Difference between revisions of "New Atheism leadership's problem with excess weight"
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− | [[File:PzMyers2.jpg|thumbnail|300px|right|[[PZ Myers]] | + | [[File:PzMyers2.jpg|thumbnail|300px|right|[[PZ Myers]] is a leader within the [[New Atheism]] movement. |
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<small>(photo obtained from [http://www.flickr.com/photos/reuvenim/4426093513/ Flickr], see [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/deed.en license agreement])</small> ]] | <small>(photo obtained from [http://www.flickr.com/photos/reuvenim/4426093513/ Flickr], see [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/deed.en license agreement])</small> ]] | ||
− | [[New Atheism]] is a form of [[militant atheism]]. The term New Atheism which first appeared in the November 2006 edition of ''Wired'' magazine, is frequently applied to a series of six best-selling books by five authors that appeared in the period between 2004–2008. These authors include [[Sam Harris]], [[Daniel Dennett]], [[Richard Dawkins]], Victor J. Stenger and [[Christopher Hitchens]].<ref>http://www.colorado.edu/philosophy/vstenger/battle.html</ref> | + | [[New Atheism]] is a form of [[militant atheism]]. The term New Atheism which first appeared in the November 2006 edition of ''Wired'' magazine, is frequently applied to a series of six best-selling books by five authors that appeared in the period between 2004–2008. These authors include [[Sam Harris]], [[Daniel Dennett]], [[Richard Dawkins]], Victor J. Stenger and [[Christopher Hitchens]].<ref>http://www.colorado.edu/philosophy/vstenger/battle.html</ref> |
− | + | Although the New Atheist leaders claim to be pro-science, 3 out of 5 of these [[atheism|atheist]] men have had issues with being overweight as can be seen [http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3UXl0oMYPLs/SXgxH_-MgFI/AAAAAAAAAF4/EU-wzxEjOmc/s1600-h/atheist-reason.jpg HERE] and [http://www.flickr.com/photos/7230309@N05/3708479160/ HERE] and [http://news.softpedia.com/newsImage/Quantum-Mechanics-Could-Link-Humans-with-the-Universe-2.jpg/ HERE] | |
− | [[ | + | The [[Ex-atheists|ex-atheist]] [[Richard Dawkins]] has publicly indicated that he is an [[agnosticism|agnostic]] (see: [[Richard Dawkins and agnosticism]]). Since Dawkins is an an agnostic and not an atheist, this would mean that 3 out of 4 of the atheist founders of the New Atheism movement had excess weight issues. At a 75% of individuals overweight population, this would make the atheist founders of the New Atheist movement one of the most overweight populations in world history in terms of the percentage of people overweight.<ref>[http://www.infoplease.com/world/statistics/obesity.html Fattest Countries in the World]</ref><ref>[http://histowiki.com/2244/history/obesity-history-timeline/ The History Of Obesity Timeline]</ref> |
− | + | For more information please see: [[Atheism and obesity]]. | |
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− | + | According to [[medical science]], there are a significant number of [[Physical and mental health related problems associated with obesity|physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight]]. | |
− | + | In the late 1990s, Dennet had [[coronary artery bypass surgery]] (coronary artery bypass surgery reroutes blood around clogged [[artery|arteries]] to enhance [[blood]] flow and [[oxygen]] to the [[heart]]).<ref>http://www.edge.org/3rd_culture/dennett06/dennett06_index.html</ref><ref>http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4484</ref> In 2003, a [http://www.ted.com/talks/dan_dennett_on_our_consciousness.html a video] at Ted was published featuring an overweight Daniel Dennett. In 2013, [http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/07/08/daniel-dennett-new-atheism-has-changed-the-face-of-america/ a video] embedded on a ''The Raw Story'' article featured an overweight Daniel Dennett. | |
− | + | Furthermore, a majority of New Atheist leaders have engaged in unhealthy healthy habits (see: [[New Atheism leaders and unhealthy lifestyles]]). | |
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− | + | == PZ Myers == | |
