affirm_Belief_In_%5C%27Eternal%5C%27_Hell_ Thu, 16 Jun 2011 11:35:11 -0400 (June 16th, 2011) - Southern Baptists on Wednesday called hell an "eternal, conscious punishment" for those who do not accept Jesus, rebutting a controversial book from Michigan pastor Rob Bell that questions traditional views of hell. atheists.org - 2647 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bachmann%5C%27s_Unrivaled_Extremism Thu, 16 Jun 2011 13:23:06 -0400 (June 16th, 2011) - Rep. Michele Bachmann's impressive performance at Monday's debate has catapulted her near the front of the GOP pack, but the radical roots of her ideology remain poorly understood. The Daily Beast’s Michelle Goldberg reports. atheists.org - 2648 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Atheist_in_the_Closet_ Fri, 17 Jun 2011 18:19:58 -0400 (June 17th, 2011) - Who has the bigger closet, gays or atheists? atheists.org - 2649 http://www.atheists.org/news/HB580%3A_%E2%80%98stealth_creationism_bill%E2%80%99_or_budget_facilitator%3F_ Sat, 18 Jun 2011 18:02:54 -0400 (June 18th, 2011) - The Louisiana Senate is expected to pass a controversial bill the Louisiana Coalition For Science (LCFS) fears is an end-around to allow creationism in public classrooms. atheists.org - 2650 http://www.atheists.org/news/Religious_and_atheist_groups_tackle_%2442-billion_human_trafficking_industry Sat, 18 Jun 2011 21:32:27 -0400 (June 18th, 2011) - e than 27 million people, mostly women and children, are said to be victims of human trafficking, mostly for enforced labour and prostitution. atheists.org - 2651 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_fed_up%3F_Believe_it%21 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 17:52:34 -0400 (June 19th, 2011) - Many of the millions of Americans who do not believe in the supernatural have had enough of being targeted by unremitting discrimination. atheists.org - 2652 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Angry_With_%5C%27Seven_in_Heaven%5C%27_Sign_Honoring_9%2F11_Firefighters Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:14:03 -0400 (June 20th, 2011) - There's a new street sign hanging on Richards Street in Red Hook that honors seven firefighters from Engine 202 and Ladder 101 who were killed in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. atheists.org - 2653 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_in_American_politics Tue, 21 Jun 2011 18:55:44 -0400 (June 21st, 2011) - his op-ed column, Gregory Paul wrote, "Long after blacks and Jews have made great strides, and even as homosexuals gain respect, acceptance and new rights, there is still a group that lots of Americans just don't like much: atheists." atheists.org - 2654 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists%5C%27_Dave_Silverman_Optimistic_About_Atheist_Political_Candidates_in_Our_Lifetimes Wed, 22 Jun 2011 16:08:41 -0400 (June 22nd, 2011) - There are ten times as many atheists as Mormons, David Pakman noted, when introducing the American Atheists' president Dave Silverman to his radio program on June 21. atheists.org - 2655 http://www.atheists.org/news/Evangelical_Leaders_See_Secularism_as_Greater_Threat_Than_Islam Wed, 22 Jun 2011 20:45:45 -0400 (June 22nd, 2011) - Despite many who have criticized Islam, Evangelical leaders around the world say they do not see Muslims as as much of a threat to their faith as secularism and popular culture. atheists.org - 2656 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scientology%5C%27s_Enemies_List%3A_Are_You_On_It%3F Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:11:00 -0400 (June 23rd, 2011) - Another intriguing Scientology document was leaked today by Marty Rathbun, the former high-ranking official who left the church in 2004. atheists.org - 2657 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dutch_Court_Acquits_Anti-Islam_Lawmaker_ Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:35:21 -0400 (June 23rd, 2011) - Dutch far-right member of parliament Geert Wilders was acquitted of all charges in his hate speech trial in Amsterdam. atheists.org - 2658 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_to_protest_Harrisburg_mayor_Linda_Thompson Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:02:26 -0400 (June 24th, 2011) - Linda Thompson, mayor of Harrisburg, has recently received national and local media coverage because of open participation and endorsement of a period of three days of prayer and fasting in her official capacity as mayor. atheists.org - 2659 http://www.atheists.org/news/Sex%2C_Love%2C_Revenge_..._and_Atheism%3F_Finally%2C_a_Big_New_Film_That_Shows_Non-Belief_in_a_Positive_Ligh Fri, 24 Jun 2011 22:56:12 -0400 (June 24th, 2011) - "The Ledge" is smart, riveting, complex, emotionally engaging, visually gorgeous... and best of all, almost entirely unpredictable. atheists.org - 2660 http://www.atheists.org/news/Woman_files_lawsuit_against_county_sheriff Sat, 25 Jun 2011 11:25:55 -0400 (June 25th, 2011) - EllenBeth Wachs, the Atheists of Florida's twice-jailed legal coordinator, filed a federal lawsuit Friday against Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, claiming her recent arrests were retaliation against her non-religious views. atheists.org - 2661 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_set_to_make_a_big_breakthrough Sat, 25 Jun 2011 13:23:05 -0400 (June 25th, 2011) - NON-BELIEVERS are being asked to rally in support of a new movie – The Ledge – which, if successful – could project the positive aspects of atheism to millions of viewers all over the world. atheists.org - 2662 http://www.atheists.org/news/Florida_Suit_Says_Arrests_Are_Retaliation_for_Atheism Sun, 26 Jun 2011 21:29:52 -0400 (June 26th, 2011) - n atheist in Central Florida filed suit in Federal District Court in Tampa on Friday, accusing the Polk County sheriff, an evangelical Christian, of harassing and unnecessarily arresting her as retaliation for not believing in God and for her efforts to keep prayer out of public meetings. atheists.org - 2663 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Stealth_creationism_bill%5C%27_may_be_dead_for_this_Legislative_session_ Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:57:55 -0400 (June 27th, 2011) - proposal opponents call a “stealth creationism bill” failed to pass the Louisiana Senate Tuesday, June 21, potentially killing it for the session. atheists.org - 2664 http://www.atheists.org/news/N.Y._Catholic_bishop%3A_Shun_lawmakers_over_gay_marriage_vote Tue, 28 Jun 2011 09:50:59 -0400 (June 28th, 2011) - New York’s state’s Catholic bishops continue to blast the state’s passage of gay marriage this week, with one bishop calling on Catholic schools and other institutions to shun lawmakers in protest of the vote. atheists.org - 2665 http://www.atheists.org/news/Perry%5C%27s_Prayer-Palooza Tue, 28 Jun 2011 15:28:34 -0400 (June 28th, 2011) - I'm fairly certain that God doesn't want anything to do with this goober's show. atheists.org - 2666 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_should_study_gay_political_playbook Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:10:35 -0400 (June 29th, 2011) - Atheists and agnostics have a lot to learn from gays about the essential role of coming out in any long-term battle for personal respect and political recognition in American society. atheists.org - 2668 http://www.atheists.org/news/Holy_Kudzu%21_Vine_In_NC_Town_Said_To_Resemble_Jesus_%28PHOTOS%29 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:16:44 -0400 (June 30th, 2011) - The Gospel of John quotes Jesus as saying "I am the true vine," and some folks in eastern North Carolina think they may have witnessed a literal demonstration. atheists.org - 2669 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Airplanes_to_Take_Flight_This_Fourth_of_July_%28In_States_That_Allow_Such_Things%29 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:37:06 -0400 (June 30th, 2011) - The group American Atheists has a suggestion for people who are looking for life's answers this Fourth of July: Look to the sky! atheists.org - 2670 http://www.atheists.org/news/Flying_over_Texas%3A_%E2%80%98God-LESS_America%E2%80%99_atheist_banners Fri, 01 Jul 2011 12:06:57 -0400 (July 1st, 2011) - A patriotic atheist banner will fly over Ranger Ballpark during the pregame Monday. This Fourth of July, American Atheists will fly banners above public events across the country, including the Texas Rangers game in Arlington. atheists.org - 2671 http://www.atheists.org/news/Giant_statue_of_Jesus_Christ_unveiled_in_Peru_ Fri, 01 Jul 2011 14:27:58 -0400 (July 1st, 2011) - One of the world's tallest statues of Jesus Christ has been inaugurated in Peru despite high level opposition and Facebook campaigns mocking it. atheists.org - 2672 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_Returns_Profit_After_Three_Years_In_Red%2C_But_Donations_Down_ Sat, 02 Jul 2011 14:39:36 -0400 (July 2nd, 2011) - The Vatican has returned to profit after three years in the red but donations from the faithful fell nearly euro15 million ($22 million), or 18 percent, amid tough economic times and a year in which the priest sex abuse scandal exploded. atheists.org - 2674 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%5C%27_aerial_banners_not_welcome_in_Pennsylvania_ Sun, 03 Jul 2011 18:20:04 -0400 (July 3rd, 2011) - Aerial banners reading “Atheism is Patriotic” and “Godless America” sponsored by American Atheists were supposed to fly over Pennsylvania for Independence Day, but plans fell through when pilots refused to fly these banners due to threats of job termination and violence. atheists.org - 2675 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pilots_Refuse_to_Fly_Atheist_%5C%27God-LESS_America%5C%27_Banners Mon, 04 Jul 2011 20:27:31 -0400 (July 4th, 2011) - A massive 80 percent of pilots from an aircraft advertising company have refused to fly banners by an atheist group reading “God-LESS America” and “Atheism is Patriotic” on Fourth of July. atheists.org - 2678 http://www.atheists.org/news/Egypt_needs_a_neutral_state Tue, 05 Jul 2011 22:58:07 -0400 (July 5th, 2011) - It is not possible to fully separate church from state in Egypt. A secularism that respects all religions is needed atheists.org - 2679 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_To_Sue_City_Over_%5C%27Heaven%5C%27_Street_Sign Wed, 06 Jul 2011 15:06:37 -0400 (July 6th, 2011) - First atheists complained about a street sign honoring first responders who died during the 9/11 attacks, and now they are plan on suing the City over the word "Heaven." atheists.org - 2680 http://www.atheists.org/news/Michele_Bachmann%5C%27s_Personal_Life_Goes_Under_The_Microscope Wed, 06 Jul 2011 20:40:06 -0400 (July 6th, 2011) - Now that Michele Bachmann is out on the stump and breaking upwards in most polls, it seems to be time to start putting her personal life through the media churn. atheists.org - 2681 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins_Torn_Limb_from_Limb_By_Atheists Fri, 08 Jul 2011 08:26:54 -0400 (July 8th, 2011) - Biologist, philosopher, and atheist prophet Richard Dawkins really put his foot in it. The New Statesman says Dawkin's career as a public intellectual is kaput. atheists.org - 2682 http://www.atheists.org/news/About_Mythbusters%2C_Robot_Eyes%2C_Feminism%2C_and_Jokes Fri, 08 Jul 2011 08:29:47 -0400 (July 8th, 2011) - Rebecca leads a team of skeptical female activists at Skepchick.org and appears on the weekly Skeptics' Guide to the Universe podcast. atheists.org - 2683 http://www.atheists.org/news/Will_Atheists_Rally_Behind_%E2%80%9CThe_Ledge%E2%80%9D%3F Fri, 08 Jul 2011 23:01:17 -0400 (July 8th, 2011) - Today in New York and Los Angeles, “The Ledge” premieres–see here for our Point of Inquiry episode–a landmark, by any reasonable estimation, in the cinematic depiction of atheism. atheists.org - 2684 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bradlee_Dean_Rants%3A_Michele_Bachmann-Linked_Preacher%5C%27s_Bigoted_Tirades_%28VIDEO%29 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 23:47:30 -0400 (July 8th, 2011) - If you thought evangelical preaching needed longer hair, tattoos, nu-metal drumming, and a ton of hate speech directed at gays, then Bradlee Dean is your guy. atheists.org - 2685 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_a_Progressive_Atheist_Defeat_the_Democrats%E2%80%99_%E2%80%9CFamily%E2%80%9D_Man_in_NC%3F_ Sat, 09 Jul 2011 10:50:08 -0400 (July 9th, 2011) - Congressman Heath Shuler is best known for a few things: his NFL career, his challenge of Nancy Pelosi for House Democratic Leadership, and his co-sponsorship of anti-abortion bills. atheists.org - 2686 http://www.atheists.org/news/US_presidential_hopeful_Michelle_Bachman_is_our_Imbecile_of_the_Week Sat, 09 Jul 2011 22:32:26 -0400 (July 9th, 2011) - A lunatic, right-wing Iowa-based Christian group called The Family Leader has concocted a pledge that opposes same-sex marriage, sharia law and pornography – and among the first sign the damn fool thing was Minnesota Republican Michelle Bachman, who her eyes firmly fixed on the White House. atheists.org - 2687 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins_Gets_into_a_Comments_War_with_Feminists Sun, 10 Jul 2011 17:32:53 -0400 (July 10th, 2011) - Players: Famed evolutionary biologist, Richard Dawkins; Rebecca Watson, female activist. atheists.org - 2688 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22The_Ledge%5C%22_Director_Matthew_Chapman_Calls_On_Atheists%3B_Is_He_Preaching_To_The_Choir%3F_ Sun, 10 Jul 2011 17:54:25 -0400 (July 10th, 2011) - When it comes to promoting his new thriller to an atheist audience, writer/director Matthew Chapman isn’t waiting on a miracle. atheists.org - 2689 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins%3A_Skeptic_of_women%3F Mon, 11 Jul 2011 08:47:23 -0400 (July 11th, 2011) - The famed nonbeliever goes after a female blogger for complaining about a creepy encounter with a male atheist Richard Dawkins, the atheist almighty, has in a fury thrown some rhetorical thunderbolts at someone he disagrees with. atheists.org - 2690 http://www.atheists.org/news/Michele_Bachmann_Clinic%3A_Where_You_Can_Pray_Away_the_Gay%3F Mon, 11 Jul 2011 19:18:18 -0400 (July 11th, 2011) - A former patient who sought help from the Christian counseling clinic owned by GOP presidential hopeful Michele Bachmann and her husband, Marcus, told ABC News he was advised that prayer could rid him of his homosexual urges and he could eventually be "re-oriented." atheists.org - 2691 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church_Addresses_Christian_Atheism Tue, 12 Jul 2011 15:19:14 -0400 (July 12th, 2011) - Last Christmas season, the American Atheists caused a media frenzy when they installed a billboard reading "You Know It's A Myth" outside the Lincoln Tunnel in North Bergen, N.J. atheists.org - 2692 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_Maher_explains_his_%5C%27apatheism%2C%5C%27_apathetic_atheism Tue, 12 Jul 2011 22:34:42 -0400 (July 12th, 2011) - Comedian Bill Maher sits down with Piers Morgan to talk about growing up Catholic and becoming an "apatheist," an apathetic atheist who just doesn't think much about religion. atheists.org - 2693 http://www.atheists.org/news/Street_name_%E2%80%9CSeven_in_Heaven_Way%E2%80%9D_upsets_American_Atheists Wed, 13 Jul 2011 12:34:00 -0400 (July 13th, 2011) - This summer, the city of Brooklyn renamed a neighborhood street “Seven in Heaven Way” to honor seven local firefighters who gave their lives on Sept. 11, 2001. A nice thought, right? atheists.org - 2694 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Activist_Wachs_Has_No_Plans_to_Back_Down Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:08:05 -0400 (July 14th, 2011) - She has been urged to kill herself and told she deserves to be boiled in oil or hung from a tree. Strangers have publicly suggested she leave Polk County. atheists.org - 2695 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scholars_call_for_inclusion_of_all_beliefs_in_Azhar_document_as_others_slam_it_ Fri, 15 Jul 2011 02:15:35 -0400 (July 15th, 2011) - While experts hailed an Al-Azhar document issued last month, labeling it a step toward restoring the Islamic institution’s status, they expressed some reservations during a press conference Wednesday. atheists.org - 2697 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bachmann%5C%27s_Former_Church_Defends_Anti-Catholic_Views_ Fri, 15 Jul 2011 10:39:14 -0400 (July 15th, 2011) - The Lutheran denomination that GOP presidential candidate Rep. Michele Bachmann quit in June sought to explain its belief that the papacy is the anti-Christ after reports questioned whether Bachmann is anti-Catholic. atheists.org - 2698 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Activist_Wachs_Has_No_Plans_to_Back_Down Sat, 16 Jul 2011 12:51:23 -0400 (July 16th, 2011) - She has been urged to kill herself and told she deserves to be boiled in oil or hung from a tree. Strangers have publicly suggested she leave Polk County. atheists.org - 2699 http://www.atheists.org/news/How_Well_Do_Miss_USA_Contestants_Represent_Their_States%3F Sat, 16 Jul 2011 17:52:03 -0400 (July 16th, 2011) - Last month , contestants in the Miss USA pageant were "scared to death," according to Fox News. Why were they so terrified? They feared "polarizing questions" asked in interviews taped before the pageant, including “Should evolution be taught in schools?” atheists.org - 2700 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church_Calls_Oprah_Antichrist%3A_Who_Else_Has_Been_Pinned_With_The_Title%3F_ Sun, 17 Jul 2011 09:39:09 -0400 (July 17th, 2011) - Oprah Winfrey is evil - that is, according to Mike Bickle, head of the International