ACT! for America has discovered that Florida schools are teaching anti-Americanism through a textbook that covers Islam.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
God's Role with Natural Disasters
Father Jonathan Morris discusses a recent poll about religious American's view about God and his role with regard to natural disasters.
Aired on Fox News, March 2011
Aired on Fox News, March 2011
Bryan Fischer: Islam Is Satanic
Bryan Fischer goes on an extended rant about the evils of Islam, calling for an end to immigration from Muslim nations and a ban of the construction of mosques.
Road trip to the end of the world
# Ditching jobs and families, a group that believes the end is near sets out to warn others
# They claim Judgment Day is coming on May 21 and the world will end five months later
# The Bible guarantees this, say loyal listeners of Family Radio, a Christian broadcasting ministry
# Loaded up in RVs, they travel across the South and face off with drunken pirates in Florida
By CNN March 23, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Atheist (Atheism) and the Internet
Atheism (and Ask an Atheist) would not be where it is without the Internet. But is this a good thing?
This an episode of Ask an Atheist, a call-in show in the Tacoma/Seattle area dedicated to atheism, skeptical inquiry, and the separation of church and state. The show is broadcast live on KLAY 1180 AM in Tacoma on Sundays at 3:00 PM, Pacific time.
Leave Voice Mail at: 206-420-0997
This an episode of Ask an Atheist, a call-in show in the Tacoma/Seattle area dedicated to atheism, skeptical inquiry, and the separation of church and state. The show is broadcast live on KLAY 1180 AM in Tacoma on Sundays at 3:00 PM, Pacific time.
Leave Voice Mail at: 206-420-0997
CNN Connect the World - Fate of Organized Religion
Religion will die in 9 countries
with Timothy Shah
Aired March 24, 2011 on CNN
with Timothy Shah
Aired March 24, 2011 on CNN
Atheist Experience #702: Interview with Ray Comfort
Matt and Russell have a conversation "across the divide" with professional apologist Ray Comfort.
Mirror from Youtube
The Atheist Experience TV Show
Atheist Experience #702: Interview with Ray Comfort.
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-host: Russell Glasser
Guest: Ray Comfort
May 27, 2011
The Atheist Experience is a weekly cable access television show in Austin, Texas geared at a non-atheist audience. The Atheist Experience is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin.
The Atheist Community of Austin is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop and support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing and friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of state-church separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists and to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.
DVDs of the Atheist Experience can be purchased via atheist-community.org/products .
Mirror from Youtube
The Atheist Experience TV Show
Atheist Experience #702: Interview with Ray Comfort.
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-host: Russell Glasser
Guest: Ray Comfort
May 27, 2011
The Atheist Experience is a weekly cable access television show in Austin, Texas geared at a non-atheist audience. The Atheist Experience is produced by the Atheist Community of Austin.
The Atheist Community of Austin is organized as a nonprofit educational corporation to develop and support the atheist community, to provide opportunities for socializing and friendship, to promote secular viewpoints, to encourage positive atheist culture, to defend the first amendment principle of state-church separation, to oppose discrimination against atheists and to work with other organizations in pursuit of common goals.
DVDs of the Atheist Experience can be purchased via atheist-community.org/products .
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
2012 Prof Brian Cox and the End of the World
Prof Brian Cox explores the possibility that the World may end in 2012 at the end of the Mayan Long Count. Watch Brian's film on the nature of time on BBC2 in the UK on Tuesday 2nd December at 2100hrs.
Can an Atheist and Believer Have a Successful Love Relationship
It's the ultimate mixed marriage. An atheist and a believer. Can any long-term love relationship last when worldviews are so dramatically opposed? Your opinions. Your experiences. Your calls and letters.
Cindy Jacobs preaches: God was Jesus
Crazy Christian Cindy Jacobs: "There was no doubt that god was Jesus". Say what?
On March 3, 2011 Cindy Jacobs preached at Wasilla Assembly of God, Sarah Palin's home church.
On March 3, 2011 Cindy Jacobs preached at Wasilla Assembly of God, Sarah Palin's home church.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Should You Only Tick The Box If You Go To Church?
With
Naomi Phillips, British Humanist Association
Professor Andy McIntosh, Co Director, Truth and Science (Young Earth creationist)
James O'Brien, radio talk-show host
Dr William Bloom, Foundation for Holistic Spirituality
Seema Malhotra, Woman's Fabian Society
Canon David Jennings, theologian, Leicester Cathedral
Catherine Heseltine, Muslim Public Affairs Committee UK
BBC The Big Question. BBC1 27 March 2011
Should creationism ever be taught in schools?
British debate about teaching creationism in schools
Part 1 of 2
Part 2 of 2
With:
Professor Andy McIntosh, Co Director, Truth and Science (Young Earth creationist)
Professor Bambos Kyriacou, Geneticist, Leicester University (Greek Ortodoks Christian)
Dr Sylvia Baker, former science teacher (Christian creationist)
Canon David Jennings, theologian, Leicester Cathedral (Bravo)
Daw'ud Mannion, muslim convert
James O'Brien, radio talk-show host
Catherine Heseltine, Muslim Public Affairs Committee UK
Christina Rees, Lay Member, General Synod
Naomi Phillips, British Humanist Association
Seema Malhotra, Woman's Fabian Society
Aired on BBC The Big Question, BBC1 27 March 2011
Part 1 of 2
Part 2 of 2
With:
Professor Andy McIntosh, Co Director, Truth and Science (Young Earth creationist)
Professor Bambos Kyriacou, Geneticist, Leicester University (Greek Ortodoks Christian)
Dr Sylvia Baker, former science teacher (Christian creationist)
Canon David Jennings, theologian, Leicester Cathedral (Bravo)
Daw'ud Mannion, muslim convert
James O'Brien, radio talk-show host
Catherine Heseltine, Muslim Public Affairs Committee UK
Christina Rees, Lay Member, General Synod
Naomi Phillips, British Humanist Association
Seema Malhotra, Woman's Fabian Society
Aired on BBC The Big Question, BBC1 27 March 2011
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Newt Gingrich on America's Christian History and Reigning In Judges
Bryan Fischer and Newt Gingrich discuss America's Christian foundations and Gingrich's role in removing three Iowa judges.
Atheist In Your Words 4
Amanda, Portia, Lamar and Will spent time with us on-camera to speak personally the challenges they fact as atheists in their own religious communities, they talk about morality and happiness, and they address their own reasons for rejecting the notion of god in favor of factual evidence, reason and common sense.
Frank Skinner's Opinionated - Religion and The Census
Clip from 'Frank Skinner's Opinionated' - with Andrew Copson of the British Humanist Society
Aired on BBC2 25 March 2011
Aired on BBC2 25 March 2011
Albert Einstein "The World As I See It"
Albart Einstein saw the world he lived in. He addresses societal commitments, ethical ways of living, and religious views in this essay.
This is trimmed out huge sections of this book-length essay.
This is trimmed out huge sections of this book-length essay.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
The Thin Jew Line
Wyatt Cenac learns about an invisible religious boundary causing controversy in Westhampton Beach.
