quote:
Atheists on this forum always present ourselves in the 'idealized' fashion: that is, we say we lack belief in deity, and do not actually assert its non-existence.
In practice though, we are highly biased against theistic propositions, which is effectively the same thing as 'believing' that god does not exist.
I can only speak for myself here, but I can only Ident as an atheist or an agnostic when you tell me which god or god concept you are asking about and I think that can lead to what would be a false conclusion (re: me) above.
I actively believe that the Christian god does not exist - in the exact same way I actively believe that Santa doesn't exist. Just as with Santa, I can study the history of this god and determine origins. I sincerely do *not* actively believe that say a "deist" god doesn't exist - one that doesn't play a personal, day to day role in our lives. This God might exist ... how could I know?
This is why I may identify as an atheist or an agnostic depending on the concept described.
JB
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