− | + | [[PZ Myers]] is also a leader within the New Atheism movement who is an associate professor of biology at the University of Minnesota at Morris. In addition, he has a blog entitled [[Pharyngula (blog)|Pharyngula]]. [[PZ Myers|Myers has had problems with being overweight]] as can be seen [http://gaylejordan.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/dsc02944.jpg HERE] and [https://www.flickr.com/photos/biofortified/4681215568/in/photolist-88Esif-73z2v4-5VC3RT-5VGB9h-5VC96t-5VGjGG-5VCad4-5VG8Cf-5VFSHf-5VBTTt-5VCkja-5VCcrz-5VGhYC-5VBRW6-5VGbwj-5VChY4-5VC6cF-5VBP3F-5VGzNS-5VG7Xo-5VC7Dv-5VC1KP-5VG9g3-6QF6YC-6NEVMU-5VCRQz-6NEXn5-6NEXcY-6NEX5A-5VCWRH-5VHfGo-5VD4uR-5VH4yU-5VDdTM-5VCFQV-5VDbCP-5VCAQa-5VCnb2-5VCJ9n-5VHwkm-5VGSeu-5VCrQe-5VH2mJ-5VCZRr-5VHFSL-5VHrsA-5VGZyS-5VCQw4-5VGKXW-5VHoaN HERE] and [https://flic.kr/p/8ZpQv6 HERE]. | |
− | + | In 2010, PZ Myers had health problems related to his heart.<ref>http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2010/08/thats_not_a_heart_its_a_flaili.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+scienceblogs%2Fpharyngula+%28Pharyngula%29&utm_content=Google+Reader</ref> | |
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− | + | On June 1, 2011, Myers posted a picture of himself and others on his blog and Myers appeared to no longer have issues with being overweight.<ref>http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/06/the_final_tally_on_the_camp_qu.php</ref> However, on February 13, 2013, a video was posted to YouTube entitled, ''Is church harmful?'' and Myers appeared to have put on weight subsequent to his June 1, 2011 picture.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grwcUgEViOo ''Is church harmful?'' - Michael & Rhonda Jones, PZ Myers], Published on Feb 10, 2013 by YouTube account kaine diatheke</ref> In addition, a picture taken in 2014 features an overweight PZ Myers.<ref>[https://www.flickr.com/photos/gruts/14904166182/in/photolist-D4eT1T-sGxAz4-ruzFxj-iqRgAh-fQN82k-tz1p97-oqznxw-oH2Kms-oF2JGs-oqz9BS-oqz9fE-oqyZdn-oGMQtt-oGMQdP-oGMPyc-oqyKQw-oF2FT1-oH4vr2-oqyJXQ-oqz63Y-oqyVVR-oG7waJ-nWjtyR-nkHxxA-ekAZzi-dKuHL9-ekAZoz-egKaMi-ebQPPA-e8qkXB-dYUxZA-dYDWHy-dYyeiT-dUZNLQ-dyGPn7-dyGPhW-dyGNjU-dyGNfG-dyBk58-dtGPhq-detTjF-dabS2Z-dabRXQ-cNf3PS-cNf3qq-cNeuKu-cNeuqC-cAgJvb-bUMdpQ-bUMctb PZ Myers, FCD, Maureen Brian, FCD, & Richard Carter, FCD]</ref> | |
− | + | === Vox Day on the issue of atheism and obesity === | |
− | + | ''See also:'' [[Overweight atheist PZ Myers posing with some young overweight fans]] | |
− | + | In 2011, the [[theism|theist]] [[Vox Day]] had an individual complain about the notion that the atheist community has a problem with obesity (Please see: [[Atheism and obesity]]). As a result, on May 19, 2011, Vox Day released a blog post entitled ''Mailvox: now, who said atheists are fat?'' where 80% of the people taking a picture with PZ Myers were overweight and PZ Myers was overweight in the picture as well as can be seen [http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/05/16/at-least-you-can-see-a-hint-of/ HERE].<ref>[http://voxday.blogspot.com/2011/05/mailvox-now-who-said-atheists-are-fat.html MailVox: Who said atheists are fat?].</ref> The picture was originally posted on PZ Myer's blog [[Pharyngula (blog)|Pharyngula]] by Myers on May 16, 2011 and an online argument quickly ensued concerning the appearance of the photograph's participants.<ref>[http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/05/16/at-least-you-can-see-a-hint-of/ At least you can see a hint of what you missed | |
+ | Posted by PZ Myers on May 16, 2011]</ref> | ||
+ | [[Image:CMpix1.JPG|thumb|300px|During his visit to the [[Creation Museum]], [[PZ Myers]] had noticeably greater difficulty than others climbing on and off a [[dinosaur]] model due to the fact that he was overweight and out of shape.[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQQl2TMrgbM VIDEO] ]] | ||
− | [[ | + | === An overweight PZ Myers and Creation Museum buffoonery === |
− | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/ | + | |
− | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ | + | ''See also:'' [[Essay: PZ Myers embarrasses himself at the Creation Museum|PZ Myers embarrasses himself at the Creation Museum]] - [[satire]] |
− | *[http://www. | + | |