House of Prayer (IHOP). atheists.org - 2701 http://www.atheists.org/news/Steel_girders_shaped_like_cross_headed_back_to_Ground_Zero Mon, 18 Jul 2011 22:21:57 -0400 (July 18th, 2011) - Steel girders shaped like a cross that were rescued from the rubble of the destroyed World Trade Center days after the September 11, 2001, attacks are headed back to Ground Zero, organizers said on Monday. atheists.org - 2702 http://www.atheists.org/news/Republicanity%E2%80%99%E2%80%94The_GOP_Transformation_is_Nearly_Complete_ Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:04:03 -0400 (July 19th, 2011) - Let’s just face the facts and not kid ourselves anymore atheists.org - 2703 http://www.atheists.org/news/Muslim_convert_brutally_beaten_for_consuming_alcohol_%E2%80%93_in_Australia%21 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 15:35:20 -0400 (July 19th, 2011) - TWO young Muslims have been arrested in Australia following an attack on a 31-year-old man who recently converted to the religion of peace. atheists.org - 2704 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Also_Have_Rights Wed, 20 Jul 2011 15:41:08 -0400 (July 20th, 2011) - It seems a lot of people in Polk County have forgotten the words written in the First Amendment to the Constitution. "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press." atheists.org - 2705 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ricky_Gervais_Creates_Sitcom_on_Atheist_Who_Dies_and_Goes_to_Heaven Thu, 21 Jul 2011 11:21:25 -0400 (July 21st, 2011) - Self-proclaimed atheist Ricky Gervais is looking to shake things up some more, creating a new sitcom called the “Afterlife.” atheists.org - 2706 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dave_McNeely%3A_Atheists_did_Perry_a_favor_by_suing_him Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:36:33 -0400 (July 22nd, 2011) - The Texas Ethics Commission, and possibly the Federal Election Commission, should keep an eye on the campaign finance filings of Rick Perry. atheists.org - 2707 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_to_Obama%3A_Get_religion_out_of_hiring Sat, 23 Jul 2011 11:31:53 -0400 (July 23rd, 2011) - A prominent atheist activist urged President Obama Friday to reverse a Bush-era policy that allows some federal grant recipients to consider a candidate's religion in their hiring practices atheists.org - 2708 http://www.atheists.org/news/Panelist%3A_Atheists_among_us Sat, 23 Jul 2011 17:09:12 -0400 (July 23rd, 2011) - You know that guy down the street? Nice guy, about 50, IT consultant, first guy on the block to clear his walks and mailbox after every snow, fought in Desert Storm, keeps his yard immaculate, put two daughters through college, donates for breast cancer research and puts up a flag every Fourth? atheists.org - 2709 http://www.atheists.org/news/Time_for_atheists_to_%E2%80%98come_out%E2%80%99 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 11:48:54 -0400 (July 24th, 2011) - Q. Atheist actor and writer Ricky Gervais is working on a new show, Afterlife , which features “an atheist who dies and goes to heaven.” If Gervais hopes to bring cultural acceptance of non-belief to mainstream America, he faces an uphill battle. atheists.org - 2710 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ohio_bishop_makes_a_right_tit_of_himself_over_an_Ohio_breast-cancer_charity Sun, 24 Jul 2011 18:27:07 -0400 (July 24th, 2011) - A ROMAN Catholic bishop in Ohio has called on supporters of a breast cancer foundation to suspend donations because the charity may, in the future, turn to stem-cell research in its fight against the disease. atheists.org - 2712 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_object_to_WTC_cross_-_ask_for_equal_treatment Mon, 25 Jul 2011 18:17:23 -0400 (July 25th, 2011) - Monday American Atheists filed a complaint with the state of New York asking for fair and equal treatment by the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. atheists.org - 2713 http://www.atheists.org/news/Texas_leaders_debate_teaching_creationism_in_schools Mon, 25 Jul 2011 20:29:56 -0400 (July 25th, 2011) - A Texas vote on middle school curriculum due on Friday has become the latest battleground over the teaching of creationism or "intelligent design" as an alternative to evolution in public schools. atheists.org - 2714 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_wants_to_stop_World_Trade_Center_cross Tue, 26 Jul 2011 13:16:32 -0400 (July 26th, 2011) - A group of atheists has filed a lawsuit to stop the display of the World Trade Center cross at a memorial of the 9/11 terror attacks. atheists.org - 2715 http://www.atheists.org/news/Poll%3A_God%5C%27s_Approval_Rating_Barely_Breaks_50_Percent_ Wed, 27 Jul 2011 18:31:14 -0400 (July 27th, 2011) - More than half of U.S. voters approve of God's job performance, according to a new poll, making God more popular than all members of Congress. atheists.org - 2716 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_Sue_Over_World_Trade_Center_Cross Fri, 29 Jul 2011 11:40:38 -0400 (July 29th, 2011) - An atheist group sued today over the inclusion of cross-shaped steel beams, dubbed the "World Trade Center Cross," in the exhibit at the National September 11th Memorial and Museum. atheists.org - 2718 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Sue_to_Block_Display_of_Cross-Shaped_Beam_in_9%2F11_Museum Fri, 29 Jul 2011 16:52:53 -0400 (July 29th, 2011) - In the days after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, some workers and mourners at the World Trade Center site seized upon a cross-shaped steel beam found amid the rubble as a symbol of faith and hope. atheists.org - 2719 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bloomberg_Defends_Atheists%5C%27_Suit_Against_9%2F11_Cross Sat, 30 Jul 2011 16:28:36 -0400 (July 30th, 2011) - Keeping consistent with his belief that citizens of the United States should be free from the government meddling in what religion they choose to practice, Mayor Bloomberg defended the group of atheists that are suing to prevent the September 11 Cross from being installed in the 9/11 memorial and museum at World Trade Center site. atheists.org - 2720 http://www.atheists.org/news/Francis_Collins_decries_%5C%27angry_atheists%5C%27_in_science Sun, 31 Jul 2011 13:53:31 -0400 (July 31st, 2011) - Calling conflicts between religion and science "overstated," National Institutes of Health chief Francis Collins complained Tuesday that vocal atheists are giving the U.S. public a false impression of science. atheists.org - 2721 http://www.atheists.org/news/Tea_Party_Less_Popular_than_Atheists_and_Muslims Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:29:17 -0400 (August 19th, 2011) - A recent study conducted by two professors from Notre Dame and Harvard indicates that the Conservative Tea Party has a lower approval rate than Atheists, Muslims, and other so-called maligned groups. The study also found that Tea Party members are "deeply religious," "overwhelmingly White" and have "a low regard for immigrants and blacks." atheists.org - 2722 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_Forgives_Abortions_While_on_Vacation Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:48:04 -0400 (August 19th, 2011) - In honor of World Youth Day (8/26) and the Pope's controversial visit to Spain, the Catholic Church will lift the excommunications of those who received or performed abortions if they confess their sins. Unfortunately, this exception will only be in place for the Pope's visit (8/15-22) and will only apply to those who confess to Catholic priests in Madrid, Spain. To accommodate potentially high demand, the Catholic Church has already set up 200 confession booths in a local park. atheists.org - 2723 http://www.atheists.org/news/Carolinas_scheduled_to_hold_first-ever_atheist_convention Wed, 24 Aug 2011 12:47:16 -0400 (August 24th, 2011) - North and South Carolina atheist and humanist groups schedule their first-ever secular convention to take place at Carolina Beach, NC on November 11-13, 2011. Han Hills, president of Humanists and Freethinkers of Cape Fear, says the convention represents an important step for this religious region of the country. atheists.org - 2724 http://www.atheists.org/news/Military_atheists_demand_equal_rights_and_representaion Wed, 24 Aug 2011 12:47:00 -0400 (August 24th, 2011) - After months of delay, Fort Bragg officials approve a completely secular concert for military atheists and nonbelievers. Organizers say Army officials delayed the event by not providing equal support for secular and Christian concerts. Rock Beyond Belief is now officially scheduled for March 31, 2012. atheists.org - 2725 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church_displays_free_advertisement_for_atheism Fri, 02 Sep 2011 17:27:58 -0400 (August 26th, 2011) - An Ohio-based Church recently provided free advertising for atheism. atheists.org - 2726 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_GA_state_director_makes_prayer_request_to_mayor_ Fri, 26 Aug 2011 12:52:25 -0400 (August 26th, 2011) - Mayor Don Haddix of Peachtree City, Georgia received a prayer request from American Atheists Georgia state director, Al Stefanelli. atheists.org - 2727 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_ Thu, 01 Sep 2011 16:08:44 -0400 (September 1st, 2011) - Pastor Michael Stahl -- or "Pastor Mike," as he's known on the net -- posted on his blog about a year ago saying he was pretty sure he was going to start a grassroots organization to keep a database of atheists called "The Christian National Registry of Atheists." atheists.org - 2728 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Group_Sues_over_Cross_at_9%2F11_Memorial Fri, 02 Sep 2011 17:31:16 -0400 (September 2nd, 2011) - A cross controversy at Ground Zero reaches all the way to Atlanta. An atheist group is suing to stop the display of a steel cross at the September 11 memorial. atheists.org - 2729 http://www.atheists.org/news/Who_Is_One_of_Them_There_Atheists%3F_Maybe_You_Are_and_Don%5C%27t_Even_Know_It Sat, 03 Sep 2011 18:33:50 -0400 (September 3rd, 2011) - The term theism is derived directly from the classical Greek word for god, so at a minimum being a theist requires that one be reasonably (but not necessarily absolutely) confident that... atheists.org - 2731 http://www.atheists.org/news/Four_ways_9%2F11_changed_America%5C%27s_attitude_toward_religion Sun, 04 Sep 2011 15:25:25 -0400 (September 4th, 2011) - David O'Brien couldn't help himself. After the September 11 terrorist attacks, he became obsessed. atheists.org - 2732 http://www.atheists.org/news/Declarations_of_independence_Political_pugilist_and_cultured_critic%2C_new_collection_displays_Hitchen Mon, 05 Sep 2011 15:21:03 -0400 (September 5th, 2011) - Susan Sontag famously wrote that intelligence was “really just a kind of taste: taste in ideas.’’ atheists.org - 2733 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rep._Grimm_to_Introduce_Bill_Making_9%2F11_Cross_a_National_Monument Mon, 05 Sep 2011 18:00:56 -0400 (September 5th, 2011) - Representative Michael G. Grimm (R,C-NY) will introduce legislation this week entitled the 9/11 Memorial Cross National Monument Establishment Act of 2011, which will establish the 9/11 Memorial Cross located at the 9/11 Memorial Museum in New York City as a national monument. atheists.org - 2734 http://www.atheists.org/news/Climate%2C_evolution_thorny_issues_for_GOP_hopefuls Tue, 06 Sep 2011 17:09:48 -0400 (September 6th, 2011) - GOP presidential candidates gathering at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley on Wednesday will spar over jobs, the economy and foreign policy... atheists.org - 2735 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Family_Association_radio_show_characterizes_atheists_as_intellectually_dishonest Wed, 07 Sep 2011 15:23:51 -0400 (September 7th, 2011) - According to Aaron Fruh, senior pastor of Knollwood Assembly of God in Mobile, Alabama, atheists are intellectually dishonest. atheists.org - 2736 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_to_speak_at_9%2F11_remembrance_event_in_Harrisburg Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:21:44 -0400 (September 8th, 2011) - PA Nonbelievers -- a group of atheists, agnostics and humanists in Central Pennsylvania – has reserved time on the main steps of the Harrisburg state capitol in order to hold a “September 11 10th Anniversary Remembrance” event starting at 8:30 a.m. on September 11, 2011. atheists.org - 2738 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fox_News_Attacks_Atheists_While_Pumping_Christian_Propaganda Fri, 09 Sep 2011 17:08:48 -0400 (September 9th, 2011) - Fox News is the biggest right-wing propaganda machine in the media, and that was made even more obvious after one of their morning commentators blasted atheism. atheists.org - 2739 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christopher_Hitchens%3A_An_Atheist%E2%80%99s_Gift_To_Sarah_Palin_ Sun, 11 Sep 2011 14:41:11 -0400 (September 10th, 2011) - Hitchens, however, warns the world to not patronize Sarah Palin! atheists.org - 2740 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fox_News_Poll%3A_Most_Believe_Prayer_Heals%2C_45_Percent_Believe_in_Creationism Sun, 11 Sep 2011 14:38:31 -0400 (September 11th, 2011) - Nearly half of American voters believe in the Biblical account of creation, and even more think prayer can literally help people recover from medical problems. atheists.org - 2741 http://www.atheists.org/news/ATHEISTS%2C_AGNOSTICS_%26_SCIENTISTS_TO_PROTEST_CREATION_MUSEUM_SEPT._24_IN_SANTEE_ Mon, 12 Sep 2011 18:36:52 -0400 (September 12th, 2011) - -San Diego New Atheists and Agnostics (SDNA), a Web-based organization of over 700 members, plans a demonstration against the Creation and Earth History Museum in Santee on September 24 atheists.org - 2742 http://www.atheists.org/news/Creationism_Hits_the_Campaign_Trail_and_Exposes_Differences_in_the_Field Wed, 14 Sep 2011 13:05:25 -0400 (September 14th, 2011) - The battle between believers of creationism and those who believe in evolution has made its way onto the presidential campaign trail and exposes differences between candidates. atheists.org - 2743 http://www.atheists.org/news/Virginia_Ten_Commandments_Lawsuit%3A_Civil-Liberties_Groups_Sue_Southwest_Virginia_School_Board_For_Po Wed, 14 Sep 2011 17:16:50 -0400 (September 14th, 2011) - Civil-liberties groups are suing a southwest Virginia school board for posting the Ten Commandments, contending that the display violates the Constitution's guarantee of separation of church and state. atheists.org - 2744 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_address_sexism_issues Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:52:20 -0400 (September 15th, 2011) - In a video blog, the popular skeptic blogger recalled a man following her into an empty elevator and inviting her up to his room after she spoke about feminism at a European atheist conference last June. atheists.org - 2745 http://www.atheists.org/news/Penn_Jillette_Says_He_Doesn%E2%80%99t_Believe_in_God_and_Neither_Do_You_ Fri, 16 Sep 2011 17:59:53 -0400 (September 16th, 2011) - Penn Jillette isn’t alone in his atheism. The screwy part is that he thinks you don’t believe in God either. atheists.org - 2746 http://www.atheists.org/news/Republican_Presidential_Hopefuls_Flirt_with_Anti-Science_ Sat, 17 Sep 2011 23:46:14 -0400 (September 17th, 2011) - Republican candidates has prompted questions about whether the Grand Old Party is anti-science—and whether that’s dangerous. atheists.org - 2747 http://www.atheists.org/news/Metal_band_of_%E2%80%98liberal_green_atheists%E2%80%99_a_good_fit_with_the_times%2C_singer_says_ Sun, 18 Sep 2011 16:31:08 -0400 (September 18th, 2011) - Arch Enemy returns after four-year silence with new album, tour that includes Edmonton stop atheists.org - 2748 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_is_cool%2C_says_Archbishop_Rowan_Williams_ Mon, 19 Sep 2011 12:00:19 -0400 (September 19th, 2011) - The Archbishop of Canterbury has admitted the Church of England is struggling to counter the image of atheism as "the new cool thing". atheists.org - 2749 http://www.atheists.org/news/U.K._Scientists_Challenge_Creationism_in_Schools_ Mon, 19 Sep 2011 18:13:48 -0400 (September 19th, 2011) - Thirty prominent U.K. scientists today released a statement raising concern about the teaching of creationism in British publicly-funded schools. atheists.org - 2750 http://www.atheists.org/news/Perry_invited_to_attend_Florida_pastor_policy_briefing_as_part_of_Christian_voter_drive_ Mon, 19 Sep 2011 21:04:21 -0400 (September 19th, 2011) - GOP presidential candidate and Texas Gov. Rick Perry may join Focus on the Family’s James Dobson and other conservative figures during a two-day “Pastor Policy Briefing,” in Orlando, Fla., an October event being organized by David Lane, who also directed fundraising for Perry’s August prayer rally, “The Response.” atheists.org - 2751 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheism_on_the_upswing_in_America Tue, 20 Sep 2011 19:04:52 -0400 (September 20th, 2011) - Some years back Washington Post Magazine ran a then-rare story on a strange and scarce species. A kind of person most Americans are so bigoted against that they refuse to vote for them, marry them, or even allow them into the Boy Scouts. atheists.org - 2752 http://www.atheists.org/news/Schools_told_not_to_teach_creationism%2C_intelligent_design_ Tue, 20 Sep 2011 22:03:34 -0400 (September 20th, 2011) - Sir David Attenborough, perhaps the world's most famous naturalist, has called for the banning of creationism and intelligent design in UK schools. atheists.org - 2753 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dark_Matter_Finally_Identified%21 