Changes

In ''The Daily Telegraph'' article Dr. [[Daniel Came]], a member of the Faculty of [[Philosophy]] at Oxford University, was quoted as writing to fellow atheist Richard Dawkins concerning his refusal to debate Dr. [[William Lane Craig]]: "The absence of a debate with the foremost [[Christian apologetics|apologist]] for [[Christianity|Christian]] [[theism]] is a glaring omission on your [[Curriculum vitae|CV]] and is of course apt to be interpreted as cowardice on your part."<ref name="telegraph.co.uk"/>   

In ''The Daily Telegraph'' article Dr. [[Daniel Came]], a member of the Faculty of [[Philosophy]] at Oxford University, was quoted as writing to fellow atheist Richard Dawkins concerning his refusal to debate Dr. [[William Lane Craig]]: "The absence of a debate with the foremost [[Christian apologetics|apologist]] for [[Christianity|Christian]] [[theism]] is a glaring omission on your [[Curriculum vitae|CV]] and is of course apt to be interpreted as cowardice on your part."<ref name="telegraph.co.uk"/>   

In October 2011, Dr. Craig went to England and the Daily Telegraph declared that Dawkins is either a fool or a coward for his refusal to debate William Lane Craig plus declared that Dawkins is a "proud man" and a "coward" who puts on an "illiterate, angry schtick" for the public.<ref>[http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/news/timstanley/100112626/richard-dawkins-is-either-a-fool-or-a-coward-for-refusing-to-debate-william-lane-craig/ Richard Dawkins is either a fool or a coward for refusing to debate William Lane Craig - October 21, 2011 - ''The Daily Telegraph'']</ref>  In addition, [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologist]] [[True Free Thinker|Mariano Grinbank]] called Dawkins a "cowardly clown" because Dawkins and other prominent atheists refused to debate [[Creation Ministries International]] at the 2010 Global Atheist Convention.<ref>[http://www.truefreethinker.com/articles/richard-dawkins-cowardly-clown Richard Dawkins, the Cowardly Clown]</ref>

In October 2011, Dr. Craig went to England and the Daily Telegraph declared that Dawkins is either a fool or a coward for his refusal to debate William Lane Craig plus declared that Dawkins is a "proud man" and a "coward" who puts on an "illiterate, angry schtick" for the public.<ref>[http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/news/timstanley/100112626/richard-dawkins-is-either-a-fool-or-a-coward-for-refusing-to-debate-william-lane-craig/ Richard Dawkins is either a fool or a coward for refusing to debate William Lane Craig - October 21, 2011 - ''The Daily Telegraph'']</ref>  In addition, Christian apologist [[True Free Thinker|Mariano Grinbank]] called Dawkins a "cowardly clown" because Dawkins and other prominent atheists refused to debate [[Creation Ministries International]] at the 2010 Global Atheist Convention.<ref>[http://www.truefreethinker.com/articles/richard-dawkins-cowardly-clown Richard Dawkins, the Cowardly Clown]</ref>

[[File:Shmuley Boteach.jpg|thumbnail|130px|right|Shmuley Boteach

[[File:Shmuley Boteach.jpg|thumbnail|130px|right|Shmuley Boteach

*[[Richard Dawkins and Rabbi Shmuley Boteach]] (Denied debating him after losing video taped debate, refuses to debate another time)

*[[Richard Dawkins and Rabbi Shmuley Boteach]] (Denied debating him after losing video taped debate, refuses to debate another time)

In addition, respected biochemist and [[intelligent design]] researcher Dr [[Michael Behe]] has openly challenged prominent [[evolutionist]]s and proponents of [[Darwinism]] to debate him regarding the many failings of [[evolutionism]], yet [[Richard Dawkins]] - one of the most outspoken [[Darwinist]]s today - has declined all such invitations. Dawkins has also refused to debate prominent creationist and evangelist [[Ray Comfort]].

In addition, respected biochemist and [[intelligent design]] researcher Dr [[Michael Behe]] has openly challenged prominent [[evolutionist]]s and proponents of [[Darwinism]] to debate him regarding the many failings of [[evolutionism]], yet Richard Dawkins - one of the most outspoken [[Darwinist]]s today - has declined all such invitations. Dawkins has also refused to debate prominent creationist and evangelist [[Ray Comfort]].