− | </ref> | + | In August 2009, Myers led a group of over 300 atheist and agnostic students on a tour of the [[Creation Museum]].<ref>[http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/story?id=8280168 "Creation Museum: Is This How World Began?" (ABC News)]</ref> During the visit, Myers had noticeably greater difficulty than others climbing on and off a dinosaur model due to the fact that he was overweight and out of shape.[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQQl2TMrgbM VIDEO] In addition, the purpose of the dinosaur model is clearly for children to sit on for photographs.<ref>http://blogs.answersingenesis.org/aroundtheworld/2009/08/16/children-and-the-creation-museum/</ref><ref>[http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/53237252.html "A firebrand visits Creation Museum" (Minneapolis Star-Tribune)]</ref> Myers donned a borrowed cowboy hat and was egged on by the cheers and laughter of the students.<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQQl2TMrgbM</ref> |
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− | + | === PZ Myers' ironic speech at the 2010 Global Atheist Convention === | |
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+ | ''See also:'' [[Atheism and brain function]] | ||
+ | |||
+ | At the 2010 Global atheist Convention, an overweight PZ Myers likened belief in God to a brain infection plus made the blanket statement that religion makes people stupid and/or do stupid stupid things.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfXbnygJirc PZ Myers - Global Atheist Convention 2010]</ref> As noted above, according to [[medical science]], being overweight causes brain impairment.<ref> | ||
+ | *[http://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/newsarticle.aspx?articleid=110328 Obesity Linked to Changes In Cognitive Patterns, Psychiatric News, Joan Arehart-Treichel, Clinical and Research News, September 15, 2006] | ||
+ | *[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html As Waistlines Widen, Brains Shrink: The obese and overweight have less neurological tissue, study finds, U.S News & World Report August 25, 2009] | ||
+ | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850 Western diet consumption and cognitive impairment: links to hippocampal dysfunction and obesity, Physiol Behav. 2011 Apr 18;103(1):59-68. Epub 2010 Dec 16.] | ||
+ | *[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm Obesity Harms Women's Memory and Brain Function, Study Finds, Science Daily, July 15, 2010] | ||
+ | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/ Mental health, family function and obesity in African-American women, J Natl Med Assoc. 2005 April; 97(4): 478–482.] | ||
+ | *[http://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/20061101/obesity-alzheimers-risk Obesity and Alzheimer's: High Insulin Levels Linked to Alzheimer's] | ||
+ | *[http://thehealthage.blogspot.com/2009/08/obese-people-are-more-at-risk-to.html Obese people are more at risk of Alzheimer’s] | ||
+ | *[http://www.alzheimersreadingroom.com/2011/05/obesity-in-middle-age-may-increase-risk.html Obesity in Middle Age May Increase Risk of Dementia]</ref> | ||
+ | |||
+ | == Unhealthy lifestyle of the late, New Atheist Christopher Hitchens == | ||
+ | [[Image:Hitchens,_Stanford.jpg |right|thumb|200px|[[Christopher Hitchens]]]] | ||
+ | [[Christopher Hitchens]] was a leader in the [[New Atheism]] movement. A picture of an overweight Christopher Hitchens can be found [http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3UXl0oMYPLs/SXgxH_-MgFI/AAAAAAAAAF4/EU-wzxEjOmc/s1600-h/atheist-reason.jpg HERE] (see also: [[Atheism and obesity]]). | ||
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+ | === Hitchen's heavy drinking and chain-smoking and esophageal cancer === | ||
+ | |||
+ | Christopher Hitchens was known for having a history of heavy drinking and chain-smoking.<ref>http://www.counterpunch.org/mccarthy02212003.html</ref><ref>[http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/08/17/christopher-hitchens-desp_n_685021.html Christopher Hitchens: Despite Cancer, I'd Drink & Smoke Again]</ref> Christopher Hitchens was being treated for esophageal cancer likely caused by [[alcoholism|drinking]] and [[smoking]] up until his death on December 15, 2011.<ref>http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2010/08/07/video-extended-interview-hitchens-on-cancer-and-atheism/</ref><ref>[http://healthblog.ctv.ca/post/Why-did-Hitchens-continue-to-smoke-during-his-treatment.aspx Why did Hitchens continue to smoke & drink during treatment? -CTV News]</ref> Despite his esophageal cancer, when asked by interviewer Charlie Rose if in retrospect he would have engaged in heavy drinking and smoking knowing his present cancer condition, Hitchens said he think he would have done things the same.<ref>[http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/08/17/christopher-hitchens-desp_n_685021.html Christopher Hitchens: Despite Cancer, I'd Drink & Smoke Again]</ref> | ||
