The Atheist Experience

In today's episode of the Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer and Jim Barrows ask how the God who drowned and slaughtered children became the Jesus who loves the little children, with Sofia Spina joining later as backup host!

Bob in NY claims the world would be better if everyone followed Jesus. The hosts bring Matthew 15, Bible slavery laws, Deuteronomy 22, and the ICC definition of genocide. When the Amalekites come up, who is Bob to judge God?

Ibrahim in Canada, an ex-Muslim atheist, asks how believers can think disbelievers deserve eternal torment yet still befriend and trust them. Is it out of sight, out of mind, or is cognitive dissonance doing the heavy lifting?

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In today's episode of The Atheist Experience, Kelley Laughlin, Jamie The Blind Limey, and Fe tackle the problem of evil, Christian mythicism, and the slippery nature of spiritual claims!

33 on TikTok, a Christian mythicist and agnostic theist, accepts some biblical texts but rejects the Gospels as historically inaccurate. Which parts of the Bible do you accept and why? If you don't believe the Gospels, what's left of Christianity? The hosts press him to explain his belief framework, but he struggles to articulate why he holds any of it at all.

Onu in Romania shares his deconversion story from Orthodox Christianity, criticizing religious hypocrisy and calling religion a facade comparable to mental illness. What made you realize the church wasn't what it claimed to be? His journey highlights the damage done when institutions prioritize control over truth.

a7402745.8 on TikTok claims personal experience as evidence for God but can't define spirituality or provide a coherent framework. What does spirituality even mean to you? If you can't explain your beliefs, how do you know they're true? The hosts challenge the caller to move beyond vague feelings and offer something testable.

YH on TikTok argues that evil is subjective and tied to evolutionary strategy, defending divine command theory while questioning human rationality. If evil is just what God says it is, does that make genocide moral when God commands it? The conversation dives into whether morality can exist without objective grounding.

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Due to technical difficulties, we were not able to broadcast the normal live episode of the show. As such we ran previously recorded content so as to not miss a broadcast date. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and invite you to enjoy these great moments from our previous shows. We fully expect to resume our normal broadcast schedule next week. Thank you.

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This episode includes AI-generated content.

In today's episode of The Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer, Secular Rarity, and Scott Dickie tackle biblical justice, inherited guilt, and the clash between faith and reason!

Michele in NY asks if peace is possible between religion and atheism. Can we respect people while critiquing their faith? The hosts emphasize humanism over atheism and challenge religions to shift toward humanistic values. What would it take for believers to prioritize human well-being over divine commands?

Malik in KS defends God punishing children for their parents' sins, citing biblical examples. Is this justice or divine cruelty? The hosts challenge him on objective morality and whether salvation comes from faith or works. Does his reasoning hold up under scrutiny?

Kelly in MN, a liberal spiritual person, discusses interpreting the Bible morally and rejecting violent passages. The hosts encourage her to own her moral decisions rather than attributing them to God. Is she following scripture or her own conscience?

YeCross Legends on TikTok argues salvation is by faith under the new covenant, not works under the old law. The hosts challenge his claim that God's law doesn't apply to burning witches, citing Jesus affirming Mosaic law. Does the new covenant really erase the old?

Chuck in IL asks where the Bible says God is omniscient. The hosts explain the concept is derived from verses like Psalm 147:5, not explicitly stated. They discuss subjective versus objective morality and empathy as a framework. What does it mean to derive doctrine from implication?

Rob in CA, an atheist married to a Christian, refuses to fund his daughter's Christian college education unless she can provide evidence Christianity is reasonable. The hosts advise researching colleges and making it a joint decision. How do you balance parental authority with respect for your child's autonomy?

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In today's episode of the Atheist Experience, Secular Rarity and Jim Barrows put the God of the Bible and Quran on trial for war crimes under international law!

Tron Uprising on TikTok wants to debate whether God is a war criminal. After extensive back-and-forth, Tron eventually concedes that God's command violated the Rome Statute but refuses to engage honestly on the definition of genocide or morality. Why grant that God broke international law but then refuse to call it what it is? If you're willing to admit the statute was violated, why the resistance to the word genocide? The hosts systematically walk through each element of the Rome Statute's definition, and Tron grants every single point yet still won't connect the dots. Is this intellectual honesty or motivated reasoning?

Ad on TikTok, a Muslim caller, attempts to deflect the genocide charge against God by claiming context of war justifies the commands. The hosts confront him with Surah 9:5 and other Quranic passages that explicitly command killing. Ad insists these verses are taken out of context, but when pressed on what context makes genocide acceptable, he struggles to provide a coherent answer. If your holy book commands the killing of entire groups of people, does adding historical context really make it better? The call ends contentiously when Ad refuses to engage with the actual text and runs away.

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In today's episode of the Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer, Secular Rarity, and Scott Dickie dissect biblical slavery, divine command theory, and the moral gymnastics required to defend scripture's darkest passages.

Mark in NE, a progressive Christian, insists slavery laws in the Bible are human cultural assumptions, not God's perfect morality. How do you distinguish divine commands from human insertions without an objective method? If God inspired the text, why include immoral laws at all? Your methodology seems designed to rescue God from accountability rather than discover truth.

Papo in Puerto Rico claims whatever God ordains is objectively good. When asked if he'd kill a baby if God commanded it, he says yes. This chilling admission exposes divine command theory's moral bankruptcy. If morality is just "whatever God says," then the word "good" becomes meaningless. Why call God good if good means nothing beyond obedience?

Kelly in MN presents verses she believes oppose slavery but can't reconcile them with explicit pro-slavery passages. She filters scripture through John 10:10 yet lacks consistent criteria for determining God's intent. If the Bible requires external moral standards to interpret it, why trust it as a moral guide at all?

Kell in FL questions why gold appears in Genesis, suggesting the Bible reflects existing values rather than divine revelation. The conversation shifts to his extreme views on militarizing atheism. The hosts recommend therapy resources and emphasize that violence isn't the answer to ideological disagreements.

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In today's episode of The Atheist Experience, Thinker, Fe, and The Beard of Empathy examine whether Christianity is a scam, the problem of divine attribution, and when beliefs become harmful.

Andrew argues Christianity isn't a scam because there are no customers or payments. But believers do pay costs: tithes, sacrifices, obedience, all in exchange for salvation. That's a transaction. When you promise eternal reward for compliance and eternal punishment for refusal, how is that not a protection racket? What makes this different from any other pay-to-play scheme?

Yolanda in MD credits God's voice for saving her life during a brain aneurysm, telling her not to lie down and to call 911. Why didn't God just heal the aneurysm? Why give cryptic instructions instead of preventing the crisis? If God intervened, why did you still need surgery? How do you distinguish God's voice from your own survival instinct?

Heresy in Canada asks whether we should respect comforting beliefs or prioritize knowledge. Personal beliefs are fine if kept private, but they become harmful when imposed on others or used to shape policy. Comfort doesn't make something true. When does your right to believe what you want end and someone else's right to live free from those beliefs begin?

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In today's episode of the Atheist Experience, Secular Rarity, Godless Engineer, and Kelley Laughlin tackle biblical gender equality, Quranic slavery, and the emotional aftermath of deconversion.

Loveisthewayfr on TikTok insists Genesis isn't a dating tool and the Bible teaches gender equality. The hosts point to Leviticus 12, where a woman's purification after birthing a daughter takes twice as long as for a son. If men and women are equal in the Bible, why does childbirth gender determine ritual impurity duration? What other passages might reveal this claimed equality isn't quite so equal?

Salahuddin Ayyubi on TikTok argues Quranic slavery differs from American chattel slavery and compares Islamic prisoner treatment to modern secular systems. The hosts counter that the Quran explicitly permits owning people as property. If you can own, buy, sell, and inherit a person, how is that fundamentally different from chattel slavery? Does rebranding ownership make it moral?

David in the USA shares he misses the comfort of belief, especially about death and the afterlife, even knowing it's not real. The hosts suggest death cafes and therapy to process these feelings. Is it possible to find peace with mortality without supernatural promises? Can secular communities offer the same emotional support religion once did?

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In today's episode of the Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer, Jim Barrows, and Jamie The Blind Limey confront the uncomfortable truth about Jesus and Old Testament atrocities!

Albert in MA argues the Bible should be read allegorically, not literally. The hosts challenge him on Old Testament violence and slavery laws, pointing to Matthew 5:18 where Jesus explicitly affirms all Old Testament law remains valid. If it's all allegory, why did Jesus say not one letter of the law would pass away? What moral lesson justifies selling your daughter?

Emanuel in Sweden questions whether Jesus actually taught Mosaic law. The hosts walk through Matthew 5:17-18, Leviticus slavery laws, and dietary contradictions, demonstrating Jesus affirmed Old Testament law including morally problematic commands. If Jesus fulfilled the law, why does he say it all still applies? How do you reconcile loving Jesus with endorsing genocide?

Jock from Earth claims the Bible has esoteric or inner spiritual value beyond the literal text. The hosts press him to provide biblical support for his mystical interpretations. He cannot cite chapter and verse, only vague spiritual concepts. If the Bible requires secret knowledge to understand, how is anyone supposed to know what it actually means?

Quincy in TX accuses the hosts of sending themselves to hell. When confronted with God's command to beat children in 2 Samuel 7:14, he admits it's wrong but says he'd obey God anyway, then references The Chosen TV show as his Bible source. If you'd beat a child because God commanded it, what does that say about your morality?

Milton from Earth argues the Orthodox Church, not the Bible itself, is the ultimate authority. The hosts point out this doesn't address biblical commands like selling daughters. Milton becomes circular and confrontational, unable to explain his position clearly. If the church is the authority, why appeal to the Bible at all?

Parker in VA, an atheist, seeks advice on handling presuppositional apologists on campus who claim logic requires God. The hosts and Jamie suggest slowing the conversation, demanding definitions, and asking how God actually grounds logic rather than accepting assertions. What would a world without logic even look like?

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In today's episode of The Atheist Experience, Secular Rarity, Godless Engineer, and Kelley Laughlin tackle miracle claims, biblical slavery, and the cultural legacy of colonialism.

Larry in Poland insists that miracles at Fatima and Coptic churches prove God exists. The hosts challenge him on mass hallucinations versus actual miracles and compare his claims to Hindu miracle reports. When pressed on animal consciousness and pain, Larry struggles to defend his positions. Why should we accept Catholic miracles but reject all others?

Jim in MO calls with a tongue-in-cheek argument for Carlinian sun worship based on George Carlin's comedy bit. He explains it's a parody showing how absurd belief systems can be. The hosts agree it's satire, not serious theology, and appreciate the humor.

David in TX asks what if both camps are correct about God's existence. The hosts explain the law of non-contradiction: God either exists or doesn't. David struggles to engage seriously and lists his pronouns as human being, leading to a tense exchange. Can something both exist and not exist?

JayFame in TX, a former Satanist turned believer, claims he saw two angels while incarcerated. The hosts challenge him on biblical slavery passages in Exodus 21:7 and ask him to distinguish satanic from godly acts. Jay deflects, preaches, and cannot defend scripture. What makes selling your daughter into slavery moral?

Jesse in MI, an atheist of indigenous and Latino heritage, shares frustration about being a minority in his own culture due to Christianity's colonial legacy. The hosts offer support, discuss resources like Recovering From Religion and therapy, and encourage community involvement and activism.

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In today's episode of The Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer, Sofia Spina, and Kelley Laughlin tackle divine command theory, biblical atrocities, and the question of whether God's treatment of children can ever be justified.

Quincy-TX argues the Bible proves God because it's a physical book, just like maps prove locations exist. The hosts challenge whether a book's existence proves its supernatural claims. Does the Quran prove Allah? What about biblical contradictions and commands to harm children? Quincy insists atheists choose hell, but can't explain why divine command theory makes genocide moral.

Jeff-PA asks why the hosts won't repent and defends Old Testament commands. The discussion turns to Numbers 31's sex trafficking of virgin girls and Deuteronomy 21's war bride laws. Jeff claims the New Covenant supersedes these commands, but struggles when asked if God's nature changed. Why would an unchanging God order child harm in one era but condemn it in another?

God's Son-MD claims stabbing babies can be merciful and rape builds character and individuality. He argues God intentionally created suffering to develop human traits. The hosts challenge whether a being who commands evil can be called good. The call ends when the caller pivots to anti-LGBTQ bigotry.