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:52:53 -0400 (September 21st, 2011) - I’ve solved the mystery that astrophysicists have been puzzling over for decades: What is dark matter? That’s easy! It’s Anti-Science! atheists.org - 2754 http://www.atheists.org/news/Report%3A_Swedish_Artist_Target_Of_Murder_Plot_ Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:08:55 -0400 (September 21st, 2011) - Swedish prosecutors suspect three men arrested in an anti-terror sting this month of plotting to kill an artist who depicted the Prophet Muhammad as a dog, a newspaper reported Wednesday. atheists.org - 2755 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_offers_Army_a_redone_website%2C_minus_a_controversial_program_ Thu, 22 Sep 2011 21:00:06 -0400 (September 22nd, 2011) - What inspires you? Chicken soup for the soul? Or colorful images of long-extinct galaxies? atheists.org - 2756 http://www.atheists.org/news/A_Knack_for_Bashing_Orthodoxy Fri, 23 Sep 2011 20:31:49 -0400 (September 23rd, 2011) - You walk out of a soft-falling rain into the living room of an Oxford don, with great walls of books, handsome art and, on the far side of the room, graceful windows onto a luxuriant garden. atheists.org - 2757 http://www.atheists.org/news/Believers_of_a_divine_plan_for_our_lives_embrace_economic_conservatives%2C_survey_says Sat, 24 Sep 2011 12:58:29 -0400 (September 24th, 2011) - Religion mixes with GOP politics atheists.org - 2758 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pope_seeks_Protestant_allies_to_combat_secularism_ Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:27:50 -0400 (September 26th, 2011) - All faiths have to work together to stanch the tide of secularism sweeping the world, warned Pope Benedict XVI on Friday (Sept. 23) during the second day of a tour through his native Germany. atheists.org - 2759 http://www.atheists.org/news/Why_the_New_Atheism_is_a_boys%5C%27_club_ Tue, 27 Sep 2011 12:40:19 -0400 (September 27th, 2011) - Is it that female intellectuals are less rational and contrarian than male secularists? Or just that society prefers lionising men? atheists.org - 2760 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Plan_to_Hack_into_New_Holocaust_Video_ Wed, 28 Sep 2011 16:02:51 -0400 (September 28th, 2011) - While students in Thailand dress up as Nazis,[1] oblivious to the controversy they cause, a new award-winning video about the Holocaust is going viral on YouTube. atheists.org - 2761 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rihanna%3A_She_exposed_more_flesh_than_a_good_Christian_could_handle Wed, 28 Sep 2011 17:12:16 -0400 (September 28th, 2011) - The first tale concerns Northern Ireland farmer Alan Graham. He apparently got all of a lather when pop star Rihanna revealed too much flesh while shooting a video on his property. atheists.org - 2762 http://www.atheists.org/news/America%5C%27s_secular_revival Thu, 29 Sep 2011 14:53:39 -0400 (September 29th, 2011) - Five signs that, despite the GOP's efforts, religion's impact on U.S. politics will soon decline atheists.org - 2763 http://www.atheists.org/news/Social_media_behind_numerous_people_declaring_atheism_ Sat, 01 Oct 2011 12:25:24 -0400 (October 1st, 2011) - There has been a spike in the number of people coming out of the woodwork to declare themselves atheists and the head of both the Arizona Coalition of Reason and The Phoenix Atheist Meetup Group said blogs, Facebook and Twitter are just part of the reason. atheists.org - 2764 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist%2C_Christian_debate_God%E2%80%99s_existence_ Sat, 01 Oct 2011 15:23:40 -0400 (October 1st, 2011) - A debate on the existence of the Judeo-Christian God drew about 1,700 attendees from across the Shoals and beyond Thursday night, but whether a representative on each side of the issue won their argument is equally up for debate. atheists.org - 2765 http://www.atheists.org/news/atheists_do_it_better_ Sun, 02 Oct 2011 15:09:39 -0400 (October 2nd, 2011) - Stay married, that is. atheists.org - 2766 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%5C%27_bus_ads_now_on_Little_Rock_streets_ Tue, 04 Oct 2011 17:09:05 -0400 (October 4th, 2011) - "Are You Good Without God? Millions are." atheists.org - 2767 http://www.atheists.org/news/Group_Claims_28_Atheists_in_Congress%3B_27_Closeted Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:10:48 -0400 (October 5th, 2011) - re there really 28 atheists in Congress? The Secular Coalition of America, an atheist group based in Washington, D.C., says there are. atheists.org - 2768 http://www.atheists.org/news/Charter_school_accused_of_teaching_Islam%2C_ACLU_reach_settlement Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:14:05 -0400 (October 4th, 2011) - On Thursday, the school’s sponsor, the Minnesota Department of Education and the ACLU reached a partial settlement in the case. Under the terms, the Minnesota Department of Education must require charter schools to sign an annual statement declaring under penalty of law that the schools are not promoting religion. atheists.org - 2769 http://www.atheists.org/news/Alabama_town%5C%27s_church_or_jail_option_now_awaits_attorney_general%5C%27s_opinion Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:13:48 -0400 (October 4th, 2011) - The Bay Minette City Council will seek an Alabama attorney general’s opinion before embarking on the proposed "Restore Our Community" sentencing program that would offer first-time, non-violent offenders in municipal court the option of attending church for a year over jail time or fines. atheists.org - 2770 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ban_on_judge%5C%27s_Ten_Commandments_poster_stands_as_Supreme_Court_declines_case Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:13:31 -0400 (October 4th, 2011) - The US Supreme Court declined Monday to take up a case examining whether an Ohio judge violated the separation of church and state when he displayed a poster in his courtroom that contrasted the Ten Commandments with humanist precepts. atheists.org - 2771 http://www.atheists.org/news/Forum_addresses_prayer_controversy Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:13:15 -0400 (October 4th, 2011) - A town hall meeting Monday night hosted by Sumner County Schools drew more than 1,200 people interested in the recent prayer controversy sparked by ongoing litigation with the American Civil Liberties Union of Tennessee. atheists.org - 2772 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_ad_appears_on_buses Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:13:00 -0400 (October 4th, 2011) - An atheist ad that a group won a court order to place has appeared on Central Arkansas Transit Authority buses with no immediate signs of the negative reaction transit officials feared. atheists.org - 2773 http://www.atheists.org/news/Churches_teaching_teachers_how_to_teach_religion Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:12:42 -0400 (October 4th, 2011) - Are conservative Little Rock churches teaching public school- teachers how to bring religion into their classrooms, thereby circumventing laws that require separation of church and state? atheists.org - 2774 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rising_atheism_in_America_puts_%5C%27religious_right_on_the_defensive%5C%27 Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:12:26 -0400 (October 1st, 2011) - The US is increasingly portrayed as a hotbed of religious fervour. Yet in the homeland of ostentatiously religious politicians such as Michele Bachmann and Rick Perry, agnostics and atheists are actually part of one of the fastest-growing demographics in the US: the godless. atheists.org - 2775 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_O%5C%27Reilly%2C_Richard_Dawkins_Debate_Creationism_Heatedly_%28VIDEO%29_ Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:33:32 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - Bill O'Reilly debated creationism on Wednesday's "O'Reilly Factor" with biologist and famous atheist Richard Dawkins. Not surprisingly, things got a little heated. atheists.org - 2776 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge_Upholds_Firing_of_Ohio_Teacher_in_Bible_Case Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:59:37 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - A judge has upheld the firing of a central Ohio public school science teacher who was accused of preaching religious beliefs in class and of keeping a Bible on his desk. atheists.org - 2777 http://www.atheists.org/news/Court_considers_GA_ban_on_guns_in_churches Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:19:18 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - A lawsuit brought by a gun rights group targeting a Georgia law that bans firearms in places of worship was roundly criticized by a federal appeals panel that heard oral arguments about the law. atheists.org - 2778 http://www.atheists.org/news/La_Grange_Town_Council_to_bring_back_prayer_despite_federal_ruling Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:23:38 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - The board unanimously voted to side with its religious aspirations over federal judges who have ruled in a number of judgments — the most recent handed down in July — that the use of prayer to open a public meeting violates the Bill of Rights’ First Amendment. atheists.org - 2779 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_denied_entry_into_Millersville_Community_Parade Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:25:29 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - A group known as “The Parading Atheists of Central PA” was recently denied entry into the Millersville Community Parade despite their participation in the previous year's parade and submitting an entry form before the stated deadline. atheists.org - 2780 http://www.atheists.org/news/OC_Atheists_Unveil_Another_Provocative_Billboard Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:26:40 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - This afternoon, under a billboard facing Chapman Avenue in Orange, local atheists unveil the third phase of their "outreach program for letting other non-believers know they have a voice in Orange County." atheists.org - 2781 http://www.atheists.org/news/Love_the_theist%2C_hate_the_theism Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:30:36 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - LTE in the Daily Utah Chronical that we felt needed to be shared. atheists.org - 2782 http://www.atheists.org/news/Harold_Camping_predicts_Oct._21_rapture_%E2%80%94_again Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:31:47 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - So, the rapture didn’t happen last time preacher Harold Camping said it would. When May 21 finally rolled around, there weren’t any trumpet sounds and Camping — along with millions of other Christians — didn’t rise up into the sky. atheists.org - 2783 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Coming_Out_in_America%5C%27_is_a_new_film_about_atheists_coming_out Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:33:39 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - A Tiroir A Films documentary focuses on atheists coming out in America. Coming Out in America (working title) illustrates diverse people in different parts of the country who are taking the first step; they are “coming out” as nonbelievers. atheists.org - 2784 http://www.atheists.org/news/Students_ask_%5C%27Jesus%5C%27_questions_in_Speakers_Circle_mock Fri, 07 Oct 2011 11:35:46 -0400 (October 7th, 2011) - Students and spectators were given the chance to ask "Jesus" their questions in person on Speakers Circle on Wednesday afternoon. atheists.org - 2785 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_now_permitted_to_march_in_community_parade Fri, 07 Oct 2011 12:07:46 -0400 (October 7th, 2011) - Before today, the group known as The Parading Atheists of Central PA was denied entry into the Millersville Community Parade... atheists.org - 2786 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Demand_City_Remove_Cross_in_Tennessee Sat, 08 Oct 2011 11:23:40 -0400 (October 7th, 2011) - “As a matter of fact, I don’t even think it’s a Whiteville resident,” he said. “We don’t have people of that belief here and if we do they’re not going to raise that kind of ruckus for the rest of the town.” atheists.org - 2787 http://www.atheists.org/news/Richard_Dawkins_attacks_Muslim_schools_for_stuffing_children%5C%27s_minds_with_%5C%27alien_rubbish%5C%27 Sat, 08 Oct 2011 11:27:31 -0400 (October 8th, 2011) - Richard Dawkins claims Muslim schools are having a "pernicious" influence on children who are having their minds "stuffed with alien rubbish" such as claims the world is only 6,000 years old. atheists.org - 2788 http://www.atheists.org/news/Blurring_the_line_between_church_and_state_on_the_campaign_trail Sat, 08 Oct 2011 11:35:02 -0400 (October 7th, 2011) - On any given night, listening to the presidential candidates could easily lead voters to believe that they are listening to a campaign for an ecclesiastical rather than presidential office. atheists.org - 2789 http://www.atheists.org/news/School_District%E2%80%99s_Policy_Barring_Use_of_School_for_Worship_Services_Upheld_by_Court Sat, 08 Oct 2011 11:37:53 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - In a recent case, Bronx Household of Faith v. Board of Education of the City of New York, a church filed suit against the board of education of New York alleging that its refusal to permit a church to use school facilities for religious worship services violated the First Amendment. atheists.org - 2790 http://www.atheists.org/news/Leader_of_new_Polish_party_says_time_has_come_for_his_brand_of_liberalization Sat, 08 Oct 2011 11:40:28 -0400 (October 7th, 2011) - A surprise in Poland’s election campaign has been the quick rise of a left-wing party that supports gay rights, liberalizing abortion laws, and the greater separation of church and state — a sign of growing secularization in this conservative, Roman Catholic country. atheists.org - 2791 http://www.atheists.org/news/Group_asks_feds_to_revisit_Wis._church_graduations Sat, 08 Oct 2011 11:42:26 -0400 (October 7th, 2011) - A group advocating for the separation of church and state has asked a federal appeals court to overturn a ruling allowing public high schools in Wisconsin to hold graduation ceremonies in a church. atheists.org - 2792 http://www.atheists.org/news/Berkeley_County_advised_against_fee_break_for_churches Sat, 08 Oct 2011 11:44:38 -0400 (October 6th, 2011) - The Berkeley County Council on Thursday was advised not to exempt churches from paying certain county permit fees and risk a legal challenge on the issue of separation of church and state. atheists.org - 2793 http://www.atheists.org/news/Private_schools_keep_eye_on_voucher_debate_in_York_County Sun, 09 Oct 2011 13:10:21 -0400 (October 9th, 2011) - Gov. Tom Corbett and legislative leaders say they expect the school voucher debate to dominate the fall session. The bill will permit the state to give money to students to help them to pay tuition at the private school of their choice. atheists.org - 2794 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Crash_the_Values_Voter_Summit Sun, 09 Oct 2011 13:16:29 -0400 (October 8th, 2011) - Literally the last thing you expect to see at the Values Voter Summit, the annual gathering of religious conservatives, is a dude wearing an atheism t-shirt. atheists.org - 2795 http://www.atheists.org/news/Small-town_Tennessee_mayor_seeks_legal_help_to_fight_atheist_%E2%80%9Cterrorists%E2%80%9D Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:07:59 -0400 (October 8th, 2011) - Our friends over at the FFRF are getting some hatred for daring to uphold the Constitution: Calling aggressive out-of-state atheists “terrorists,” a small-town Tennessee mayor is asking for help defending a cross atop his town’s water tower. atheists.org - 2796 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Thrown_Out_of_Country_Club Mon, 10 Oct 2011 17:39:07 -0400 (October 10th, 2011) - In a move reminiscent of Jim Crow days, a sold-out public event featuring biologist Richard Dawkins planned at the Wyndgate Country Club in Rochester Hills, MI - a private facility offered for public use - was abruptly cancelled by the venue owner when he saw an interview on the Fox Channel with Prof. Dawkins of his upcoming book and learned of his atheist views. The venue representative made it clear that the cancellation was because the owner wanted no association with anyone who held such views. atheists.org - 2797 http://www.atheists.org/news/Pastor_who_endorsed_Perry_accused_of_breaking_tax_rule Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:37:15 -0400 (October 12th, 2011) - Americans United for the Separation of Church and State has sent a letter to the Internal Revenue Service accusing Pastor Robert Jeffress of violating the law when he posted his endorsement of presidential hopeful Rick Perry on the First Baptist Church of Dallas website. atheists.org - 2798 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Billboards_Aim_to_Provoke_the_Faithful Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:39:40 -0400 (October 12th, 2011) - Controversial billboards by an Orange County atheist club are attracting the exact attention the group had hoped for. atheists.org - 2799 http://www.atheists.org/news/Christian_Group_Loses_Fight_to_Stay_on_Flyers Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:48:56 -0400 (October 12th, 2011) - An evangelical Christian group cannot get an injunction to stay on a sign-up sheet for