=== Richard Dawkins' former fear of criticizing Islam ===

=== Richard Dawkins' former fear of criticizing Islam ===

== British Humanist Association ==

== British Humanist Association ==

[[File:Sam Harris 01.jpg|thumbnail|200px|left|[[Sam Harris]] once described [[William Lane Craig]] as “the one [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologist]] who has put the fear of [[God]] into many of my fellow atheists”.<ref name="ReferenceB">http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/08/19/christian-pastor-atheists-debates</ref> ]]

[[File:Sam Harris 01.jpg|thumbnail|200px|left|[[Sam Harris]] once described [[William Lane Craig]] as “the one Christian apologist who has put the fear of [[God]] into many of my fellow atheists”.<ref name="ReferenceB">http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/08/19/christian-pastor-atheists-debates</ref> ]]

''See also:'' [[Atheism and Debate]] and [[Christian apologetics|Evidence for Christianity]]

''See also:'' [[Atheism and Debate]]

In August 19, 2011, [[Fox News]] reported:

In August 19, 2011, [[Fox News]] reported:

This month president of the British Humanist Association, [[Polly Toynbee]], pulled out of an agreed debate at London’s Westminster Central Hall in October, saying she “hadn’t realized the nature of Mr. Lane Craig’s debating style.”

This month president of the British Humanist Association, [[Polly Toynbee]], pulled out of an agreed debate at London’s Westminster Central Hall in October, saying she “hadn’t realized the nature of Mr. Lane Craig’s debating style.”

Lane Craig, who is a professor of philosophy at Talbot School of Theology in La Mirada, Calif., and author of 30 books and hundreds of scholarly articles, is no stranger to the art of debate and has taken on some of the great orators, such as famous atheists [[Christopher Hitchens]] and [[Sam Harris]]. Harris once described Craig as “the one [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologist]] who has put the fear of God into many of my fellow atheists”.

Lane Craig, who is a professor of philosophy at Talbot School of Theology in La Mirada, Calif., and author of 30 books and hundreds of scholarly articles, is no stranger to the art of debate and has taken on some of the great orators, such as famous atheists [[Christopher Hitchens]] and [[Sam Harris]]. Harris once described Craig as “the one Christian apologist who has put the fear of God into many of my fellow atheists”.

Responding to Toynbee’s cancellation, Lane Craig commented: "These folks (atheists) can be very brave when they are alone at the podium and there's no one there to challenge them. But one of the great things about these debates is that, it allows both sides to be heard on a level playing field, and for the students in the audience to make up their own minds about where they think the truth lies."<ref name="ReferenceB">http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/08/19/christian-pastor-atheists-debates</ref>}}

Responding to Toynbee’s cancellation, Lane Craig commented: "These folks (atheists) can be very brave when they are alone at the podium and there's no one there to challenge them. But one of the great things about these debates is that, it allows both sides to be heard on a level playing field, and for the students in the audience to make up their own minds about where they think the truth lies."<ref name="ReferenceB">http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/08/19/christian-pastor-atheists-debates</ref>}}

[[Image:Bahnsen.jpg‎|thumb|150px|Dr. [[Greg Bahnsen]] became known as "the man atheists fear most" due to [[Michael Martin]]'s cancellation of their scheduled debate.<ref>[http://www.frame-poythress.org/frame_articles/Bahnsen.htm Bahsen at the Stein debate] by John Frame</ref><ref name="simpleapologetics.com">[http://simpleapologetics.com/thegreatdebate.html The Great Debate: Greg Bahnsen vs Gordon Stein]</ref>]]

[[Image:Bahnsen.jpg‎|thumb|150px|Dr. [[Greg Bahnsen]] became known as "the man atheists fear most" due to [[Michael Martin]]'s cancellation of their scheduled debate.<ref>[http://www.frame-poythress.org/frame_articles/Bahnsen.htm Bahsen at the Stein debate] by John Frame</ref><ref name="simpleapologetics.com">[http://simpleapologetics.com/thegreatdebate.html The Great Debate: Greg Bahnsen vs Gordon Stein]</ref>]]

In 1985, [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologist]] Dr. [[Greg Bahnsen]] and prominent proponent of atheism [[Gordon Stein]] had a debate at the University of California, Irvine regarding the positions of atheism and theism.  

In 1985, Christian apologist Dr. [[Greg Bahnsen]] and prominent proponent of atheism [[Gordon Stein]] had a debate at the University of California, Irvine regarding the positions of atheism and theism.  

