I thoroughly enjoy your website and newsletter. That being said, I have a big bone to pick with some of your comments in your most recent post.

It has to do with how you define the term anti-theist. You say you are not anti-theist and that being an anti-theist is bigotry. You go on to differentiate it from anti-theism.

There seems to be a big discrepancy on the meaning and use of this term over the Internet. I see no reason or evidence why an anti-theist is not just someone who holds anti-theism views. There is no definition of anti-theist that means opposed or against the INDIVIDUAL  or INDIVIDUALS of a particular religion. The Oxford dictionary, dictionary.com and Urban dictionary all confirm this as well. An anti-theist is someone who regards THEISM as dangerous and destructive to individuals and society and impedes scientific progress and encourages immoral acts. Therefore they oppose theism and religion.

People such as myself who identify as being an anti-theist often take action to oppose religious dogma within our society. Some call this an active or activist atheist as opposed to a passive or apathetic atheist. Many of our high profile atheists identify as anti-theist. Christopher Hitchens and Matt Dillahunty just to name a few.

Also to touch on your question, about whether if you are too Negative, the answer is a resounding NO!

I am seeking to take action to counter the damaging effects and stranglehold that religion has on our culture. What is ridiculous is liberals who do not stand up for liberalism. They choose overlook the elephant in the room and give religion a free pass, only condemning an few individuals as bad apples. This is craziness! This gives religion a free reign not only to continue its destructive forces around the world but to even deepen its attacks on secular values and rights.

For the sake of not wanting to be called phobic, intolerant, , too negative, or simply to not offend, the bad guys are validated and can continue their attacks on women, free speech, child abuse, death threats, homophobia, attacks on non- believers, genital mutilation, faith healing, blood sacrifice, and terrorism. They know they can count on politically correct liberals who have their head in the sand to not condemn their religion. Religion is the problem!

Real liberals are not accommodationist's  and do not tolerate those with a social record such as Christianity and Islam. Political correctness is hurting our progress. Those who live in oppressive Islamic countries are the ones paying the true price for our cowardice.

As Hitchens said, civility is often overrated.

Cheers,

- Brian Gortner