There are many resources online that can help you learn about religious systems, including podcasts, and audio and visual classes. [1] X Research source
The Bible is regarded as one of the most influential sources on literature in western culture. It is a great read for narrative merit alone. [2] X Research source
These include arguments like the fine-tuned Universe, which argues that our Universe supports life so well and works in such a precise way that it must have been intelligently designed. This argument directly challenges our science-based understanding of the origins of the Universe. Some may also argue that atheism is “unscientific” because of the belief that in the beginning, non-matter created matter. They may say that this has never been observed, tested, or repeated; therefore, some will argue that an ultimate creator is needed to fix this “dilemma”. Another argument, Pascal’s Wager, is the suggestion that one should live their life under the assumption that God does exist, given that the stakes are skewed. If God does not exist, your life simply ends. However, if God does exist, how you behaved in life determines whether you will be rewarded eternally in Heaven or punished eternally in Hell. This argument, though steeped in logic, raises questions of honesty, morality, and the extent of God’s powers. [3] X Research source
Urban myths such as Bloody Mary for example have no proof or scientific basis and are believed to be untrue. However, the myth is still passed around because the idea that such events could exist is alluring and fun. Urban myths and other legends often stem from real life events or people that actually existed, but the truth behind them has become exaggerated or twisted over time. Bloody Mary for example may stem from Mary Worth, a woman hanged for witchcraft, or Queen Mary I of England, who was known for her ruthlessness. [4] X Research source
Evolution is the most widely known areas of contention between some Christians and atheists. Studying natural selection and how creatures survive and die off is a good place to start your studies.
Explain why you are an atheist and what that means to you. The goal of conversation is to wipe away preconceived notions about one another’s beliefs. For example, you could say: “I believe that people have the ability to identify and choose right from wrong by experiencing life on their own. ” You might also say: “People are wildly complex and interesting – I believe they can make mistakes, but also learn from them, without needing to be policed. ”
You might ask your friend: “How can God allow some in the world to starve and others to eat?” You might also ask: “I’m interested in what Christians think of the fact that the Bible was written by several individuals. Is it difficult to trust in so many differing accounts?” Suggest your friend start questioning everyday occurrences. Questioning authenticates truth and can become a habit that help change thinking. [5] X Trustworthy Source Edutopia Educational nonprofit organization focused on encouraging and celebrating classroom innovation Go to source
For example, getting accepted into college might feel like a divine gift, but it was an individual’s hard work that paved the way. You might tell them: “Congratulations! All of that studying really paid off. ”
Common informal fallacies in debate include circular reasoning, which begins and ends an argument with the same idea. For example, “The Bible makes no false claims; whatever the Bible says is true; thus, the Bible contains only truth. ” The second and third portions of the argument are the same concept, and thus, not an argument of merit. [6] X Research source
Avoid activities that might make your friends of particular faiths uncomfortable, such as wild parties or violent movies. Board games, shopping or hiking are excellent activities that everyone can enjoy.
For example, if your friend is falling behind at school: “I feel you - I had a hard time dealing with all that homework too. Have you looked into study groups? I joined one with my classmates and we ended up finishing the homework in half the time. ’ In times of your friend’s lack of confidence, you might offer: “When I feel down, I always think to this great Buddhist quote: ‘You can explore the universe looking for somebody who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and you will not find that person anywhere. ‘”
Don’t raise your voice. A raised voice often indicates or leads to anger, which can throw the discussion off track. If your friend begins to raise their voice, ease off of the conversation. Avoid physicality. A discussion that turns physical is no longer a discussion. If you or your friend start getting pushy, end the conversation and put some space between the two of you for the time being. Talking about your feelings behind your thoughts helps create a more peaceful and constructive atmosphere. Show your friend that you are coming from a place of caring, rather than just looking to win an argument[7] X Research source Keep the argument on track. If the conversation turns to other issues, such as personal attacks or insults, it is time to drop the conversation. If your friend becomes angry or hurt, back away from the conversation and apologize. Even if you feel you are in the right, hurting another’s feelings was not the intent of the conversation and you don’t want to risk your friendship.