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+ | === Hitchen's excess weight and increased risk of esophageal cancer === | ||
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+ | As noted above, Hitchens also had problems with being overweight during his life (see also: [[Atheism and obesity]]).<ref>[http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3UXl0oMYPLs/SXgxH_-MgFI/AAAAAAAAAF4/EU-wzxEjOmc/s1600-h/atheist-reason.jpg Picture of an overweight Christopher Hitchens smoking a cigarette]</ref> According to the [[National Cancer Institute]], "[[obesity]] is associated with increased risks of cancers of the esophagus."<ref>[http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/obesity National Institute of Health - Obesity and Cancer Risk]</ref> | ||
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+ | == American Atheists organization leadership's challenge with excess weight == | ||
+ | [[File:Jamila Bey.jpg|right|thumbnail|320px|[[Jamila Bey]] | ||
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− | <small>(photo obtained from [http://www.flickr.com/photos/ | + | <small>(photo obtained from [http://www.flickr.com/photos/39965300@N07/5649098297/ Flickr], see [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en license agreement])</small> ]] |
− | + | ''See also:'' [[Atheism and obesity]] and [[American Atheists and their challenges with overweight leadership personnel]] | |
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− | + | [[Madalyn Murray O'Hair]] was the founder of the [[American Atheists]] organization and she was overweight.<ref>http://www.flickr.com/photos/alan-light/229583104/</ref> One of the last pictures taken of Madalyn Murray O'Hair features her standing before a cake as can be seen [http://www.dallasobserver.com/content/printVersion/276262/ HERE]. The American Atheist organization is known for its strident, [[militant atheism]]. | |
− | + | As of December 28, 2010, the pictures of the members of the American Atheists organization's board of directors showed a significant portion of its members having excess body weight. Members of the American Atheists board of directors who were overweight as of December 28, 2010 included: [[Richard Andrews]], [[Blair Scott]], [[Monty Gaither]], and [[Ann Zindler]]. A picture of an overweight Richard Andrews can be found [http://nowscape.com/atheism/atheist_people.htm HERE]. A picture of an overweight Blair Scott can be found [http://www.atheists.org/image/about/BlairScott.jpg HERE]. A picture of an overweight Monty Gaither can be found [http://www.atheists.org/image/about/MontyGaither.jpg HERE]. A picture of an overweight Ann Zindler can be found [http://www.freethoughtnation.com/images/stories/annzindler1.jpg HERE]. | |
− | + | On August 11. 2013, a new overweight member of their board of directors was listed - namely, [[Jamila Bey]].<ref>[http://www.atheists.org/about/Board_of_Directors American Atheists Board of Directors]</ref> A video of an overweight Jamila Bey can be seen [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uekUG0CDs-w HERE]. | |
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− | + | The current pictures of the American Atheists board of directors can be found [http://www.atheists.org/about-us/board-of-directors HERE]. | |
− | + | == Evolutionists who have had problems with being overweight and/or obese == | |
− | == | + | |
− | ''See | + | ''See:'' [[Evolutionists who have had problems with being overweight and/or obese]] |
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== Physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight == | == Physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight == | ||
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*[http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/obesity] | *[http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/obesity] | ||
*[http://stanfordhospital.org/clinicsmedServices/COE/surgicalServices/vascularSurgery/patientEducation/varicose.html]</ref> In addition, [[medical science]] research indicates that excess weight impairs brain function.<ref> | *[http://stanfordhospital.org/clinicsmedServices/COE/surgicalServices/vascularSurgery/patientEducation/varicose.html]</ref> In addition, [[medical science]] research indicates that excess weight impairs brain function.<ref> | ||
− | *[http:// | + | *[http://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/newsarticle.aspx?articleid=110328 Obesity Linked to Changes In Cognitive Patterns, Psychiatric News, Joan Arehart-Treichel, Clinical and Research News, September 15, 2006] |