Steven-CO insists previous callers were pagans, claims God is balanced rather than purely good, and refuses evidence beyond scripture. He repeatedly makes racist claims about Edomites being white people. When asked for evidence, Steven deflects. Why should anyone accept claims without demonstration?

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In today's episode of The Atheist Experience, Thinker and Godless Engineer tackle the question of whether the God of the Bible is a moral monster, examining divine command theory and the justifications believers offer for biblical atrocities.

Maddi in LA agrees that the God of the Bible is a moral monster and explores how morality exists independently of divine command. She discusses how moral values are passed down through generations and vary across cultures. If morality comes from God, why do we see such dramatic differences in moral frameworks around the world? The hosts examine how secular humanism provides a foundation for ethics without requiring supernatural authority.

Tariq in GA defends biblical atrocities by arguing that God makes tough choices for the ultimate good, invoking divine command theory. The hosts challenge his circular reasoning and press him on whether he would harm others if commanded by God. If morality is whatever God commands, does that mean anything becomes moral simply because God says so? What happens when divine command conflicts with our deepest moral intuitions about harm and suffering?

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In today's episode of the Atheist Experience, Jim Barrows and Kelley Laughlin dive deep into philosophical arguments, information theory, and the limits of knowing God!

Donald in LA presents an argument for an 'unactualized actualizer' using information, actuality, and potentiality. What exactly does 'information' mean in your framework? The hosts challenge his definitions and question whether the law of identity supports his premises. If everything that changes requires an actualizer, what actualizes the actualizer? Donald's complex terminology raises more questions than answers about whether his argument proves what he thinks it does.

Bob in NY attempts to discuss the contingency argument and thermodynamics but spends most of his time complaining about the previous caller's airtime. After repeated warnings about staying on topic, Bob is disconnected. Sometimes the most revealing part of a call is what the caller chooses to focus on instead of their actual argument.

Allison in MO offers a thoughtful perspective: if God exists, humans could never truly know God's nature because all information would be propaganda from an all-powerful being. The hosts agree this is a genuine epistemological problem. How would we distinguish God's truth from God's manipulation? Without empirical evidence and measurable properties, any claim about God's nature becomes unfalsifiable. This raises profound questions about what it would even mean to 'know' God.

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In today's episode of the Atheist Experience, ObjectivelyDan and Seth Andrews tackle the problem of evil, epistemology, and whether math could be God!

Darth Dawkins from the East Coast challenges Seth on how anyone can know what a maximally benevolent God would allow. The conversation escalates as Darth repeatedly accuses the hosts of dodging his question and being abusive when muted. If this is the best defense of God's benevolence, what does that say about the argument itself? Can you really claim to know what an all-good deity would permit without defining your terms?

Aaron in TX explains how evolution completely undermines the concept of original sin and the entire Christian narrative. He also explores how religious obedience can lead to financial exploitation and poor personal boundaries. If Adam and Eve never existed, what happens to the foundation of Christianity? How does blind obedience to religious authority make people vulnerable to manipulation?

Allison in MO proposes that math is the only thing that could be considered God, as it exists outside time and space and governs all physical laws. The hosts struggle to understand the premise and suggest workshopping the argument. Does math exist independently of minds, or is it a tool we invented? If math is God, what does worship even mean?

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In today's episode of The Atheist Experience, The Cross Examiner, Godless Engineer, and Kelley Laughlin tackle biblical slavery, religious privilege, and the lengths believers will go to defend the indefensible.

Julie in CA shares a text exchange with a Christian friend about slavery in the Bible that ended a 50-year friendship. After Julie removed illegal religious signs from public property, her friend accused her of attacking Christianity. The hosts explore how the Bible explicitly endorses slavery while mandating trivial ritual details, and why believers reinterpret these passages only after secular humanists forced moral progress. Why does an all-powerful god fail to prohibit owning humans as property?

Stumpy Nubs on TikTok argues that Mark 14:51-52 proves Jesus owned a young slave based on Greek translation and connections to Dionysian rituals. The hosts challenge this interpretation, noting the passage mentions neither ownership nor slavery. Is this careful scholarship or reading your conclusion into the text? The difference between exegesis and eisegesis matters when making extraordinary claims about biblical figures.

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In today's episode of the Atheist Experience, Thinker, Godless Engineer, and Kelley Laughlin tackle divine command theory, biblical atrocities, and mystical claims about reality!

Andrew in NJ argues that evil is anything outside God's purpose. If God commanded murder, would that be good? The hosts challenge his inconsistent definitions and ask if he'd condemn selling daughters as slaves. When divine command becomes your moral compass, where does accountability go?

James in OK claims morality requires God, not human consensus. The hosts confront him on Exodus 21:7 and his rationalization of biblical slavery. Why does God's law permit owning people as property? If God is the source of morality, why does scripture endorse cruelty?

Georgi in Bulgaria presents a New Age view that God needs humans for experience and claims ancient structures like Machu Picchu prove supernatural involvement. The hosts explain the known construction methods and redirect him to Truth Wanted for alien topics. Why assume the supernatural when human ingenuity suffices?

Juan in Columbia presents a panentheistic view where God is a non-materialistic basis for reality and consciousness. He struggles to clearly define his concept of God. What does it mean to say God is the basis of reality if you can't articulate what that basis is?

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In today's episode of the Atheist Experience, Justin DZ and The Cross Examiner tackle biblical authorship, Christian nationalism, and the delicate balance of deconversion within families.

Anne in CA asks about the authorship and historical compilation of the Bible. Justin explains the documentary hypothesis, detailing how multiple sources were edited over centuries with political motivations driving the final compilation. The Bible wasn't written by single authors but assembled from various traditions. Understanding this academic scholarship reveals the human fingerprints all over what many claim is divine revelation. How does knowing the Bible's messy origins change how we evaluate its claims?

Hidde in Netherlands struggles with whether to deconvert his religious mother, who finds comfort in her faith after losing her own mother to dementia. The hosts discuss balancing truth-telling with compassion, recognizing that not every battle needs fighting. Sometimes causing unnecessary pain to someone vulnerable isn't worth the ideological victory. What responsibilities do we have to protect loved ones from harmful beliefs versus respecting their autonomy and comfort?

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In today's episode of the Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer and Jim Barrows confront callers defending biblical morality, slavery, and genocide!

Jeremy in MS claims God is not evil but struggles when confronted with 1 Samuel 15:3 commanding the killing of children and infants. He admits God said it, then deflects by asking if the hosts believe in Satan and oxygen before abruptly hanging up when challenged on his reasoning.

Courtney and Rachel in FL call to defend biblical morality. The hosts read Exodus 21:7-11 on selling daughters into slavery and Leviticus 25:44-46 on buying slaves. Rachel shockingly states she would sell her daughter to a rich man, comparing it to Jeffrey Epstein. They claim slavery was acceptable back then and defend beating slaves while appearing intoxicated. Where does this moral framework lead?

Glenn in Australia discusses his stepson's dream before dying, interpreting it as having spiritual significance. The hosts struggle to understand how this anecdotal experience proves God exists. Glenn mentions PTSD medication and modern slavery, but the conversation remains unfocused and unclear.

Marko in Canada argues God is not evil and the Old Testament law has been replaced by grace. The hosts challenge him with Matthew 5:17-19 where Jesus says he came to fulfill, not abolish the law. Marko claims Paul supersedes Jesus. When confronted with Numbers 31:17-18 and Deuteronomy 21:10-14 about taking virgin war brides, he defends these passages and refuses to answer whether he would kill a baby if God commanded it.

Papo in Puerto Rico presents a contingency argument claiming the universe needs a necessary being. The hosts counter that energy is necessary, citing E=mc² and the first law of thermodynamics. Papo claims the first law was created at the Big Bang but admits he doesn't know what E=mc² means while trying to argue physics.

Jase in OH claims aliens are proof of God, describing beings around his bed who disappeared when he cried out to Jesus. He references UFO researcher Joe Jordan. The hosts ask for evidence beyond personal experience, noting hallucinations feel real to those experiencing them. Can subjective experience prove objective reality?

William in MD argues Christians don't need to follow Old Testament law, citing Acts 15. The hosts counter with Matthew 5:17-19 and reference Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 restricting diets. They cite Galatians 3:29 showing Christians are Abraham's seed. William tries arguing different rules for different people but has to leave.

Z in MA calls as a palette cleanser after intense previous calls. He shares his background with a Christian father and atheist mother, asks about agnostic versus atheist, and brings up Ouija boards as proof of energy or the afterlife. The hosts explain Ouija boards are manufactured by Hasbro and thank Z for his reasonable approach.

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, The Cross Examiner and Godless Engineer dissect the dangerous rise of Christian nationalism! From state-sanctioned violence in Uganda to the dismantling of secular education in Texas, the hosts expose the consequences of codifying dogma into law. Can a society remain free when its legal boundaries are dictated by ancient scriptures instead of objective human rights?
Tom in MI uses dreams and feelings of love as proof of a higher power. Godless Engineer defines love as a chemical process, while hosts critique why stories fail as data. Can we trust internal experiences when our biology is fallible?
Gannon in CA claims Noah’s Ark proves the Bible. The hosts challenge his fixation on labels while debunking fraudulent archaeological claims about rock formations. If your evidence is a misidentified rock, what remains of your belief?
Muhammad in India argues for Divine Command Theory, claiming child rape is "good" if God commands it. The hosts are stunned by this rejection of decency for religious consistency. How can a moral system be respected if it allows atrocities?
Joel in CA believes in God because he "sees" the devil with his eyes closed. The hosts dismantle the design argument using stellar evolution and planetary formation. Can internal visions serve as a reliable yardstick for external reality?
Will in Canada defends biblical slavery by calling God a "political gradualist." Hosts point out God made absolute laws for diet and sex but not for owning humans. Why would a perfect deity require centuries to condemn human ownership?
Aeve Morningstar in Canada applies a feminist lens to theology, questioning if Mary's impregnation was sexual assault. Hosts debate legal definitions of battery and the harm of divine voyeurism. Is the biblical relationship with God inherently coercive?
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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Thinker and Zenamae celebrate Father’s Day by comparing the silence of a celestial parent to the immediate response of artificial intelligence! From the ethics of missing children advocacy to the submissive vows of religious weddings, the hosts explore how deconstruction provides a community based on facts rather than the "voicemail" of a distant deity. Can we build a moral legacy for the next generation without waiting for a ghost to return the call?
Hannah argues that the universe is a necessary infinite substance with infinite attributes that we should call God. Thinker and Zenamae challenge the semantic need for the label "God," noting that existence does not exhibit personal traits like listening or making promises. Does redefining the universe as a deity actually provide any evidence for the supernatural?
Tom in TX describes God as the ultimate deadbeat dad who has abandoned his creation to suffer through global boiling and corporate greed. The hosts emphasize the importance of fighting for real-world progress rather than waiting for a silent celestial father to intervene in a rigged system. Will the next generation be able to clean up the mess left behind by a negligent deity?
Zama waseMzansiza on TikTok struggles with the pain of potentially disappointing her fragile, religious mother while navigating her own deconstruction journey. Zenamae shares her personal experience with setting boundaries and learning to see parents as flawed human beings rather than just spiritual authority figures. Can we find a way to honor our family relationships without sacrificing our own intellectual integrity?
Asherah in South Africa questions whether Jesus was actually a disciple of John the Baptist, citing potential overlaps in their apocalyptic messages and ministry origins. Hosts dive into the "deceiver" narrative found in apocryphal texts and discuss the historical competition between these two rival religious figures. Was the Christian savior originally just a member of another preacher's crew?
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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, The Cross Examiner and JMike tackle the subtle "little things" of Christian nationalism and the liberating reality of secular mental health! From the Pentagon's reclassification of Mormonism to a personal struggle with depression, the hosts dismantle the idea that faith is a viable substitute for evidence or professional care. Can we find a better grounding for reality than ancient forgeries and emotional placeholders?Levi in LA questions why he shouldn't believe in a higher power if it provides comfort, such as a positive outlook during illness. The hosts use the "diamond in the backyard" analogy to explore the high cost of religious tithing and emotional energy spent on unsupported claims. They emphasize that a lack of evidence should lead to agnosticism rather than conviction. What happens to your resources when the promise of a diamond never materializes?Michel in NY asks if the fame of the Gospels proves Jesus was a historical figure rather than a myth. The hosts compare this reasoning to the popularity of King Arthur or Robin Hood, noting that legendary status doesn't establish physical reality. The conversation briefly touches on apocryphal texts and modern gender commentary before being identified as potential trolling for its lack of substance. Can the popularity of a story ever serve as a reliable yardstick for historical truth?Marcos in New Zealand presents a trilemma regarding children and free will on Judgment Day. He also cites documented witnesses of Ellen White as proof for his theism. The hosts challenge this "hearsay of hearsay" by comparing it to the modern "James River Church toes" miracle, which lacked independent verification despite multiple claims of witnessing the divine. They urge applying a consistent standard of evidence to all extraordinary stories. Why do ancient legends receive a special pass from skepticism?Thank you for joining us this week! We will see you next time!