after-school programs distributed by a Minneapolis school district, a federal judge ruled. atheists.org - 2800 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Richard_Dawkins_snubbed_by_Detroit_area_country_club Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:51:21 -0400 (October 12th, 2011) - One of the world's noted atheists says a Rochester Hills country club canceled his speaking engagement after learning about his views. atheists.org - 2801 http://www.atheists.org/news/Despite_protests%2C_pastor%5C%27s_assemblies_go_off_as_planned_at_Texas_high_school Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:53:50 -0400 (October 12th, 2011) - After a week of back-and-forth communications between the district and the organizations, Pastor Kyle Embry spoke to 1,400 students during two assemblies. atheists.org - 2802 http://www.atheists.org/news/Is_Atheist_Money_Too_Controversial_for_the_American_Cancer_Society%3F Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:59:54 -0400 (October 10th, 2011) - The American Cancer Society may have turned down a potential half-million dollar donation because it came from a non-theistic organization. atheists.org - 2803 http://www.atheists.org/news/PA_governor%5C%27s_school_voucher_program_raises_church-state_concerns Fri, 14 Oct 2011 13:53:52 -0400 (October 13th, 2011) - A recent Associated Press article published in The Times Leader discusses Pennsylvania governor Tom Corbett's proposed education reforms including school vouchers which Corbett calls “opportunity scholarships” that would “send children not only to private or religious schools, but also to better-performing public schools.” atheists.org - 2804 http://www.atheists.org/news/S.I._Jewish_Community_Center_Drops_Prayer_Services_After_City_Investigation Fri, 14 Oct 2011 13:56:18 -0400 (October 13th, 2011) - City officials are now paying closer attention to the separation of church and state when it comes to not-for-profit organizations, leading to the notable end of in prayer services at the Joan and Alan Bernikow Jewish Community Center in Staten Island. atheists.org - 2805 http://www.atheists.org/news/D.C._Shelter_to_Stop_Requiring_Homeless_to_Attend_Religious_Services Fri, 14 Oct 2011 13:57:45 -0400 (October 13th, 2011) - ACLU and Americans United Drop Lawsuit After Shelter Changes Operations and D.C. Government Abandons Plan to Pay Shelter Public Funds atheists.org - 2806 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ten_Commandments_in_county_schools%3A_Giles_School_Board_wants_plaintiffs_names_released Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:01:35 -0400 (October 13th, 2011) - The Giles County School Board is asking to reveal the identities of the plaintiffs who filed suit over the school board’s decision to display a copy of the Ten Commandments in county schools. atheists.org - 2807 http://www.atheists.org/news/Scores_of_parents_support_principal%E2%80%99s_role_in_rally Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:08:56 -0400 (October 14th, 2011) - The Jefferson area parents remain solid in their approval and support of bringing Christianity into the public school system, despite accusations the Chesterfield County School Board is facing for alleged constitutional violations. atheists.org - 2808 http://www.atheists.org/news/Judge_sees_Cranston_school_prayer_for_himself Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:13:06 -0400 (October 13th, 2011) - Lawyers for the American Civil Liberties Union and the Cranston School Committee were in federal court this afternoon, debating the constitutionality of a school prayer painted on the auditorium wall of Cranston High School West. atheists.org - 2809 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_group_denied_official_club_status Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:21:44 -0400 (October 13th, 2011) - Last year, senior Stephen Love and a few of his friends decided to form a club for "Atheist, Agnostic and Questioning Students" (AAQS). The Student Activities Office (SAO) denied the club official recognition last year, citing a contradiction between Notre Dame's mission and the intended purpose of the club. atheists.org - 2810 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Cancer_Society_Refuses_%24500K_from_Atheists Mon, 17 Oct 2011 23:23:50 -0400 (October 17th, 2011) - The American Cancer Society turned down an offer from US national non-profit Foundation Beyond Belief to participate in its Relay for Life fundraising program, despite estimates of FBB being able to raise $500K for ACS, apparently because of FBB primarily representing the US atheist, agnostic, and humanist community. atheists.org - 2811 http://www.atheists.org/news/%28Montana%29_Forest_Service_may_remove_Whitefish_Jesus_statue Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:35:23 -0400 (October 19th, 2011) - A special use permit from the Forest Service has allowed the statue to occupy a 25-by-25 foot swatch of public land since 1953. The permit recently came up for renewal and was denied after concerns were raised within the agency about the nonsecular statue violating the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution. atheists.org - 2812 http://www.atheists.org/news/Military_backs_off_threat_to_pull_atheist_from_ceremony Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:44:04 -0400 (October 19th, 2011) - After almost being pulled from a graduation ceremony for refusal to lower the head during a benediction, a soldier is now allowed to attend but must instead stand at attention. The 20-year-old private first class, a proclaimed atheist, is graduating from Advanced Individual Training at Fort Jackson in South Carolina on Thursday. atheists.org - 2813 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Group_Helps_Students_Understand_Atheism Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:03:50 -0400 (October 24th, 2011) - Students across campus are getting together to promote their beliefs, or lack thereof. Jonathan Hay, anthropology junior, made the Secular Student Alliance a reality in March. atheists.org - 2814 http://www.atheists.org/news/HB136_hits_agenda%3A_Wapak_Schools_expected_to_oppose_bill Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:05:33 -0400 (October 24th, 2011) - Wapakoneta City Schools plan to join other districts from around the state in officially voicing its opposition to a bill which would transfer public money to support private education. atheists.org - 2815 http://www.atheists.org/news/Clay_principal%5C%27s_memo_says_First_Amendment_meant_only_for_Christians Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:09:02 -0400 (October 20th, 2011) - A Clay County principal’s memo that promoted a prayer session and stated that the First Amendment applies only to Christians has raised the ire of a national secular rights group. atheists.org - 2816 http://www.atheists.org/news/Big_crowd_attends_Monday%5C%27s_prayer_circle_at_Clay_Hill_Elementary Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:12:23 -0400 (October 25th, 2011) - About a 150 people prayed Monday morning around the flagpole of a Clay County elementary school, where the principal distributed a controversial memo in which he quoted an article that said the First Amendment was only for Christians. atheists.org - 2817 http://www.atheists.org/news/Mount_Soledad_Cross_Still_Unconstitutional Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:13:57 -0400 (October 24th, 2011) - A three-judge panel at the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals earlier this month denied a motion to rehear the case. Supporters of the cross have filed a motion to delay changes until an appeal can be filed with the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday. atheists.org - 2823 http://www.atheists.org/news/Schools_will_not_lead_prayer Tue, 01 Nov 2011 09:24:27 -0400 (November 1st, 2011) - FLORENCE, AL - Lauderdale County Superintendent of Education Bill Valentine said his school district’s position on Christian prayer being offered via public address before football games focuses on one thing: abiding by the law. atheists.org - 2824 http://www.atheists.org/news/Penn_Jillette%5C%27s_10_Commandments_for_atheists Tue, 01 Nov 2011 10:05:00 -0400 (November 1st, 2011) - In his new book, "God, No!" atheist magician Penn Jillette tells how he was challenged by conservative radio host Glenn Beck to come up with an atheist's version of The Ten Commandments. atheists.org - 2825 http://www.atheists.org/news/CHICAGO%2C_IL_-_Appeals_court_to_hear_atheist%5C%27s_case_over_landmark Sun, 13 Nov 2011 14:54:01 -0500 (November 1st, 2011) - A Chicago federal appeals court is to hear an appeal by an atheist wanting to force the return of a state grant that helped pay for the restoration of an 11-story cross considered a southern Illinois landmark. atheists.org - 2826 http://www.atheists.org/news/WASHINGTON_DC_-_GOP%3A_%5C%27In_God_We_Trust%5C%27_bill_needed_to_remind_President_Obama Sun, 13 Nov 2011 14:55:50 -0500 (November 1st, 2011) - The Republican sponsor of a resolution reaffirming that "In God We Trust" is the national motto of the U.S. said his legislation is needed because President Obama and other public officials often forget that designation. atheists.org - 2827 http://www.atheists.org/news/FLORENCE%2C_AL_-_Obeying_the_law Sun, 13 Nov 2011 14:57:53 -0500 (November 2nd, 2011) - Superintendent Bill Valentine said Lauderdale County Schools will obey court rulings that forbid school-sanctioned prayer over the public address system at high school football games. atheists.org - 2828 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Atheist_Student_Organization_invites_campus_for_Q_%26_A Sun, 13 Nov 2011 14:59:48 -0500 (November 6th, 2011) - Sacramento State has a diverse body of students, not only in economical and sociological backgrounds, but in theological views as well. atheists.org - 2829 http://www.atheists.org/news/HOLLYWOOD_-_The_%5C%27confirmed_atheist%5C%27_director_Tarsem_Singh_on_gods_in_%5C%27Immortals%5C%27 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 15:01:21 -0500 (November 9th, 2011) - Tarsem Singh is an outspoken atheist; one of his recent movies, Immortals wrestles with a godly theme. atheists.org - 2830 http://www.atheists.org/news/FLORIDA_-_Former_Atheist_Group_Official_Wachs_Files_Suit_With_City_About_Records_Request Sun, 13 Nov 2011 15:02:29 -0500 (November 9th, 2011) - EllenBeth Wachs, an atheist who sued the city of Lakeland for the city's practice of having opening prayer at its meetings, has filed a lawsuit claiming the city violated a public records request. atheists.org - 2831 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_an_Atheist_Be_a_Unitarian_Universalist%3F_%28Part_1%29 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 15:05:52 -0500 (November 9th, 2011) - By some estimates, as many as 46% of UUs are atheists, and the church as a whole supports marriage equality, secularism and other progressive causes, which makes it the perfect fit for someone like me - or so I thought. atheists.org - 2832 http://www.atheists.org/news/TENNESSEE_-_Johnson_County_settles_10_Commandments_suit%2C_will_allow_church-state_separation_display Sun, 13 Nov 2011 15:07:29 -0500 (November 10th, 2011) - Johnson County has agreed to show a local man's display promoting church-state separation in the courthouse's "public forum" area. atheists.org - 2833 http://www.atheists.org/news/WASHINGTON_DC_-_Religion_and_government_must_not_mix_in_America%2C_experts_say Sun, 13 Nov 2011 15:09:25 -0500 (November 8th, 2011) - The separation of church and state in American public life is essential to ensure that U.S. citizens retain their civil liberties and that the nation retains its exceptionalism in the world, a group of experts told a forum Tuesday at the National Press Club. atheists.org - 2834 http://www.atheists.org/news/NORTH_CAROLINA_-_N.C._Supreme_Court_upholds_college%E2%80%99s_police_powers Sun, 13 Nov 2011 15:12:05 -0500 (November 10th, 2011) - The N.C. Supreme Court has upheld the powers of campus police departments at religious affiliated colleges and universities to enforce state law, saying they do not violate the U.S. Constitution’s first amendment separation of church and state. atheists.org - 2835 http://www.atheists.org/news/LONDON_UK_-_Atheist_Richard_Dawkins_Sued_for_Libel_by_%5C%27Attempted_Murder_of_God%5C%27_Author Sun, 13 Nov 2011 15:14:29 -0500 (November 10th, 2011) - Richard Dawkins is being sued by author Chris McGrath for libel after the Richard Dawkins Foundation website posted reviews bashing a book published by the author. atheists.org - 2836 http://www.atheists.org/news/FORT_MEADE_-_Atheists_in_military_seek_recognition_to_minister_to_troops Sun, 13 Nov 2011 15:16:24 -0500 (November 10th, 2011) - Capt. Ryan Jean wanted to perform well on the Army's psychological evaluation for soldiers. But he also wanted to answer the questions honestly. So when he was asked whether he believed his life had a lasting purpose, Jean, an atheist, saw no choice but to say no. atheists.org - 2838 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_Group%5C%27s_New_Florida_Billboards_About_to_Piss_Off_a_Whole_Bunch_of_Jesus_Fans Tue, 15 Nov 2011 01:25:38 -0500 (November 14th, 2011) - FLORIDA - Do you know what Neptune, Jesus, Santa Claus, and Satan have in common? They're going to be alongside each other on some billboards in several states under the headline, "37 Million Americans know MYTHS when they see them." atheists.org - 2839 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_Announces_New_%5C%22Myth%5C%22_Billboard_Campaign Tue, 15 Nov 2011 01:30:05 -0500 (November 14th, 2011) - American Atheists announced today that their new billboard is going up in several locations nationwide, including the New Jersey side of the Lincoln Tunnel: the same location as last year’s famous “You KNOW it’s a MYTH” billboard. The new billboard will also be going up in Ohio and Florida. atheists.org - 2840 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_Atheist_Billboard_Compares_Jesus_to_Satan%2C_NJ_Pastor_Deems_it_%5C%27Ignorant_and_Vulgar%5C%27 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 01:32:14 -0500 (November 15th, 2011) - The American Atheists group is launching a new billboard in New Jersey on Dec. 11 that compares Jesus to Satan and other figures, and it is drawing criticism by some church leaders. atheists.org - 2841 http://www.atheists.org/news/FLORIDA_-_Pre-commission_%E2%80%98prayer%5C%27_inappropriate Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:45:05 -0500 (November 13th, 2011) - County Commissioner Carl Zalak has publicly proposed that there be a prayer meeting of the Marion County Commission an hour before each regular commission meeting, apparently to seek divine guidance on how to handle the people's business. atheists.org - 2842 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_in_U.S._military_seek_official_recognition_ Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:47:02 -0500 (November 14th, 2011) - A small but growing movement complains of religious bias and seeks the same status as Christians, Jews and Muslims. atheists.org - 2843 http://www.atheists.org/news/Penn_Jillette%5C%27s_Atheist_Guide_to_2012_Presidential_Election Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:50:10 -0500 (November 13th, 2011) - If you visit The Family Research Council (FRC) website, you can examine the "Pro-family voting record of your Member of Congress." The FRC, a conservative Christian lobbying group, is not alone in providing so-called "scorecards" that rate politicians according to how well they mesh with the group's core beliefs. atheists.org - 2844 http://www.atheists.org/news/Father_Jonathan_Morris_on_Fox_News%3A_Atheist_chaplains_will_degrade_the_military_chaplaincy_program Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:56:18 -0500 (November 13th, 2011) - According to Fox & Friends commentator Father Jonathan Morris, atheist (or Humanist) chaplains are an oxymoron and allowing them into the military chaplaincy program will degrade the chaplaincy, which in his opinion is based on faith. atheists.org - 2845 http://www.atheists.org/news/TEXAS_-_No_prayers%3F_No_problem. Tue, 15 Nov 2011 09:58:19 -0500 (November 15th, 2011) - Atheists, agnostics don’t find life at Christian university drastically different. It can be hard fitting in at a university where many of the people you meet believe you’re going to burn in hell. atheists.org - 2846 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Atheist_group_objects_to_memorial_cross_at_Camp_Pendleton_ Thu, 17 Nov 2011 09:52:01 -0500 (November 16th, 2011) - An atheist group lodged objections Wednesday to a cross that was erected on a Camp Pendleton hillside on Veterans Day, saying the memorial to fallen troops is a Christian symbol that isn't appropriate on federal land. atheists.org - 2847 http://www.atheists.org/news/UTAH_-_Disclaimers_now_on_roadside_crosses%2C_but_atheist_group_says_it%5C%27s_not_enough Thu, 17 Nov 2011 09:54:11 -0500 (November 16th, 2011) - The UHP sticker that was on the cross has been peeled off and a small note has been taped to it that says, "Private memorial — not a state endorsement of any religion." atheists.org - 2848 http://www.atheists.org/news/Breaking_children%E2%80%99s_spirits_in_God%E2%80%99s_name Thu, 17 Nov 2011 09:56:45 -0500 (November 16th, 2011) - “To Train Up a Child” is the revealing title of an authoritarian child-rearing manual, written by a right-wing evangelical pastor and his wife, that has been found in the homes of at least three families implicated in horrific cases of homicide by child abuse. atheists.org - 2849 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Get_Into_the_Holiday_Spirit Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:58:22 -0500 (November 23rd, 2011) - The holidays are a traditional time to spread a message of good cheer by reuniting with family and friends. To many atheist and agnostic humanists, this time of year transcends religion and deities, which is why it is enjoyed not just by the most faithful, but by all who appreciate goodwill and community. atheists.org - 2850 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%5C%27_Holiday_Message_Thwarted Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:01:44 -0500 (November 23rd, 2011) - The Mid Ohio Atheist group planned to put up three billboards in Mansfield next week, including one with a message it stole from a church. In August, brethren from the McElroy Church of Christ advertised its existence to potential lost souls by erecting a billboard saying: There is no God. Don’t believe everything you hear. atheists.org - 2851 http://www.atheists.org/news/What_Could_Atheists_Do_to_Be_Perceived_as_More_Trustworthy%3F Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:15:56 -0500 (November 23rd, 2011) - I think the simplest way for atheists to be perceived as more trustworthy is to be open about their lack of belief in God. There’s a wealth of social psychological evidence that shows contact with members of disliked groups can reduce prejudice. atheists.org - 2852 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Brick%5C%27_breaker%3A_Lego_bible_too_racy_for_Sam%5C%27s_Club Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:19:10 -0500 (November 23rd, 2011) - Through his hit Web site and three popular books, Smith has spread the gospel of "The Brick Testament." But now, because of what it says are concerns about "mature content," Sam's Club, one of the nation's largest retailers, has banned in-store sales of the fourth book in the series, "The Brick Bible." atheists.org - 2853 http://www.atheists.org/news/The_Unbelievers Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:24:50 -0500 (November 25th, 2011) - Mr. Adams did not meet another black atheist in Washington until 2009, when he found the Facebook group called Black Atheists, which immediately struck a chord. “I felt like, ‘100 black atheists? Wow!’ ” he said. atheists.org - 2854 http://www.atheists.org/news/Vatican_newspaper_sees_reinvigorated_atheism Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:26:38 -0500 (November 29th, 2011) - In recent years, atheism become less of a “pragmatic space of irreligiousness and indifference” and more of an active intellectual force, according to an essay published in L’Osservatore Romano. atheists.org - 2855 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Camp_Pendleton_Cross%5C%27_inappropriate_and_illegal_memorial Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:31:14 -0500 (November 29th, 2011) - The Military Association of Atheists and Freethinkers (MAAF) -- a group whose mission is to provide a supportive community for nontheistic service members, educate military leaders about nontheism and to resolve insensitive practices that illegally promote religion or unethically discriminate against nontheism – has recently objected to a 13-foot cross known as the 'Pendleton Cross' that was installed without the consent of Camp Pendleton officials. atheists.org - 2856 http://www.atheists.org/news/My_Take%3A_Is_Tim_Tebow_performing_miracles%3F Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:34:48 -0500 (November 30th, 2011) - In 1966, John Lennon famously claimed that The Beatles were "more popular than Jesus." Today that title may belong to Tim Tebow, the Denver Broncos quarterback more famous for praising Jesus than for throwing touchdowns. atheists.org - 2857 http://www.atheists.org/news/5_Reasons_the_Religious_Right_Should_Stop_Whining_About_Being_Persecuted Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:51:32 -0500 (November 24th, 2011) - [It] never ceases to amaze me is when the leaders or supporters of these organizations claim they are being persecuted. Really? In a country that has a strong Christian culture and where at least 75 percent of the population professes some form of Christianity, it would seem odd that Christians would be persecuted. Yet the claim is made, constantly. atheists.org - 2858 http://www.atheists.org/news/Federal_judge_allows_case_involving_Ten_Commandments_display_to_advance Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:29:36 -0500 (November 29th, 2011) - U.S. District Court Judge Michael Urbanski yesterday denied a motion to dismiss the ACLU of Virginia and Freedom from Religion Foundation’s case challenging the posting of the Ten Commandments at Narrows High School in Giles County. atheists.org - 2859 http://www.atheists.org/news/Believers_deem_atheists_as_untrustworthy_as_rapists%3A_Study Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:31:03 -0500 (December 1st, 2011) - Religious believers distrust atheists more than members of other religious groups, gays and feminists, according to a new study by University of B.C. researchers. The only group the study's participants distrusted as much as atheists was rapists, said doctoral student Will Gervais, lead author of the study published online in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. atheists.org - 2860 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Trade_in_Traditional_Christian_Symbols%2C_Create_Meaningful_Icons_of_their_Own Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:34:24 -0500 (November 30th, 2011) - It’s that time of year again. The Holiday season is upon us, and with it comes classic Yuletide traditions such as eggnog, carols, the lighting of menorahs and decorating a Christmas tree. Ah yes, the Christmas tree, bedecked in lights, garnished with care and topped with…a flying spaghetti monster? atheists.org - 2861 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheist_kids_better_at_sports%3A_study Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:36:51 -0500 (November 30th, 2011) - Results of a study of 600 children conducted by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EHT) have shown that religion has an effect on sporting ability, with Muslim girls the least skilled. For the study, first grade school children in Winterthur in northern Switzerland underwent regular tests to measure their strength, coordination and agility. atheists.org - 2862 http://www.atheists.org/news/Truth_or_Dare%3A_Would_Black_America_Support_President_Obama_If_He_Were_Atheist%3F Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:42:39 -0500 (November 30th, 2011) - Africans, quiet as it's kept, have a rich spiritual history that was cunningly -- and forcibly -- suppressed by missionaries. As Desmond Tutu famously said: "When the missionaries came to Africa, they had the Bible and we had the land. They said, 'Let us pray.' We closed our eyes. When we opened them, we had the Bible and they had the land." atheists.org - 2863 http://www.atheists.org/news/Fla._School_Principal_Must_Drop_Religious_Crusade%2C_Says_AU_ Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:45:23 -0500 (December 1st, 2011) - AU received complaints about a newsletter issued by Larry Davis, principal of Clay Hill Elementary School near Jacksonville. In a Sept. 30 newsletter issued to about 40 employees, Davis endorsed flagpole-prayer sessions at the school and went on to assert, “Freedom comes from obeying God. Let’s get active to bring back the Holy Bible and Christian prayer to schools.” atheists.org - 2864 http://www.atheists.org/news/On_Black_Atheism%3A_A.J._Johnson Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:47:03 -0500 (December 2nd, 2011) - A recent New York Times article profiled African Americans who don't believe in God or who have eschewed the faith that many assume is central to the black experience. What does the apparent rise in atheism and agnosticism among blacks tell us about the utility of religion for African Americans in today's social and political climate? atheists.org - 2865 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Lincoln_Unified_teachers_told_no_Santas Mon, 05 Dec 2011 09:51:10 -0500 (December 3rd, 2011) - A letter sent to Lincoln Unified teachers that may have sounded like it came from the Grinch who stole Christmas has become fodder for how far school districts are willing to go in recognizing the separation of church and state. atheists.org - 2866 http://www.atheists.org/news/Chaplains_Wanted_For_Atheists_In_Foxholes Mon, 05 Dec 2011 09:53:07 -0500 (December 4th, 2011) - Retired Army captain and Iraqi war veteran Jason Torpy says the chaplains employed by the U.S. military can't relate to people like him. He's an atheist. atheists.org - 2867 http://www.atheists.org/news/DELAWARE_-_Group_asks_court_to_block_prayer Mon, 05 Dec 2011 10:01:15 -0500 (December 4th, 2011) - A church-state watchdog group suing Sussex County has asked a federal court for an injunction blocking the County Council from reciting the Lord's Prayer before meetings. The council has continued to say the prayer at the start of its weekly sessions, with the next meeting scheduled for Tuesday morning. A county spokesman said he could not comment on a pending legal matter. atheists.org - 2868 http://www.atheists.org/news/On_Black_Atheism%3A_Jamila_Bey Mon, 05 Dec 2011 10:02:46 -0500 (December 4th, 2011) - A recent New York Times article profiled African Americans who don't believe in God or who have eschewed the faith that many assume is central to the black experience. What does the apparent rise in atheism and agnosticism (pdf) among blacks tell us about the utility of religion for African Americans in today's social and political climate? Interviews with academics, activists and advocates from everywhere on the religious spectrum reveal the diversity of views on this historically fraught -- and, for many, highly personal -- topic. For the fourth in the series, The Root talked to Jamila Bey, the host of SPARring With Jamila: The Sex Politics and Religion Hour on the Voice of Russia Radio. atheists.org - 2869 http://www.atheists.org/news/PENNSYLVANIA_-_Mayor_Won%5C%27t_Include_Atheist_Banner_in_Holiday_Display Mon, 05 Dec 2011 10:04:02 -0500 (December 4th, 2011) - Ellwood City's mayor has refused to include a banner from an atheist group which says "there are no gods" as part of a holiday display that includes a Nativity scene. atheists.org - 2870 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_YORK_-_Supreme_Court_rejects_worship_at_public_school_appeal_ Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:38:11 -0500 (December 5th, 2011) - The U.S. Supreme Court let stand on Monday a ruling that religious groups cannot use public schools facilities for worship services outside of normal school hours in a case about church-state separation. atheists.org - 2871 http://www.atheists.org/news/PENNSYLVANIA_-_Atheist_group_protests_lack_of_Tree_of_Knowledge_in_Chester_County_Christmas_display Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:39:46 -0500 (December 5th, 2011) - Members of the Freethought Society gathered Saturday outside the Historic Chester County Courthouse to protest a county government decision to ban an atheist Tree of Knowledge display next to other Christmas displays they say support religion. atheists.org - 2872 http://www.atheists.org/news/TEXAS_-_School_prayer_lawsuit_heading_for_trial Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:41:37 -0500 (December 6th, 2011) - A Medina Valley High School student who wanted to join a lawsuit against an area school district over school prayer — anonymously — withdrew from the case hours before a judge Tuesday denied the request. atheists.org - 2873 http://www.atheists.org/news/VIRGINIA_-_Skeleton_Santa_Controversy_at_Loudoun_County_Courthouse Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:43:16 -0500 (December 6th, 2011) - In Loudoun County, controversial holiday displays on the courthouse lawn will remain alongside religious ones this holiday season. But as Julie Carey tells us, the Board of Supervisors was considering a policy change after a Skeleton Santa on a cross caused an uproar. atheists.org - 2874 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_JERSEY_-_This_Christmas%2C_Atheists%E2%80%99_Billboard_Tries_a_Softer_Tack Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:45:15 -0500 (December 7th, 2011) - Nearly $40,000 was spent during the last Christmas season on a billboard war between atheists and Roman Catholics at the New Jersey entrance to the Lincoln Tunnel. But so far, this year’s version of the atheist billboard has failed to generate much of a fight. atheists.org - 2875 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Who_Go_to_Church%3A_Doing_It_for_the_Children Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:46:23 -0500 (December 7th, 2011) - A new study out of Rice University has found that 17 percent — about one out of five scientists who describe themselves as either atheists or agnostics — actually go to church, although not too often, and not because they feel a spiritual yearning to join the faithful. More likely, it’s because of the kids. atheists.org - 2876 http://www.atheists.org/news/SOUTH_CAROLINA_-_Public_School_Tells_Students_to_Come_to_Jesus Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:49:45 -0500 (December 8th, 2011) - A family says a public school district is unconstitutionally promoting Christianity, brazenly requiring students to attend "an evangelical revival assembly to 'save' students" by coming to Jesus, and telling a father who complained about it that he "needed to get right with God." atheists.org - 2877 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%27Adopt_an_Atheist%5C%27_Campaign_Begins Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:53:40 -0500 (December 8th, 2011) - Catholic League president Bill Donohue explains why the Catholic League is starting a new initiative aimed at atheists. atheists.org - 2878 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Backyard_Skeptics%5C%27_%5C%22Treaty_of_Tripoli%5C%22_Billboard_Advocates_SOCAS Fri, 09 Dec 2011 22:39:37 -0500 (December 9th, 2011) - A 48x14-foot "Treaty of Tripoli" billboard that boldly states, "The United States in in not any sense, founded on the Christian religion." atheists.org - 2879 http://www.atheists.org/news/Rick_Perry%E2%80%99s_%E2%80%98war_on_religion%E2%80%99_ad_becomes_a_meme Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:01:32 -0500 (December 9th, 2011) - It’s too late to make the lists of top 2011 memes, but parodies of Rick Perry’s “war on religion” ad are shaping up to be a good one nevertheless. Perry released the ad “Strong,” two days ago. In it, he laments the fact that gays could serve openly in the military, while children could not openly celebrate Christmas. atheists.org - 2880 http://www.atheists.org/news/TEXAS_-_Rick_Perry_elaborates_on_%5C%22Obama%5C%27s_war_on_religion%5C%22 Sun, 11 Dec 2011 14:07:35 -0500 (December 10th, 2011) - Rick Perry recently had a discussion with CNN's Wolf Blitzer concerning what Perry called “Obama's war on religion” in his recent advertisement titled “Strong.” Perry says that he is “very comfortable with that ad” and elaborates on his ideas presented in the advertisement. atheists.org - 2881 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists_Spread_Holiday_Cheer_to_Charity Sun, 11 Dec 2011 14:08:43 -0500 (December 10th, 2011) - During the holiday season, much is made of charitable giving through the auspices of faith-based organizations. But at least one charity, Doctors Without Borders, recently enjoyed its largest one-day fundraiser from atheists. atheists.org - 2882 http://www.atheists.org/news/TEXAS_-_Rick_Perry%5C%27s_War_on_the_Founding_Fathers Mon, 12 Dec 2011 10:35:09 -0500 (December 11th, 2011) - In December 2011, Governor Rick Perry ran a TV advertisement in Iowa that said: "As president, I'll end Obama's war on religion. And I'll fight against liberal attacks on our religious heritage." In doing so, Rick Perry is in fact declaring war on the very political foundation of the United States and on the Founding Fathers. atheists.org - 2883 http://www.atheists.org/news/MISSISSIPPI_-_Gov._Barbour_calls_on_churches_to_help_schools Mon, 12 Dec 2011 10:37:17 -0500 (December 11th, 2011) - The government is calling on people of faith for help to solve some of the woes facing Mississippi's children. Because of the state's staggeringly high school dropout rate and illegitimate birth rate, Governor Haley Barbour is urging congregations to get more involved in schools. The governor has asked a group of ministers to review his proposal for a non-government mentorship program. atheists.org - 2884 http://www.atheists.org/news/TEXAS_-_God_Makes_Another_Appearance_on_License_Plates Mon, 12 Dec 2011 10:44:20 -0500 (December 11th, 2011) - The governing board of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles has just approved a new license plate with three crosses and the words “One State Under God.” atheists.org - 2885 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_launch_second_winter_billboard Mon, 12 Dec 2011 10:46:23 -0500 (December 11th, 2011) - As reported last month, American Atheists already launched part one of a two part billboard campaign with a digital billboard on the New Jersey side of the Lincoln Tunnel. Now the second part of the campaign has been revealed. atheists.org - 2886 http://www.atheists.org/news/Hitch_to_be_Missed Fri, 16 Dec 2011 07:45:38 -0500 (December 16th, 2011) - British-born author, literary critic and journalist Christopher Hitchens has died at the age of 62.He died from pneumonia, a complication of the oesophageal cancer he was suffering