− | *[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html] | + | *[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html As Waistlines Widen, Brains Shrink: The obese and overweight have less neurological tissue, study finds, U.S News & World Report August 25, 2009] |
− | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850] | + | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850 Western diet consumption and cognitive impairment: links to hippocampal dysfunction and obesity, Physiol Behav. 2011 Apr 18;103(1):59-68. Epub 2010 Dec 16.] |
− | *[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm] | + | *[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm Obesity Harms Women's Memory and Brain Function, Study Finds, Science Daily, July 15, 2010] |
− | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/]</ref> | + | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/ Mental health, family function and obesity in African-American women, J Natl Med Assoc. 2005 April; 97(4): 478–482.]</ref> |
− | [[Image:Cerebellum. | + | [[Image:Cerebellum.jpg|right|thumb|240px|[[Medical science]] research indicates that excess weight impairs brain function.<ref> |
− | *[http:// | + | *[http://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/newsarticle.aspx?articleid=110328 Obesity Linked to Changes In Cognitive Patterns, Psychiatric News, Joan Arehart-Treichel, Clinical and Research News, September 15, 2006] |
− | *[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html] | + | *[http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2009/08/25/as-waistlines-widen-brains-shrink.html As Waistlines Widen, Brains Shrink: The obese and overweight have less neurological tissue, study finds, U.S News & World Report August 25, 2009] |
− | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850] | + | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167850 Western diet consumption and cognitive impairment: links to hippocampal dysfunction and obesity, Physiol Behav. 2011 Apr 18;103(1):59-68. Epub 2010 Dec 16.] |
− | *[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm] | + | *[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100714112832.htm Obesity Harms Women's Memory and Brain Function, Study Finds, Science Daily, July 15, 2010] |
− | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/ | + | *[http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/ Mental health, family function and obesity in African-American women, J Natl Med Assoc. 2005 April; 97(4): 478–482. |
+ | </ref>]] | ||
According to the Mayo Clinic some of the symptoms associated with obesity can include: | According to the Mayo Clinic some of the symptoms associated with obesity can include: | ||
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Concerning the issue of depression, [[Atheism and suicide|atheists do have higher rates of suicide than the general population.]] | Concerning the issue of depression, [[Atheism and suicide|atheists do have higher rates of suicide than the general population.]] | ||
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== See also == | == See also == | ||
+ | *[[Richard Dawkins and medical science]] | ||
+ | *[[Atheism and leadership]] | ||
*[[Atheism and obesity]] | *[[Atheism and obesity]] | ||
*[[Psychology, obesity, religiosity and atheism]] | *[[Psychology, obesity, religiosity and atheism]] | ||
− | *[[Atheism and | + | *[[Atheism and health]] |
*[[Atheism and suicide]] | *[[Atheism and suicide]] | ||
*[[Atheism and deception]] | *[[Atheism and deception]] | ||
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*[[Overweight atheists comedy and satire]] | *[[Overweight atheists comedy and satire]] | ||
− | *[[Comedy and satires concerning atheism and evolution]] (large collection of comedy/satire concerning [[atheism]] and [[evolution]]) | + | *[[Essay:Comedy and satires concerning atheism and evolution|Comedy and satires concerning atheism and evolution]] (large collection of comedy/satire concerning [[atheism]] and [[evolution]]) |
'''Other resources: ''' | '''Other resources: ''' |
Revision as of 00:48, July 30, 2016
New Atheism is a form of militant atheism. The term New Atheism which first appeared in the November 2006 edition of Wired magazine, is frequently applied to a series of six best-selling books by five authors that appeared in the period between 2004–2008. These authors include Sam Harris, Daniel Dennett, Richard Dawkins, Victor J. Stenger and Christopher Hitchens.[1]