Aired on Commedy Central Wednesday March 23, 2011
| The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
| The Thin Jew Line | ||||
| ||||
Aired on Commedy Central Wednesday March 23, 2011
Double Standard - Atheists anc Christians
This video contains some insane things I've heard. You can see how the ridiculousness of these double standards and assumptions glare when I arrange them side by side. Whatever trait you blame on atheism or attribute to religion, I can point to an abundance of examples to the contrary - and the excuses are usually quite laughable and transparent.
If somebody actually mistakes this as an anti-atheist video, then I'm going to have a trained monkey disengage the parking break of a large truck, which will be at the peak of a high hill. Meanwhile, I will be lying on the road at the bottom of the hill, where the truck will proceed to run over my face, thereby simultaneously ending my life and my disappointment with humanity.
If somebody actually mistakes this as an anti-atheist video, then I'm going to have a trained monkey disengage the parking break of a large truck, which will be at the peak of a high hill. Meanwhile, I will be lying on the road at the bottom of the hill, where the truck will proceed to run over my face, thereby simultaneously ending my life and my disappointment with humanity.
The Saga of Biôrn
Biôrn, an old Viking, is determined to reach Valhalla, the warrior’s afterlife full of excessive drinking and debauchery. To gain entry he has to die honorably in battle, but he discovers that the right death isn’t so easy.
A fantastic short film with top-notch art direction, animation and sound design. The ending is great, too.
We have Benjamin J. Kousholt, Daniel D. Christensen, Mads Lundgaard Christensen, Jesper A. Jensen, Jonas K. Doctor, Steffen Lyhne, Pernille Ørum-Nielsen, Frederik Bjerre-Poulsen and Jonas Georgakakis to thank for putting this together. Well done!
A fantastic short film with top-notch art direction, animation and sound design. The ending is great, too.
We have Benjamin J. Kousholt, Daniel D. Christensen, Mads Lundgaard Christensen, Jesper A. Jensen, Jonas K. Doctor, Steffen Lyhne, Pernille Ørum-Nielsen, Frederik Bjerre-Poulsen and Jonas Georgakakis to thank for putting this together. Well done!
Niles Eldredge: NCSE's 2011 "Friend of Darwin"
A video prepared for the 2011 "Friend of Darwin" award dinner honoring Niles Eldredge. His history, the story of punctuated equilibria, his work for NCSE, and more.
Where: New York City. USA.
When: 3/22/2011
Where: New York City. USA.
When: 3/22/2011
Friday, March 25, 2011
The Anti-Vaxxers
Case, Mike, and Rebecca explore the anti-scientific anti-vaccination movement.
Leave Ask An Atheist Voice Mail: 206-420-0997
Jenny McCarthy Vaccination (MMR Vaccines) and autism
Leave Ask An Atheist Voice Mail: 206-420-0997
Jenny McCarthy Vaccination (MMR Vaccines) and autism
38% of Americans Believe Japan Disaster a Sign From God
Poll Confirms 4 in 10 Americans Are Completely Whacked In The Head!
Aired March 24, 2011 on Fox News
More on Japan earthquake and religion:
• Debate Should An Earthquake Shake Your Faith?
• Japan Earthquake Will Unleash Demonic Nazism on America
• Money for Japan?
Support victims in Japan
Aired March 24, 2011 on Fox News
More on Japan earthquake and religion:
• Debate Should An Earthquake Shake Your Faith?
• Japan Earthquake Will Unleash Demonic Nazism on America
• Money for Japan?
Support victims in Japan
Humanism & Humility
Tis' the season to use our faith, to use our reason, to annihilate those whose worldviews differ from our own, even in our own families. Happy holidays!
In this sermon given in 2009, Rev. Nate Walker of the First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia claims that "rationalism feeds fundamentalism and fundamentalism feeds atheism."
In this sermon given in 2009, Rev. Nate Walker of the First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia claims that "rationalism feeds fundamentalism and fundamentalism feeds atheism."
Atheist Experience #701 Viewer Calls and David Silverman
Martin and Matt take on viewer calls. Surprise call by AA President, David Silverman.
The Atheist Experience TV Show
Atheist Experience #701: Viewer Calls
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-host: Martin Wagner
2011-03-20
The Atheist Experience TV Show
Atheist Experience #701: Viewer Calls
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-host: Martin Wagner
2011-03-20
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Michele Bachmann prays about running for president in 2012
Michele Bachmann tells Bryan Fischer she'll decide if she is going to run for president by the summer, but if she runs using the energy God gave America will be part of her platform.
Bryan Fischer invters Rep. Michele Bachmann live at the Rediscover God in America conference in Iowa on 3/24/2011.
Bryan Fischer invters Rep. Michele Bachmann live at the Rediscover God in America conference in Iowa on 3/24/2011.
Adaptive Medicine - Baba Brinkman
Sources:
Atul Gawande: "The Cost Conundrum"
Atul Gawande: "Testing, Testing"
Wikipedia: "Canada vs US Health Care"
Wilkenson & Pickett: "The Spirit Level"
Lyrics by Baba Brinkman
Music by Mr. Simmonds
Christian Cindy Jacobs: Evolution of abortion
Crazy Christian Cindy Jacobs: America Will Build A National Abortion Memorial
Earlier 2011, Cindy Jacobs spoke at a conference in Arizona where she proclaimed that America would outlaw abortion and even build a national memorial to honor it.
Earlier 2011, Cindy Jacobs spoke at a conference in Arizona where she proclaimed that America would outlaw abortion and even build a national memorial to honor it.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Glenn Beck & To Believe the Bible...
The Last Word, Lawrence O'Donnell, MSNBC, 3-22-2011
Glenn Beck: Believes in the book of revelation - What America Can Learn From Japan
Aired on Fox News March 18, 2011
Scientology and homosexuality - Michael Pattinson
Michael Pattinson reached the level of OT8 in Scientology which is the top of their Bridge to Total Freedom.
Michael Pattinson spent about a half a million dollars in the group, hoping to be cured of being gay. From Knowledge Report.
Michael Pattinson spent about a half a million dollars in the group, hoping to be cured of being gay. From Knowledge Report.
Former SNL Star Victoria Jackson Blasts "Glee" Gay Kiss
Former SNL Star Christian Victoria Jackson Blasts "Glee" Gay Kiss
Aired March 22, 2011 on CNN
Aired March 22, 2011 on CNN
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Rick Joyner: America Is Under Judgment
Rick Joyner says American is under judgement for allowing "evil, wicked" Atheists to control the nation and now God is going to destroy California with an earthquake.
Cleric Receives Death Threats For Supporting Evolution
Imam Usama Hasan, Leyton Mosque
Ibrahim Mogra
Mirror
March 21, 2011 on CNN
Obviously, we all know that in the beginning, there was NOTHING. Then Allah, out of NOTHING created his throne(kursh) and then created some water and placed his throne over the water.