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer and Thinker celebrate Pride Month by dismantling the "superior" morality of the biblical deity! From the horrific commands to slaughter nursing infants in 1 Samuel 15:3 to the modern-day "crash out" over LGBTQ rights, the hosts expose the moral depravity behind ancient dogmas. Can a religion that affirms capital punishment for love ever claim the moral high ground?
Ashira in South Africa discusses why churches create fear to keep people in pews. She reflects on deconstructing as a black woman after reading biblical violence. Can community exist without hell? How do we navigate family when faith fades?
Jaden on TikTok debates Paul’s existence and Matthew’s zombies. The hosts examine Gnosticism versus orthodoxy and the "imagery" of the holy ones. Is thinking better than faith? Was Paul a real figure or a character for theological disputes?
Alec in WA claims consciousness is reality. The hosts use zircon crystals and the logic of racism to dismantle this solipsism. If reality is a dream, why can't we fly? Does the physical world exist independent of our minds?
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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Secular Rarity and The CrossExaminer tackle the rising tide of Christian nationalism and the subjective nature of "personal" truth! They explore why mandatory Ten Commandment displays fail both the Constitution and basic math, while challenging callers to ground their supernatural claims in evidence. From Near-Death Experiences to the logical boundaries of creation, the hosts examine whether faith is a reliable path to reality.
Kelly in MN cites a Near-Death Experience involving Jesus as proof of divinity. Hosts challenge brain reliability during trauma and the circularity of using a personal moral yardstick to pick scripture. Can hope exist without objective evidence?
Luke in FL argues God is impossible because words cannot create matter. Hosts critique shifting the burden of proof and suggest compassionate inquiry over mockery. Is calling a belief "stupid" an effective way to change minds?
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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Thinker and FE tackle the psychology of deconstruction, the fear of questioning, and the pitfalls of defining God into existence! From the "Jesus juice" of religious shortcuts to the biological reality of our brains, the hosts challenge listeners to bring verifiable receipts for their holy claims.
Poz on TikTok claims a universal mind grounds conscious experience. Hosts critique the lack of evidence and use of jargon. They challenge him to find scholarly support for this theory. Does consciousness need a metaphysical supervisor or is it an emergent property of the brain?
GodProvidesBest on TikTok argues for telepathic oneness with a gender-neutral God. Hosts expose the toxicity of Ezekiel 16 metaphors. They highlight how unconditional forgiveness destroys accountability. Why does God find figs but ignore suffering?
Jimmy on TikTok discusses neurotheology and spiritual labels for brain states like ego death. Hosts argue that labeling neurology as spiritual muddies the waters with religious baggage. Can we explore the mind's wonders without mystical terms?
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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Justin and Scott Dickie celebrate Mother’s Day by examining the "bad design" of childbirth and the failed promises of the Bible! They dismantle the myth of messianic prophecies, the forgery of the Shroud of Turin, and the logical gymnastics required to ground reality in a transcendental deity.
Isaac in AL argues eyewitnesses and the Shroud of Turin prove Jesus. Justin notes the "500 witnesses" are unnamed, and the shroud is a confessed forgery. They analyze Hebrew text to see if Jesus failed the messianic job description. Will he find a counter?
Joel in AZ asks if a perfect God could create imperfection. Scott challenges the vague term "perfection," while Justin notes that if God is good, unnecessary suffering is a contradiction. Does this resolution simply delete the Christian message?
Toby in Italy asks how God grounds logic. Scott explains logic is a descriptive tool for reality, not a transcendental entity needing an anchor. They critique Platonism. If logic is just a language, what happens to the transcendental argument?
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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer and Fish Stark from the American Humanist Association tackle the encroaching tide of Christian nationalism and the hollow promises of deity-focused morality! They dismantle the "axis of nonsense" between billionaires and bishops, exposing how forced Ten Commandment displays in schools are more about power grabs than historical accuracy. Can a secular focus on human dignity provide the community we crave without the authoritarian baggage of ancient myths? From military secularism to the "American Empathy Project," the hosts explore how humanists are building real-world power to protect civil liberties for all.

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Thinker and Trust But Verify dive into the dark side of biblical "morality" and the fear of the Holy Spirit! The hosts explore the psychological grip of deconstruction and challenge callers to provide verifiable receipts for their supernatural claims. Can personal anecdotes survive the scrutiny of probability and logic? Join us as we put divine interventions and spiritual "knowledge" to the ultimate test!

Adrian in CA asks why the hosts are no longer believers. He shares that nine years of prayer led to finding his wife. Hosts challenge the post-hoc fallacy and note that humans, not gods, did the work. Can he prioritize evidence over fear?

Amasa in MD claims he "knows" God because his prayers heal people. Hosts note that 98% success rates for surgery make prayer redundant. Why avoid demonstrating this at St. Jude's? Can an unfalsifiable claim be considered knowledge?

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer and Scott Dickie put the "omni-benevolent" creator on trial and examine the silence of the divine! They tackle word salads about information, the emergent properties of consciousness, and the hilarious consequences of childhood church avoidance. Can logic bridge the gap between ancient myths and modern biological reality?
Steph from Canada defines God as truth and information. Hosts challenge this word salad and the claim that rockets explode due to a lack of God. If truth is just correspondence with reality, why is a deity necessary?
AJ from Canada asks how unconscious starts lead to consciousness. The hosts explain consciousness as an emergent property of complex nervous systems rather than a supernatural gift. Does a soul explain consciousness better than biological interaction?
Ben from CT shares a deconstruction story where lying about having no clothes led to an accidental church fundraiser. The hosts explore how deconversion often leads to dismantling other social biases. Can we separate heritage from convictions?
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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Justin and JMike tackle "wizardly" philosophy, the hiddenness of God, and the dangers of religious bait-and-switches! From vampire lighting to the problem of a hidden cosmic dictator, the hosts challenge listeners to examine if faith is just a mask for mankind's worst instincts.
Steve in OH fears the Noahide laws represent a literal Mark of the Beast. Justin identifies 666 as Nero and explains the tefillin's symbolic role. They debate if Daniel’s prophecies about Greece apply today. Can ancient laws predict geopolitics?
Jason in OH argues for a mind-dependent universe based on the uniqueness of consciousness. JMike uses Occam's Razor to show that a deity adds no explanatory power. Does the experience of redness require a cosmic observer to exist?
Push Back Ministries on TikTok argues mathematics proves a designer. JMike and Justin defend nominalism, viewing numbers as human inventions. They critique the Trinity’s logic. Can a hidden God be blamed for people losing their faith?
Steph in Canada suggests truth is an ingredient of God. JMike mocks this with the "boom of who" to show labeling truth as an entity is arbitrary. They 
debate science as inquiry. Will the caller find a way to verify his ontological claims?
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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, the secular Jesus Christ himself, Secular Rarity, and
Dr. Darrel Ray rise from the tomb to dismantle biblical prophecies and discuss the necessity of trained secular leadership! From flying goats to religious attachment systems, the hosts put the supernatural under a microscope while navigating the treacherous waters of family deconversion.

Steve in OH claims Daniel 8 predicts B-2 bombers via flying goats. Hosts challenge the special pleading and numerology involving football players. If conflicts always match text, does prophecy mean anything?

Sean in KS discusses the Institute for Secular Leadership. Dr. Ray notes training prevents church-style guilt and power hoarding in groups. Can professional methods fix the leadership vacuum?

RJ in CO argues biblical winds and demographics prove God. Hosts expose his double standards between the Bible and Quran regarding prophecy. Why is ancient myth more reliable than science?

Hera in US asks about pushy in-laws. Dr. Ray discusses religious attachment and clear boundaries for partners. Will prioritizing harmony eventually lead to a loss of total autonomy?

Big Ern in WA asks why women still suffer original sin. Hosts explore biblical misogyny and leading by example over command. If atonement is finished, why does gendered suffering remain?

Michelle in NY compares losing God to a breakup. Hosts identify brain attachment systems and celebrate her personal agency. Can neurological awareness help soothe the wound of lost faith?

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer and Jim Barrows deconstruct the bloody magic of Palm Sunday and the logic of substitutional atonement. From the "hostage negotiation" of salvation to the bizarre preservation of papal hearts, the hosts challenge believers to explain why a perfect deity requires such macabre rituals.

Tiny Rick joins from TikTok to ask which ACA goals take priority. Hosts explain how values like secular humanism and church-state separation are vital when nationalism threatens government. Will focusing on these lead to a more rational society?

Daniel in Mexico worries that on-screen pronouns create public friction. Hosts argue that normalizing identification supports the trans community and challenges systemic bigotry. Is avoiding social friction more important than respecting identity?

Ann questions the validity of saints and the strange preservation of popes' hearts. Hosts discuss the absurdity of miracle verification and how relics are used for power. Can traditions built on magic provide a reliable path to truth?

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Justin and Thinker put God on trial for gross negligence! They explore why "spiritual vibes" aren't evidence, the cultural weight of deconversion, and why the crucifixion was just an "inconvenient weekend" for an eternal deity.

Robert in MN questions why the hosts believe rationality is the only path to God, suggesting a "spiritual feeling" is more universal. Hosts argue feelings are subjective and unreliable for truth. How can internal emotions provide objective evidence?

Emperor on TikTok asks the hosts what specifically led to their deconversion from Christianity. Justin cites scientific errors and failed prophecies; Thinker notes historical fiction and slavery. What evidence can stand up to rigorous scrutiny?

Cheedo in PA asks about the unique social pressures of being a Black atheist. Thinker notes religion is a cultural heirloom, making deconversion feel like betraying heritage. They explore the fear of blasphemy and vitriol directed at Black women.

Janet in KS relies on first-cause arguments, finding it hard to abandon faith without proof. Hosts challenge the need for a beginning, noting the universe may be eternal. Why is an invisible creator more plausible than eternal matter?

Robert in Hungary converted to Catholicism to find hope. Hosts dissect the "inconvenient weekend" of the crucifixion, arguing an eternal God cannot truly suffer like a human. They also clash over biblical slavery and moral contradictions.

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, The Cross Examiner and JMike confront the alarming rise of Christian nationalism in the military and the psychological weight of deconversion! From the ethics of animal consumption to the mechanics of prophecy, the hosts challenge callers to ground their reality in evidence rather than "personal truth."


Michael in NM asks about slavery and murder but shifts to veganism. Hosts discuss legal distinctions, altruistic evolution, and moral anti-realism. Is speciesism just biological conditioning? What threshold makes a life worth saving?

Debbie in FL asks why believers proselytize. Graham uses a "drain cleaner" analogy to explain the theist mindset of "saving" people. JMike suggests using rattling questions. Can we bridge the gap if "no" means "not enough bribe"?

Chapter on TikTok asks for the best theistic argument. JMike and Graham dismantle the "look at the trees" and fine-tuning claims. They identify the "presuppositional" trap. Why use God as a placeholder for things science hasn't explained yet?


Pete in MI uses a family coincidence to claim "personal truth." The hosts critique mind-dependent reality and the failure to investigate natural causes. Is a spooky feeling sufficient evidence, or just a coincidence counting the hits?

Marcus in New Zealand cites prophecy about a magazine. Hosts expose circular logic and unfalsifiable claims. They urge him to raise his bar for evidence. Can savvy predictions prove God, or are they just savvy humans counting hits?