from, at a Texas hospital. Vanity Fair magazine, which announced his death, said there would "never be another like Christopher". He is survived by his wife, Carol Blue, and their daughter, Antonia, and his children from a previous marriage, Alexander and Sophia. atheists.org - 2887 http://www.atheists.org/news/%5C%22Christopher_Hitchens_is_in_Hell_because_God_loves_him%5C%22_says_AFA_spokesman Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:41:52 -0500 (December 18th, 2011) - When author, journalist and public intellectual Christopher Hitchens died on December 15, there was an outpouring of obituaries, tributes and commentary all over the public and social media. That's only natural when a man of his fame and stature passes away but, because he was an outspoken atheist, it was particularly interesting to hear what his religious critics had to say. atheists.org - 2888 http://www.atheists.org/news/Ohio_atheist_group_upset_over_rejected_billboards Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:43:54 -0500 (December 18th, 2011) - An Ohio atheist civil rights group is upset that a Mansfield-based company rejected billboards depicting Jesus, Poseidon, Satan and Santa Clause as myths. The Mansfield News Journal reports. Mid Ohio Atheists says Lind Media Company waited until one business day before the billboards were to go up to inform the group that they had been denied. atheists.org - 2889 http://www.atheists.org/news/Reddit_atheists_raise_over_%24200k_for_Doctors_Without_Borders Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:46:09 -0500 (December 18th, 2011) - As of Saturday, godless redditors contributed an impressive $203,000 to Doctors Without Borders, meeting and surpassing their stated goal of $200,000. atheists.org - 2890 http://www.atheists.org/news/Theists_Threaten_to_Kill_Atheists%2C_Again Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:50:06 -0500 (December 19th, 2011) - Hatred must lay just beneath the surface for many theists (of which I suspect many are Christian) as we see a second outbreak of shocking threats of violence and death this year. With the passing of Christopher Hitchens last week, the twitter hashtag #godisNotGreat began trending as it was added to many condolences for Hitch. atheists.org - 2896 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Santa_Monicans_Weigh_In_On_Nativity_Controversy Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:45:54 -0500 (December 20th, 2011) - Santa Monica's Palisades Park has become ground zero for one of the hottest controversies in the Los Angeles region after several atheist groups nudged out traditional nativity scenes with their own displays. atheists.org - 2897 http://www.atheists.org/news/VIRGINIA_-_Holiday_Battle_Includes_Church_of_the_Flying_Spaghetti_Monster Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:47:00 -0500 (December 21st, 2011) - A number of tongue-in-cheek nativity displays on a Virginia county courthouse lawn has divided the tight-knit community Leesburg right before the holidays and created an unusual scene. atheists.org - 2898 http://www.atheists.org/news/FLORIDA_-_Bondi_rewrites_ballot_summary_of_controversial_%E2%80%98Religious_Freedom%E2%80%99_amendment Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:48:20 -0500 (December 21st, 2011) - Yesterday, state Attorney General Pam Bondi rewrote the ballot summary for an amendment for Florida’s 2012 ballot as ordered by a Leon County judge a week ago. The amendment, if passed, would allow the state to commit to unfettered funding of religious institutions. atheists.org - 2899 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Pentagon_to_decide_fate_of_Camp_Pendleton_memorial Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:44:06 -0500 (December 21st, 2011) - A military atheist group and others are demanding the symbols high above the base's Camp Horno come down, arguing they are universally recognized icons and as such are an unconstitutional endorsement of the Christian religion on publicly owned land. atheists.org - 2900 http://www.atheists.org/news/CONNECTICUT_-_BOE_Snubs_ACLU_Settlement_Offer_That_Would_Bar_Holding_Graduations_In_Church Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:47:13 -0500 (December 22nd, 2011) - The Enfield Board of Education will not agree to a settlement from the American Civil Liberties Union that would have ended a longstanding court battle over whether the board should be permanently barred from holding high school graduations at a local church, according to school board attorney Vincent McCarthy. atheists.org - 2901 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_HAMPSHIRE_-_More_Political_Attacks_on_Science_Education_Planned_for_2012 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:50:38 -0500 (December 22nd, 2011) - The past year was not a good one for creationists trying to force public school science teachers to water down the teaching of biological evolution. But as this year comes to a close, it looks like legislators in New Hampshire want to be the first to attack Darwin in 2012. atheists.org - 2902 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_On_California_coast%2C_atheists_nudge_out_Nativity_scenes Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:57:20 -0500 (December 23rd, 2011) - Every Christmas for the past 60 years, Nativity scenes have dominated two blocks of a park on bluffs overlooking the ocean in Santa Monica, California. The 14 scenes depicting Jesus Christ's birth have long been a popular attraction among area residents and tourists to the southern California city. atheists.org - 2903 http://www.atheists.org/news/TEXAS_-_Houston_atheist%3A_Christmas_isn%E2%80%99t_just_for_Christians Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:59:58 -0500 (December 21nd, 2011) - I’m an atheist, and I celebrate Christmas. I do most of the traditional things. I’ve put up a tree or two. I sometimes exchange gifts. I go to parties in a Santa hat, and eat and drink too much. I watch Christmas movies, make fudge, wish people Merry Christmas, and spend as much time as possible with loved ones. Pretty normal stuff. atheists.org - 2904 http://www.atheists.org/news/Holidays%2C_minus_God Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:03:40 -0500 (December 23rd, 2011) - Americans who are unaffiliated with any faith tradition are the fastest growing religious group in the country. With the holiday season upon us, we asked iReporters: If you're atheist, agnostic or a nonbeliever of any kind, how do you celebrate the holidays? The outpouring of submissions we received were thoughtful, heartwarming, engaging and, above all, cheerful -- In other words, perfectly in tune with the holiday season. atheists.org - 2905 http://www.atheists.org/news/WASHINGTON_DC_-_Secular_Coalition_Fails_Most_2012_Presidential_Candidates Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:07:46 -0500 (December 22nd, 2011) - The Secular Coalition for America today released its 2012 Presidential Candidate Scorecard-a guide for secular-minded Americans on the presidential candidates in the upcoming 2012 election. The scorecard ranks the major candidates of both Republican and Democratic parties on issues important to nontheistic Americans, and all Americans who support a robust separation of church and state. atheists.org - 2906 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_YORK_-_Atheist_slams_nativity_vandals Sat, 24 Dec 2011 13:40:23 -0500 (December 24th, 2011) - The president of Niagara Secular Humanists is denouncing the vandalism of a nativity scene outside of St. Catharines city hall, but says he doesn't disagree with the point the vandals were trying to make. atheists.org - 2907 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_JERSEY_-_Santa_Strife_At_Hoboken_Public_School_After_Religious_Objections Sat, 24 Dec 2011 13:43:46 -0500 (December 23rd, 2011) - ’Tis the season for tension over religious displays in public spaces, and the latest flareup was triggered by Santa's appearance at a Hoboken public school. The event triggered bureaucratic maneuvering and a noisy web-based debate edged with hostility toward Jews. atheists.org - 2908 http://www.atheists.org/news/OHIO_-_Attorneys_react_to_Mansfield_billboard_controversy Sat, 24 Dec 2011 13:46:11 -0500 (December 23rd, 2011) - Mid-Ohio Atheists' right to air its beliefs on a billboard must be weighed against the right of the privately owned advertising company to reject the group's proposed message, say those who keep tabs on free speech laws. atheists.org - 2909 http://www.atheists.org/news/UK_-_Atheist_comedian_Tim_Minchin%E2%80%99s_%E2%80%98Woody_Allen_Jesus%E2%80%99_pulled_from_Brit_TV Sat, 24 Dec 2011 13:49:55 -0500 (December 22nd, 2011) - For fear of offending some Christians, a musical comedy number comparing Woody Allen to Jesus written and performed by irreverent Australian comedian Tim Minchin has been pulled from a popular British television show. atheists.org - 2910 http://www.atheists.org/news/SOUTH_CAROLINA_-_Battling_Anew_Over_the_Place_of_Religion_in_Public_Schools Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:04:15 -0500 (December 27th, 2011) - It has been nearly 50 years since the Supreme Court ruled that officially sponsored prayer in public schools violated the separation of church and state. But in some corners of the country, especially in the rural South, open prayer and Christian symbols have never really disappeared from schools, with what legal advocates call brazen violations of the law coming to light many times each year. atheists.org - 2911 http://www.atheists.org/news/DELAWARE_-_Prayer_suit_has_cost_Sussex_%2425%2C000 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:05:55 -0500 (December 28th, 2011) - Sussex County taxpayers have paid $25,000 to defend the County Council in a federal lawsuit challenging its practice of reciting the Lord's Prayer before meetings. But that's all they'll pay, as the county's insurance policy deductible has been met. atheists.org - 2912 http://www.atheists.org/news/WEST_VIRGINIA_-_Harrison_County_Commission_Must_End_Funding_of_Jesus_Fes Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:08:01 -0500 (December 29th, 2011) - "The ACLU is there to Protect your bill of rights," said Harrison County Commissioner Mike Romano. "The ACLU's sole purpose is to defend the Bill of Rights and the Bill of rights includes the first amendment right of speech and religion." atheists.org - 2913 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Atheists%2C_Marines_debate_Camp_Pendleton_crosses Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:09:07 -0500 (December 28th, 2011) - San Diego County - A Marine Corps ruling on the future of a pair of crosses at the top of a steep Camp Pendleton hill isn't expected until next year. atheists.org - 2914 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_YORK_-_Cee_Lo_Green_perverts_John_Lennon%E2%80%99s_atheist_anthem_%E2%80%98Imagine%E2%80%99_-_fans_outraged Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:11:38 -0500 (January 1st, 2012) - Fans are outraged after performer Cee Lo Green perverted John Lennon’s atheist anthem “Imagine” on NBC's New Year's Eve show. Green changed the lyrics of the much beloved Lennon tune from "Nothing to kill or die for, And no religion too" to "Nothing to kill or die for, And all religion's true." atheists.org - 2915 http://www.atheists.org/news/New_year_brings_new_attacks_on_evolution_in_schools Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:12:43 -0500 (January 1st, 2012) - The new year is bringing new controversy over teaching evolution in public schools, with two bills in New Hampshire seeking to require teachers to teach the theory more as philosophy than science. Meanwhile, an Indiana state senator has introduced a bill that would allow school boards to require the teaching of creationism. atheists.org - 2916 http://www.atheists.org/news/American_Atheists_to_Cee_Lo_Green%3A_Put_your_mouth_where_your_mouth_is_%28AUDIO%29 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:14:15 -0500 (January 2nd, 2012) - American Atheists President David Silverman wants Cee Lo Green to show just how tolerant he is by singing Imagine using the original lyrics at the largest gathering of non-believers in American history. atheists.org - 2918 http://www.atheists.org/news/ACLU_Takes_On_Internet_filtering_of_%5C%22Occult%5C%22 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:24:03 -0500 (January 3rd, 2012) - The American Civil Liberties Union and the ACLU of Eastern Missouri have filed a lawsuit charging the Salem Public Library and its board of trustees with unconstitutionally blocking access to websites discussing minority religions by improperly classifying them as “occult” or “criminal.” atheists.org - 2919 http://www.atheists.org/news/With_No_God%2C_Where_do_Atheists_Turn_in_Times_of_Crisis%3F Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:25:51 -0500 (January 5th, 2012) - Instead of begging an imaginary being for strength in a crisis, I reach out to others or rely upon myself. During times of crisis I do not plead, “God please help me!” or “God give me the strength!” I simply tell myself that I can do it or that I can make it through it. Often I reflect on the fact that I’ve been in worse situations and fared just fine. I can also turn to my family and friends for help and advice. And in extreme cases I rely on the assistance of trained professionals, such as firemen, police officers, medical doctors, etc. atheists.org - 2920 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_YORK_-_7_arrested_at_NYC_protest_on_worship_in_schools Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:27:52 -0500 (January 6th, 2012) - A city councilman and three clergymen were among seven people arrested Thursday as they protested what they fear will be the eviction of worship services from all public buildings in New York City. atheists.org - 2921 http://www.atheists.org/news/Santorum_wants_to_impose_%5C%27Judeo-Christian_Sharia%5C%27 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:29:00 -0500 (January 5th, 2012) - There are two Rick Santorums: The first one I might not agree with, but the second one truly scares me. atheists.org - 2922 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_JERSEY_-_Growing_controversy_over_recognizing_historic_cartoonist_Thomas_Nast Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:30:11 -0500 (January 5th, 2012) - Voting has closed for the New Jersey Hall of Fame’s nomination of 19th-century cartoonist Thomas Nast, whose proposed induction drew criticism from Catholic and Irish groups who said his negative portrayals of Catholics and Irish-Americans made him unsuitable for the honor. atheists.org - 2923 http://www.atheists.org/news/VIRGINIA_-_Cuccinelli%3A_governments_should_follow_court_rulings_against_sectarian_prayer Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:31:51 -0500 (January 5th, 2012) - Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli says local governments should “take heed” of recent court opinions limiting sectarian prayer at government meetings. atheists.org - 2924 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_JERSEY_-_Irish_Catholic_group_insists_cartoonist_not_worthy_of_NJ_honors Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:32:54 -0500 (January 7th, 2012) - An Irish-American Catholic fraternal group has repeated its objections to 19th-century cartoonist Thomas Nast’s nomination to the New Jersey Hall of Fame. atheists.org - 2925 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_HAMPSHIRE_-_Creationism%3A_Attacking_Science_and_Undermining_Religious_Freedom Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:37:03 -0500 (January 8th, 2012) - As the circus that is the Republican presidential sweepstakes pulls into New Hampshire, local legislators seem to be working overtime to shift the political pendulum even further to the right. And by doing so they're threatening to destroy both religion and science. atheists.org - 2926 http://www.atheists.org/news/Church-state_separation_extends_to_religious_schools%2C_Supreme_Court_rules Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:39:11 -0500 (January 11th, 2012) - The Supreme Court gave churches and religious schools a new shield against civil rights claims from their employees, ruling Wednesday that the principle of church-state separation bars bias suits from teachers who serve as "ministers" of the faith. atheists.org - 2927 http://www.atheists.org/news/RHODE_ISLAND_-_Federal_court_sides_with_atheist_student_and_orders_public_school_to_remove_prayer Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:40:09 -0500 (January 11th, 2012) - A federal judge has ordered the immediate removal of a prayer mural displayed in the auditorium of a Rhode Island public high school. atheists.org - 2928 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Neptune%2C_Jesus%2C_Santa_and_Satan_Sitting_on_a_Billboard%2C_Promoting_Orange_County_Atheism Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:41:26 -0500 (January 12th, 2012) - For its latest atheist-friendly billboard, Backyard Skeptics is unveiling in Midway City this afternoon a photo lineup featuring King Neptune, Jesus Christ, Santa Claus and the Devil himself, broken up with an orange text box with the words, "What myths do you see?" and under this ditty: "7 Million Californians know MYTHS when they see them. What do you see?" atheists.org - 2929 http://www.atheists.org/news/DELAWARE_-_Lawsuit_delves_into_Lord%5C%27s_Prayer Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:43:22 -0500 (January 12th, 2012) - A hearing Wednesday in a lawsuit aimed at stopping the Sussex County Council from reciting the Lord's