Allah then created Mr and Mrs Adam and Eve from clay in 6 days. Allah then gave them shelter and food, allowing them to eat whatever they liked, strawberry, cherries, plums, banana, oranges, grapes, grapefruit, pizza, burger, pasta, rice curry, chicken tandoori...anything at all except APPLES. But Mrs Adam tempts her husband and this bloody idiot eats an apple. Allah cannot stand this and he throws both of them out of heaven and they free fall billions of km's down and lands on earth without breaking a single bone, surviving hypothermia, frostbite etc. This is what really happened.
So evolution, which says all living creatures change gradually from simpler beings to form more complex, bringing about small and slow improvements suited to survive in their contemporary environment over millions of years is obviously false and doesnt make sense compared to the wonderful creation story we have in the holy Quran which was revealed by Allah himslef to Muhammad via his messenger Mr Jibreal 1400 years ago.
Ibrahim Mogra
Mirror
March 21, 2011 on CNN
Obviously, we all know that in the beginning, there was NOTHING. Then Allah, out of NOTHING created his throne(kursh) and then created some water and placed his throne over the water.
Allah then created Mr and Mrs Adam and Eve from clay in 6 days. Allah then gave them shelter and food, allowing them to eat whatever they liked, strawberry, cherries, plums, banana, oranges, grapes, grapefruit, pizza, burger, pasta, rice curry, chicken tandoori...anything at all except APPLES. But Mrs Adam tempts her husband and this bloody idiot eats an apple. Allah cannot stand this and he throws both of them out of heaven and they free fall billions of km's down and lands on earth without breaking a single bone, surviving hypothermia, frostbite etc. This is what really happened.
So evolution, which says all living creatures change gradually from simpler beings to form more complex, bringing about small and slow improvements suited to survive in their contemporary environment over millions of years is obviously false and doesnt make sense compared to the wonderful creation story we have in the holy Quran which was revealed by Allah himslef to Muhammad via his messenger Mr Jibreal 1400 years ago.
Knowledge Report: Nancy Many Scientology Clip
In this piece of raw video for the motion picture "Knowledge Report" Nancy Many explains how she infiltrated Boston area psychiatric agencies to do covert spying operations on behalf of Scientology.
Knowledge Report: Kirstie Alley Event
Kirstie Alley from Scientology opens a food ting. Mark Bulger from Xenu TV ask questions.
A new feature film documentary on Scientology fraud and abuse
A new feature film documentary on Scientology fraud and abuse
Monday, March 21, 2011
Alfred Kröner (What scientists really think of the Quran)
Alfred's views have been misrepresented for years. Alfred Kroener has received many queries about this subject over the years, this video is his attempt at setting the record straight so that people will stop asking him about the event and he can put it behind him.
Alfred Kroener is cited on many Muslim websites as a world leading geologist who claims that the Quran is entirely scientifically accurate and could only have come from Allah.
Alfred Kroener kindly agreed to participate in a video interview giving his account of the circumstances which led to him being filmed making these statements, and making clear his opinion of the accuracy of the Quran at the time and also at the present.
Alfred Kroener is cited on many Muslim websites as a world leading geologist who claims that the Quran is entirely scientifically accurate and could only have come from Allah.
Alfred Kroener kindly agreed to participate in a video interview giving his account of the circumstances which led to him being filmed making these statements, and making clear his opinion of the accuracy of the Quran at the time and also at the present.
Catholics Come Home Commercial
Real Time With Bill Maher on Catholics Come Home Commercial
March 3, 2011
March 3, 2011
Sunday, March 20, 2011
You're Amending The Gospel So That It's Palatable
MSNBC Host Makes Rob Bell Squirm: "You're Amending The Gospel So That It's Palatable!"
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Atheists in Church - World Harvest
We visit the pentecostal prosperity gospel church, World Harvest. Located in Pickerington, Ohio, televangelst Pastor Rod Parsley.
The congregation was actually really nice and friendly - even the few that knew we were atheists (they were also sure we would see the light at the end of the service). It wasn't until after at the visitors area that things turned a tad sour.
The congregation was actually really nice and friendly - even the few that knew we were atheists (they were also sure we would see the light at the end of the service). It wasn't until after at the visitors area that things turned a tad sour.
Nerdstock: 9 Lessons & Carols for Godless People (2009)
A non-religious Christmas celebration of comedy, science and music recorded live at London's Hammersmith Apollo in December 2009.
Full line up:
Robin Ince, Richard Dawkins, Brian Cox, Mark Steel, Richard Herring, Shappi Khorsandi, Ben Goldacre, Simon Singh, Barry Cryer and Ronnie Golden, Robyn Hitchcock, Jim Bob and Baba Brinkman.
Full line up:
Robin Ince, Richard Dawkins, Brian Cox, Mark Steel, Richard Herring, Shappi Khorsandi, Ben Goldacre, Simon Singh, Barry Cryer and Ronnie Golden, Robyn Hitchcock, Jim Bob and Baba Brinkman.
Edward the Agnostic
Let's go over this for the record:
Gnostic Theists- claim to know that god exists, therefor they believe.
Gnostic Atheist- claim to know that God doesn't exist, therefor they don't believe.
(both of which are arrogant and faulty positions in my opinion)
Agnostic theists- admit they don't know for sure if God exists, but they still believe (s)he does.
Agnostic atheists- admit they don't know for sure if God exists, but they still don't believe (s)he does.
So, if someone asks "do you believe in god," saying "I'm an agnostic" doesn't answer the question.
Gnostic Theists- claim to know that god exists, therefor they believe.
Gnostic Atheist- claim to know that God doesn't exist, therefor they don't believe.
(both of which are arrogant and faulty positions in my opinion)
Agnostic theists- admit they don't know for sure if God exists, but they still believe (s)he does.
Agnostic atheists- admit they don't know for sure if God exists, but they still don't believe (s)he does.
So, if someone asks "do you believe in god," saying "I'm an agnostic" doesn't answer the question.
Rod Parsley: The Antichrist Is Waiting In the Wings
Rod Parsley warns his audience that global food shortages are coming and that the Antichrist is going to use it to rise to power.
The bible tells you!
The bible tells you!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Brian Cox on Jonathan Ross - full interview
Brian Cox on The Jonathan Ross Show. The full interview + Experiment.
Brian Cox on The Jonathan Ross Show
Brian Cox on The Jonathan Ross Show
Human Origins: Evidence of Human Evolution
Dr. Rick Potts provides a video short introduction to some of the evidence for human evolution, in the form of fossils and artifacts.
Leaving Amish Paradise
From Amish Christians to Evangelical Christianity
Video 1/4
Video 2/4
Video 3/4
Video 4/4
Aired on BBC Two 16 March 2011
Video 1/4
Video 2/4
Video 3/4
Video 4/4
Aired on BBC Two 16 March 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Church in Crisis - Avenging Altar Boy
District Attorney R. Seth Williams - the first prosecutor in the country to charge a church official for abusing of children they were supposed to protect - joins hardball's Christian Catholic Chris Matthews to discuss the charges.