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Justin and Jon the Skeptic explore the shrinking "God of the Gaps" and the carnages of evolution! They challenge faith-based morality and the logical hurdles of deism in an eternal universe.
Mark in FL argues biological codes require a creator as abiogenesis is undemonstrated. Hosts call this a "God of the Gaps" placeholder with no explanatory power. They compare his god to a unicorn. Is DNA really proof of divine intent?
Alfie in TX asks if biblical morality has utility. Hosts identify these "high" values in Stoicism and Confucius. They argue against keeping the "rolls" with the "cyanide" of slavery. Did Jesus actually endorse harsh Mosaic laws?
Ryan in PA seeks clarification on the burden of proof for faith. Hosts assert any claim requires evidence. They distinguish between religious faith and secular hope for a second chance. Is everyone technically agnostic?
Hayden asks why the Bible uses water imagery for salvation. Hosts link baptism to ancient rituals where sin was treated as physical filth to be washed away with divine detergents. Can baptism truly cleanse a moral impurity?
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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Justin and Godless Engineer explore the blood-soaked roots of the Bible, challenge the validity of biblical inerrancy, and play a game of "Infallible" to highlight scriptural contradictions! From the ethical horrors of Esther to the "Jesus mode" of logic, the hosts invite believers to defend a deity whose morality seems stuck in a loop of violence and non-consensual interactions.
Eric in CA asks about the hosts' deconversion journeys. Justin shares how he continued living his life, even performing weddings, while John describes creating an online persona to avoid family conflict. Is isolation the only way to find peace?
C.J. in MA faces believers using "Pearls before Swine" rhetoric. The hosts suggest using 1 Peter 3:15 and Hebrews 6 to flip the script. By putting pressure on the believer, can you expose their fear of debate?
Ben from Canada struggles with identity thirty years after losing faith. Justin explains that secularism allows you to choose your own destiny and value. Can realizing that worth is chosen help a person finally find peace?
Ben in CT seeks advice for debating his Catholic brother. The hosts suggest the brother's persistence indicates internal doubt. Can using "Mary was raped" and Old Testament facts force him to confront his creed?
Sands in AZ argues teaching religion in school exposes kids to diverse views. John warns that nationalists would abuse this to prioritize dogma. Can exposing scriptural contradictions serve as a vaccine against indoctrination?
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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Secular Rarity and The Cross Examiner dismantle the legal myths of Christian nationalism and expose the tribalistic roots of biblical law. From the dark history of slavery in the Levant to modern-day "persecution" complexes, the hosts challenge believers to provide evidence that justifies merging church and state!

Mason in OK argues the Bible guides morality. Hosts pivot to laws regarding chattel slavery in Leviticus 25, questioning why a good deity endorses owning people. They challenge the reliance on tradition to mask biblical cruelty. How does one choose which divine commands to follow?

Emmanuel in TX proposes a theocracy where non-believers are taxed to incentivize conversion. Hosts identify this as a violation of the First Amendment and Establishment Clause. They warn against discriminatory policies that create second-class citizens. Would a just society ever benefit from state-sponsored religious extortion?

Mike in SC fears hate speech laws are tools for Christian persecution. The Cross Examiner clarifies that hate crime enhancements require criminal acts and intent, not just offense. They debunk algorithm-driven misinformation regarding religious suppression. Is the perceived war on faith just a result of confirmation bias?

Moises in CA questions the need for proof and miracle claims. Hosts apply theological non-cognitivism and note that miracles lack reliable eyewitness accounts. They also explore how faith healing leads to medical neglect. Can a story be a reliable pathway to truth if it cannot be verified?

James in OH critiques states' rights rhetoric using the Articles of Secession. Discussion moves to the Insurrection Act and the dangers of religious exemptions in child protection laws. They highlight the struggle against abuse permitted by dogma. Will legal systems ever prioritize children over ancient dogmas?

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Justin and Thinker explore deconstruction and challenge theists to present evidence for their genocidal deities! They dissect the psychological hooks of faith and the sexism faced by secular women in debate.

Jim asks why atheism is frequently viewed as a religion. Justin suggests it is a form of whataboutism used by religious individuals to equalize the playing field and mask their own insecurity regarding a lack of evidence. Thinker notes that atheism lacks the dogmatic monolith of faith. Does the desire to label atheists as religious reveal a fear of intellectual accountability?

Supreme Leader asks if humans are easily deceived, attempting to suggest the hosts are deluded by their reliance on knowledge. The hosts see through the trolling, identifying his defensive reaction to their critique of biblical myths. Can a caller who refuses to provide an argument ever facilitate a productive dialogue about reality?

Ozzy from FL challenges the use of the null hypothesis and posits that an eternal, cyclical universe is effectively God. The hosts struggle to find a coherent argument, as Ozzy relies on "why not" as a primary justification and highlight that adding a deity to a self-sustaining universe is unnecessary and lacks explanatory power. Why insist on the God label if the universe can be explained through physics?

Chloe from NV asks for secular alternatives to prayer for coping with anxiety and maintaining hope. The hosts suggest therapy, meditation, and radical acceptance of emotions as valid mental health tools. They encourage her to build community and practice self-soothing without the expectation of supernatural intervention. Can moving through the stages of grief lead to a more stable, self-reliant existence after losing a lifelong faith?

Steve from MO discusses theories on how geographical surroundings shaped early God concepts, such as desert monotheism versus forest polytheism. Justin explains how God's supposed location shifts as science explores previously mysterious spaces, eventually retreating into the unfalsifiable immaterial plane. They trace the transition from animated nature to undetectable deities. Does the constant moving of God's goalposts prove the concept was merely a human invention?

Chidumebi from PA asks why prosperity gospel preachers target marginalized and low-income communities. Justin and Thinker explain that these scams prey on the desperate by promising supernatural solutions to systemic wealth gaps. They highlight the exploitation of authority and the "slot machine" nature of tithing. Is increasing literacy and critical thinking the most effective way to dismantle these religious predatory models?

Watcher 215 argues that biological function proves a designer and that suffering results from original sin. The hosts differentiate between function and purpose, noting that evolution explains complexity without intent. If God premeditated the death of his son, is he morally responsible for the act? Why follow a deity that uses suffering to teach righteousness?

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In today’s episode of The Atheist Experience, hosts Forrest Valkai and Jim Barrows tackle the dangerous rise of Christian nationalism and its alignment with fascism, explore the limits of biblical morality, and examine the overwhelming evidence for evolution and geology.

Lucy Spina in TX, ACA chair, details the Rainbow Rights Roadshow drive with Equality Texas, aiding LGBTQ+ resource deserts. Hosts stress "no strings attached" secular community support needed against current political threats. Is this grassroots outreach vital?

G-Man (nudibranchs jumping sea slugs) argues atheists lack objective morality, asserting God is the source of all good. Hosts challenge this as Divine Command Theory, making God the subjective arbiter. They critique God's immorality, citing the Flood and slavery. Does God's omnipotence and omniscience make him culpable for all sin?

Ujay in SD, a deconstructing agnostic, asks for a scientific explanation of evolution and dating methods. Forrest refutes the creationist claim that evolution begets racism, explaining it is Social Darwinism. He details radioisotope half-lives and Hubble's constant for dating the Earth and Universe. Can overwhelming evidence cure religious skepticism?


Hannah argues research on morphogenesis (Michael Levin) suggests evidence against materialism, supporting a platonic space of information. The hosts warn against using this gap as evidence for the supernatural. They challenge the assertion as an Argument From Ignorance, noting that complexity does not equal magic. Is Platonism a justifiable conclusion from current unknowns?

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In today’s episode of The Atheist Experience, Godless Engineer and JMike tackle the concept of arbitrary biblical morality, the search for stance-independent purpose, and failed prophetic claims about global digital currency. Supreme Leader in CO asks if the fulfillment of the Mark of the Beast prophecy, appearing as mandatory one-world digital currency, would force belief. The hosts critique the vagueness of Revelation, noting that a single correct prediction does not validate the Bible or prove magic. They suggest that such vague claims are akin to low-probability guesses. Why does this particular apocalyptic prediction persist despite being easily dismissed? Patrick in FL argues that if God truly engaged in intelligent design, the world would not contain genetic diseases, mental defects, or other flaws, finding perfection incompatible with observed malfunction. He then questions the purpose of life without a God. The hosts clarify that absolute purpose is a meaningless concept, much like arguing someone is "taller" without context. If purpose requires a conscious mind, is it fundamentally subjective? Cyrus in England questions the utility of debate, noting that most people are either immovable or easily swayed, suggesting he should stop debating on Discord. JMike and Godless Engineer argue that debate is crucial for honing skills and influencing fence-sitters who watch, even if the direct interlocutor is unmoved. Is engaging hostile opponents worth the positive effect on casual observers? All right, well, that's going to be our show for today. I hope all of you humans out there have a great day. And don't forget to stand up and use your voice. 00:00 Intro 06:32 Supreme Leader-CO | Belief Caused By Fulfilled Prophecies 30:49 Patrick-NY | Intelligent Design Correlation With Success 1:12:30 Cyrus-(ENG) | Utility Of Debating Theists The ACA, American Humanist Association, and Genetically Modified Skeptic, are joining forces to support the Equality Texas Rainbow Rights Roadshow. Join us at the Freethought Library, on December 7th, between noon and 8 o'clock, where we'll be accepting donations for clothing, personal hygiene products, banned books, school supplies, and canned and dry food. Can't make it to the event, but you'd still like to help? You can follow the links below to support Equality Texas directly. We need your help to make this campaign a success, so follow us on MeetUp, or donate directly through the links below and help support us today." MeetUp: http://tiny.cc/acasupportseqtx Equality Texas: https://equalitytexas.org/give/501c3/ Atheist Community of Austin:

In today’s episode of The Atheist Experience, hosts Justin (Deconstruction Zone) and Richard Gilliver seek evidence for God, diving into philosophical arguments, biblical contradictions, and the flaws in theological defenses. The hosts challenge callers to step up their game, urging them to drop the evasions and present solid justification for their faith.

Joe in OR, an atheist, asks how to debate various denominations about unfalsifiable claims without being antagonistic. Richard stresses the importance of gaining experience and being humble enough to say "I don't know" rather than risking incorrect biblical arguments. The hosts agree that avoiding errors maintains trust for future dialogue. Is experience the only way to refine the subtle skills needed for secular discourse?

Jim in MO, an agnostic, presents Homer Simpson's classic rebuttal to Pascal’s Wager. The argument fails because it ignores all other gods, potentially sending the wagerer to an Islamic or Greek Hell instead of the Christian one. The hosts agree this standard counter-apologetic is effective for exposing theological hypocrisy. Why do theists assume everyone defaults to the Christian god concept?

Adam in NC, an agnostic, asks why Stephen was martyred for the same ideas Paul later preached, noting that Paul was at Stephen's execution. Justin explains Paul’s ministry focused on Gentiles outside Jewish strongholds, minimizing conflict with elites. Adam also questions Paul’s conversion story due to contradictory accounts in Acts. Do internal biblical contradictions undermine Paul as a reliable source?

Good Question in WA contends atheists incorrectly concede that all morality is subjective, arguing objective morals are based on objective causes. Justin pushes back, arguing that morals are mind-dependent; if all minds ceased to exist, so would morals. Objective means and measures for adhering to a subjective framework do not make the framework itself objective. Why insist on transcendental objective morality if the system relies on conscious receivers?

Patrick in FL claims atheism is nihilism and just another faith, as atheists cannot define what evidence for God would be. Richard challenges Patrick on why he uses a different name every week and dismisses his assertion that he neither believes nor disbelieves as dishonest. The hosts demand Patrick present evidence for his God-belief, which he fails to produce before the call is abruptly ended. Why do some theists conflate atheism with nihilism?

The Supreme Leader in CO asks, hypothetically, if God's existence (the first mover) was proven, why atheists wouldn't follow him, citing his tyrannical nature. Justin focuses on failed biblical prophecies, demonstrating how quotes are taken out of context (e.g., Isaiah 7's "virgin birth"). Richard applauds the caller’s maturity for listening to the context. Does belief in a God compel moral submission to that God? 

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In today's episode of The Atheist Experience, Justin (Deconstruction Zone) and Mike Briggs (Geology Daddy) tackle the nature of morality outside of religion, cosmological origins, and deep critiques of biblical literalism and theological consistency.

