Should there be Atheist charitable organizations?

7 posts / 0 new

Wed, 03/04/2015 - 19:40

Ellie Harris

Should atheists form charitable groups like say the Shriners? Would you be interested in joining one?

Subscription Note:

Choosing to subscribe to this topic will automatically register you for email notifications for comments and updates on this thread.

Email notifications will be sent out daily by default unless specified otherwise on your account which you can edit by going to your userpage here and clicking on the subscriptions tab.

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 06:14

ImFree

If one can verify a

If one can verify a substantial percentage of donations of a group actually benefit the people in need, I think that is a good cause.
As a species most of us have a natural sense of empathy towards other living things. With some exceptions, even more for our species. Religions often prey on people (faith healing, prayer cloths etc.) in desperate situations. If someone is hungry, needs clean water etc., they should not be subjected to religious proselytization or taken advantage of in their moment of need.

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 07:21

AntigoneRisen

Humanists have many charities

Humanists have many charities.

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 07:22

AntigoneRisen

http://freethoughtpedia.com

http://freethoughtpedia.com/wiki/Secular_charities

Sun, 03/08/2015 - 14:45

ThePragmatic

The word "Atheist" is in dire

The word "Atheist" is in dire need of good PR, as most religious people hate atheism more than other religions. On the other hand, using that word might drag the organization down. Secular or non-religious may have a less stigmatized effect.
Humanism does not "per se" mean non-religious, does it?

Sun, 03/08/2015 - 16:31

Pitar

Tough call for the purpose of

Tough call for the purpose of extending public goodwill. I know it sounds profiling but the only organizations institutionally recognized for their charitable goodwill are religiously associated. Even the shriners will claim deep spiritual roots with the usual Christian based organizations. Those and the Masonic Temple (of rings and secret handshakes) are their claims to fame.

So, no, I think any atheist-based efforts will be held in suspect. People do not see godless folk as spiritually resolute. If you feel the need to give back you're best to tuck your spiritual convictions deep inside and get on with the good work you can do for people.

If you're looking to represent atheism as a conviction that still holds dear the same Christian precepts of goodwill towards men you're gonna confuse some easily confused people into wondering why you act like a Christian but refute their. No bueno.

It's a cake and eat it thing.

Sun, 03/08/2015 - 16:33

(Reply to #6) #7

Pitar

Last paragraph correction "..

Last paragraph correction "...but refute their god."

Donating = Loving

Heart Icon

Bringing you atheist articles and building active godless communities takes hundreds of hours and resources each month. If you find any joy or stimulation at Atheist Republic, please consider becoming a Supporting Member with a recurring monthly donation of your choosing, between a cup of tea and a good dinner.

Or make a one-time donation in any amount.

You are here

Subscription Note: