Are Theists hesitant to open topics in C&A

[Zzyzx]

.
Scanning the list of current and recent past threads in C&A, few are started by Theists.

Site statistics indicate that over all and over a period of fifteen years only about one-third of new topics are posted by Theists (including all sub-forums).

Step up Theists. Don’t just play defense. Are there some topics that you feel confident and capable debating with Non-Theists when you can’t use the Bible as proof of truth?

Why be reticent?

[Wootah]

[Replying to Zzyzx]

Mostly it's to avoid the trolls. Step up atheists and defeat theists on their home ground for true victory!

Why be reticent?

[Zzyzx]

.

Mostly it's to avoid the trolls.

Yup, those nasty 'trolls' -- the Non-Theists who shoot holes in Theist claims and stories; those who demand verifiable evidence to support claims and stories. Evidently that confounds and upsets those who have nothing to offer but more unverifiable tales, testimonials, conjectures, and opinions.

Step up atheists and defeat theists on their home ground for true victory!

Where would that 'home ground' be? Holy Huddle? TD&D?

Do Theists need a handicap (having the Bible is considered authoritative)?

Can't handle debate on a level playing field, without your (generic term) position being given favorable treatment?

Why be reticent?

Step out from behind the need for 'Bible as authoritative' and ask again.

[benchwarmer]

[Replying to Zzyzx]

Mostly it's to avoid the trolls. Step up atheists and defeat theists on their home ground for true victory!

Why be reticent?

Many non theists do use 'their home ground' i.e. the Bible, to shoot down various things. See the thread "Lack of knowledge of the Bible" for one example:

viewtopic.php?t=36079

In fact, other than demanding verifiable evidence of claims, using Christian's own scripture is often just as effective at showing issues with their theology. Christians themselves of various sects believe/ignore different parts of their own scripture. This is evidenced right here on this site and of course in the various denominations that have sprung up.

It's actually one of the nice things about being on the non theist side of the fence. We can use the simple "back up your claims with verifiable evidence" or "Why don't you follow this bit of your scripture" or "Why does your scripture contradict itself" or for the most fun "Which Christian sect's 'scripture' is complete and correct and why?".

Many, many options to play on their home ground assuming one can actually find the home ground to play on.

[Tcg]

[Replying to Zzyzx]

Mostly it's to avoid the trolls.

I used to be active in the now defunct Amazon forums. Trolls were truly rampant there. Due to the effective moderation on this forum, trolls don't last long. I can't think of any active posters here who I'd consider a troll.

Trolls are not posters who point out the fallacies of the arguments other posters present.


Tcg

[Zzyzx]

.

Mostly it's to avoid the trolls.

Trolls are not posters who point out the fallacies of the arguments other posters present.

Those who fare poorly in debate often complain (or falsely accuse others of 'trolling') when opponents point out flaws / defects in their arguments.

Rather than blaming others, it would be prudent to examine one's own weak / failed position with an aim to eliminate (not cover up) its flaws, OR find a new position that has fewer defects.

I, for one, would not attempt to defend a position that lacked verifiable supporting evidence. Even if I thought long-dead bodies came back to life (which I do not), I would not make that claim in debate if my only evidence consisted of unverifiable tales of an empty tomb and unverifiable tales of people claiming to see the deceased alive. I would realize that convoluted philosophical musings would not be adequate defense. AND I am not inclined toward shuck-and-jive.

[Bust Nak]

Step up Theists. Don’t just play defense.

They can't, there is nothing to attack. Atheism is an empty position without anything solid to attack.

[Zzyzx]

.

Step up Theists. Don’t just play defense.

They can't, there is nothing to attack. Atheism is an empty position without anything solid to attack.

Thank you. There is nothing to attack in the position ‘I don’t believe your god tales’

That must be frustrating for those who publicly announce their supernatural beliefs and those who feel obligated to proselytize.

Since there is no verifiable evidence to present to those who challenge claims of knowledge and fanciful tales about ‘gods’, what is left is, “Take my word for it (or his or this book)� -- which is not convincing to those inclined to place their trust in what can be shown to be true and accurate.

Those who believe on faith or fear may continue to repeat the ancient tales, but increasing numbers are refusing to join the parade.


I do, however, appreciate Apologist attempts to defend ancient tales and supernatural beliefs. Pontificating and pretending knowledge which may be convincing in church or in Holy Huddle among those indoctrinated to believe, does not fare well in debate on a level playing field – and becomes the best of commercials for non-belief.

[Wootah]

[Replying to Zzyzx]

Mostly it's to avoid the trolls.

I used to be active in the now defunct Amazon forums. Trolls were truly rampant there. Due to the effective moderation on this forum, trolls don't last long. I can't think of any active posters here who I'd consider a troll.

Trolls are not posters who point out the fallacies of the arguments other posters present.


Tcg

I agree. What I should have said is that mostly it is to avoid derailment. At the moment I feel really called upon to show Jesus is God to the JWs on this forum.

[Zzyzx]

.
Strange coincidence on adjacent posts?

That must be frustrating for those who publicly announce their supernatural beliefs and those who feel obligated to proselytize.

At the moment I feel really called upon to show Jesus is God to the JWs on this forum.