Why? Are atheists a threat to society?

AxisofLogic/ Religion/World View: "Let’s Let Atheists back into Politics | By Mike Whitney | Apr 26, 2005, 09:23

April 26, 2005 -- There’s simple rule for atheists and agnostics in America; keep your head down and your mouth shut.

I recently wrote an article for Counterpunch website criticizing the new pope and organized religion. Boy, did the brickbats start to fly. Many were put off by my assessment of the pope as right-wing extremist who will undoubtedly lead the papal caravan back to the 13th century. More were offended by my dismissive remarks about religion.

Why? Is it such a stretch to acknowledge that someone may have an opinion that veers from the majority? (according to the latest polls, 90% of Americans believe in God)

Or, is it simply because atheists and their unwelcome world view offer a real challenge to people of faith

Face it, atheism in America is a lonely experience. Atheists are widely distrusted and there is a palpable undercurrent of discrimination directed at them, even though it is less noticeable than the prejudice aimed at other groups. In many ways, atheists are social pariahs; America’s leper colony. Just about everyone is wary of atheists, as the polls repeatedly indicate.

For example, I saw a poll in Free Inquiry magazine a few years ago that showed that in the 1960s only very small minority of the public would vote for blacks, Jews or atheists. (all of them in the 20 to 30% range) In the late 1990s when the same question was asked, blacks and Jews scored in the 70% range; not perfect, but much better. Atheists, however, still dithered in the 20 to 30% range. No change; the distrust and bigotry are still as alive today as they were 40 years ago.

Why? Are atheists a threat to society?