Although the New Atheist leaders claim to be pro-science, 3 out of 5 of these atheist men have had issues with being overweight as can be seen HERE and HERE and HERE
The ex-atheist Richard Dawkins has publicly indicated that he is an agnostic (see: Richard Dawkins and agnosticism). Since Dawkins is an an agnostic and not an atheist, this would mean that 3 out of 4 of the atheist founders of the New Atheism movement had excess weight issues. At a 75% of individuals overweight population, this would make the atheist founders of the New Atheist movement one of the most overweight populations in world history in terms of the percentage of people overweight.[2][3]
For more information please see: Atheism and obesity.
According to medical science, there are a significant number of physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight.
In the late 1990s, Dennet had coronary artery bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass surgery reroutes blood around clogged arteries to enhance blood flow and oxygen to the heart).[4][5] In 2003, a a video at Ted was published featuring an overweight Daniel Dennett. In 2013, a video embedded on a The Raw Story article featured an overweight Daniel Dennett.
Furthermore, a majority of New Atheist leaders have engaged in unhealthy healthy habits (see: New Atheism leaders and unhealthy lifestyles).
Contents
- 1 PZ Myers
- 2 Unhealthy lifestyle of the late, New Atheist Christopher Hitchens
- 3 American Atheists organization leadership's challenge with excess weight
- 4 Evolutionists who have had problems with being overweight and/or obese
- 5 Physical and mental health related problems associated with being overweight
- 6 See also
- 7 Notes
PZ Myers
PZ Myers is also a leader within the New Atheism movement who is an associate professor of biology at the University of Minnesota at Morris. In addition, he has a blog entitled Pharyngula. Myers has had problems with being overweight as can be seen HERE and HERE and HERE.
In 2010, PZ Myers had health problems related to his heart.[6]
On June 1, 2011, Myers posted a picture of himself and others on his blog and Myers appeared to no longer have issues with being overweight.[7] However, on February 13, 2013, a video was posted to YouTube entitled, Is church harmful? and Myers appeared to have put on weight subsequent to his June 1, 2011 picture.[8] In addition, a picture taken in 2014 features an overweight PZ Myers.[9]
Vox Day on the issue of atheism and obesity
See also: Overweight atheist PZ Myers posing with some young overweight fans
In 2011, the theist Vox Day had an individual complain about the notion that the atheist community has a problem with obesity (Please see: Atheism and obesity). As a result, on May 19, 2011, Vox Day released a blog post entitled Mailvox: now, who said atheists are fat? where 80% of the people taking a picture with PZ Myers were overweight and PZ Myers was overweight in the picture as well as can be seen HERE.[10] The picture was originally posted on PZ Myer's blog Pharyngula by Myers on May 16, 2011 and an online argument quickly ensued concerning the appearance of the photograph's participants.[11]
An overweight PZ Myers and Creation Museum buffoonery
See also: PZ Myers embarrasses himself at the Creation Museum - satire
In August 2009, Myers led a group of over 300 atheist and agnostic students on a tour of the Creation Museum.[12] During the visit, Myers had noticeably greater difficulty than others climbing on and off a dinosaur model due to the fact that he was overweight and out of shape.VIDEO In addition, the purpose of the dinosaur model is clearly for children to sit on for photographs.[13][14] Myers donned a borrowed cowboy hat and was egged on by the cheers and laughter of the students.[15]
PZ Myers' ironic speech at the 2010 Global Atheist Convention
See also: Atheism and brain function
At the 2010 Global atheist Convention, an overweight PZ Myers likened belief in God to a brain infection plus made the blanket statement that religion makes people stupid and/or do stupid stupid things.[16] As noted above, according to medical science, being overweight causes brain impairment.[17]
Unhealthy lifestyle of the late, New Atheist Christopher Hitchens
Christopher Hitchens was a leader in the New Atheism movement. A picture of an overweight Christopher Hitchens can be found HERE (see also: Atheism and obesity).