Sam in FL promotes the "cult of X," defined by hedonism and lack of morality, claiming it is his faith. Recognizing him as a troll, the hosts insist on a clear argument for his specific God, noting he provides no philosophical substance. 

Larry in TX discusses secular humanism and theists' misperceptions of atheist morality. Mike stresses morality is internal, based on introspection and empathy, not divine authority. Justin suggests critiquing supposedly "objective" God-given morals using internal biblical examples (slavery, genocide). 

Hollis in WA, who is deconstructing, questions why God did not reconcile the fallen angels. Justin explains this is an ancient, widespread archetypal theme across Near Eastern mythologies. The hosts clarify that the Satan-as-fallen-angel idea developed much later, noting the biblical inconsistency that other fallen angels are imprisoned. 

Ahmed in Germany questions the cause of the Big Bang and the need for a creator, citing suffering as a potential test. Mike explains that quantum fluctuations in a vacuum might spontaneously produce universes, noting the Big Bang may not be the beginning. The hosts challenge the test premise and expose the God of the Gaps fallacy. 

Marilyn argues "we're all gods" because we are the image of God and claims atheists are closer to the truth than Christians who require a master. Mike challenges her ambiguous definition of "God" and points out the contradiction in her simultaneous belief in Jesus as *the* son of God. Justin criticizes her "perfect design" concept using common physical flaws (choking, needing glasses). 

Ulrich in Mexico claims veganism is wrong and that lacking connection to God "messes up your mind." Justin demands substantive evidence for his God rather than mere complaint. Using internal biblical critique, Justin pressures O Rick on the moral acceptability of Deuteronomy 22 (stoning non-virgins) and 1 Samuel 15:3 (killing Amalekite babies). O Rick repeatedly evades the questions, exposing his theological inconsistency. 

Des in Jamaica, who is deconstructing, asks what prevents atheists from being evil, arguing fear of eternal consequence keeps Christians moral. Mike explains morality is an evolutionary adaptation driven by empathy and social cooperation. Justin argues Christian theology offers no moral consequence, as sins are forgiven solely by accepting Jesus, meaning moral behavior is irrelevant to destination. 

Billy in KY, an older atheist living in the Bible Belt, expresses his struggles with the chastisement and ridicule he faces in his community after deconstructing his Christian faith. Justin validates his position, noting that reading the Bible is often the key to deconverting believers. 

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In today’s episode of The Atheist Experience, Forrest Valkai and Godless Engineer dismantle claims regarding prerequisites for end-times prophecy and critically analyze an English teacher's grammatical objections to using singular "they/them" pronouns.
Anson in gerrymandered anuses asserts end times prophecy required the 1948 rebirth of Israel, arguing Paul was mistaken about Christ's imminent return. Hosts critique this "going out of business" scheme, asking why God is constrained by geopolitics and human evil. They reject the claim that atrocities like the Holocaust could be "worth it" for salvation. Why must suffering precede divine intervention?
Jason in misanthropic orangutans, an English teacher, objects to singular "they/them" usage on rigid grammatical grounds, preferring "one" or "we." Hosts note that singular "they" has been standard since the 1300s, citing the Oxford English Dictionary. They argue that refusing a requested pronoun in favor of using a person's name is unnecessarily difficult, dismissive of their identity, and driven by personal comfort. Is linguistic conformity more important than human respect?
Thank you for watching this chaotic episode. We are back next week, Sundays at 4:30 p.m. Central Standard Time!


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In today’s episode of The Atheist Experience, Secular Rarity and Godless Engineer tackle the pervasive threat of Christian nationalism and the historical evidence (or lack thereof) for Jesus. They also dive into challenging calls questioning whether intellectual inquiry is necessary for belief and celebrate a caller's successful deconstruction into secular community.
Robert in WI argued intellectual inquiry is useless for finding God, claiming belief is primarily emotional and universal. The hosts questioned why objective truth regarding God's existence should exclude rational methods used everywhere else. Is intellectual honesty only reserved for non-religious claims?
Mary in NC updated the hosts on her long deconstruction, noting that realizing the creation story was a myth finally clinched her atheism, ending 17 years of guilt. She now enjoys freedom and thriving secular community through painting classes and events. Does community without indoctrination offer a better foundation for life?
Gigi in NC questioned why preachers avoid discussing harmful Bible content, asking if they are ignorant or intentionally deceitful. SR and GE explained that many religious authorities lack deep theological knowledge, sticking only to scripted, surface-level narratives about Jesus. Are preachers equipped to address difficult biblical passages truthfully?
Thank you for joining us this week! The Atheist Experience will be back next Sunday at 4:30 p.m. Central Time.


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In today's highly charged episode of The Atheist Experience, Forrest Valkai and Jimmy Jr. dive into the concept of learned helplessness and the vital need for resistance and defiance against systemic injustice and trauma. They challenge callers on the evolutionary origin of meaning and morality, and wrestle with the difficulties of engaging in rational debate with those who redefine terms to avoid definitive answers.

Jeff in LA believes human curiosity is an evolved trait that explains the search for meaning and the rise of religion. The hosts agree that early religion was a "first attempt at science," offering quick answers and evolving into a societal "domestication tool" for control. Can curiosity drive meaning without dogma?

Anatoly in NY posits that people leave religion due to misunderstanding biblical definitions. The hosts found it impossible to debate, as he offered confusing, constantly shifting definitions of God (e.g., "social structure" plus "physical world"). They challenged him on God's immorality, specifically citing biblical commands for slavery. Forrest criticized his profound inability to answer simple, direct questions. Why does he avoid defining his belief clearly?

Thank you for tuning in this week! Jimmy Jr. encourages believers to "do better" and challenge them with substantive arguments next time. Thank you to the crew, producers, and mods who make the show possible. We will see you next time!


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In today’s episode of The Atheist Experience, Dr. Ben and Scott Dickie of Talk Heathen stage a friendly takeover, fielding calls on the nature of reality, mathematics, and divine revelation! From philosophical deep dives into *a priori* knowledge to the challenges of grappling with infinity, this episode puts logic and the burden of proof center stage.

Zeno from the International Space Station begins by mentioning intelligent design but quickly pivots to telling the hosts they have faith. Identifying as agnostic, he insists atheists claim God's non-existence. Dr. Ben and Scott challenge him to state his own beliefs rather than misrepresenting theirs, but when he fails to engage productively, what will become of the conversation?

Donald in LA presents a complex philosophical argument for God, blending concepts from Aristotle, Plato, and others, suggesting that the effectiveness of mathematics points to a prescriptive cosmic consciousness. Scott counters that math is merely a descriptive language humans created to model observed universal patterns. With the conversation delving into *a priori* knowledge, can Donald defend his premise without relying on observation?

Ken in MI struggles to comprehend an infinite past and future, and the concept of a universe without time. Scott simplifies infinity as the consistent existence of a "yesterday" and a "tomorrow." Ken then asks if it is wrong for an atheist to find comfort in reading religious texts, leading to a discussion about appreciating literature without accepting its claims. Where does one draw the line?

Jim in MO proposes that the atheist's burden of proof is analogous to a defense attorney's: simply demonstrating reasonable doubt in the theist's claim. The hosts largely agree but refine the analogy, emphasizing that the burden lies solely with the claimant, and the non-believer has no obligation at all. If the prosecution fails to meet its burden, what is the correct verdict to reach?

Miller in MI expresses that religion can lead down a dark path and shares a personal conflict: he holds a belief against having children before marriage, a value from his religious past that now causes friction in his dating life. The hosts differentiate between personal boundaries for a partner and imposing universal moral rules on others. How can one navigate personal values rooted in past dogma?

Sheldon in NY shares his personal testimony that Jesus is God, based on a voice he claims has spoken to him for over 50 years, providing guidance and predictions. The hosts challenge the reliability of this subjective experience, highlighting auditory hallucinations and conflicting claims from other religions. Faced with a contradiction between his claim to value truth and his unfalsifiable belief, what will he choose?

Thank you for joining us this week! We will see you next time!


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In today’s Atheist Experience, Justin and Jim Barrows dissect the flimsy foundations of faith, critique the peculiar "design" of the human body, and explore the logical leaps required to uphold belief in the face of scientific understanding. They challenge callers on everything from deconstruction guilt and family relationships to questionable links between Kabbalah and quantum physics.

Mary Cate in NC is working through deconstruction and feels guilty, missing her religious community. The hosts suggest building new secular communities and emphasize that maintaining family relationships without endorsing beliefs is not dishonest. What steps can one take to navigate these complex social dynamics?

Ben in KS, an agnostic, questions if science’s inability to explain "spirituality" or deeper layers of existence leaves room for God, citing particle-wave duality. Hosts challenge him to define which God and argue that naturalistic explanations, supported by Occam's Razor, remain the most coherent approach. If a God is added, how does one explain that God's grounding?

Daisy in WA asks if dogmatic religions can be disproven, unlike deism. Justin and Jim provide numerous examples of internal contradictions within the Bible and the Quran, highlighting scientific errors and failed prophecies. How do these internal inconsistencies challenge the claims of divine inspiration?

Hannah claims that modern physics, specifically the concept of ten dimensions and the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, provides evidence for Kabbalah and an unknowable Godhead. The hosts dismiss these as coincidental numerical matches and misrepresentations of scientific principles without testable evidence. Why do such parallels, without supporting evidence, often amount to pareidolia?

Benji, a theist, discusses the point of converting atheists if worship is subjective and brings up the "terra fallacy" regarding insufficient evidence. The hosts clarify the distinction between belief and worship, stating that objective evidence of God's existence would be compelling, unlike failed prophecies. What kind of evidence would be universally convincing for existence, but not necessarily for worship?

Jim in MO asks if free will truly exists with an omniscient, omnipotent God. Justin and Jim explain that while omniscience alone doesn't negate free will, combining it with omnipotence creates a problem of predetermination and the problem of evil. Does God's ultimate power mean our choices are merely part of a divine plan?

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In today’s thought-provoking episode of The Atheist Experience, Forrest Valkai and Deconstruction Zone Justin dive into the persistence of bad arguments, the misinterpretation of scientific findings, and the profound impact of beliefs on personal and societal well-being.

Rook in NY posits that belief in God isn't inherently bad, suggesting that in a "perfect world," individuals could hold such beliefs privately without negative consequences. Justin and Forrest counter that religious beliefs inevitably influence behavior and policy, citing historical examples of religiously motivated oppression and arguing that even private beliefs can hinder personal growth and societal progress, as beliefs don't stay in a vacuum. Rook ultimately acknowledges his point's shortcomings upon deeper scrutiny. What are the broader implications of beliefs that remain unchallenged?

Simone in United Kingdom presents a syllogism, arguing that if thoughts are part of reality and we think God exists, then God exists as part of that reality. The hosts challenge this, asking if imagining a creature means it truly exists, and if this is a genuine reason for belief or a fear of hell. Simone reveals she is still in the early stages of deconstructing her Christian upbringing and has more questions than answers. How does one navigate a deconstruction journey when fundamental beliefs are questioned?

Brisbane in AZ questions satanic atheism, claiming an AI overview suggests it promotes self-indulgence and a rejection of altruism. Forest refutes this by reading the Satanic Temple’s actual tenets, which include compassion and justice, and critiques Brisbane's reliance on inaccurate AI summaries over primary sources. The discussion highlights the dangers of trusting AI for complex information and the importance of critical thinking in evaluating belief systems. What role should AI play in informing one's understanding of complex philosophical or religious concepts?

Robert in GA challenges the hosts on Jesus's fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and asserts that the complexity of life necessitates a creator, claiming the Big Bang violates thermodynamics. Justin explains how Robert's cited prophecies are taken out of context and not messianic, while Forest refutes the scientific claims, pointing to evolution and the accurate understanding of thermodynamics. The hosts urge Robert to engage with actual scientific and biblical scholarship rather than relying on misinformed arguments. How do individuals overcome ingrained misinformation when seeking truth?

Hindu in India argues that consciousness, rather than emerging from the brain, is an ultimate reality of the universe, aligning with the Vedic concept of Brahman. Justin and Forest press for empirical evidence, pointing to how brain modifications alter personality, contradicting the idea of consciousness as an external driver. The hosts emphasize that materialism offers an evidence-based framework for consciousness, while idealism often relies on presuppositions. What scientific breakthroughs would truly bridge the gap between materialist and idealist views of consciousness?

