A chara, – Eoin O'Loughlin (June 14th) writes that "most atheists are not overly concerned with the belief (or non-belief) of others in deities".
A quick look at some atheist websites seems to contradict that statement. Atheist Ireland says it promotes “atheism and reason over superstition and supernaturalism”.
One of the aims of American Atheists Inc is “to develop and propagate a social philosophy in which humankind is central and must itself be the source of strength, progress, and ideals for the well-being and happiness of humanity”.
Atheist UK says its “ultimate goal is the end of religious faith – the false and irrational belief that God exists – and of religion, the social manifestation of faith”.
An expressed desire to promote and propagate their own beliefs while eradicating opposing ones doesn’t strike me as not being overly concerned with what others believe.
To be fair, I suppose it could be argued that such groups only have a mandate from their membership, and what they have to say is representative of the thinking of those people only.
But if that is the case, I am left wondering as to how Mr O’Loughlin determined what “most atheists” are concerned with? – Is mise,
Rev PATRICK G BURKE,
Castlecomer,
Co Kilkenny.