[[John Frame]] wrote regarding the debate in which Dr. Bahnsen used the [[transcendental argument for the existence of God]] that "In the end, Stein walked and talked like a broken man."<ref>[http://www.frame-poythress.org/frame_articles/Bahnsen.htm Bahnsen-Martin debate] by John Frame</ref> The Greg Bahnsen-Gordon Stein debate was recorded and transcribed and was dubbed "The Great Debate".<ref>[http://www.bellevuechristian.org/faculty/dribera/htdocs/PDFs/Apol_Bahnsen_Stein_Debate_Transcript.pdf Transcript of the Bahnsen-Stein debate]</ref> See also: [[Greg Bahnsen and debate]]

[[John Frame]] wrote regarding the debate in which Dr. Bahnsen used the [[transcendental argument for the existence of God]] that "In the end, Stein walked and talked like a broken man."<ref>[http://www.frame-poythress.org/frame_articles/Bahnsen.htm Bahnsen-Martin debate] by John Frame</ref> The Greg Bahnsen-Gordon Stein debate was recorded and transcribed and was dubbed "The Great Debate".<ref>[http://www.bellevuechristian.org/faculty/dribera/htdocs/PDFs/Apol_Bahnsen_Stein_Debate_Transcript.pdf Transcript of the Bahnsen-Stein debate]</ref> See also: [[Greg Bahnsen and debate]]

=== Michael Martin on the state of atheist apologetics ===

=== Michael Martin on the state of atheist apologetics ===

In 1990, Michael Martin indicated there was a general absence of an atheistic response to contemporary work in the philosophy of religion and in jest he indicated that it was his "cross to bear" to respond to [[theism|theistic]] arguments.<ref>Open Questions: Diverse Thinkers Discuss God, Religion, and Faith By Luís F. Rodrigues, page 201</ref>

In 1990, Michael Martin indicated there was a general absence of an atheistic response to contemporary work in the philosophy of religion and in jest he indicated that it was his "cross to bear" to respond to theistic arguments.<ref>Open Questions: Diverse Thinkers Discuss God, Religion, and Faith By Luís F. Rodrigues, page 201</ref>

Today, there is a growth of Christian apologetics in the world, while the atheist apologetic community is in a state of stagnation. See: [[Rebuttals to atheist arguments|Growth of Christian apologetics]]

Today, there is a growth of Christian apologetics in the world, while the atheist apologetic community is in a state of stagnation. See: [[Rebuttals to atheist arguments|Growth of Christian apologetics]]

<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> ]]

On September 4, 2011, [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologist]] [[Vox Day]] wrote concerning the [[evolution]]ist and atheist [[PZ Myers]]:

On September 4, 2011, Christian apologist [[Vox Day]] wrote concerning the [[evolution]]ist and atheist [[PZ Myers]]:

{{cquote|I have heard from numerous atheists who find his intellectual cowardice to be more than a little troubling given his usual tendency to create conflict rather than to avoid it. And he has handed an out to every single individual he ever hopes to challenge in the future. Why should they debate a nobody like him, a clown who isn't even a bigshot in his own field?

{{cquote|I have heard from numerous atheists who find his intellectual cowardice to be more than a little troubling given his usual tendency to create conflict rather than to avoid it. And he has handed an out to every single individual he ever hopes to challenge in the future. Why should they debate a nobody like him, a clown who isn't even a bigshot in his own field?

== Creation scientists tend to win the creation vs. evolution debates ==

== Creation scientists tend to win the creation vs. evolution debates ==

''See also:'' [[Creation scientists tend to win the creation vs. evolution debates]] and [[Atheism and Debate]] and [[Christian apologetics|Evidence for Christianity]]

''See also:'' [[Creation scientists tend to win the creation vs. evolution debates]] and [[Atheism and Debate]]

[[Image:Duanegishpic.jpg|thumb|175px|right|Dr. [[Duane Gish]]]]

[[Image:Duanegishpic.jpg|thumb|175px|right|Dr. [[Duane Gish]]]]

</ref> In 2007, "[[Discovery Institute]]'s Center for Science and Culture...announced that over 700 scientists from around the world have now signed a statement expressing their skepticism about the contemporary theory of [[Charles Darwin|Darwinian]] evolution."<ref>http://www.discovery.org/a/2732</ref>   

</ref> In 2007, "[[Discovery Institute]]'s Center for Science and Culture...announced that over 700 scientists from around the world have now signed a statement expressing their skepticism about the contemporary theory of [[Charles Darwin|Darwinian]] evolution."<ref>http://www.discovery.org/a/2732</ref>   

[[Creation science|Creation scientists]] tend to win the [[creation]] vs. [[evolution]] debates and many have been held since the 1970's particularly in the [[United States]]. Given the [[evolution|lack of evidence for the evolutionary paradigm]] and the [[creation science|abundant evidence for biblical creation]], this is not surprising.  

[[Creation science|Creation scientists]] tend to win the [[creation]] vs. [[evolution]] debates and many have been held since the 1970's particularly in the [[United States]]. Given the lack of evidence for the evolutionary paradigm and the [[creation science|abundant evidence for biblical creation]], this is not surprising.  

