Comment by Kris Feenstra on August 21, 2011 at 7:28pm

I agree that it's as human beings -- as social animals rather -- that we hold such responsibility.  I don't feel any particular compulsion as an atheist to do anything, nor do I feel the the border between the illuminated and unilluminated falls squarely on the atheist/ theist divide.

 

Worded a bit differently, I don't think that religion is intrinsic to social issues, so I won't afford it special significance one way or the other when defining my social responsibilities.

Comment by Frank Hamilton on August 21, 2011 at 7:40pm

The social responsibility is principally the dissemination of important information about the value of science, deter the addiction of religion, give encouragement  to people to explore the Free

Thought path, help them in freeing themselves from the prison of religion, and be on the front lines in ensuring the Separation of Church and State.

Comment by RubyR on August 21, 2011 at 7:42pm

I definitely believe that there is a range of social issues that we, as atheists, need to be consider which have long been spearheaded by religious organizations. Projects such as Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, many food banks, and homeless shelters are run by churches and, aside from their proselytizing activities, serve to meet needs for those who need it most.

 Falling outside of a religious community, we are not always surrounded by the charitable organizations that tend to pop up there and their need can sometimes be lost on us. I think that is important, and ethically necessary, to look for ways to assist those in need, be it through religiously unaffiliated charities, government programs, or personal assistance given to individuals in your community.

Comment by Doug Reardon on August 21, 2011 at 8:06pm

To assume that all atheists have come to their position through reason and logic is a rash assumption.

Comment by Victor Pariter on August 21, 2011 at 9:54pm

@Doug you are absolutely right. Perhaps that should read "commonly". Nevertheless, what is your view on the topic at hand?

Comment by Victor Pariter on August 21, 2011 at 9:56pm

@RubyR, Perhaps an organization by atheists with the purpose of serving the immediate and basic needs of people would be a good ethical step.

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