Topic for TAM6

[feldesq]

I'm not sure if an entire TAM needs to be spent on the topic, but I'd like to see a breakout session or a pre/post event that examines the need for unity in the skeptic/atheist/freethought/humanist community.....My personal opinons aside, I DO feel that the JREF at times suffers from the perception that its a bit wishy-washy. A telling point was when Ellen Johnson (Johnstone?) of American Atheists asked the question at TAM IV and about 20% of the field identified as theists. Granted, many of these theists who attend TAMs are not theists in a traditional (Judeo-Christian) kind of way. -AH.

Your suggestion regarding some form of discussions/meetings/sessions or whatever, to deal with a variety of topics and issues, sounds like a very attractive idea. Just exactly how this would come about is immediately unclar to me. I do like it, however.

As far as the "atheism" issue is concerned, I am not certain as to just how we might title such an issue (or even if we want to deal with just one such issue). For example, the "need for unity" among skeptics is by itself an issue to be explored. Just what is meant by "unity," and whether we would want same, and how we might achieve same, etc., are all thorny issues themselves. The panel discussion regarding atheism and slepticism which took place at TAM4 was abominable (from my point of view) and was little more than a stacked deck against Hal Bidlack's position. It certainly would have been useful to have had a more thoughtful and balanced discussion.

As far as Ms. Johnson is concerned, she should have been better oriented as to just what the JREF is all about (and skepicism in general), as she seemed to be wholly ignorant of same and made some inappropriate remarks regarding the JREF and skepticism. This can be obviated in the future by spending some quality time witth new speakers and making sure they fully understand with the JREF is all about, so that embarrassment can be avoided.

What do you mean by the perception of the JREF as being "wishy washy?"

 

[Antiquehunter]

My interpretation of Johnson's remark 'I don't even know what you guys believe' - suggested to me that she at least, viewed the JREF as a bit of a fence-sitting organization. And - it is. I'd say the majority of JREF members are atheist/agnostic - based on a number of unscientific informal polls held at TAM and on the forum. However, we of course welcome theists into the group with open arms.

I actually enjoyed the panel discussion at TAM IV and it renewed and strengthened the respect I already had for Hal to hear how he dealt with the questions.