In August 1979, [[Henry Morris|Dr. Henry Morris]] reported in an [[Institute for Creation Research]] letter the following: “By now, practically every leading evolutionary scientist in this country has declined one or more invitations to a scientific debate on creation/evolution.”<ref name="WWD" />

In August 1979, [[Henry Morris|Dr. Henry Morris]] reported in an [[Institute for Creation Research]] letter the following: “By now, practically every leading evolutionary scientist in this country has declined one or more invitations to a scientific debate on creation/evolution.”<ref name="WWD" />

Morris also said regarding the creation scientist [[Duane Gish]] (who had over 300 formal debates): “At least in our judgment and that of most in the audiences, he always wins.”<ref>[http://www.ankerberg.com/Articles/science/SC1200W1.htm Voices for evolution - John Ankerberg website]</ref>

Morris also said regarding the creation scientist [[Duane Gish]] (who had over 300 formal debates): “At least in our judgment and that of most in the audiences, he always wins.”<ref>[http://www.ankerberg.com/Articles/science/SC1200W1.htm Voices for evolution - John Ankerberg website]</ref>

Generally speaking, [[Atheism and Debate|leading evolutionists no longer debate creation scientists]] because creation scientists tend to win the debates.<ref>http://www.icr.org/article/811/</ref> In addition, the [[atheism|atheist]] and evolutionist [[Richard Dawkins]] has shown inconsistent and deceptive behavior [[Richard Dawkins' public refusal to debate creationists|concerning his refusal creation scientists]].  Evolutionists and atheists inconsistency concerning debating creationists was commented on by the [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologetic]] website [[True Free Thinker]] which declared: "Interestingly enough, having noted that since some atheists refuse to debate “creationists” but then go on to debate some of those people but not others, it is clear that they are, in reality, being selective and making excuses for absconding from difficulties..."<ref>http://www.truefreethinker.com/articles/speaking-assiduous-absconders%E2%80%A6yet-again-vox-day-challenges-pz-myers-debate</ref>[[Image:2402173645 c8e6168fe7.jpg|alt=Richard Dawkins|thumbnail|200px|left|The [[atheism|atheist]] and evolutionist [[Richard Dawkins]] has shown inconsistent and deceptive behavior [[Richard Dawkins' public refusal to debate creationists|concerning his refusal creation scientists]].  ]]

Generally speaking, [[Atheism and Debate|leading evolutionists no longer debate creation scientists]] because creation scientists tend to win the debates.<ref>http://www.icr.org/article/811/</ref> In addition, the atheist and evolutionist Richard Dawkins has shown inconsistent and deceptive behavior [[Richard Dawkins' public refusal to debate creationists|concerning his refusal creation scientists]].  Evolutionists and atheists inconsistency concerning debating creationists was commented on by the Christian apologetic website [[True Free Thinker]] which declared: "Interestingly enough, having noted that since some atheists refuse to debate “creationists” but then go on to debate some of those people but not others, it is clear that they are, in reality, being selective and making excuses for absconding from difficulties..."<ref>http://www.truefreethinker.com/articles/speaking-assiduous-absconders%E2%80%A6yet-again-vox-day-challenges-pz-myers-debate</ref>[[Image:2402173645 c8e6168fe7.jpg|alt=Richard Dawkins|thumbnail|200px|left|The atheist and evolutionist Richard Dawkins has shown inconsistent and deceptive behavior [[Richard Dawkins' public refusal to debate creationists|concerning his refusal creation scientists]].  ]]

In an article entitled ''Are Kansas Evolutionists Afraid of a Fair Debate?'' the [[Discovery Institute]] declares:

In an article entitled ''Are Kansas Evolutionists Afraid of a Fair Debate?'' the [[Discovery Institute]] declares:

{{cquote|Defenders of Darwin's theory of evolution typically proclaim that evidence for their theory is simply overwhelming. If they really believe that, you would think they would jump at a chance to publicly explain some of that overwhelming evidence to the public. Apparently not.<ref>http://www.evolutionnews.org/2005/02/are_kansas_evolutionists_afraid_of_a_fai.html</ref>

{{cquote|Defenders of Darwin's theory of evolution typically proclaim that evidence for their theory is simply overwhelming. If they really believe that, you would think they would jump at a chance to publicly explain some of that overwhelming evidence to the public. Apparently not.<ref>http://www.evolutionnews.org/2005/02/are_kansas_evolutionists_afraid_of_a_fai.html</ref>

''See also:'' [[Richard Dawkins and Islamophobia accusations]] and [[Atheism vs. Islam]]  

''See also:'' [[Richard Dawkins and Islamophobia accusations]] and [[Atheism vs. Islam]]  

[[File:Richard Dawkins in Australia.jpg|alt=Richard Dawkins|thumbnail|200px|right|[[Richard Dawkins]] is dismissive of the concept of [[Islamophobia]] and declared: "I’m always being accused of Islamophobia, that’s a non-word."<ref name="independent.co.uk">[http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/richard-dawkins-defends-ahmed-mohamed-comments-and-dismisses-islamophobia-as-a-non-word-10515389.html Richard Dawkins defends Ahmed Mohamed comments and dismisses Islamophobia as a 'non-word'], ''Independent'', 24 September 2015</ref> ]]

[[File:Richard Dawkins in Australia.jpg|alt=Richard Dawkins|thumbnail|200px|right|Richard Dawkins is dismissive of the concept of [[Islamophobia]] and declared: "I’m always being accused of Islamophobia, that’s a non-word."<ref name="independent.co.uk">[http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/richard-dawkins-defends-ahmed-mohamed-comments-and-dismisses-islamophobia-as-a-non-word-10515389.html Richard Dawkins defends Ahmed Mohamed comments and dismisses Islamophobia as a 'non-word'], ''Independent'', 24 September 2015</ref> ]]

The [[New Atheism|New Atheists]] Richard Dawkins, [[Sam Harris]] and the late [[Christopher Hitchens]] have received multiple accusations of engaging in [[Islamophobia|Islamophobic]] behavior.<ref>

The [[New Atheism|New Atheists]] Richard Dawkins, [[Sam Harris]] and the late [[Christopher Hitchens]] have received multiple accusations of engaging in [[Islamophobia|Islamophobic]] behavior.<ref>

*[http://www.salon.com/2013/03/30/dawkins_harris_hitchens_new_atheists_flirt_with_islamophobia/ Dawkins, Harris, Hitchens: New Atheists flirt with Islamophobia] by Nathan Lean, ''Salon'', March 30, 2013

*[http://www.salon.com/2013/03/30/dawkins_harris_hitchens_new_atheists_flirt_with_islamophobia/ Dawkins, Harris, Hitchens: New Atheists flirt with Islamophobia] by Nathan Lean, ''Salon'', March 30, 2013

The [[Brights Movement]] was started in 2003 by Paul Geisert and Mynga Futrell in 2003 in order to assist in the advocacy of a [[Naturalism|naturalistic worldview]].<ref>http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m2843/is_2_28/ai_114090211/pg_1</ref><ref>http://www.the-brights.net/vision/faq.html#1</ref> The Brights movement had a media campaign and was announced in ''Wired'' magazine (by Richard Dawkins), ''Free Inquiry'' (by Richard Dawkins), and on the ''[[New York Times]]'' op-ed page (by the philosopher and atheist [[Daniel Dennett]]).

The [[Brights Movement]] was started in 2003 by Paul Geisert and Mynga Futrell in 2003 in order to assist in the advocacy of a [[Naturalism|naturalistic worldview]].<ref>http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m2843/is_2_28/ai_114090211/pg_1</ref><ref>http://www.the-brights.net/vision/faq.html#1</ref> The Brights movement had a media campaign and was announced in ''Wired'' magazine (by Richard Dawkins), ''Free Inquiry'' (by Richard Dawkins), and on the ''[[New York Times]]'' op-ed page (by the philosopher and atheist [[Daniel Dennett]]).

Well known skeptics and atheists are listed as "Enthusiastic Brights" at the Brights Movement website.<ref name="the-brights.net">http://www.the-brights.net/people/enthusiastic/index.html</ref>  Examples of individuals listed as Brights are notable skeptics/atheists such as [[Richard Dawkins]], [[Penn Jillette]], [[Daniel Dennett]], Margaret Downy, [[James Randi]], Mel Lipman, Bobbie Kirkhart, Herb Silverman, [[Michael Shermer]], Matt Cherry, and Babu Gogineni.<ref name="the-brights.net"/>

Well known skeptics and atheists are listed as "Enthusiastic Brights" at the Brights Movement website.<ref name="the-brights.net">http://www.the-brights.net/people/enthusiastic/index.html</ref>  Examples of individuals listed as Brights are notable skeptics/atheists such as Richard Dawkins, [[Penn Jillette]], [[Daniel Dennett]], Margaret Downy, [[James Randi]], Mel Lipman, Bobbie Kirkhart, Herb Silverman, [[Michael Shermer]], Matt Cherry, and Babu Gogineni.<ref name="the-brights.net"/>

On September 26, 2011, the popular Christian YouTube video maker [[Shockofgod]], who has over 18,000 subscribers, challenged atheist Penn Jillette to a debate.[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgHt7Wt3KMc VIDEO].  The debate challenge focuses on the [http://creation.com/15-questions 15 questions that evolutionists cannot satisfactorily answer].

