Banning Christmas - Ever Meet a Happy Atheist?

”Without theology or spirituality, you're basically left with some human or scientifically oriented philosophy to fill the void. It could be communism, or technology, or UFOs. It could be avoidance of the question.

I think I understand your experience with atheist, even though as an atheist, I’ve met very few others that I know of. At least I understand the stereotype.

By far I have more in common with Christians that the stereotypical atheist. That’s just the nature of Objecitivism. Its recognition of an objective reality is like your recognition of God, unbending to what we’d like it to be for our immediate advantage. We’re nothing like the stereotype that you’re aware of.

I know that Objectivists are a small minority. I’d guess around a tenth of a percent of the population, but probably a “whopping” one or two percent have been highly influenced by it. A Readers Digest poll placed Atlas Shrugged (an Objectivist novel) as the second most influential book in the US behind the Bible.

You sound like a thoughtful guy, but you may be over generalizing :

Objectivism offers you a heroic vision of human greatness. It appeals to and encourages a radiant feeling of well-being in oneself and goodwill towards life, and a fervent craving for beauty and grandeur. As an Objectivist you develop a passion for life-affirming art, inspiring literature and music that reaches the depths of your soul. Life-affirming art is revitalizing. It restores your capacity for benevolence and your passion for life. By appreciating art that celebrates life, you rejuvenate your inner commitment to your own life.

You may call that human oriented, but it’s not without purpose.

Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.