NY Times article: Avenging Altar Boy.
March 16, 2011 on MSNBC
NY Times article: Avenging Altar Boy.
March 16, 2011 on MSNBC
The Book of Mormon interview on the Daily Show
Trey Parker and Matt Stone call "The Book of Mormon" a celebration of Mormonism by guys who aren't Mormons.
(07:01)
The Daily Show on Comedy Central, Thursday March 10, 2011
| The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
| Trey Parker & Matt Stone | ||||
| ||||
(07:01)
The Daily Show on Comedy Central, Thursday March 10, 2011
Pat Robertson: Bring on Disasters
With what happened in Japan, why does God allow disasters to happen? Is it okay to take anti-depressants? How do you receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?
The Christian Broadcasting Network CBN
The Christian Broadcasting Network CBN
Money for Japan?
Father Jonathan Morris discusses with Stuart Varney whether funds, or other goods and services, should be given to Japan in the wake of the earthwake and tsunami. Varney also asks about the issue of tithing.
My comment: Support the victims in Japan with money and wathever you can do.
My comment: Support the victims in Japan with money and wathever you can do.
Japan Earthquake Will Unleash Demonic Nazism on America
Crazy Christian Rick Joyner explains that the demonic forces behind Nazism in Germany want to take over America and are going to use the earthquake in Japan to do so.
Crazy Christian
Crazy Christian
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Should An Earthquake Shake Your Faith?
Should An Earthquake Shake Your Faith? (2/2)
BBC1 13 March 2011
Ken Cuccinell: It Is God's Plan For Me To Be Attorney General
Catholic Christian Ken Cuccinellis tells CBN News that God has a plan unfolding ... and that plan entails him being Attorney General of Virginia.
Holy See accused of flouting UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
At the plenary session of the United Nations Human Rights Council on Tuesday 15 March 2011, Keith Porteous Wood of Britain's National Secular Society accused the Holy See of contravening its duties under the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child in relation to child abuse.
Mr Wood was speaking as international representative of the International Humanist and Ethical Union, the world umbrella group for secular and humanist organisations.
Mr Wood was speaking as international representative of the International Humanist and Ethical Union, the world umbrella group for secular and humanist organisations.
Rod Parsley Channels Glenn Beck to Decry "Black Genocide"
Rod Parlsey takes a page out of Glenn Beck's playbook in exposing the "Black Genocide," complete with chalkboards and props.
Rod Parlsey yet another crazy Christian.
Rod Parlsey yet another crazy Christian.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Galapagos: researching the animals
The research process involved in the study of marine iguanas and giant tortoises in the Galapagos.
(Part 1 of 7)
(Part 1 of 7)
Frank Gaffney: Sharia Is Sedition and Must Be Prosecuted
Frank Gaffney tells Brigitte Gabriel that the practice of Sharia is actually an act of sedition against the US Constitution and must therefore be prosecuted.
Atheism and Parenting
Beth, Libbie and Rich discuss parenting and the interface with atheism pre- and post-realization.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Harry Jackson: The Black Church Stopped Gay Marriage In Maryland
Harry Jackson tells CBN News that the Black church in Maryland rose up and stopped the effort to pass gay marriage and will now get to work removing legislators from office.
Intelligent Design On Trial
In this two-hour special, NOVA captures the turmoil that tore apart the community of Dover, Pennsylvania in one of the latest battles over teaching evolution in public schools. Featuring trial reenactments based on court transcripts and interviews with key participants, including expert scientists and Dover parents, teachers, and town officials, "Judgment Day: Intelligent Design on Trial" follows the celebrated federal case of Kitzmiller v. Dover School District. This program was coproduced with Paul G. Allen's Vulcan Productions, Inc.
In 2004, the Dover school board ordered science teachers to read a statement to high school biology students suggesting that there is an alternative to Darwin's theory of evolution called intelligent design--the idea that life is too complex to have evolved naturally and therefore must have been designed by an intelligent agent. The teachers refused to comply. Later, parents opposed to intelligent design filed a lawsuit in federal court accusing the school board of violating the constitutional separation of church and state.
"There was a blow-up like you couldn't believe," Bill Buckingham, head of the school board's curriculum committee, tells NOVA. Buckingham helped formulate the intelligent-design policy when he noticed that the biology textbook chosen by teachers for classroom use was, in his words, "laced with Darwinism."
NOVA presents the arguments by lawyers and expert witnesses in riveting detail and provides an eye-opening crash course on questions such as "What is evolution?" and "Is intelligent design a scientifically valid alternative?" Kitzmiller v. Dover was the first legal test of intelligent design as a scientific theory, with the plaintiffs arguing that it is a thinly veiled form of creationism, the view that a literal interpretation of the Bible accounts for all observed facts about nature.
During the trial, lawyers for the plaintiffs showed that evolution is one of the best-tested and most thoroughly confirmed theories in the history of science, and that its unresolved questions are normal research problems--the type that arise in any flourishing scientific field.
U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones III ultimately decided for the plaintiffs, writing in his decision that intelligent design "cannot uncouple itself from its creationist, and thus religious, antecedents." As part of his decision, Judge Jones ordered the Dover school board to pay legal fees and damages, which were eventually set at $1 million.
"Judgment Day captures on film a landmark court case with a powerful scientific message at its core," says Paula Apsell, NOVA's Senior Executive Producer. "Evolution is one of the most essential yet, for many people, least understood of all scientific theories, the foundation of biological science. We felt it was important for NOVA to do this program to heighten the public understanding of what constitutes science and what does not, and therefore, what is acceptable for inclusion in the science curriculum in our public schools."
For years to come, the lessons from Dover will continue to have a profound impact on how science is viewed in our society and how it is taught in the classroom.
http://ncse.com/news/2011/03/intelligent-design-legislation-texas-006531
In 2004, the Dover school board ordered science teachers to read a statement to high school biology students suggesting that there is an alternative to Darwin's theory of evolution called intelligent design--the idea that life is too complex to have evolved naturally and therefore must have been designed by an intelligent agent. The teachers refused to comply. Later, parents opposed to intelligent design filed a lawsuit in federal court accusing the school board of violating the constitutional separation of church and state.
"There was a blow-up like you couldn't believe," Bill Buckingham, head of the school board's curriculum committee, tells NOVA. Buckingham helped formulate the intelligent-design policy when he noticed that the biology textbook chosen by teachers for classroom use was, in his words, "laced with Darwinism."
NOVA presents the arguments by lawyers and expert witnesses in riveting detail and provides an eye-opening crash course on questions such as "What is evolution?" and "Is intelligent design a scientifically valid alternative?" Kitzmiller v. Dover was the first legal test of intelligent design as a scientific theory, with the plaintiffs arguing that it is a thinly veiled form of creationism, the view that a literal interpretation of the Bible accounts for all observed facts about nature.
During the trial, lawyers for the plaintiffs showed that evolution is one of the best-tested and most thoroughly confirmed theories in the history of science, and that its unresolved questions are normal research problems--the type that arise in any flourishing scientific field.