On September 26, 2011, the popular Christian YouTube video maker [[Shockofgod]], who has over 18,000 subscribers, challenged atheist Penn Jillette to a debate.[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgHt7Wt3KMc VIDEO].  The debate challenge focuses on the [http://creation.com/15-questions 15 questions that evolutionists cannot satisfactorily answer].

On September 3, 2012, [[Shockofgod]] challenged Jillette to debate the question "Does God exist?" a second time.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-jLe7ONFrQ Christian turn Penn Jillette into a chicken]</ref>   

On September 3, 2012, [[Shockofgod]] challenged Jillette to debate the question "Does God exist?" a second time.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-jLe7ONFrQ Christian turn Penn Jillette into a chicken]</ref>   

[[Shockofgod]] points out that although Penn Jillette is an "enthusiastic bright", the website of the Brights Movement has plunging web traffic according to Compete.com.<ref>[http://siteanalytics.compete.com/the-brights.net/ Bright Movement website - Compete]</ref>  Shockofgod quipped that it appears as if his prediction that atheism will go from "a squeak to half a squeak in American society" due to the [[Question evolution! campaign]] is being fullfilled faster than he expected. The video with the prediction is located on YouTube [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbmAn3M8r0I HERE].

Shockofgod points out that although Penn Jillette is an "enthusiastic bright", the website of the Brights Movement has plunging web traffic according to Compete.com.<ref>[http://siteanalytics.compete.com/the-brights.net/ Bright Movement website - Compete]</ref>  Shockofgod quipped that it appears as if his prediction that atheism will go from "a squeak to half a squeak in American society" due to the [[Question evolution! campaign]] is being fullfilled faster than he expected. The video with the prediction is located on YouTube [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbmAn3M8r0I HERE].

==== Shockofgod fans taunt to Penn Jillette ====

==== Shockofgod fans taunt to Penn Jillette ====

''See also:'' [[Sye Ten Bruggencate's debate challenge to atheist Penn Jillette]]

''See also:'' [[Sye Ten Bruggencate's debate challenge to atheist Penn Jillette]]

The [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologetist]] [[True Free Thinker|Ken Ammi]] in an article entitled ''Will [[atheism|atheist]] Penn Jillette debate Christian [[Sye Ten Bruggencate]]?'' wrote:

The Christian apologetist [[True Free Thinker|Ken Ammi]] in an article entitled ''Will atheist Penn Jillette debate Christian [[Sye Ten Bruggencate]]?'' wrote:

{{cquote|Sye Ten Bruggencate, of the website Proof That God Exists, has challenged Penn Jillette to a Christian versus atheist debate on God’s existence.

{{cquote|Sye Ten Bruggencate, of the website Proof That God Exists, has challenged Penn Jillette to a Christian versus atheist debate on God’s existence.

[[File:Penn Jillette debate challenge.jpg|right|thumbnail|200px|The [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologist]] [[Sye Ten Bruggencate]] has challenged Penn Jillette to a debate and Jillette has not accepted his debate challenge.]]

[[File:Penn Jillette debate challenge.jpg|right|thumbnail|200px|The Christian apologist [[Sye Ten Bruggencate]] has challenged Penn Jillette to a debate and Jillette has not accepted his debate challenge.]]

Penn Jillette is not merely a Las Vegas legend, as an illusionist, but also adheres to (and proselytizes for) the positive affirmation of God’s non-existence sect of atheism having stated, “I know there’s no God,” for example.

Penn Jillette is not merely a Las Vegas legend, as an illusionist, but also adheres to (and proselytizes for) the positive affirmation of God’s non-existence sect of atheism having stated, “I know there’s no God,” for example.

[[File: The Commissar Vanishes 2.jpg|thumbnail|right|200px|Nikolai Yezhov walking with [[Joseph Stalin]] in the top photo taken in the mid 1930s. Subsequent to his execution in 1940, Yezhov was edited out of the photo by Soviet Union censors.<ref>[http://www.newseum.org/berlinwall/commissar_vanishes/vanishes.htm The Commissar Vanishes]</ref>]]

[[File: The Commissar Vanishes 2.jpg|thumbnail|right|200px|Nikolai Yezhov walking with [[Joseph Stalin]] in the top photo taken in the mid 1930s. Subsequent to his execution in 1940, Yezhov was edited out of the photo by Soviet Union censors.<ref>[http://www.newseum.org/berlinwall/commissar_vanishes/vanishes.htm The Commissar Vanishes]</ref>]]

Vox Day wrote about [[secular left]]ists and [[leftism|leftists]] in general:

Vox Day wrote about [[secular left]]ists and [[leftism|leftists]] in general:

{{cquote|Regardless of whether it is...[[Richard Dawkins]], [[PZ Myers]], or the vast and corpulent mass of [[feminism|feminists]], the Left has an observable tendency to shun debate.  They assert many different reasons for doing so, but the truth is always revealed by their seemingly contradictory willingness to debate the incompetent and the overmatched....

