Veronica mentioned earlier about the debate going on between some sciency types and some philosophs on the subject of science. Although, I am neither philosopher, nor scientist, I’m a fan of both. And in this case… I’d say the philosophers have the right of it. Science is not constrained by … Continue reading
Straw-feministz and straw-menz
My position as stated in an earlier post, on the subject of ‘atheism+’, is that I don’t feel the need for the label, myself, but I don’t much care if others want to use it. It is divisive, but atheism has always been an exercise in herding cats. Nothing new … Continue reading
Because insults breed… tolerance
By now you have probably heard about the Muhammad Movie that is causing riots in various places. I support freedom of speech, so I think people should be able to make films that criticize or even insult religion. Of course, just because I support your right to do something, doesn’t … Continue reading
Blasphemy Catch 22
Sometimes I get into arguments with other atheists about religion. But Jesus walking on water is absurd, they say. It’s important religious people are confronted with this, they say. Sorry, the world is full of absurdities, I feel no compulsion to address them all. And if your focus is on … Continue reading
Free Rhetoric, get your free rhetoric
Veronica was kind enough to lend me her copy of Sam Harris’s book: Freewill. I have to admit, even though it is a relatively short work, I’m having some difficulty getting through it. It is annoying me, to no end. Now, standard disclaimer, I’ve been critical of Sam Harris in … Continue reading
Profiling is ineffective and wrong, full stop.
It always amuses me when people use the phrase ‘fighting fire with fire’ as if it’s a good strategy. When you think about for a second or two, the very idea is… well… ridiculous. Taking reasonable precautions is one thing, but giving into fear helps no one. Atheists face discrimination, … Continue reading
Cutting children ain’t so bad
Hemant is covering the south of the border stupidity on why its just fine to cut perfectly healthy children, as long a they have a penis. The American Academy of Pediatrics announced yesterday that “the health benefits of [circumcision] clearly outweigh any risks.” It’s a snowjob though that massages the … Continue reading
No speech for you!
Freedom of speech is one of those things that people often champion for themselves… but are less willing to defend when someone they disagree with is speaking. “The thing that I found actually really funny was that he was standing behind a sign that said, “warning, we support free speech … Continue reading
Atheist: Plus or Minus
So, I got asked yesterday, what I think of the new Atheism+ thing that seems to be making the rounds. For those not in the know, PZ is playing traffic cop, shuttling us in the right…. or should I say left?… direction. Heheh, ok, shoot me, I couldn’t resist. I … Continue reading
Pussy Riot: Now Illegal in France
As I mentioned in an earlier post, I was at the Pussy Riot demonstration in Toronto. There were lots of people there supporting the cause, some even came dressed up. If you watch the PR video you’ll see how the members of the band dress, with colourful knitted balaclavas. In … Continue reading