U.S. District Court Judge John E. Jones III ultimately decided for the plaintiffs, writing in his decision that intelligent design "cannot uncouple itself from its creationist, and thus religious, antecedents." As part of his decision, Judge Jones ordered the Dover school board to pay legal fees and damages, which were eventually set at $1 million.
"Judgment Day captures on film a landmark court case with a powerful scientific message at its core," says Paula Apsell, NOVA's Senior Executive Producer. "Evolution is one of the most essential yet, for many people, least understood of all scientific theories, the foundation of biological science. We felt it was important for NOVA to do this program to heighten the public understanding of what constitutes science and what does not, and therefore, what is acceptable for inclusion in the science curriculum in our public schools."
For years to come, the lessons from Dover will continue to have a profound impact on how science is viewed in our society and how it is taught in the classroom.
http://ncse.com/news/2011/03/intelligent-design-legislation-texas-006531
Panel examines "Judgment Day: Intelligent Design on Trial
On Sept. 24, 2009, a panel at SMU discussed the legal, ethical and journalistic issues surrounding the making of NOVA's documentary film, "Judgment Day: Intelligent Design on Trial." Participants include John E. Jones, the federal judge who barred a Dover, Pa., public school district in 2005 from teaching "intelligent design"; Paula Apsell and Melanie Wallace, NOVA producers of the documentary; plaintiff's council Eric Rothschild; and Laurie Lebo, author of The Devil in Dover.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Marketplace - Cure or Con (Homeopathy)
CBC Marketplace investigates Homeopathy.
Aired Jan. 14, 2011. CBC Marketplace - Cure or Con (Homeopathy)
Aired Jan. 14, 2011. CBC Marketplace - Cure or Con (Homeopathy)
Buddha - A history about Buddhism
This video is made by filmmaker David Grubin and narrated by Richard Gere. It tells the story of the Buddha's life, a journey especially relevant to our own bewildering times of violent change and spiritual confusion.
It features the work of some of the world's greatest artists and sculptors, who across two millennia, have depicted the Buddha's life in art rich in beauty and complexity.
Hear insights into the ancient narrative by contemporary Buddhists, including Pulitzer Prize winning poet W.S. Merwin and His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
It features the work of some of the world's greatest artists and sculptors, who across two millennia, have depicted the Buddha's life in art rich in beauty and complexity.
Hear insights into the ancient narrative by contemporary Buddhists, including Pulitzer Prize winning poet W.S. Merwin and His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Richard Wiseman on ghost interview - BBC Breakfast
Richard Wiseman Paranormality Interview - BBC Breakfast 8th Match 2011
BBC Breakfast Tuesday 8 March 2011
BBC Breakfast Tuesday 8 March 2011
Richard Dawkins interview on RevelationTV 2011
Live interview with Richard Dawkins on RevelationTV by Howard Conder, co Founder of RevelationTV.
Richard Dawkins explains the evolution of the eye.
The interviewer Howard Conder "a simpel person" jumps around allover. He is
Howard Conder is a young Earth Creationist Christian.
From March 10, 2011
Richard Dawkins explains the evolution of the eye.
The interviewer Howard Conder "a simpel person" jumps around allover. He is
Howard Conder is a young Earth Creationist Christian.
From March 10, 2011
Supernatural Explanations
Tracie explores whether supernatural explanations are valid when natural ones are unavailable.
The Atheist Experience TV Show
Atheist Experience #699: Supernatural Explanations
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-host: Tracie Harris
2011-03-06
The Atheist Experience TV Show
Atheist Experience #699: Supernatural Explanations
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-host: Tracie Harris
2011-03-06
Friday, March 11, 2011
Miracle Mineral Supplement
Miracle Mineral Supplement is a controversial alternative medicine product being sold over the Internet. Is it worth it? Is it safe?
Miracle Mineral Supplement is a controversial alternative medicine product being sold over the Internet. Is it worth it? Is it safe?
1. Environ Health Perspect. 1986 Nov;69:249-54.
"Mechanistic aspects of ingested chlorine dioxide on thyroid function: impact of oxidants on iodide metabolism."
2. Environ Health Perspect. 1982 Dec;46:47-55.
"Subchronic toxicity of chlorine dioxide and related compounds in drinking water in the nonhuman primate."
3. Miracle Mineral Solution (MMS): Product as consumed produces a potent bleach
4. J Med Toxicol. 2009 Sep;5(3):177. Chlorine dioxide-induced acute hemolysis.
Miracle Mineral Supplement is a controversial alternative medicine product being sold over the Internet. Is it worth it? Is it safe?
1. Environ Health Perspect. 1986 Nov;69:249-54.
"Mechanistic aspects of ingested chlorine dioxide on thyroid function: impact of oxidants on iodide metabolism."
2. Environ Health Perspect. 1982 Dec;46:47-55.
"Subchronic toxicity of chlorine dioxide and related compounds in drinking water in the nonhuman primate."
3. Miracle Mineral Solution (MMS): Product as consumed produces a potent bleach
4. J Med Toxicol. 2009 Sep;5(3):177. Chlorine dioxide-induced acute hemolysis.
Richard Dawkins: One Fact to Refute Creationism
Biologist Richard Dawkins identifies what he views is the single most compelling fact to refute Creationism -- but states that the real problem lies in convincing Creationists to listen to the evidence. "What they do is simply stick their fingers in their ears and say 'La la la,'" says Dawkins. "You cannot argue with a mind like that."
Richard Dawkins is a world-renowned evolutionary biologist and author. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society and, until recently, held the Charles Simonyi Chair of Public Understanding of Science at Oxford University. His first book, The Selfish Gene, was an instant international bestseller, and has become an established classic work of modern evolutionary biology.
He is also the author of The Blind Watchmaker, River Out of Eden, Climbing Mount Improbable, Unweaving the Rainbow, A Devil's Chaplain, The Ancestor's Tale The God Delusion, and most recently, The Greatsest Show on Earth.
Professor Dawkins's awards have included the Silver Medal of the Zoological Society of London (1989), the Royal Society's Michael Faraday Award (1990), the Nakayama Prize for Achievement in Human Science (1990), The International Cosmos Prize (1997) and the Kistler Prize (2001).
Richard Dawkins is a world-renowned evolutionary biologist and author. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society and, until recently, held the Charles Simonyi Chair of Public Understanding of Science at Oxford University. His first book, The Selfish Gene, was an instant international bestseller, and has become an established classic work of modern evolutionary biology.
He is also the author of The Blind Watchmaker, River Out of Eden, Climbing Mount Improbable, Unweaving the Rainbow, A Devil's Chaplain, The Ancestor's Tale The God Delusion, and most recently, The Greatsest Show on Earth.
Professor Dawkins's awards have included the Silver Medal of the Zoological Society of London (1989), the Royal Society's Michael Faraday Award (1990), the Nakayama Prize for Achievement in Human Science (1990), The International Cosmos Prize (1997) and the Kistler Prize (2001).
Is Wisconsin Governor a Bad Christian?