{{cquote|Regardless of whether it is...Richard Dawkins, PZ Myers, or the vast and corpulent mass of [[feminism|feminists]], the Left has an observable tendency to shun debate.  They assert many different reasons for doing so, but the truth is always revealed by their seemingly contradictory willingness to debate the incompetent and the overmatched....

One of the things that has been interesting to observe over time is the way that the heated attacks on me, both in public and via email, have all but disappeared even though my overall readership has never been larger.  Why is this?  My theory is this is because most of my critics, be they atheists, feminists, evolutionists, or free traders, have learned they simply cannot win in a direct confrontation.  They can't openly criticize my ideas because they have learned, much to their surprise, that they cannot adequately defend their own.

One of the things that has been interesting to observe over time is the way that the heated attacks on me, both in public and via email, have all but disappeared even though my overall readership has never been larger.  Why is this?  My theory is this is because most of my critics, be they atheists, feminists, evolutionists, or free traders, have learned they simply cannot win in a direct confrontation.  They can't openly criticize my ideas because they have learned, much to their surprise, that they cannot adequately defend their own.

== New Atheism and hypocritical cowardice ==

== New Atheism and hypocritical cowardice ==

[[Image:Hitchens,_Stanford.jpg‎ |right|thumb|200px|[[Christopher Hitchens]] was one of the founders of the [[New Atheism]] movement.]]

[[Image:Hitchens,_Stanford.jpg‎ |right|thumb|200px|[[Christopher Hitchens]] was one of the founders of the New Atheism movement.]]

[[New Atheism]] is a form of [[militant atheism]]. In 2010, [[Christian apologetics|Christian apologist]] [[True Free Thinker|Ken Ammi]] wrote:

[[New Atheism]] is a form of [[militant atheism]]. In 2010, Christian apologist Ken Ammi wrote:

{{cquote|The [[New Atheism|New Atheists]] have expressed that the proverbial straw-that-broke-the-Atheist-camel's-back was the group of attacks on the United States of America on September 11, 2001 AD. That is not to say that some of them were not Atheist activists before then, but [[9/11]] fanned the flames of their activism.

{{cquote|The New Atheists have expressed that the proverbial straw-that-broke-the-Atheist-camel's-back was the group of attacks on the United States of America on September 11, 2001 AD. That is not to say that some of them were not Atheist activists before then, but [[9/11]] fanned the flames of their activism.

The attacks on 9/11 where primarily caused by Islamic extremism (with a long list of other causes such as maintenance or gaining of power, wealth, popularity, etc.). The question is: what have the New Atheists done in response to this particular event, this particular threat? Surely, they would focus their efforts primarily, if not exclusively, upon confronting this threat, this cause, head on.

The attacks on 9/11 where primarily caused by Islamic extremism (with a long list of other causes such as maintenance or gaining of power, wealth, popularity, etc.). The question is: what have the New Atheists done in response to this particular event, this particular threat? Surely, they would focus their efforts primarily, if not exclusively, upon confronting this threat, this cause, head on.

== Kyle Kulinski's refusal to engage in an atheism vs. Christianity debate ==

== Kyle Kulinski's refusal to engage in an atheism vs. Christianity debate ==

In 2015, the [[New Atheism|new atheist]] and agnostic Kyle Kulinski was offered an [[atheism vs. Christianity]] debate and he refused to accept the debate offer (see: [[Essay: New Atheist Kyle Kulinski defeated]]).

In 2015, the new atheist and agnostic Kyle Kulinski was offered an [[atheism vs. Christianity]] debate and he refused to accept the debate offer (see: [[Essay: New Atheist Kyle Kulinski defeated]]).

== Atheism and a lack of art/music around heroic figures ==

== Atheism and a lack of art/music around heroic figures ==

See also:'' [[Atheism and death]]

See also:'' [[Atheism and death]]

As noted above, on April 2, 2012, ''Science Daily'' reported that ''Death anxiety increases [[Atheism|atheists]]' unconscious belief in God''.<ref>[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/04/120402094322.htm Death anxiety increases atheists' unconscious belief in God], ''Science Daily'', Date: April 2, 2012</ref>  In a 2012 ''Psychology Today'' article, Dr. Nathan A. Heflick reported similar results in other studies.<ref>[http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-big-questions/201205/atheists-death-and-belief-in-god Atheists, Death and Belief in God The Effects of Death Reminders on Atheists' Supernatural Beliefs], ''Psychology Today'', Published on May 25, 2012 by Nathan A. Heflick, Ph.D. in The Big Questions</ref>

