By Siamang
With Jim and Matt’s book coming out, as well as Hemant’s, we expect to see a number of new visitors to this site. I think for the most part, the people viewing this site have been here for a good part of the conversation, but pretty soon that may change a little bit.
Those who have been here are familiar with this conversation and what makes it special and as far as my experience on the internet goes, unique. This has been and continues to be the one conversation where Christians and atheists are really learning how to talk with one another.
As I said, I think it’s unique. A conversation between Christians and atheists that has required very little moderation. One that seeks understanding rather than “winning” an internet argument. It’s not always perfect, and I wouldn’t count myself as having a perfect record in this regard. But it’s so much better than anything else on the internet that it’s an oasis.
So as we welcome new visitors, or just as a reminder to ourselves, I’d like all of us to share the rules of thumb of this conversation. These can be welcome messages, or things we’ve learned about our discussion here with people of different beliefs.
My hope is to highlight some of these in upcoming posts, to bring new visitors up to speed on what this conversation is all about. Imagine someone new coming to this site, a Christian or an atheist, or anyone else with a different belief. What’s something you’d say to them to bring them into the conversation?
Here’s a start: Don’t assume, ask. Don’t assuming you know the other person’s view based on your own past experiences or assumptions. Don’t start with “Well since you’re a Christian, you believe I’m going to Hell.” Don’t start with “Well, since you’re an atheist, you believe that humans have no more worth than animals.”
These are merely statements of the questioner’s unwillingness to open their ears and understand the other. Don’t assume you know the beliefs of someone else because “all you atheists are alike” or “all you Christians are alike.”
I’m sure I’ve made assumptions about other’s beliefs in the past and have come to regret it. This is great advice for listening.
-Siamang
03-12-2007 |
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