The Atheist And The Believer-Why Have A Discussion?

Personally, I like to debate about such topics to get a better understanding of people and of the world. I often like it when people who's views differ from my own argue against my beliefs. (In a respectable way, of course) I question all things, including my own beliefs. A belief that cannot withstand criticism is not a belief worth holding in my book. I am a person who is constantly searching for truth and knowledge. Talking things through causes us to think and thinking causes us to learn. I really do hate when it turns into an argument, but admittedly if someone says something disrespectful towards anyone's beliefs then I usually will go into the discussion aiming to take them down a notch. lol. But if someone is respectful then I will show them equal respect in return. Anyways, I would just like to let you know that there is a third option as to the reason why people would want to take part in such a debate. Yes they may be trying to convert the other party; and yes they may be on the fence, searching for their own spirituality; but I, although I hold my own beliefs and am not agnostic or "sitting on the fence", am just interested in learning about the world. I do have my own beliefs, but I keep an open mind. If someone presents me with something and then gives me a valid reason why I should believe it, I will definitely take it into consideration regardless of whether it conflicts with my current beliefs. And that's the problem, I think. The reason why most debates like this are pointless, as you say, is because people have the tendency to only hear what they want to hear and don't really listen to or care about what the other person is talking about, so they miss the point. Haha A lot of times I will see two people arguing that are actually saying the same thing! They agree, but they don't even realize it because they are so stubborn. lol I have to admit, I like anyone, also fall victim to my own stubbornness sometimes. It's an easy thing to fall into.

These two groups need to interact. Both are teaching each other great lessons. You might not be aware of the results but their interaction is necessary and important. Of course, a bit more love and kindness between the two would only help the learning process.

Having considered most of the comments here, I do think it can be a good thing when a Christian and an atheist have some discussions. I am a Christian, so I come from that side, but you were saying what could be the benefit? What are some benefits for the atheist? All people can benefit from healthy discussion with others. Even though there is this big difference in beliefs, called God, both Atheist and Christian are people living in this world. The difference in world view must open up some areas to think. Also, both have had some kind of 'faith' journey and that can be interesting to share. For both sides, there is a benefit to learn how to discuss things with someone who has very different beliefs than yours. An analogy would be a political discussion between a conservative Republican and a liberal Democrat. It may not be easy to keep such a discussion civil, but if we can, we have moved our communication and thinking skills up a notch. For the Christian there is much to be learned and thought about from a conversation with an Atheist. The Christian can relax and trust that his belief system is safely guarded, and not likely to change. The Cristian must put away the urge to convert the atheist (leave that up to God). The Atheist, as a person is certainly worth getting to know and to understand. The Christian will also be challenged to think about why they believe what they do. Rather than getting all tensed up and defensive in our beliefs, we should try to find the confidence in what we believe so we can sit and discuss with others. Both Christian and Atheist can accept up front that the other will have some beliefs that are just strange.

Hello jujunme,while I have read all the answers so far,I have yet to see an answer to your question,of why bother to have the discussion in the first place. This can be said for a great many subjects. I find that one religion will put out a question on religion to keep everyone aware of their point of view,so the atheist will have to answer to make sure everyone knows there is a different point of view,it is the same with Islam and Christian religions,they are both very strong against each other in actual beliefs,so will never be able to get along. Discussions and wars between religions can never be won without the total destuction of at least one of them,and this will never happen. Thank you for the discussion. mac

hi jujunme I agree all this does is make each other really pissed off and both will go off sulking in all probability. Why stir up a mylot war? There are better ways to enjoy mylotting than yelling at each other over our beliefs.its pointless and rude. we all have the right tol own our own beliefs.To force others to our way of thinking is an exercise in futility.so why do it?

An atheist and a believer would be on opposite sides of a discussion. they would probably be in total disagreement of each other. What better way to get your point of view expressed than to be the complete opposite of your debater? We could only learn from each other.