As noted above, on April 2, 2012, ''Science Daily'' reported that ''Death anxiety increases atheists' unconscious belief in God''.<ref>[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/04/120402094322.htm Death anxiety increases atheists' unconscious belief in God], ''Science Daily'', Date: April 2, 2012</ref>  In a 2012 ''Psychology Today'' article, Dr. Nathan A. Heflick reported similar results in other studies.<ref>[http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-big-questions/201205/atheists-death-and-belief-in-god Atheists, Death and Belief in God The Effects of Death Reminders on Atheists' Supernatural Beliefs], ''Psychology Today'', Published on May 25, 2012 by Nathan A. Heflick, Ph.D. in The Big Questions</ref>

=== A United States study indicated that very religious people fear death the least ===

=== A United States study indicated that very religious people fear death the least ===

''See also:'' [[Atheistic Sweden and rape]] and [[Atheism vs. Islam]] and [[Atheism and rape]]

''See also:'' [[Atheistic Sweden and rape]] and [[Atheism vs. Islam]] and [[Atheism and rape]]

[[Sweden]] is one of the most [[atheism|atheistic]] countries in the world and the website adherents.com reported that in 2005 46 - 85% of Swedes were agnostics/atheists/non-believers in God.<ref>[http://www.adherents.com/largecom/com_atheist.html Top 50 Countries With Highest Proportion of Atheists / Agnostics(Zuckerman, 2005)]</ref> Sweden also has the 3rd highest rate of belief in evolution as far as [[Western World]] nations.<ref>[http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/bigphotos/21329204.html Photo: Evolution Less Accepted in U.S. Than Other Western Countries, Study Finds]</ref>

[[Sweden]] is one of the most atheistic countries in the world and the website adherents.com reported that in 2005 46 - 85% of Swedes were agnostics/atheists/non-believers in God.<ref>[http://www.adherents.com/largecom/com_atheist.html Top 50 Countries With Highest Proportion of Atheists / Agnostics(Zuckerman, 2005)]</ref> Sweden also has the 3rd highest rate of belief in evolution as far as [[Western World]] nations.<ref>[http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/bigphotos/21329204.html Photo: Evolution Less Accepted in U.S. Than Other Western Countries, Study Finds]</ref>

The ''International Business Times'' reported in 2014:

The ''International Business Times'' reported in 2014:

Now, next door to Sweden, Norway recently expelled almost a thousand Muslim immigrants for serious crimes, and behold!  The violent crime rate dropped by 30% in Norway.  Amazing but true.<ref>[http://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2015/03/muslim_sacralized_rape_and_feminized_sweden.html Muslim Sacralized rape and feminized Sweden]</ref>}}

Now, next door to Sweden, Norway recently expelled almost a thousand Muslim immigrants for serious crimes, and behold!  The violent crime rate dropped by 30% in Norway.  Amazing but true.<ref>[http://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2015/03/muslim_sacralized_rape_and_feminized_sweden.html Muslim Sacralized rape and feminized Sweden]</ref>}}

[[Secular left]]ists Swedes have been too cowardly to confront the [[Islam|Muslim]] community in their country and put an end to the rape epidemic.  

[[Secular left]]ists Swedes have been too cowardly to confront the Muslim community in their country and put an end to the rape epidemic.  

See also:

See also:

*[[Atheists doubting the validity of atheism]]

*[[Atheists doubting the validity of atheism]]

*[[Resources for leaving atheism and becoming a Christian]]

*[[Resources for leaving atheism and becoming a Christian]]

*[[Atheism and truth]]

*[[Atheism and truth]]

*[[Atheism vs. Christianity]]

*[[Atheism vs. Christianity]]

*[[Decline of atheism]]

*[[Decline of atheism]]

*[[Atheism has a lower retention rate compared to other worldviews]]

*[[Atheism has a lower retention rate compared to other worldviews]]

*[[Desecularization]]

*[[Desecularization]]

*[[Huxley Memorial Debate]]

*[[Huxley Memorial Debate]]

'''Other atheism articles:'''

'''Other atheism articles:'''

*[[Atheism]]

*Atheism

*[[Sports performance: Religious faith vs. atheism]]

*[[Sports performance: Religious faith vs. atheism]]

*[[Atheism and leadership]]

*[[Atheism and leadership]]

*[[Essay: Does Richard Dawkins have machismo?|Does Richard Dawkins have machismo?]] - Comedy/satire

*[[Essay: Does Richard Dawkins have machismo?|Does Richard Dawkins have machismo?]] - Comedy/satire

*[[Essay:Comedy and satires concerning atheism and evolution|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)

== External links ==

== External links ==