Father Jonathan Morris discusses a theologian's commentary on the Wisconsin governor.
Wisconsin governor Walker
Wisconsin governor Walker
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Jehovah's Witnesses, an Atheist, and a Christian
When Jehovah's Witnesses came to my door, they had an interesting conversation with a friend of mine and with me.
Part 1 of 2
Part 2 of 2
Part 1 of 2
Part 2 of 2
Louie Gohmert: "Terror Babies" Are a Gift From God
Rep. Louie Gohmert tells Tim Wildom of the American Family Association that he never used the phrase "terror babies" because all babies are a gift from God.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Mr Deity and the Signs
Mr. Deity is concerned that Larry has rigged the Universe in order to give people signs of His existence.
The History and Prospects of Creationism
NCSE Deputy Director Glenn Branch traces the history, growth, and future of creationism. An entertaining, informative talk that lays creationism bare.
Where: Sacramento Area Skeptics.
When: 2/20/2010
Where: Sacramento Area Skeptics.
When: 2/20/2010
Matt Barber: Dan Savage is the Gay Fred Phelps
Liberty Counsel's Matt Barber says that Dan Savage is the gay version of Fred Phelps.
Senator Rick Santorum
Senator Rick Santorum
Meet America's Top Exorcist, The Inspiration For 'The Rite'
exorcism in Christianity
March 7, 2011 on CNN
March 7, 2011 on CNN
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
London Imam Usama Hasan receives hostility as he gives his views on evolution
Usama Hasan trying to give a talk in the UK to Muslims, explaining how he thinks Islam and the scientific theory of evolution of species are not incompatible. He is met by shouts such as
"We know enough"
"We are not here to learn science!"
"Where is the sheik? The sheik will make it clear!"
"We know enough"
"We are not here to learn science!"
"Where is the sheik? The sheik will make it clear!"
60 Minutes documentary with Christopher Hitchens
Steve Kroft profiles Vanity Fair columnist, author and public intellectual Christopher Hitchens, for whom nothing is off-limits when making his wry and often outrageous observations, including the cancer he is suffering from.
Christopher Hitchens jokes about joining 'cancer elite'
Christopher Hitchens jokes about joining 'cancer elite', Monday 7 March 2011
Christopher Hitchens jokes about joining 'cancer elite'
Christopher Hitchens jokes about joining 'cancer elite', Monday 7 March 2011
Monday, March 7, 2011
The Religious Right's Modern Day Spartan Army
Tony Perkins joins Jerry Boykin and Rick Joyner for a video highlighting the need to Christians to take control of government and culture and announcing the formation of some "300" like coaition of Religious Right activists.
MorningStar TV. 300: The Religious Right's Modern Day Spartan Army
MorningStar TV. 300: The Religious Right's Modern Day Spartan Army
Westboro Baptist Church On The SCOTUS Decision
Westboro Baptist Church - the face of Christians anno 2011
Margie Phelps: Barack Obama is the devil
FNS, Fox news, March 6, 2011
Margie Phelps: Barack Obama is the devil
FNS, Fox news, March 6, 2011
Wisconsin Bishops and the Budget Protestors
Father Jonathan Morris weighs in on the Wisconsin Catholic bishops and their support of the protestors amid the state's budget and legislative crisis.
Does Prayer Work?
Debate hedl by BBC
Does Prayer Work? (video 1/2)
Does Prayer Work? (video 2/2)
BBC1 6 March 2011
Does Prayer Work? (video 1/2)
Does Prayer Work? (video 2/2)
BBC1 6 March 2011
Sunday, March 6, 2011
The Facepalm Atheist
I normally support The Thinking Atheist. I post his videos and The Thinking Atheist Podcast.
This week The Thinking Atheist launched 3 new t-shirts. One with the text: "Religion. It's Like History Class. Without The Facts."
Facepalm!
There are many facts in religion. And you better know them. If you are Christian, you don't go around praying to Allah and Zeus.
If you are Christian and dosen't know about Noah and Moses. Are you Christian?
It is really sad, that "Thinking" does not think/care about it.
Fact are importen. If fact wasn't importet you would not care about the age of the Earth/world. Evolution or creation by god etc etc.
This week The Thinking Atheist launched 3 new t-shirts. One with the text: "Religion. It's Like History Class. Without The Facts."
Facepalm!
There are many facts in religion. And you better know them. If you are Christian, you don't go around praying to Allah and Zeus.
If you are Christian and dosen't know about Noah and Moses. Are you Christian?
It is really sad, that "Thinking" does not think/care about it.
Fact are importen. If fact wasn't importet you would not care about the age of the Earth/world. Evolution or creation by god etc etc.
The Great Debate - What is Life?
Panel discussion: The Great Debate - What is Life?
Richard Dawkins, J. Craig Venter, Nobel laureates Sidney Altman and Leland Hartwell, Chris McKay, Paul Davies, Lawrence Krauss, and The Science Network’s Roger Bingham discuss the origins of life, the possibility of finding life elsewhere, and the latest development in synthetic biology.
Date: February 12, 2011
Run Time: 42 minutes
Speakers: Richard Dawkins, J Craig Venter, Sydney Altman, Lee Hartwell, Paul Davies, Chris McKay, Lawrence Krauss, Roger Bingham
Richard Dawkins, J. Craig Venter, Nobel laureates Sidney Altman and Leland Hartwell, Chris McKay, Paul Davies, Lawrence Krauss, and The Science Network’s Roger Bingham discuss the origins of life, the possibility of finding life elsewhere, and the latest development in synthetic biology.
Date: February 12, 2011
Run Time: 42 minutes
Speakers: Richard Dawkins, J Craig Venter, Sydney Altman, Lee Hartwell, Paul Davies, Chris McKay, Lawrence Krauss, Roger Bingham
Faith in fakes, frauds, phonies, fools, cons, and charlatans
Benny Hin, Peter Proprof
On the Magic Sandwich - Faith in fakes, frauds, phonies, fools, cons, and charlatans
On the Magic Sandwich - Faith in fakes, frauds, phonies, fools, cons, and charlatans
Partial solar eclipse seen from space
NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory caught the Moon slipping in front of the face of the Sun on March 4, 2011. This view is in the far ultraviolet and shows lots of solar activity like sunspots (which are bright in the UV) and prominences.
The Moon appears to change direction because SDO is orbiting the Earth. This is difficult to explain using just words, so I have created a diagram on my blog. It's the same effect that makes planets seem to reverse direction over several days (called "retrograde motion") or race cars seem to move left-to-right on the near side of the racetrack and right-to-left on the far side.
Credit: NASA
The Moon appears to change direction because SDO is orbiting the Earth. This is difficult to explain using just words, so I have created a diagram on my blog. It's the same effect that makes planets seem to reverse direction over several days (called "retrograde motion") or race cars seem to move left-to-right on the near side of the racetrack and right-to-left on the far side.