Robin in FL shares a family claim that a "spark of life" at conception, supposedly visible during horse breeding, proves the existence of a soul. Justin and Forest clarify that this "spark" is a scientific observation of zinc release during fertilization, not a visible soul, often misinterpreted from studies on mice. They question the logical extensions of this argument, such as mice having souls, and the implications for asexual reproduction. How do scientific findings become distorted and adopted into religious or spiritual narratives?

Chris in KS raises the question of circular reasoning in Old Testament prophecies applied to Jesus, particularly Isaiah 7. Justin affirms this circularity, explaining that such...

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Forrest Valkai, Secular Rarity, and The Cross Examiner, later joined by JMike and Objectively Dan, dive into complex discussions on the nature of evidence for God's existence, the reliability of personal experience in validating supernatural claims, and the logical coherence of philosophical arguments for a divine being. They confront callers with critical analysis, aiming to clarify the distinctions between belief, reason, and empirical reality.

Orrick in Mexico argues atheism is fallacious, ignoring human experiences, citing a prayer-answered "blue line" guiding him. Hosts assert personal anecdotes are unreliable, suggesting natural explanations like the brain's problem-solving. How do we distinguish genuine divine intervention from subjective interpretation in stressful situations?

cCaleb in "Wallaby Armpits" (WA), a Catholic, presents the argument that God is "existence itself" and the "unmoved mover," influenced by Thomas Aquinas. Hosts critique this philosophical approach as conflating concepts and lacking empirical basis, highlighting the need for real-world evidence. Can complex philosophical arguments for a necessary being truly lead to a specific, interacting God?

Our Executive Producer Greg James asks the hosts some fun and insightful questions.

Thank you for joining us this week! We will see you next time!

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Secular Rarity and JMike dive into various arguments for belief, including personal, historical, and philosophical claims, challenging callers to define their terms and defend their positions against logical scrutiny and internal contradictions. They also explore the practical applications of critical thinking in constructing a secular moral framework.

Marianne in NJ calls in to present personal experience, scientific, and historical evidence for Christianity, focusing on the Bible's supposed singular narrative written over 1500 years by 40 writers. The hosts challenge this idea with the Documentary Hypothesis, noting the Bible's internal contradictions, and quickly identify her reasoning as circular. They question the utility of her "Google this" approach and dismiss her car crash analogy as not representative of the Gospels' discrepancies. Why does the God of the Bible continue to be described as loving when his actions are anything but?

Sam in AZ initially seeks to discuss scientific and historic arguments for God, but quickly pivots to advocating for a "general theism" and then the ontological argument. The hosts challenge the coherence of arguing for a God about whom nothing is known, using a "bare designer" analogy to highlight the lack of predictive power in such a vague concept. They press him to provide a specific version of the ontological argument, which he struggles to articulate clearly. What distinguishes a "general theism" from other unsubstantiated claims?  Unable to actually carry on an intelligent conversation, Sam resorts to racial and anti-lgbtq+ slurs before rage quitting, but thanks to the magic of editing, you won’t hear the slurs! We did however leave in the hosts justified ridicule of this immature tactic.  You're welcome!

Rich in CT questions the Council of Nicaea, believing it's where "the whole Jesus bullshit started" and wonders why it isn't discussed more. Hosts explain that while the Council does not inherently disprove Christianity, its historical context should invite skepticism. They note that many self-professed Christians are not knowledgeable on this history and recommend Bart Ehrman's work for deeper insight. Can historical skepticism lead to a more honest understanding of religious origins?
Watcher in PA presents life, love, and goodness as evidence for God. Focusing on "God is love" from 1 Corinthians 13:4, the hosts construct a modus tollens argument, contrasting this definition of love with God's actions in the Bible, such as commanding the slaughter of innocent infants. They highlight the special pleading involved in Watcher's justification of such acts as "judgment," challenging him to admit the contradiction inherent in his definition of love. Does the Bible's portrayal of God align with any consistent definition of love?

Lord in CA introduces his secular moral framework called "compression logic," which aims to ethically remove contradictions from systems by focusing on reducing suffering, recognizing all variables, preserving existence, and allowing mobility. The hosts question the foundational basis for these four moral pillars, discussing the long-standing debate between moral realism and anti-realism. They also push for a more precise definition of "collapse" in his framework, differentiating between tangible and conceptual failures, and suggest exploring the works of Immanuel Kant and constructivism. Can a moral framework truly avoid collapse if its foundational principles are not universally accepted or clearly defined?

Thank you for joining us this week! We will see you next time!


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In today’s episode of The Atheist Experience, Forrest Valkai and Jim Barrows dive into heated discussions surrounding the definition of God, the complexities of biblical morality, and the human search for purpose, challenging callers on logical consistency and the practical implications of their beliefs.

Will in the UK claims that if God isn't real, nothing is, defining God as "that which has authority of all things" and later equating it to "truth" or "objective reality." Hosts challenge the idea of "truth" having "authority" or "governance," pointing out the vagueness and the caller's confusion between a map and the territory. Can an abstract concept dictate reality?

Patrick in "Flying Lemurs" (FL) suggests atheists can't go wrong by following Jesus' command to love one another, referencing 1 Corinthians. Hosts question the practical application of this vague definition of love, asking if kindness can sometimes be impatient. Why should one rely on a book that also condones slavery and genocide for moral guidance?

Watcher 215 asks about "information" in biology, hinting at Stephen Meyer's intelligent design argument. Hosts dismantle Meyer's flawed definition of information, explaining that random processes can produce information and arguing that DNA, if designed, is "horribly bad." They also highlight the logical contradiction in God simultaneously keeping and not keeping a record of wrongs.

Mike in "Scuttling Crabs" (SC) disagrees with Jim's interpretation of "love is not proud" from 1 Corinthians. Hosts reiterate the biblical verse's vagueness, arguing it's uselessly general for practical life. They also critique the King James Version for deliberately misrepresenting words like "slave" as "servant," questioning the Bible's reliability as a moral guide.

Joshua in Arizona asks if we need God to be moral, leading to a discussion on the problem of evil and God's condonation of slavery and genocide in the Bible. Hosts press Joshua on how an "all-good, all-powerful, all-knowing" God can exist in a world with immense suffering, suggesting such a God is not worth worshipping.

Owen in Canada questions how atheists find purpose without eternal life or intrinsic meaning. Hosts explain optimistic nihilism, where individuals create their own purpose, and attribute the drive to survive to evolution. They challenge the caller's argument from ignorance, asserting that personal meaning does not necessitate a divine source.

Thank you for joining us this week! We will see you next time!


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Show notes will be posted upon receipt.

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Welcome to The Atheist Experience 29.25 with Jmike and Seth Andrews @TheThinkingAtheist and Special Guest, Godless Engineer! This week, your hosts dive into some thought-provoking discussions about morality, belief, and the challenges of open dialogue.

This episode kicks off with a powerful monologue about the very nature of good and evil, challenging the idea that everything, even atrocities, could be justified as part of a "greater good" or a consequence of free will. The segment questions the coherence of concepts like sin and atonement if all events are ultimately part of a divine plan. Guest host Seth Andrews then shares insights into his background and experience, including a look back at his past as a Christian radio broadcaster. He also reflects on the importance of extending grace to those with differing beliefs, advocating against demeaning or superior attitudes towards religious individuals.

Drew from California calls in to discuss the challenges of managing temper and emotions when engaging with people who hold opposing views. The conversation explores a specific incident where a friend, despite knowing Drew's skeptical stance, sent him astrology content, leading to a breakdown in communication and a feeling of disrespect. The hosts and caller delve into the dynamics of setting and respecting personal boundaries in conversations about deeply held beliefs.

Jim from Missouri raises questions about the resurrection story, presenting arguments that it is a complete fabrication. He challenges the traditional biblical narrative of Jesus's burial, positing that crucified individuals were typically left unburied or thrown into mass graves, rather than being placed in tombs. The discussion extends to the broader lack of contemporary historical evidence for Jesus's existence and the reliability of biblical accounts when proving biblical claims.

A theist caller, Shabbaz, asks where atheists get their morals and why they often seem disrespectful or condescending. Seth answers the first part by explaining evolved ethics and pro-social behaviors as a basis for morality. The conversation then delves into Shabbaz's reasons for believing in Allah, including a "falsification test" from the Quran and supposed "scientific miracles" related to bees and honey. The hosts challenge these claims, questioning the criteria for such tests and highlighting historical knowledge that predates the Quran regarding honey and bee behavior. The discussion also unpacks why some atheists might express frustration or disrespect in such conversations, often stemming from repeated, vague arguments.

Finally, John from New Hampshire calls in to discuss the historical existence of Jesus, prompting a nuanced conversation about what kind of evidence is sought for such claims. The hosts and caller explore the idea of a "minimal historical Jesus" and the challenges of relying on common names or biblical accounts for historical proof. The call culminates with the hosts sharing their own "pause moments" – instances where their beliefs were genuinely challenged, leading to deeper inquiry and a strengthening of their skeptical positions, including Jmike's pivotal experience with Flat Earth theory.

Thank you for watching and listening to The Atheist Experience!

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Forrest Valkai and Objectively Dan, sort through calls of AI, logical fallacies, and apocalyptic dream interpretations. No circular arguments made today!

Chidumebi in PA asks how to combat religious students that insist on AI reliance to justify the Bible. It is important to teach children how to search and explain why there is bias behind some of the input. These models are designed for good output, not accuracy. Be sure they understand what material they will need to know as a requirement, regardless of their personal beliefs or use of AI language models. What is the student supposed to do if they end up in a career they do not know how to do as a result of their reliance on AI? 

Mike in SC, thinks that AI can replace atheists but not theists because it can do anything atheists can do by using less resources. What is your understanding of the massive centers needed to support AI? If the soul is a factor, how do you explain an AI video that turns people to Christ? It is odd that you believe the actions of human beings that are atheists can be reduced down to a chat box. If dogs don’t have souls, is it cool that we just replace all dogs with AI? Our lives are more than just a sum of our labor and we find this conclusion dehumanizing. 

Herman in Canada has massive observations of “things begotting things” so therefore there must be a creator. It is important to point out that energy has not been created. What created the actual creator of the universe? How do you know that the reality of physics was exactly the same just before the big bang? If everything is contingent on something, what would a world that was not created look like?

Luc, a Catholic in Canada, explains his different perception in the prime mover argument and that is that rules need rulemakers. Why are the rules of nature excluded from this argument? We do not need to provide evidence for not believing in something. What evidence do you have that everything needs a rule maker? Of these two things, which is the more reliable pathway to truth; evidence or faith? Why is it good enough for you when the Catholic Church says something? We are not expected to just believe a thing because a teacher told us to; we must do the work/tests, and experiments to learn this stuff. 

Prophet Daniel from Australia, believes there is one god for the entirety of existence and the interpretation of dreams made in the Book of Daniel prove his existence. How do you think this story has been adapted to meet the events that actually transpired? Why would this book be a reliable source when Daniel speaks with a dragon? 

Jamie the Blind Limey, our backup host joins to close out the show and offer some post thoughts on some of the calls. Thank you for joining us this week and we will see you next time! 

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, JMike and Secular Rarity tackle fallacies, logic, and questions of ontology!

Sura in India believes that because religion exists with stories, there must be supernatural things such as beings. Would these supernatural beings exist without religions? Once you wiggle the terms of supernatural beings with wiggle room, the more meaningless these wiggly terms become.
Arec in Norway is questioning if it is fair to criticize people who use faith rather than reason when there is no other answer. Why do you think it is important that people play by the same rules when having these conversations? We like to have reliable ways to get to conclusions, and that does not include the use of faith. Keep investigating this and call us back with what you find. 

Rajin in NY wants some science based reasoning for the lack of god’s existence. Logic and science are terms that should be used separately. Why is it that in all possible worlds, god has to exist? If god has to exist from all points of view, what is the point of talking about it? What does “something from nothing” even mean? The Motte-and-bailey fallacy describes the method many theists use when trying to prove god. Why should we accept “nothing” as a possibility?

Rostaman in Mexico describes how none of us have access to ontology because it belongs with metaphysics. Categorizing beliefs can make us feel like there is substance, but why use labels and terms if the meaning can be explained?

