The Atheist Experience 24.48 11-29-2020 with Jenna Belk and Anthony Magnabosco

Hello all you atheists (and theists) out there! For today’s Atheist Experience, Jenna Belk is joined by Anthony Magnabosco. Anthony is best known for Street Epistemology, a method for addressing beliefs/claims. Learn more at https://streetepistemology.com/

Our first caller, Mark says that prophesies are keeping him tied to his religion, saying several predictions/claims are real. Try not to jump to conclusions about these claims, a more natural explanation tends to be best. Allow yourself to question and doubt the things you thought were true.

Amber in SC can’t shake her belief that souls are real. What makes you think a soul exists? It sounds like you are afraid of letting go of aspects of your religion. It can be hard to let go of those beliefs, it takes time and it's a slow process. Give yourself credit for assessing these beliefs.

Chase in TX asks about Anthony’s recent video regarding Caleb, an animated street preacher whose behavior seemed to change and Chase was wondering the cause of such a dramatic change. Check out that video here, https://youtu.be/IXzCdauGc_8 Anthony quickly breaks down aspects of those interviews.

Sid in NV asks how we process grief as a non believer. We keep people alive in the memories and stories we share, it keeps them alive in your head.. Try to take a few moments to remember them when you come across pictures or keepsakes. Don’t forget to check out http://griefbeyondbelief.org/

Sam in PA finds it difficult to use techniques of Street Epidemiology to address political beliefs. Focus on the claims made, there is a factual truth on these political beliefs you can address. Anthony recommends Cordial Curiosity’s channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiWKxPMKUBFjN3Ny_VxpkYw)

Steven in GA asks if we believe Jesus forced humans into existence, based on scripture and prophecy. There is no way to verify that, especially using the bible. Steven was placed back on hold so he could clarify the claim.

Andrea in CA asks what we can do about people getting defensive about their beliefs. Jenna was conditioned to be guarded if someone tried to change her mind, believing it was the devil tempting you. Explore safer topics to indicate you aren’t just attacking and just let them be exposed to other worldviews.

Skye in CO sticks to their beliefs based on fear of being left behind during the rapture. These are legacy fears that come with the belief. Access communities to talk with atheists who overcame that same fear. Look into www.recoveringfromreligion.org they have resources to address this.

Lastly, Joe in VA doesn’t think we can have an infinite regress without there being an eternal being behind that. The honest response here is “I don’t know". There are lots of things that seem intuitive that aren’t once we learn more.

Thanks for tuning in, we are so glad you joined us today. Please continue to follow safety guidelines and wear your damn mask!

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