Hitchen's heavy drinking and chain-smoking and esophageal cancer
Christopher Hitchens was known for having a history of heavy drinking and chain-smoking.[18][19] Christopher Hitchens was being treated for esophageal cancer likely caused by drinking and smoking up until his death on December 15, 2011.[20][21] Despite his esophageal cancer, when asked by interviewer Charlie Rose if in retrospect he would have engaged in heavy drinking and smoking knowing his present cancer condition, Hitchens said he think he would have done things the same.[22]
Hitchen's excess weight and increased risk of esophageal cancer
As noted above, Hitchens also had problems with being overweight during his life (see also: Atheism and obesity).[23] According to the National Cancer Institute, "obesity is associated with increased risks of cancers of the esophagus."[24]
American Atheists organization leadership's challenge with excess weight
See also: Atheism and obesity and American Atheists and their challenges with overweight leadership personnel
Madalyn Murray O'Hair was the founder of the American Atheists organization and she was overweight.[25] One of the last pictures taken of Madalyn Murray O'Hair features her standing before a cake as can be seen HERE. The American Atheist organization is known for its strident, militant atheism.
As of December 28, 2010, the pictures of the members of the American Atheists organization's board of directors showed a significant portion of its members having excess body weight. Members of the American Atheists board of directors who were overweight as of December 28, 2010 included: Richard Andrews, Blair Scott, Monty Gaither, and Ann Zindler. A picture of an overweight Richard Andrews can be found HERE. A picture of an overweight Blair Scott can be found HERE. A picture of an overweight Monty Gaither can be found HERE. A picture of an overweight Ann Zindler can be found HERE.
On August 11. 2013, a new overweight member of their board of directors was listed - namely, Jamila Bey.[26] A video of an overweight Jamila Bey can be seen HERE.
The current pictures of the American Atheists board of directors can be found HERE.
Evolutionists who have had problems with being overweight and/or obese
See: Evolutionists who have had problems with being overweight and/or obese
See also: Atheism and Mental and Physical Health and Atheism and obesity
Some of the medical conditions associated with obesity include: type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and triglycerides, coronary artery disease (CAD), stroke, arthritis, cancer, sleep apnea, reproductive problems in women and varicose veins.[27] In addition, medical science research indicates that excess weight impairs brain function.[28]
According to the Mayo Clinic some of the symptoms associated with obesity can include:
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Concerning the issue of depression, atheists do have higher rates of suicide than the general population.
See also
- Richard Dawkins and medical science
- Atheism and leadership
- Atheism and obesity
- Psychology, obesity, religiosity and atheism
- Atheism and health
- Atheism and suicide
- Atheism and deception
Comedy and Satire:
- Overweight atheists comedy and satire
- Comedy and satires concerning atheism and evolution (large collection of comedy/satire concerning atheism and evolution)
Other resources:
Notes
- ↑ http://www.colorado.edu/philosophy/vstenger/battle.html
- ↑ Fattest Countries in the World
- ↑ The History Of Obesity Timeline
- ↑ http://www.edge.org/3rd_culture/dennett06/dennett06_index.html
- ↑ http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4484
- ↑ http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2010/08/thats_not_a_heart_its_a_flaili.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+scienceblogs%2Fpharyngula+%28Pharyngula%29&utm_content=Google+Reader
- ↑ http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/06/the_final_tally_on_the_camp_qu.php
- ↑ Is church harmful? - Michael & Rhonda Jones, PZ Myers, Published on Feb 10, 2013 by YouTube account kaine diatheke
- ↑ PZ Myers, FCD, Maureen Brian, FCD, & Richard Carter, FCD
- ↑ MailVox: Who said atheists are fat?.