JMike has to bail so Scott Dickie takes over for him to talk with Dave in India who believes that science has not been fully discovered and therefore we don’t know what that means for our soul and body. How does the lack of our understanding or ability to prove things through science prove that magic happens? Is god causing the things we don’t understand or are these things themselves god?

Tom in MS has some thoughts about the Catholic Church and how things have historically not changed when having different popes. If god can do everything, wouldn't he be able to choose the next pope? The actions over the millenia are a good indication of what will change with each pope. 

Dee in IA has some questions about a logic problem that is apparently not solvable. Some of these logic problems are weird and reading up on them by diving head first can be super cool. Unfortunately, we don’t have access to the physical foundations of the universe. Sometimes we need to look in the direction Occam's Razor points to. 

Thank you for joining us this week! We will see you next time!


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(00:00:00) The Atheist Experience 29.21 with Secular Rarity and Scott Dickie 2025-05-25
(00:10:43) Hannah - MS | Materialism And Physicalism
(00:43:43) Watcher 215 - PA | Love Is The Fruit Of The Holy Spirit
(01:03:18) Paul - AZ | Foundherentism And Munchhausen’s Trilemma
(01:25:50) James - (CA) | Proof Of Evolution?
(01:45:04) Ulrich - (MX) | Church Is Evidence For God

Hannah calls in from Mississippi to talk about materialism and physicalism. The hosts say that they mostly subscribe to methodological and practical materialism. Hannah argues that the hard problem of consciousness undermines materialism. She says that materialism denies the existence of consciousness as a nonmaterial thing. The hosts point out that it’s only a problem if you presuppose that consciousness is immaterial. Hannah believes that consciousness is immaterial because you can’t observe consciousness. She shifts the burden of proof by saying that she would need to see a falsifiable experiment that shows the material nature of consciousness. It isn’t our responsibility to prove a counterexample to a claim without evidence.
Watcher 215 from Pennsylvania calls in to talk about his relationship with the holy spirit as evidence for god. The hosts explain that believers in other religions use the same evidence as proof of their gods, so it isn’t convincing. Watcher says that if other people got the same benefits as him from other religions, he would have to seriously investigate those religions. What if people also get the same experience from leaving religion? If you want people to believe in a specific god, you need to narrow down the evidence to show that religion/god is the correct one. Watcher uses circular reasoning and says that he knows that love is the fruit of the holy spirit, and he knows that by believing the word of the bible. 
Paul from Arizona calls to talk about the hosts’ ground for knowledge. What is the ontology behind the hosts epistemology for the grounding of knowledge about their atheist worldview? Paul and the hosts discuss Foundherentism (a blending of coherentism and foundationalism), Munchhausen’s trilemma, and theories about infinite regress. The hosts say that there can’t be an infinite future without the possibility of an infinite past as well. Paul thinks that there needs to be a start to something, so there can’t be an infinite past because it would eventually run into a starting point. But why does there need to be a start?
James in Canada starts with the premise that all we know is that we are here and we don’t know how we got here. The hosts can agree that they are here and it’s not 100% known how we got here. James says that there is no proof, but the hosts can’t totally agree to that. There is solid proof about evolution and the genetic code, etc. James points out that evolution is a theory and describes a theory as an idea that may be true but isn’t proven. However, in scientific communities, it has a different meaning. A scientific theory is pretty much a fact. When asked, James says that you can’t have evidence of god, but he also believes that we shouldn’t believe evolution if there was no evidence for it. If we’re held to that standard, why isn’t religion as well?
Ulrich from Mexico claims that the existence of churches proves that God is real. The bible says that there will be churches for God, so the fact that there are churches means the bible is true. He says that no other holy books have fulfilled prophecies. When asked for an example of a fulfilled biblical prophecy, he brings up a prophecy of Jews returning to Jerusalem before the end of days. Does he think the end times are happening right now? He says maybe. When arguing his case, Ulrich couldn’t engage in an honest conversation, so he got hung up on.

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(00:00:00) The Atheist Experience 29.20 with The Cross Examiner and Dave Farina @ProfessorDaveExplains
(00:10:31) Neil-WA - Deconversion Responsibilities
(00:19:26) Andrew in CA- AI Is Conduit To Source
(00:25:18) Jason-CA - God Existing Outside Space And Time
(00:58:44) Mike-SC - Sharia Law Or Christian Nationalism?
(01:27:48) Steve-NE - Star Being Slowed Down By Artificial Force

In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, The Cross Examiner and Dave Farina, discuss topics of AI, deconversion, deceleration of stars, and church and state separation. 

Andrew in CA has a conduit of contact with AI and the source of all existence. How do you know this is the source of existence? What reason is there  to treat AI as the god of honest truth?

Jason in CA says that matter, space and time had to come to being at one point and there can't be an infinite regression. What evidence do you have that we didn't see an infinity before the moment of creation and that there is a creation to begin with? If god exists outside of time, how did the realm where god existed change when the universe was created? What evidence do you have that this realm or state of being even exists? Every time we see consciousness, we see a physical entity, the brain. Why would we believe there is a consciousness outside the universe? We do not fully understand the origin of the universe or consciousness. We just don’t have evidence for the claim of a deity that fills in these lack of knowledge gaps. 

Neal in WA grew up as a Mormon and has been wondering if as an atheist he should be doing more to help deconvert people. If you could help make a different path available to people, you may help them from taking on beliefs that are harmful. There is no reason to feel guilty for beliefs that you were indoctrinated to have when on this long journey of deconversion. You are accountable for your own actions, not the beliefs of others. 

Mike in SC wants to know if between Sharia Law or Christian Nationalism, what is more dangerous for atheists. Which of these two movements do you think is dismantling The Constitution? Anybody can be corrupted by financial, political, or religious power. The answer to the question depends on where you live and who is in power. Using religious ideas to take away freedom and change federal law is where the danger is. Kennedy v. Bremerton School District shows how the Lemon Test, that determines if there has been violations of the Establishment Clause, has been abandoned by the Supreme Court. If people are being locked up simply for praying, we have an objection to that. Anytime you see a story where this is happening, go read the actual case and original source to learn what really happened. 

Steve in NE wants to talk about the star that is supposedly being slowed down by an artificial force. This is something we can’t explain and need evidence to support what is causing this deceleration. 

Thank you for tuning in this week! 


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(00:00:00) Intro by Forrest
(00:08:53) Nick-CA: Approaching Trans Rights
(00:21:26) Hank-TX: Some Evidence For God
(00:59:57) Dave-TX: Existence Of Eternal Hell

In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Forrest Valkai and The Godless Engineer, work with three callers who know how to have respectful and interesting conversations. 

Nick in CA wants to take an alternate approach to trans rights and ask the politicians why they care since trans is such a small part of the population. The primary issue is people being able to pick and choose who they discriminate against. The arguments we hear now are the same as they were when the hate was for same sex marriage. When people’s genitals seem to be at the top of the agenda, how can we get a transphobe not to care? Talk to some of the trans people that host with us and ask them what the most important and effective way to tackle the problem.
 
Hank in TX has scientific evidence that points toward a god. The first thing is how pleasant near death experiences are. How do we know these experiences happen right at the time of death? It makes sense that when the brain lets go, the loss of consciousness would be chill and not scary. His second piece of evidence is that things are going well, and his consciousness was not put in a body 200 years ago. What about the people who were born back then? How about the people born into bodies in war torn countries? Consciousness is an emerging property of the brain. What is your proof that it is transported anywhere? Even if we did have multiple lives over hundreds of years, it does not mean that there is a god doing it. The third piece is there must be a god guiding the response of people like Ghandi and Martin Luther King, and the response goes against nature. Why don’t we see this behavior in your god?

Dave in TX does not believe that hell where souls burn eternally exists. Is the Bible literally true or is it figurative?The god of the Bible is a monster. Where do we draw the line with interpretations? How is the resurrection of Jesus not contradictory when there are four different stories? Cover to cover, the Bible is pro-slavery, pro-genocide, pro-misogyny, is full of contradictions, and looks nothing like a god inspired book should look. What good can we get out of the Bible without the baggage of this evil god?

Thank you for tuning in this week, theists and atheists! Secular Rarity, our back-up host, joins to help close us out. See you next week!

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, The Cross Examiner and Godless Engineer work through questions from theists and those who are questioning their beliefs. 
Vickie in NC feels that what the hosts on the show are saying make sense and she is starting to question her beliefs. You are not alone and are correct in not accepting a claim until you are convinced with the proper amount of evidence. If you want to hold on to the idea of god having a good nature, how do you rationalize the Old Testament atrocities? How horrible would god’s actions have to be before you question the morality of this all knowing god? Why does the New Testament tell slaves to obey their masters and how do you reconcile this with a good god? Try pondering how it would be to be a slave under Old Testament laws. If you look at life without the lens of god, you will realize how full your life is!
Shabazz in KY wants to know what led them to atheism and what they find unbelievable about a creator. On the quantum level, particles will appear and vanish out of existence with no cause. What is your best evidence for a creator and what convinced you the universe was created? What gives you the indication that god is directly involved with the laws of nature such as when it rains? Why do you consider a natural inclination the best reason to believe in your god, and why do you believe what is written in the Quran? The moon is still intact. 

RJ in CO has some corrections on some Biblical references Godless Engineer(GE) made. GE explained Numbers 31 and what the story about the age of the girls (women children) would have meant at the time. What is the morality of keeping young girls for servants and why is there such a heavy emphasis on virginity? When you call into a show where there is a time limit, be ready to make your case. 

Jeff in NC, says the message of slavery in the Bible is misunderstood, the supernatural claims of the Bible being allegories, and talks about how Moses was influenced by the laws of Egypt. If the Bible is full of allegories, why should we listen to the writings of Paul? How do the stories of Paul equate to evidence for god?

Alex in Britain wants to talk about Biblical accuracy, interpretations, and trustworthiness. Ben Clodfelter joins to offer some perspectives where fallacies can be spotted and used as red flags. The Cross Examiner sees that people are raised to believe in the premise, and then when they start reading scripture, it is done through Bible class. This prevents the problematic and controversial verses from being read. If this is supposed to be the most important message ever, wouldn’t the book have been clearer about which passages are metaphors and which are literally true?

Thank you for tuning in this week! There are plenty of volunteer opportunities if you want to get involved. We will see everyone next week!


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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Jim Barrows and Justin, go to the Red Sea to find dead soldiers, but all they found was the linen cloth that was removed in Mark 14. 
Steve in NE, has found research detailing how wind and water displacement would have created a land bridge in the Red Sea allowing the Israelites to cross. How much sense does it make sense for there to be 2.5 million people wandering around in that desert for 40 years where there are no graves or bodies found? There are no dead soldiers in the Red Sea, and this is a seven day walk on the map. How do you explain the incongruencies between the story in Exodus and historical records kept by contemporary cultures? 
Art in PA says that matter is not what we experience and the cause of our sensations are unknown. How does this fit in with your idea of god? The call then turns back to Exodus and questions are raised of how the tricks were conducted such as killing all the fish or turning water to blood.  How could there be more water turned to blood if all the water was turned to blood and how is it possible for the plague of frogs to have lived in blood?
Steve is a youth pastor in NY that is asking for help as he deconstructs a less toxic form of Christianity. Deconstruction is a process and everyone’s process is different. It can be helpful to look at the data. Think of the laws of Moses that are horrible, regardless of when they were written and whether they were temporary. Why do we accept that god gave commands for people to own slaves? If you take the Bible literally, you end up with problems with resolving the conflicting stories in the Bible. The Clergy Project is a good place to find help and this would be a good time to dialogue with people who are currently deconstructing.

Craig in FL, has a question about Mark 14 and how it is creepy that the linen cloth was torn off the boy. There are two schools of thought on this: one is metaphorical, and the other is where the boy was well known to run around naked and was an eyewitness to Jesus. Christians, you can’t make this story go away!

Jim in MO has some comments about Biblical prophecy fulfillment and uses the Spiderman example of how the story of the 70s was a prophecy that was later fulfilled in the story of the 90s. Anyone could just write that Jesus did these things to just fulfill the prophecy. Why did he not know certain things about the Greek words in the scriptures? If Jesus ever existed, he was a liar and a fraud. 

