Thread: The Nonreligious Are More Intelligent

Originally Posted by ethen

Yes, it is my perception. It's also my opinion that you can express an idea or thought without necessarily spelling it out word-for-word. In this circumstance, I don't think I need to quote specific instances of animosity to make my case. It seems pretty clear to me that what I am saying is more or less accurate based on was already in the thread.

I understand what you are saying. What I don't understand is why there is so much focus on my behaviour whereas I am being personally attacked as well.

It is completely aside from the point and severe digression encouraged just from the matter of the debate.

I did quote passages of your's that reinforced why I had that opinion, perhaps it would be beneficial to go back and read what I had quoted to better understand why I made the accusation. It seems you are looking for me to make a stronger case for my opinion. I suppose I could go back through the entire thread an quote every time you said something similar, but I don’t see a good enough reason to justify the effort it would take. If I am wrong, I am wrong. However (and though you are well spoken) it’s my opinion that you have some animosity towards religion by the way you speak of it repressing science, AND by the way you (occasionally) flat out attack it with insults.

How many times do you want me to admit that I hate religion?

I hate religion.

Is that clear?

I think religion is the greatest detriment to the human race.

Am I clear?

I do think there are capable and intelligent religious people.

Is it reasonable that, although I hate religion, I can at least respect it?

But again, what else (aside from causal implications) would there be to discuss if you were just pointing out facts? I mean, was the purpose really so that people could debate method of measuring intelligence? Was really it so that people could question the specific method of gathering facts in this circumstance? Those are clearly possible reasons, however I personally just don’t think those things were the actual reason. I’m sorry. And I have already explained why I feel this way.

I do see that you are trying to be objective here, and you did provide a good deal of evidence for your case, but I don’t think I am being unreasonable here either. If one just steps back and considers this thread in a more holistic way, I think my point of view makes sense.

Can we still be friends?

Well of course.

I really agree with you already. I think the only thing we're clearing up here is the ambiguity of intent over the internet. I do hate religions, but I still respect the people.

I proposed this topic for discussion. Perhaps DV is not the best grounds for controversial debate. I usually take it to skepticforum.com. I understand if I ought to cease and be more sensitive to the other readers of the people here.

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