Credit: NASA
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Psalm 23 - Lord is my shepherd
Its bugged me for ever that Christians are proud of the 'fact' that the 'Lord is my shepherd'. (Psalm 23)
It's one of the earliest things taught to children is that farm animals get eaten, and sheep are no exception. If the lord is their shepherd, he's not being nice to them just out of love or care, but because of their deadweight at market.
Christians say the Dumbest Things
Yup, and would you believe that psalm 23, -The Lord is my Shepherd, is one of the most quoted, and most read Bible verses. It's jaw droppingly, well funny I suppose that billions of christians have read this verse, and as far as I can tell none have them have put this verse together with what they learned when they were 5, that there is no happy ending for the sheep.
If the verse is meant to confer the concept that their god will care for them, then a better metaphor would be 'The Lord is my Nanny'. Irrespective it embodies the concept that someone else will care for you, and there is no encouragement for self-improvement or development. In summary its a statement of pedomorphic desire and intent as a mainstay of the Christian religion.
Ironically this would of course count as bad parenting anywhere. No good parent should encourage their children to remain children in perpetuity. The sole goal of the parents should be for their children to supersede their ability!
It's one of the earliest things taught to children is that farm animals get eaten, and sheep are no exception. If the lord is their shepherd, he's not being nice to them just out of love or care, but because of their deadweight at market.
Christians say the Dumbest Things
Yup, and would you believe that psalm 23, -The Lord is my Shepherd, is one of the most quoted, and most read Bible verses. It's jaw droppingly, well funny I suppose that billions of christians have read this verse, and as far as I can tell none have them have put this verse together with what they learned when they were 5, that there is no happy ending for the sheep.
If the verse is meant to confer the concept that their god will care for them, then a better metaphor would be 'The Lord is my Nanny'. Irrespective it embodies the concept that someone else will care for you, and there is no encouragement for self-improvement or development. In summary its a statement of pedomorphic desire and intent as a mainstay of the Christian religion.
Ironically this would of course count as bad parenting anywhere. No good parent should encourage their children to remain children in perpetuity. The sole goal of the parents should be for their children to supersede their ability!
Allan Gregg interviews Richard Dawkins on his book The God Delusion
Richard Dawkins has been called the world's most famous atheist - An evolutionary biologist , he has touched off a storm of controversy with his bestseller The God Delusion.
In it he argues that a belief in God is irrational and religion is divisive and dangerous. Dawkins is the Charles Simonyi Professor of Public Understanding of Science at Oxford University.
In it he argues that a belief in God is irrational and religion is divisive and dangerous. Dawkins is the Charles Simonyi Professor of Public Understanding of Science at Oxford University.
Raising Kids Who Can Think
How should a rational skeptic approach religion with their children? This is what I chose to do.
Tell it to the judges: Evolution 101
At a recent Ohio Judicial Conference, Genie Scott schooled jurists on evolution science of evolution, the intersection of science and the law, and more.
When: 9/9/2010
When: 9/9/2010
Friday, March 4, 2011
Apologetics: Arguments and Responses
This episode introduces long-time crew member of the show Bob, with Casey and Beth. In this episode they discuss Christian apologetics.
This an episode of Ask an Atheist, a call-in show in the Tacoma/Seattle area dedicated to atheism, skeptical inquiry, and the separation of church and state. The show is broadcast live on KLAY 1180 AM in Tacoma on Sundays at 3:00 PM, Pacific time.
NOTE: Ask an Atheists camera was lost/stolen after a previous episode. Please excuse the lack of video. Still no cameras, sorry. Also, we're caught up on video now.
Leave Ask an Atheist Voice Mail: 206-420-0997
This an episode of Ask an Atheist, a call-in show in the Tacoma/Seattle area dedicated to atheism, skeptical inquiry, and the separation of church and state. The show is broadcast live on KLAY 1180 AM in Tacoma on Sundays at 3:00 PM, Pacific time.
NOTE: Ask an Atheists camera was lost/stolen after a previous episode. Please excuse the lack of video. Still no cameras, sorry. Also, we're caught up on video now.
Leave Ask an Atheist Voice Mail: 206-420-0997
Indoctrination
Indoctrination- it's imbuing a mind with a certain doctrine or ideology, usually of a bias nature and into a young, or vulnerable mind. Indoctrination is the typical tool of the religious for injecting their beliefs into their children. Most religious people don't have trouble admitting that their beliefs are taken in faith, and substantiated only by personal experience, if that. Many are honest enough to admit that their personal experience is not enough for others to believe in their god without experiencing something themselves. Plenty of those same theists, however, take no issue with teaching what they believe through faith to their children as fact. As a child none of the religious adults who informed me of the alleged sacrifice of Jesus, the flood survived by Noah, or the commandments carried by Moses, ever once mentioned thousands of denominations of another dozen mainstream religions that contradict everything they were telling me. Nor did they even hint that their lessons were anything shy of established facts, leaving no inch of room for the possibility of doubt. These are the same people who preach that we should "teach the controversy" in public schools.
I remain ever curious as to the motivation of religious people to inject their children with religious knowledge at such a young age. I understand the desire to take advantage of the absorbent young mind, but surely that window of time during which children's minds are so open to learning could be more productively filled with academic, social, or secular moral values. Is there no faith that the very God the parents wish to inform their children of would not extend the absorbency of their minds at least to age of 12 or 13 to accept knowledge of him? It seems to me that a parent who bolsters both religious confidence and intellectually honesty would have no problem waiting for a child's mind to develop well enough to evaluate options and make data-driven decisions. Why not wait until children grow to an early teenage stage to inform them of all the mainstream religions in great detail. Why not show them all the religions at an age they could process the information, and justify why their religion of choice is the true one? Then they could explain what their religion offers that those other religions don't in the way of proof for its claims. It seems to me like the ultimate test of faith to stack one's religion against the others on equal footing and allow your God to shine the truth through the appropriate one, if any in the child's mind.
Might it be that a freshman in high school would be less likely to swallow stories about talking animals, talking plants, and human resurrection as pure truth? Might a young teenager have more critical questions than a toddler when being told about a global flood with every species crammed on a boat, or a man surviving inside of a fish for three days? Might the adolescent mind be immediately inclined to place those stories under the fictional category they belong in? I consider the refusal to present the concept of their religion on an equal playing field at a more mature age to be a lack of confidence in the credibility of their faith on behalf of religious parents.
Some will argue that it's best to teach their religion at a young age for moral lessons, but I can see no more reason for a child to learn what you consider the source of morality until they are old enough to understand it. The emphasis should be on what the moral lesson is, not where it comes from. Teaching them to not steal or do physical harm to one another at a young age begs no God like motivation to make sense. Parents might also argue a need for their children to be religious at a young age so they will be saved in case they might die at a young age, which is the typical justification for baptism- a ritual of religious commitment typically made at age before the child can even understand words, let alone theology. These motivations, however, suggest that a God who requires them would condemn a child to hell just because he allowed that very child to die before it was old enough to understand the religion that he wanted it to commit to worship through. I do understand the comfort theists garner by worshiping a god, but to worship one so petty, cruel, hypocritical, and prone to child abuse would be anything but comfortable to me.