- ↑ [http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/05/16/at-least-you-can-see-a-hint-of/ At least you can see a hint of what you missed Posted by PZ Myers on May 16, 2011]
- ↑ "Creation Museum: Is This How World Began?" (ABC News)
- ↑ http://blogs.answersingenesis.org/aroundtheworld/2009/08/16/children-and-the-creation-museum/
- ↑ "A firebrand visits Creation Museum" (Minneapolis Star-Tribune)
- ↑ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQQl2TMrgbM
- ↑ PZ Myers - Global Atheist Convention 2010
- ↑
- Obesity Linked to Changes In Cognitive Patterns, Psychiatric News, Joan Arehart-Treichel, Clinical and Research News, September 15, 2006
- As Waistlines Widen, Brains Shrink: The obese and overweight have less neurological tissue, study finds, U.S News & World Report August 25, 2009
- Western diet consumption and cognitive impairment: links to hippocampal dysfunction and obesity, Physiol Behav. 2011 Apr 18;103(1):59-68. Epub 2010 Dec 16.
- Obesity Harms Women's Memory and Brain Function, Study Finds, Science Daily, July 15, 2010
- Mental health, family function and obesity in African-American women, J Natl Med Assoc. 2005 April; 97(4): 478–482.
- Obesity and Alzheimer's: High Insulin Levels Linked to Alzheimer's
- Obese people are more at risk of Alzheimer’s
- Obesity in Middle Age May Increase Risk of Dementia
- ↑ http://www.counterpunch.org/mccarthy02212003.html
- ↑ Christopher Hitchens: Despite Cancer, I'd Drink & Smoke Again
- ↑ http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2010/08/07/video-extended-interview-hitchens-on-cancer-and-atheism/
- ↑ Why did Hitchens continue to smoke & drink during treatment? -CTV News
- ↑ Christopher Hitchens: Despite Cancer, I'd Drink & Smoke Again
- ↑ Picture of an overweight Christopher Hitchens smoking a cigarette
- ↑ National Institute of Health - Obesity and Cancer Risk
- ↑ http://www.flickr.com/photos/alan-light/229583104/
- ↑ American Atheists Board of Directors
- ↑
- ↑
- Obesity Linked to Changes In Cognitive Patterns, Psychiatric News, Joan Arehart-Treichel, Clinical and Research News, September 15, 2006
- As Waistlines Widen, Brains Shrink: The obese and overweight have less neurological tissue, study finds, U.S News & World Report August 25, 2009
- Western diet consumption and cognitive impairment: links to hippocampal dysfunction and obesity, Physiol Behav. 2011 Apr 18;103(1):59-68. Epub 2010 Dec 16.
- Obesity Harms Women's Memory and Brain Function, Study Finds, Science Daily, July 15, 2010
- Mental health, family function and obesity in African-American women, J Natl Med Assoc. 2005 April; 97(4): 478–482.
- ↑
- Obesity Linked to Changes In Cognitive Patterns, Psychiatric News, Joan Arehart-Treichel, Clinical and Research News, September 15, 2006
- As Waistlines Widen, Brains Shrink: The obese and overweight have less neurological tissue, study finds, U.S News & World Report August 25, 2009
- Western diet consumption and cognitive impairment: links to hippocampal dysfunction and obesity, Physiol Behav. 2011 Apr 18;103(1):59-68. Epub 2010 Dec 16.
- Obesity Harms Women's Memory and Brain Function, Study Finds, Science Daily, July 15, 2010
- [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/2568718/ Mental health, family function and obesity in African-American women, J Natl Med Assoc. 2005 April; 97(4): 478–482.
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/obesity/DS00314/DSECTION=symptoms