Hi folks,

Thanks for a good discussion last time on belief in the supernatural, something we can take up on another meeting since there was obviously more to say about it. For May 12 I've suggested we talk about an issue raised by a recent comment by Richard Dawkins, in which he says

"Michael Shermer, Michael Ruse, Eugenie Scott and others are probably right that contemptuous ridicule is not an expedient way to change the minds of those who are deeply religious. But I think we should probably abandon the irremediably religious precisely because that is what they are – irremediable. I am more interested in the fence-sitters who haven’t really considered the question very long or very carefully. And I think that they are likely to be swayed by a display of naked contempt. Nobody likes to be laughed at. Nobody wants to be the butt of contempt."

Is Dawkins right about this? Is contempt an effective way to change minds, and more basically, do the religious, whether on the fence or not, deserve contempt?

We're set to meet at Redline at 7 pm May 12 most likely in the back room, but if necessary in the front.

I won't be able to make it since out of town so please carry on without me.

best,

Tom

twc at naturalism.org
[masked]

PS: if you have topics you'd like to discuss or other ideas for future meetups, or meeting spots you like, please suggest them.

General description of what we're about (this bit doesn't change from month to month):

Allies of Naturalism welcomes those interested in exploring and promoting a science-based, humanistic and progressive naturalism that can make a difference in our lives. To see what's involved in being a humanistic and progressive naturalist (more or less), check out Naturalism.Org, centerfornaturalism.org and the Guide to Naturalism at http://www.centerforn....

Essentially, naturalism shows our full connection to the world and others, leads to an ethics of compassion, and gives us far greater control over our circumstances. We don't need anything supernatural either above us or inside us to lead moral and meaningful lives: nature is enough. Naturalism is a viable alternative to faith-based worldviews such as traditional religions and new age philosophies, offering a set of ideas with positive personal and social consequences.

The meetings offer a chance to meet fellow naturalists in an informal, relaxed setting, but with at least some structure. That's to say that we'll try to have one or two topics suggested in advance for people to think about, and then discuss when we get together. Ultimately the focus and format of the meetings will be determined by participants, but will certainly include time for socializing and networking. Watch the discussion board for topic announcements and other details. Hope to see you there!