I remain ever curious as to the motivation of religious people to inject their children with religious knowledge at such a young age. I understand the desire to take advantage of the absorbent young mind, but surely that window of time during which children's minds are so open to learning could be more productively filled with academic, social, or secular moral values. Is there no faith that the very God the parents wish to inform their children of would not extend the absorbency of their minds at least to age of 12 or 13 to accept knowledge of him? It seems to me that a parent who bolsters both religious confidence and intellectually honesty would have no problem waiting for a child's mind to develop well enough to evaluate options and make data-driven decisions. Why not wait until children grow to an early teenage stage to inform them of all the mainstream religions in great detail. Why not show them all the religions at an age they could process the information, and justify why their religion of choice is the true one? Then they could explain what their religion offers that those other religions don't in the way of proof for its claims. It seems to me like the ultimate test of faith to stack one's religion against the others on equal footing and allow your God to shine the truth through the appropriate one, if any in the child's mind.
Might it be that a freshman in high school would be less likely to swallow stories about talking animals, talking plants, and human resurrection as pure truth? Might a young teenager have more critical questions than a toddler when being told about a global flood with every species crammed on a boat, or a man surviving inside of a fish for three days? Might the adolescent mind be immediately inclined to place those stories under the fictional category they belong in? I consider the refusal to present the concept of their religion on an equal playing field at a more mature age to be a lack of confidence in the credibility of their faith on behalf of religious parents.
Some will argue that it's best to teach their religion at a young age for moral lessons, but I can see no more reason for a child to learn what you consider the source of morality until they are old enough to understand it. The emphasis should be on what the moral lesson is, not where it comes from. Teaching them to not steal or do physical harm to one another at a young age begs no God like motivation to make sense. Parents might also argue a need for their children to be religious at a young age so they will be saved in case they might die at a young age, which is the typical justification for baptism- a ritual of religious commitment typically made at age before the child can even understand words, let alone theology. These motivations, however, suggest that a God who requires them would condemn a child to hell just because he allowed that very child to die before it was old enough to understand the religion that he wanted it to commit to worship through. I do understand the comfort theists garner by worshiping a god, but to worship one so petty, cruel, hypocritical, and prone to child abuse would be anything but comfortable to me.
Do You Believe In Ghosts?
ITV This Morning reveal the findings in front of paranormal "expert" Barrie John, and sceptic, Chris French in the hope that they can help us get to the bottom of the spooky goings-on our viewers have experienced.
And lots of viewers have experienced the paranormal as in our poll 83% of you say you believe in ghosts.
A quater of us say we've sensed a ghost (Daily Mail)
Ghost 'sightings' double (The Daily Telegrapt)
With
Phillip Schofield, host
Holly Willoughby, co-host
Barrie John, paranormal "expert"
Chris French, psychologist and sceptic
ITV1 03 March 2011
And lots of viewers have experienced the paranormal as in our poll 83% of you say you believe in ghosts.
A quater of us say we've sensed a ghost (Daily Mail)
Ghost 'sightings' double (The Daily Telegrapt)
With
Phillip Schofield, host
Holly Willoughby, co-host
Barrie John, paranormal "expert"
Chris French, psychologist and sceptic
ITV1 03 March 2011
Let Us Help You Outlaw Sharia
Jordan Sekulow of the American Center for Law and Justice says that any legislators interested in outlawing sharia should contact them so they can help.
On Christian Broadcasting Network
On Christian Broadcasting Network
Pat Robertson Positively Giddy Over Allen West
Allen West says we'll have to bomb Iran at some point and that the Muslim Brotherhood is out to destory America ... and Pat Robertson absolutely loves it.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Quran: Two waters do not mix
Another video in the "Exposing Dr Zakir Naik" series. Most of the content of this video was taken from another of my videos with the addition of Psalms which I coincidentally spotted yesterday whilst at a Jehovas' Witness' funeral.
Two waters do not mix - Exposing Dr Zakir Naik (Oxford university)
Two waters do not mix - Exposing Dr Zakir Naik (Oxford university)
Pakistan minorities minister murdered for urging reform to blasphemy laws
Channel 4 News, from 2 March 2011
Darwin Day 2011: What can we learn from Louisiana?
Barbara Forrest, NCSE board member, talks about the Louisiana Science Education Act--where it came from, the implications for Louisiana and the rest of the U.S., and how the law may be overturned.
Where: Sacramento Darwin Day.
When: February 13, 2011.
Louisiana Coalition for Science
Repeal Creationism
Where: Sacramento Darwin Day.
When: February 13, 2011.
Louisiana Coalition for Science
Repeal Creationism
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Islam v Atheism: Hamza Tzortzis debates Michael Nugent
Islam v Atheism: which is more reasonable?
Islamic speaker Hamza Tzortzis speaking at a debate with Michael Nugent of Atheist Ireland in University College Dublin as part of Islamic Awareness Month in February 2011.
Part 1 (you can skip this, it just muslims lies)
Part 2: Michael Nugent
Islamic speaker Hamza Tzortzis speaking at a debate with Michael Nugent of Atheist Ireland in University College Dublin as part of Islamic Awareness Month in February 2011.
Part 1 (you can skip this, it just muslims lies)
Part 2: Michael Nugent
The Earth's geoid shape - Exposing Dr Zakir Naik
Another video in the "Exposing Dr Zakir Naik" series. Most of the content of this video was taken from another of my videos, I'm separating it so that it shows in search results - so you may already have seen it.
Atheist Experience Jen and Matt take viewer calls
Jen and Matt take viewer calls.
The Atheist Experience TV Show
Atheist Experience #698: Viewer Calls
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-host: Jen Peeples
2011-02-27
The Atheist Experience TV Show
Atheist Experience #698: Viewer Calls
Host: Matt Dillahunty
Co-host: Jen Peeples
2011-02-27
Atheism is not a Religion
Mike, Beth, and Scott discuss atheism and how it fails to compare to religion.
This an episode of Ask an Atheist, a call-in show in the Tacoma/Seattle area dedicated to atheism, skeptical inquiry, and the separation of church and state. The show is broadcast live on KLAY 1180 AM in Tacoma on Sundays at 3:00 PM, Pacific time.
Leave Us Voice Mail: 206-420-0997
This an episode of Ask an Atheist, a call-in show in the Tacoma/Seattle area dedicated to atheism, skeptical inquiry, and the separation of church and state. The show is broadcast live on KLAY 1180 AM in Tacoma on Sundays at 3:00 PM, Pacific time.
Leave Us Voice Mail: 206-420-0997
Living Without Religion
To hope, to care, to love. We have all experienced these powerful, fundamental feelings. They help define what it is to be human. These important elements of a fulfilling human life are experienced by religious and nonreligious people alike.
Living Without Religion - A Campaign by the Center for Inquiry
Living Without Religion - A Campaign by the Center for Inquiry
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
The Promise of Gender-Specific Care
Connors Center for Women's Health Executive Director Paula Johnson defends the importance of healthcare designed for women and describes the latest advances in the field.
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