That's a silly thing to say, there's been plenty of perfectly reasonable and open Theists throughout History and indeed there's still plenty today. It's difficult to have a discussion where one groups opinions are belittled and they're called "stupid childish idiots" by those such as you who seem to feel somehow superior because of their different personal philosophy in life. I think your constant stream of insults is rather "childish".
If a theist, any theist, truly kept an open mind to each religion's customs and belief system (many of which include belief without question, faith without evidence) that person would either dismiss that religion in lieu of their own (making them "close-minded", your words), accept multiple religions as being true simultaneously (polytheism), or reject all religions (atheism).
I think it's important to allow people to choose their own philosophy in life. I also think it's important to challenge and constantly evolve these ideals in accordance with personal experience. What I don't think is right is one group of people insulting and abuse them simply for holding that point of view. (and yes this applies to both Theists and Athiests)
I
also think it's important to allow people to choose their own philosophy in life. I also think it's important to evaluate and criticise each position, and then mock that position if it's particularly dim-witted.
Mockery is unhelpful and counter productive, it only leads to conflict and strife.
But sarcasm can lead to smiles, which can cause dimples.
You're a perfect example of what I'm talking about, and I don't mean that as an insult though I probably will sadly. You have voraciously insulted and dismissed all ideas of co operation with those who don't share your point of view, you can't seem to comprehend how anyone can be a theist and you have an air of superiority about you when referring to them.
We're co-operating now? Are we chipping in to build "The Museum of Evolution: It may be true, it may not"? As for me not understanding why someone may become a theist, I think you'll find if you read through my posts that I do. A) Early childhood indoctrination B) A fear of death C) A fear of the unknown D) A sense of purpose, empowerment over the unknown and E) Mental Illness.
I use the sentence "preaching the wonders of atheism" to highlight the similarity between those Atheists such as yourself and Religious zealots. To highlight a point. If you read over your previous posts from another's point of view I think you'll see they're dismissive and mildly insulting as a result of your sarcasm, I should amend my statement and say using it as a crutch to dissuade reasonable discussion is counter productive.
Whenever someone brings up "reasonable discussion", I'll be the first to reciprocate. I doubt it will be you, Mr. "Many-Atheists-seem-to-be-just-as-closed-minded-as-the-most-conservative-Religious-people."
I'm doubly insulted because not only have you called me close-minded, you clearly don't know what it means.