Prayer before each meeting delved into the theological meaning and history of the prayer's title and whether it is explicitly a Christian prayer. atheists.org - 2930 http://www.atheists.org/news/NORTH_CAROLINA_-_Buncombe_schools_to_closely_examine_religion_policies Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:44:12 -0500 (January 12th, 2012) - The Buncombe County school district will consider restrictions on a range religious activities — from chaplains leading prayer with football teams to choral groups singing Christian hymns at Christmas concerts. atheists.org - 2931 http://www.atheists.org/news/RHODE_ISLAND_-_Atheist%2C_16%2C_thrilled_with_prayer_banner_order Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:45:08 -0500 (January 12th, 2012) - The Rhode Island teen who won a legal battle over a prayer banner displayed at her high school said Thursday that a federal court order requiring the banner's removal reflects "what true American values are." atheists.org - 2932 http://www.atheists.org/news/RHODE_ISLAND_-_Threats_against_atheist_teen_being_investigated Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:45:53 -0500 (January 13th, 2012) - Police are investigating threats on social media directed at the 16-year-old atheist at the center of a legal battle over a prayer banner at her public high school in Rhode Island. atheists.org - 2933 http://www.atheists.org/news/UK_-_Muhammad_cartoon_row%3A_student_atheist_society_claims_victory Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:47:03 -0500 (January 13th, 2012) - A university atheist society which sparked a global debate over the publication of a cartoon depicting Jesus and Muhammad on a webpage has declared a victory for freedom of speech after its student union backed away from a demand that the cartoon be removed. atheists.org - 2934 http://www.atheists.org/news/MISSOURI_-_Bill_would_require_the_teaching_of_intelligent_design Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:48:16 -0500 (January 23rd, 2012) - A Republican lawmaker from Harrisonville wants all students in Missouri public schools, as well as those in introductory college courses, to be taught intelligent design alongside evolution in their science classes. atheists.org - 2935 http://www.atheists.org/news/Supreme_Court_lets_stand_ruling_that_bans_prayer_at_school_board_meetings Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:49:04 -0500 (January 17th, 2012) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected appeals that sought to give government organizations more discretion on whether to open their meetings with prayers. atheists.org - 2936 http://www.atheists.org/news/SOUTH_AFRICA_-_Church%5C%27s_%5C%27offensive%5C%27_anti-atheist_billboard_is_banned_by_advertising_watchdog_ Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:50:06 -0500 (January 17th, 2012) - A church advertising campaign that depicted atheists as stupid has been banned by a watchdog in South Africa. atheists.org - 2937 http://www.atheists.org/news/RHODE_ISLAND_-_Teen_atheist_releases_a_YouTube_response_to_decision Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:52:20 -0500 (January 17th, 2012) - In a video testimony by Jessica Ahlquist released on YouTube the self-proclaimed teenage atheist speaks out about her victory over the Prayer Banner at Cranston West and her reaction to the community’s response. atheists.org - 2938 http://www.atheists.org/news/RHODE_ISLAND_-_Why_Is_an_Atheist_High_School_Student_Getting_Vicious_Death_Threats%3F Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:53:26 -0500 (January 18th, 2012) - If you take away just two things from the story about atheist high school student Jessica Ahlquist, and the court case she won last week to have a prayer banner taken out of her public school, let it be these... atheists.org - 2939 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_YORK_-_Church_ban_causes_stir_in_City_Council Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:54:20 -0500 (January 19th, 2012) - A decision by the United States Supreme Court is causing controversy in Queens and throughout the city over the definition of the separation between church and state. atheists.org - 2940 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDONESIA_-_Atheist_faces_jail_after_Facebook_post Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:55:06 -0500 (January 20th, 2012) - An Indonesian civil servant who declared himself an atheist on Facebook was arrested and is now facing jail for blasphemy after being attacked by an angry mob, police said Friday. atheists.org - 2941 http://www.atheists.org/news/RHODE_ISLAND_-_Atheist_Teen_Denied_Delivery_by_Local_Florists Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:56:16 -0500 (January 20th, 2012) - Atheist teen Jessica Alhquist is still the receiving end of mistreatment by ultra-religious yokels in Cranston. It appears that florists shops in her town are outright refusing to deliver flowers that have been ordered as gifts for the brave, intelligent child. What kind of business shuns and demands business to a child? atheists.org - 2942 http://www.atheists.org/news/WASHINGTON_DC_-_Adam_Savage_to_speak_at_Reason_Rally Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:58:08 -0500 (January 20th, 2012) - Adam Savage has been added to the list of speakers at the Reason Rally – a free event at the National Mall in Washington D.C. taking place on March 24, 2012 that is slated to be the largest gathering of the secular movement in world history – says David Silverman, president of American Atheists and Chair of the Reason Rally, commenting specifically for this article. atheists.org - 2943 http://www.atheists.org/news/TENNESSEE_-_Lawsuit_challenges_Whiteville%5C%27s_Christian_water_tower_display Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:00:38 -0500 (January 21st, 2012) - In the beginning, it was just a cross -- two simple perpendicular white bars placed on top of the town water tower. atheists.org - 2944 http://www.atheists.org/news/Jimmy_Carter%3A_Religion_Overemphasized_in_Republican_Presidential_Race Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:06:32 -0500 (January 23rd, 2012) - When he ran for president in 1976, Democratic candidate Carter was confronted with a question while attending a fundraiser in North Carolina. “One of the news reporters asked me if I was a "born again" Christian, and I said “yes” and that made the headlines.” atheists.org - 2945 http://www.atheists.org/news/TENNESSEE_-_Lawmakers_trying_to_allow_displays_of_commandments Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:07:16 -0500 (January 23rd, 2012) - Two Republican state legislators are pushing a measure aimed at allowing local governments to display the Ten Commandments in county courthouses or on public grounds in Tennessee. atheists.org - 2946 http://www.atheists.org/news/ARIZONA_-_High_schools_may_soon_offer_Bible_classes Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:07:58 -0500 (January 23rd, 2012) - Arizona's public and charter high-school students could soon earn credit for learning about the influence of the Old Testament on art or how biblical references are found throughout literature. atheists.org - 2947 http://www.atheists.org/news/TENNESSEE_-_Tea_Party_Groups_Demand_Textbooks_Overlook_U.S._Founder%5C%27s_Slave-Owning_History Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:09:21 -0500 (January 23rd, 2012) - A little more than a year after the conservative-led state board of education in Texas approved massive changes to its school textbooks to put slavery in a more positive light, a group of Tea Party activists in Tennessee has renewed its push to whitewash school textbooks. The group is seeking to remove references to slavery and mentions of the country's founders being slave owners. atheists.org - 2948 http://www.atheists.org/news/KENTUCKY_-__Cuts_Education%3B_Preserves_Tax_Breaks_For_Creationist_Theme_Park Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:10:18 -0500 (January 23rd, 2012) - In one of the most spectacularly mis-prioritized state budgets in recent memory, Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear (D), is suggesting over $50 million in cuts to education – while preserving $43 million in tax breaks for the Ark Encounter, a creationist amusement park centered around a life-sized Noah’s Ark. atheists.org - 2949 http://www.atheists.org/news/ARKANSAS_-_State_issue_rules_on_religion_in_publicly-financed_daycare Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:11:08 -0500 (January 23rd, 2012) - The Arkansas Department of Human Services has proposed a new rule to clarify that state money may not be used to provide religious instruction in pre-schools that receive public tax money. atheists.org - 2950 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDIANA_-_Mounting_opposition_to_creationist_bill Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:11:50 -0500 (January 23rd, 2012) - Opposition to Indiana's Senate Bill 89, which if enacted would allow local school districts to "require the teaching of various theories concerning the origin of life, including creation science," is mounting — and coming, moreover, from a variety of perspectives. atheists.org - 2951 http://www.atheists.org/news/MISSOURI_-_Senate_Debates_Separation_of_Church_and_State Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:12:35 -0500 (January 24th, 2012) - A Senate proposal would allow state funding to go to religious institutions. The possibility is sparking debate over its impact on the separation of church and state. atheists.org - 2952 http://www.atheists.org/news/FLORIDA_-_School_prayer_bill_on_its_way_to_the_Senate_floor Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:13:13 -0500 (January 24th, 2012) - A bill that would allow students to pray during school events passed through its final state Senate committee yesterday. atheists.org - 2953 http://www.atheists.org/news/RHODE_ISLAND_-_Clergy_voice_support_for_student_in_prayer_banner_case Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:14:03 -0500 (January 24th, 2012) - The Rhode Island State Council of Churches on Tuesday publicly voiced its support of the 16-year-old girl who won a court battle to have a prayer banner at her school removed. atheists.org - 2954 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_YORK_-_Bill_Allowing_Worship_In_Schools_Advances_In_Senate Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:14:44 -0500 (January 24th, 2012) - State Senator Martin J. Golden (R-C-I, Brooklyn), today is announcing that legislation he sponsored, S. 6087A, which allows religious institutions to use public school buildings for worship services during non-school hours, has unanimously passed the Senate Education Committee. atheists.org - 2955 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Hays_County_Commissioners_Court_promotes_sectarianism Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:15:28 -0500 (January 24th, 2012) - No principle is more fundamental to the founding of this country than the right of all people to follow their own religious beliefs without interference from or influence by government. atheists.org - 2956 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDONESIA_-_Man_Arrested_For_%5C%27Being_Atheist%5C%27 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:25:53 -0500 (January 24th, 2012) - As the international community sharpens its focus on Burma and its "opening-up" amid the ongoing release of political prisoners, its near neighbors appear to be heading in another direction. atheists.org - 2957 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDIA_-_%5C%27What_use_is_god_if_he_can%E2%80%99t_protect_free_speech%3F%5C%27 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:29:36 -0500 (January 25th, 2012) - What do you get when you start a debate on the subject of man versus god? Answer: An impassioned and aggravated audience. At the closing debate of the Jaipuir Literature Festival, titled ‘This house believes that man has replaced god’, the audience cheered as one voice at every remark in support of atheism. atheists.org - 2958 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDIA_-_Dawkins_on_Salman_Rushdie%E2%80%99s_forced_absence_from_India%E2%80%99s_Jaipur_Literature_Festival Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:30:40 -0500 (January 24th, 2012) - Richard Dawkins - scientist, bestselling author and the world’s foremost atheist- criticized Indian authorities on Monday at the Jaipur Literature Fest, pointing to the “lamentable disgrace” of Salman Rushdie’s imposed absence. atheists.org - 2959 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_U.S._Supreme_Court_asked_to_permit_religious_banners_in_classroom Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:31:28 -0500 (January 24th, 2012) - A conservative public-interest law group is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a ruling by the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals that a San Diego-area mathematics teacher must remove banners mentioning religion from his classroom. atheists.org - 2960 http://www.atheists.org/news/PENNSYLVANIA_-_Bishop_slams_public_schools%2C_says_Hitler_and_Mussolini_would_%E2%80%98love_our_system%E2%80%99 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:32:22 -0500 (January 23rd, 2012) - In the midst of a raging battle in Pennsylvania over school vouchers, Harrisburg Bishop Joseph McFadden had some tough words about the nation’s public school system. atheists.org - 2961 http://www.atheists.org/news/SOUTH_DAKOTA_-_House_urges_academic_study_of_Bible_in_schools Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:24:17 -0500 (January 25th, 2012) - The South Dakota House has endorsed a measure encouraging the academic study of the Bible in the state's public schools. atheists.org - 2962 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_JERSEY_-_Atheist_leader_encourages_non-believers_to_unite Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:38:09 -0500 (January 26th, 2012) - David Silverman, the president of American Atheists endorsed the atheism philosophy Tuesday night when he spoke to students about the increase of non-believers. atheists.org - 2963 http://www.atheists.org/news/TENNESSEE_-_Ten_Commandments_posting_voted_on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:44:35 -0500 (January 26th, 2012) - A resolution that would reportedly allow county officials to post the Ten Commandments in their respective offices was approved by commissioners Monday night with only one member of the legislative body casting a “no” vote. atheists.org - 2964 http://www.atheists.org/news/MINNESOTA_-_Atheists_borrow_from_abortion_foes%2C_employ_smiling_babies_in_billboard_campaign Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:31:43 -0500 (January 26th, 2012) - Minnesota atheists are using an image of a cute baby - in an imitation of an anti-abortion billboard campaign - for its new billboards in the Twin Cities promoting godlessness. atheists.org - 2965 http://www.atheists.org/news/UTAH_-_UTA%2C_atheists_battle_over_ads Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:32:30 -0500 (January 27th, 2012) - Ads on buses and trains are seen by thousands of people a day. But the Utah Transit Authority tried to deny an open-records law request by an atheist group for a copy of all such ads accepted by the agency, arguing that might violate copyright laws. atheists.org - 2966 http://www.atheists.org/news/RHODE_ISLAND_-_Student_Faces_Town%E2%80%99s_Wrath_in_Protest_Against_a_Prayer Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:33:40 -0500 (January 27th, 2012) - She is 16, the daughter of a firefighter and a nurse, a self-proclaimed nerd who loves Harry Potter and Facebook. But Jessica Ahlquist is also an outspoken atheist who has incensed this heavily Roman Catholic city with a successful lawsuit to get a prayer removed from the wall of her high school auditorium, where it has hung for 49 years. atheists.org - 2967 http://www.atheists.org/news/Get_G.O.D._out_of_the_G.O.P. Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:34:41 -0500 (January 26th, 2012) - A friend of mine recently “came out” as an atheist to her mother, who dismissed her daughter’s beliefs (or lack thereof) as “just a phase,” like sporting pink hair or black nail polish. Another friend of mine struggles to hide her atheism from her staunchly Catholic family. atheists.org - 2968 http://www.atheists.org/news/OHIO_-_Ohio_State_Football_Player_Tweets%3A_Show_Atheists_%5C%22Some_Hate%5C%22 Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:35:39 -0500 (January 26th, 2012) - OSU football player Jake Russell (#21, punter) tweeted late night on January 24th, “my roommate max rouse (look him up on Facebook) is an atheist, please show him some hate.” atheists.org - 2969 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDIANA_-_Senate_panel_OKs_creationism_teaching_bill Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:37:47 -0500 (January 26th, 2012) - An Indiana Senate panel has approved a bill that would allow creationism to be taught in Indiana's public schools. atheists.org - 2970 http://www.atheists.org/news/SOUTH_CAROLINA_-_Schools_Agree_to_Halt_Prayers Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:39:46 -0500 (January 26th, 2012) - A school district that was sued for holding a prayer rally at a school assembly and prayers at official events has agreed to end its promotion of religion. atheists.org - 2971 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDIANA_-_Senate_threatens_children_with_creationism_and_scientific_ignorance Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:40:31 -0500 (January 26th, 2012) - In a depressing attack on children in Indiana, a state Senate panel approved a bill that would allow creationism to be taught in Indiana's public schools. The legislation threatens both the integrity of public education and the intellectual development of children. atheists.org - 2972 http://www.atheists.org/news/MINNESOTA_-_Atheists_Promote_Message_With_Babies_on_Billboards Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:42:07 -0500 (January 27th, 2012) - For decades, babies have appeared on billboards across Minnesota touting an anti-abortion message. This week, new billboards are popping up, showing images of babies while promoting Atheism. atheists.org - 2973 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Gay_Teen_Suicide%3A_Parents_Performed_Exorcism_On_Him Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:40:05 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - A gay California teenager killed himself after his Christian parents performed an exorcism on him in an attempt to "cure" him, and when that didn't work they kicked him out of the house. atheists.org - 2974 http://www.atheists.org/news/KENTUCKY_-_Archbishop_Kurtz_protests_U.S._requirement_for_free_contraceptive_coverage_in_health_plan Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:42:56 -0500 (February 1st, 2012) - Louisville Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz has joined a growing national chorus of Catholic leaders in denouncing “alarming” federal requirements that church-affiliated schools and hospitals offer their employees free health insurance coverage for sterilizations and contraceptives. atheists.org - 2975 http://www.atheists.org/news/FLORIDA_-_School_prayer_bill_expanded_to_include_elementary_school_students Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:44:01 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - A school prayer bill was today expanded to include elementary school students during one of its final readings on the state Senate floor. atheists.org - 2976 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_YORK_-_Lawmakers_Push_For_Legislation_Allowing_Churches_To_Use_Public_School_Facilities Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:45:03 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - State lawmakers are trying to reverse a city policy that bans churches from using schools for worship services. State Senator Marty Goldman is sponsoring legislation that would allow religious groups to meet in public schools when school is not in session. atheists.org - 2977 http://www.atheists.org/news/FLORIDA_-_Retooled_%E2%80%98foreign_law%E2%80%99_bill_sparks_Sharia_debate_in_House_Committee Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:45:57 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - Florida’s anti-Sharia activism made its way into the state Legislature this morning, as a bill that would regulate the “application of foreign law in certain cases” passed through a House justice committee. atheists.org - 2978 http://www.atheists.org/news/COLORADO_-_Atheist_billboard_raising_hackles_among_conservatives Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:55:50 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - A billboard sponsored by atheists is raising the hackles of conservatives in Colorado Springs by questioning the existence of God. atheists.org - 2979 http://www.atheists.org/news/UTAH_-_Forest_Service_to_Jesus%3A_You_can_stay..._for_now Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:57:09 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - The mountaintop Jesus can stay at a northwest Montana ski resort -- for now. atheists.org - 2980 http://www.atheists.org/news/SOUTH_DAKOTA_-_Lawmakers_urge_academic_Bible_study_in_schools Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:57:57 -0500 (January 30th, 2012) - A measure encouraging South Dakota schools to provide academic instruction on the Bible won final approval Monday from the state Legislature amid criticism from some lawmakers that it could blur the line between government and religion. atheists.org - 2981 http://www.atheists.org/news/Purdue_professor_speaks_out_against_creation_science_bill Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:58:49 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - A Purdue professor has said he will continue to publicly speak against the potential legislation for creation science to be taught in public schools. atheists.org - 2982 http://www.atheists.org/news/TEXAS_-_Scientology_Sues_Debbie_Cook_Over_Her_New_Year%5C%27s_Eve_E-Mail Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:01:47 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - Monday evening, the Tampa Bay Times reported that the Church of Scientology filed a lawsuit Friday in San Antonio against Debbie Cook and her husband Wayne Baumgarten. The lawsuit, which accuses Cook of violating the terms of a non-disclosure agreement when she dared to criticize the leadership of her church, should draw major media attention to various issues that have been splitting Scientology apart. atheists.org - 2983 http://www.atheists.org/news/TEXAS_-_Atheist_Billboard_Targets_African_Americans Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:03:05 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - There’s nothing on it now, but on Monday a billboard on Interstate 35 at Illinois Avenue could be the talk of south Oak Cliff. That’s because its message will target black people who might consider becoming atheist. atheists.org - 2984 http://www.atheists.org/news/PENNSYLVANIA_-_Atheist_bus_ad_to_put_Christians_to_the_test Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:05:22 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - Richard Wade, who writes for the Friendly Atheist blog, thinks that it doesn’t matter what the message is, but rather the messenger. atheists.org - 2985 http://www.atheists.org/news/Get_the_Church_Out_of_America%E2%80%99s_Kindergartens Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:08:24 -0500 (February 1st, 2012) - A radical religious ideology is rapidly gaining momentum in America’s public elementary schools. Largely unbeknownst to parents, and poorly understood by school administrators, conservative groups within the evangelical Christian movement are carrying out an organized campaign to capture the hearts and minds of children and subvert the separation of church and state. atheists.org - 2986 http://www.atheists.org/news/FLORIDA_-_Bill_allowing_school_prayer_by_students_only_nears_State_Senate_vote Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:09:13 -0500 (January 31st, 2012) - A measure originally intended to allow high school students to offer "inspirational messages" at noncompulsory events such as football games or graduations ceremonies morphed on the Senate floor Monday into a proposal to allow public school students of all ages to pray at any assembly. atheists.org - 2987 http://www.atheists.org/news/ILLINOIS_-_Legislators_again_take_up_anti-gay_adoption_bill Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:10:10 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - Downstate Republicans have again filed legislation to allow religion based discrimination against gay and lesbian couples when it comes to foster and adoption services in Illinois. atheists.org - 2988 http://www.atheists.org/news/Misguided_State_Lawmakers%2C_School_Officials_Launch_Attacks_On_Evolution_Instruction_In_Public_School Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:11:44 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - To scientists, evolution is one of the most important and foundational ideas of modern biology. atheists.org - 2989 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDONESIA_-_Atheist%E2%80%99s_arrest_sparks_tension_online Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:12:43 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - A defiant declaration of atheism by an Indonesian civil servant has inflamed passions in the world’s most populous Muslim nation, pitting non-believers and believers against each other. atheists.org - 2991 http://www.atheists.org/news/Dawkins_Names_Finalists_for_Video_Awards Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:19:55 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - The judges have selected seven finalists in the "Ten Point Vision of a Secular America" contest. atheists.org - 2992 http://www.atheists.org/news/ALABAMA_-_McGill_Responds_to_Controversies Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:02:04 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - Alabama State Senator Shadrack McGill is in the national spotlight this week after making some controversial comments about teachers at a function in Ft. Payne last week. atheists.org - 2993 http://www.atheists.org/news/WISCONSIN_-_Ruling_spurs_debate_on_prayer_at_area_public_meetings Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:04:24 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - Jesus Christ is welcome at Brown County Board meetings, but some lawmakers say they'd feel more comfortable if he wasn't mentioned so specifically. atheists.org - 2994 http://www.atheists.org/news/VIRGINIA_-_ACLU_warns_against_sectarian_prayers_in_legislature Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:05:55 -0500 (February 3rd, 2012) - The American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina Legal Foundation sent a letter to Attorney General Roy Cooper on Thursday to outline the group's concerns about sectarian prayers used to open sessions of the General Assembly. atheists.org - 2995 http://www.atheists.org/news/ARKANSAS_-_Lawmaker_wants_colleagues_to_block_proposed_ban_on_religion_in_state-funded_preschools Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:06:54 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - A state lawmaker said today he is calling on the Legislature to reject a proposed rule prohibiting state funding for pre-kindergarten education from being used to support religious activities. atheists.org - 2996 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Freshman_forms_secular_organization Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:08:05 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - After freshman Ian Stewart spent his winter break engrossed in The God Delusion — biologist Richard Dawkins’ bestseller on the impossibility of a divine creator — he felt inspired to counter campus faith-based groups by uniting his fellow non-believers. atheists.org - 2997 http://www.atheists.org/news/VIRGINIA_-_Nonsectarian_prayer_invokes_concerns Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:09:37 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - Last month, the Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal of a lower court's decision that banned sectarian prayer at Forsyth County Board of Commissioners meetings. atheists.org - 2998 http://www.atheists.org/news/Can_the_US_Army_embrace_atheists%3F Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:11:08 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - In a land of faith and flag, Justin Griffith is challenging the US military to abandon its religious ties. atheists.org - 2999 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDONESIA_-_Atheist_on_Facebook_risks_imprisonment_and_unleashes_an_Islamist_revolt Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:17:13 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - Indonesia is not a country for "atheists", especially if you declare in public - in this case with a post on Facebook – that you do not believe in God. Aan Alexander, 30, since jailed, has triggered a wave of protests even among colleagues and risks losing his job. atheists.org - 3000 http://www.atheists.org/news/UK_-_Christian_group_banned_from_claiming_it_heals_the_sick_in_street_prayer_sessions_outside_Abbey Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:23:02 -0500 (February 3rd, 2012) - A Christian group has been banned from claiming it can heal people after complaints to the advertising watchdog. Healing on the Streets - Bath (HOTS) stages regular sessions outside the city’s abbey and says 'scores of people' have been 'physically healed' as a result of its work. atheists.org - 3001 http://www.atheists.org/news/SKEPTICISM%3A_Facebook_Hoax%3A_Scaring_Women_About_Rapists Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:28:21 -0500 (February 2nd, 2012) - Some Facebook hoaxes are spun up by people trying to get money, web traffic, etc. from users. But, there are some that purport to be kind-hearted warnings or warm-hearted stories. atheists.org - 3003 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDIANA_-_Creationist_School_Bill_Looks_Doomed Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:38:08 -0500 (February 3rd, 2012) - Legislators in Indiana appear to have fallen short of their goal of injecting creationism into U.S. public schools, at least for this year. However, they did deploy a few new tactics in the never-ending assault on evolutionary theory by religious fundamentalists. atheists.org - 3004 http://www.atheists.org/news/ALABAMA_-_%5C%27Bible_Man%5C%27_OK%5C%27d_by_Jackson_County_school_board Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:38:52 -0500 (February 3rd, 2012) - A parentﾒs complaint about religious assemblies during the school day brought more than 100 people supporting the assemblies to a called meeting of the Jackson County school board Monday night (Jan. 30, 2012). atheists.org - 3005 http://www.atheists.org/news/INDIANA_-_Atheist_banner_to_fly_over_Superbowl Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:39:49 -0500 (February 3rd, 2012) - They say that America is the most religious nation of the developed world, but is football really a religion? On February 5th, Superbowl Sunday, American Atheists will be flying a banner over Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana that will read, “Football beats church anytime – atheists.org.” atheists.org - 3006 http://www.atheists.org/news/TEXAS_-__Coming_to_a_South_Dallas_Billboard%3A_A_Celebration_of_Black_Atheists_%26_Freethinkers Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:41:48 -0500 (February 3rd, 2012) - When we last caught up with the Dallas-Forth Worth Coalition of Reason, our local band of atheists, freethinkers and humanists, they were trying fruitlessly to get The Dallas Morning News to include a "secular perspective" in their weekly religion blog. atheists.org - 3007 http://www.atheists.org/news/CALIFORNIA_-_Atheist_Billboard_in_Santa_Ana Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:44:33 -0500 (February 3rd, 2012) - A billboard posted along a Santa Ana freeway is encouraging drivers to come out to their loved ones. The 48-by-14 foot sign tells passersby not to be ashamed if they don’t believe in a god. atheists.org - 3008 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_YORK_-_NYC_Council%2C_State_Senate_Rush_to_Keep_Churches_in_Public_Schools Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:45:38 -0500 (February 3rd, 2012) - The New York State Senate is fast-tracking a bill to override a law upheld by the federal courts that forbids worship services in New York City public schools. atheists.org - 3009 http://www.atheists.org/news/VIRGINIA_-_Federal_Judge_Orders_Pittsylvania_Co._Board_to_Halt_Prayers Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:46:45 -0500 (February 3rd, 2012) - Federal Judge Michael Urbanski issued a preliminary injunction Friday telling the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors to halt prayers before meetings until a final ruling in their suit with the ACLU is made. atheists.org - 3010 http://www.atheists.org/news/Bill_Maher%3A_Atheism_is_a_religion_like_abstinence_is_a_sex_position Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:47:42 -0500 (February 4th, 2012) - Bill Maher has a new rule: Atheism is not a religion. On Friday night’s edition of Real Time Maher told his audience that atheism and religion are not two sides of the same coin, joking - “Atheism is a religion like abstinence is a sex position.” atheists.org - 3011 http://www.atheists.org/news/CONNECTICUT_-_ACLU_objects_to_school_lease_on_church_grounds Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:26:36 -0500 (February 5th, 2012) - The ACLU of Connecticut Friday publicly objected to a lease between the city of Stamford and St. Clement's Parish, due to what it calls "unconstitutional restrictions on public education." atheists.org - 3012 http://www.atheists.org/news/NEW_YORK_-_Schools%3A_No_place_for_religious_services Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:28:03 -0500 (February 5th, 2012) - The religious congregations at the heart of a recent controversy about the separation of church and state — nearly all of them Christian — are upset that a recent federal appeals court decision is forcing them out of the New York City public schools they have long called home. atheists.org - 3013 http://www.atheists.org/news/ARKANSAS_-_Legislative_leaders_not_inclined_to_oppose_ban_on_religion_in_state-funded_preschools Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:28:52 -0500 (February 5th, 2012) - A state lawmaker last week called on the Legislature to reject a proposed rule banning preschools from using state money for religious activities, but legislative leaders say a line between church and state has to be drawn somewhere. atheists.org - 3014 http://www.atheists.org/news/Atheists%3A_a_forgotten_minority Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:30:28 -0500 (February 6th, 2012) - The struggle for social inclusion is being fought on many fronts at the moment, and one group that tends to take a backseat is atheists.