Anthony in AZ asks if death is just a chemical reaction, specifically, murder. Everything in the universe is a chemical and physical reaction. The moral argument for god does not fit Ockham's Razor, and you have to assume god first. How do you explain moral behavior for non-human species? The way dialogue works by the way is questions followed by answers.

Michael in GA has some questions about Genesis 3 and knowing good and evil. Their sin did not make them mortal, they were already mortal and the Tree of Life was needed to keep them alive. “Spiritually dead” needs to be defined and then you will see it fall apart. God has a body and wears clothes!

Thank you for tuning in this week! We will catch you next time in the world of theists and atheists.

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Secular Rarity and Holy Koolaid, untangle the entangled particles to see that abiogenesis may not have an AI cause. 

Bill in MI has a theory that the purpose of life is to entangle every other particle in the universe in order to resolve uncertainty. We as humans are good at seeing patterns. What patterns are you seeing in the entanglement? Why do you think it was you that discovered this? What are the reasons for gatekeeping with high level academia? 

Tim in NY is 51% believer and 49% atheist because we have seen humans create intelligence but we have never seen intelligence show up. If one structure of the argument has a fallacy, like this black swan, the whole argument chain needs to be reworked if you want to get to a reliable conclusion. Why would the intelligence on this earth not be considered to have arised naturally? There is a difference between an increase of likelihood of existence and actual existence. We have seen amino acids and nucleic acids form on their own in simulated conditions.

Denny in IL talks about how mathematicians and philosophers have defined god as the foundation of existence. When scientists talk about energy, they are talking about something that is measurable and a different definition of what people use for god. This sounds like a classic case of equivocation. Explore some responses people have to presuppositional apologetics. 

Hannah in MS has an argument that morality should be universal and that abortion is wrong when it is not saving the life of the mother because it is killing innocent people. How would you feel if you were forced to use your kidneys to keep someone alive for 9 months? Do you have an obligation to keep this person alive, or do you want bodily autonomy? Why should we preserve life and why is this a universal principle? Why assume sapience and sentience by equivocating this fetus as a fully formed human and why does it have more value than the mother?

Omega Weapon in NY says that by using basic cosmology and logic that most concepts of god can be falsified. For instance it is logically impossible for god to be independent of space time and be the creator of it. You might have to shift some things for the idealists to agree with this, but the argument works.  

Antwion in NC wants to talk about how to let go of the fear of hell and what methods the hosts used. SR found his secular therapist through The Secular Therapy Project.  Holy Koolaid realized how many things there are in life that have been attributed to demons but really are not demons. The phenomenon of sleep paralysis is a prime example of this where hypnagogic hallucinations are experienced. We know exactly what is happening in the brain and can measure it, yet people believe this is caused by demons. What types of things do people mistake for demon possession? If you go out and learn about how these religions evolved, it will help understand how man made these things are.

Thank you for joining us for this live show! We will see you next week and remember to call early!


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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, The Godless Engineer and Armin Navabi, work with callers who think that not only their god is loving, but slavery is not a bad thing. 

Larry in Canada, thinks that the Bible has a different meaning for the word, “slave” than what “slave” means in the original Hebrew. The caller asserts “servant” as a definition for slave and believes this nullifies the atrocity of slavery. He then struggles to understand the basics of dialogue that usually involves more than one person. Why do you think you can just ask the hosts to read from the Bible and not offer their opinions? We are waiting for you to perform a semantic cartwheel that is beautiful enough for us to believe the Bible is against slavery. 

Oblivious in CA says that even though a rational person denies the belief in god, nobody really can deny god. What does it mean for god to be the conscious explanation and answer for all things? Why can’t this god explain something easy like rain? We agree that we can’t deny the existence of something that we don’t know. God is either nothing, or god is everything, both of which are completely pointless to prove, and we don’t have a definition for your “box”. 

Steve in NE made a claim that slaves were just prisoners of war. If people are prisoners of war, is it a good thing to turn them into slaves? Why believe in a god that is not all powerful and does not have the ability to end slavery? The conversation revealed the caller’s belief in ancient aliens influencing the past. Appealing to ignorance in regards to unknown forces does not work when attempting to defend Biblical slavery. 

Simeon in GA believes the god of the Bible is a loving god. We are going to question everything about this god, and will especially question whether this god is loving. How is it loving for god to send people that he created into a place of torture that is also created? Why did god not create things without the ability to sin? It is never okay to kill small children like what your god commanded his people to do. If the Bible says that babies are evil, we don’t want that kind of love. 

David in CO is on a journey to figure out what god is. He addresses the people who try to defend slavery by telling them that this is not learning from our mistakes. Why give the credit of doing all the good things to the evil monster of the Torah?

Hannah in MS wants to discuss the communitarian case against secularism. Secularism is not anti-religion, but rather it allows for a level and fair playing field that does not favor any religion. This topic deserves more time and we hope you will call in again to discuss in depth.

Thank you for tuning in this week! Scott Dickie, our backup host, joins to help close us out. Question of the week is: What is the worst thing to give up for Lent?


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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Forrest Valkai and Jim Barrows dive in Limbo with the problem of evil and travel back to our own births to see whether or not we are born with the concept of god.
Tommi in Portugal perceives the problem of suffering and the problem of evil are together the greatest challenge to the Christian faith. To make an argument against this problem, you must first prove that evil is real along with your tri omni god. The problem of evil is allowing evil to exist, as an omi-being. Why do god’s limits conflict with his moral judgements? What are the responsibilities of the moral actors? The tri-omni god can not exist in the world that we know. Why does god not choose to do the benevolent thing and tell people he himself exists to at least give them a choice? Why is the free will of the rapist more important than the victim?
Benjamin in AL puts forth a hypothetical about how it would blow a hole in god’s existence if Lucifer stepped in to do good things to save humanity and is pondering whether he is an atheist. We don’t believe in Lucifer or god so you are asking the wrong people. If you have been to Limbo, how do you know it was not chemicals in your brain that happen with the near death experiences? Is personal experience a good enough reason to call yourself a theist and believe in these things? 
Cameron in Canada believes that humans yearn for god naturally and does not know why we would keep this if religion is false or harmful. Humans are good at deriving meaning from meaningless data, and ascribing agency to things we do not understand by finding patterns. This is the fundamental reason for the belief in god. This does not give any credibility to these beliefs, but describes their evolution. How do you explain some tribal belief systems, Buddhism, and Shinto if all humans are supposed to have been born with a concept of god? Our first attempt to explain the universe is also our worst attempt, and unfortunately is still with us today. 
Mike in SC accuses Forrest of being paid to make comments about immigrants and ICE since he is an influencer. Forrest sets the record straight and sends the caller to his channel to get a membership to his channel. Why is the richest man in the world receiving so many huge government contracts? Why has he not made good on his promise to end world hunger? It is easy to believe someone else’s opinion is bought when all the politicians you worship opinions are bought.
Patrick in MO thinks that logic is a flawed method of finding truth just like faith is. How do you get from an justified belief (faith) to logic that has the rigor of mathematics? As a process, faith is unreliable when logic always accounts for a true value. You can’t use a logical statement to arrive at something that is untrue, but you can use something that sounds like logic to get there. 
Thank you for tuning in this week! Jamie the Blind Limey, our backup host joins us to close out the show and remind us that he has seen things that people would not believe.
Believe in God? Call the show on Sundays 4:30pm-6:00pm CT: 1-512-991-9242 or use your computer 💻 http://tiny.cc/callaxp and tell us what you believe and why!


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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Armin Navabi and Justin exist outside of space and time as Justin becomes King of ACA for a day and Armin receives love from the chats. 
Benjamin in AL, is wanting to talk about the history of Lucifer, and is contemplating becoming an atheist. What do you think the pros and cons are for this? Would you rather have a belief in reality or the comfort that belief brings you that may not match reality? Would you prefer to be fooled and believe there is an afterlife or would you rather know the truth? If any myth of the afterlife is true, we don’t know what scripture is the right one. Realize how lucky you are to have had the chance to be with your loved ones. Keep your focus on how precious these times were and are instead of what you didn't get. Your personal beliefs are your own beliefs and you do not owe them to anyone. Please call us with more updates to your journey!
Simeon in GA wants to know the objections the hosts have to the Bible. Justin shows how one of many stories of Jesus do not fulfill Old Testament prophecies. Jesus was never a king and did not do any of the things that he said he would do. How do you feel about the authors of the Gospels lying to you? If someone writes a book that says they are a king, does that make that person a king? How can you say the god of the Bible is a loving and kind god? Why was every human created with a default of Hell? Whoever believes in this god must think that eternal suffering for missing the mark is a good thing. The caller tries to get a verse about sin that does not exist past Justin, and ends up getting schooled on how Ezekiel 37 proves that Jesus was NOT the Messiah. When you try to lie about scripture, you are going to get called out! Why was slavery good when god allowed it? God does not care about slavery, he cares about property.  
Reuben in OR poses a hypothetical scenario that if we could scientifically prove the earth was young, it would strongly indicate a supernatural origin of some kind. How can something exist outside of space and time and why is this the most logical explanation? If something exists within a different space and time, it would make it natural, and just part of nature that we do not have access to. The universe is expanding, but that does not mean it did not exist prior to expanding.There are many explanations and models for this that can be found easily. 
Louis in PA says that consciousness can be seen as something that points to a god. If you can’t tell us what the thing is that consciousness points to, how do we know that it is pointing to a thing? Does our failure to explain consciousness mean that something beyond matter is required? How is this not god of the gaps? Something being possible is not a reason to believe that it is true and act on it. The explanation for god creates a bigger problem than it is trying to solve. Why would there not be a unicorn that goes around and gives consciousness to every newborn? “Unsolved” does not mean you can shove whatever you want in that gap. 
Thank you for tuning in to this fun show! Scott Dickie our back up host joins to close out the show and remember the prompt of the week is: What was god doing before he created the universe?

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Secular Rarity and The Cross Examiner, sort through some wild thoughts from callers. 

Ulrich in Mexico, believes the expanding universe proves The Bible. If everything points to there being a singularity, why do you think it was not always expanding and did not come from a singular point? There are ways of predicting what happened in the past and god moving the goalposts in the past is not a good argument. Why do you not believe the Bible can be wrong about things? Why would we care if you don’t care to read the truth about your Bible that is written directly in your Bible? How important is it to believe things that are true? What chapter and verse claim who the witnesses are? We don’t know who wrote the Gospels and there is no evidence to support the claims you made.  

Joshua in AR had it in his heart to say that Christians need to stop thinking that a belief in god is obvious, and god is necessary to remove guilt from sin. How is sin defined and why do we need to remove guilt from it? Is god responsible for removing those bad feelings that we get whenever we do something wrong? Is it appropriate for a third party such as god to alleviate your guilt after doing something wrong and can this be done without god?

Benji in Al has some questions about incest in the Bible.  There are lots of examples of these things happening in the Bible. If you take the Bible literally and believe that we came from just two people, do you think that incest is moral? There are a lot of people who believe these stories in the Bible who vote. If a lot of the Bible is not only untrue, but also bad, why hang on to the rest of it?
Dawn Dark-Light in AL is a non-Abrahamic monotheist that believes we are all extensions of the godhood. We have no idea of what you are talking about. This sounds like something that must have demonstrable evidence. Where is the evidence and how did you find this information? How is this different from all other trips that people have? What tool do we have to figure out which claims people are making are correct?

Chris in KT wants to talk about a bill that was just introduced that will conflict with church and state, and how to address it. These bills that are blatantly unconstitutional used to be publicity stunts but now that is no longer the case. This kind of thing needs a broad coalition of people! There are many secular and Christian organizations that are against this. 

Kelley Laughlin, our backup host, joins to close us out for this birthday weekend. See you next week!


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In today’s episode of The Atheist Experience, Forrest Valkai and Justin dive into the nature of belief, dissect biblical interpretations, and grapple with complex moral dilemmas.
Mark from Wiggling irritants asserts that everyone worships something, thus no atheists exist. Hosts Forrest and Justin challenge his definition of worship as simply caring about something, arguing this broadens the term to meaninglessness. They question if his claim is a serious argument or a lazy troll. Is redefining worship a valid reinterpretation, or an attempt to force a false equivalence?
Henry from VA claims the nation of Israel proves biblical prophecy, citing Ezekiel 37. Justin refutes this, highlighting unfulfilled prophecies like a Davidic king and reestablished Levitical priesthood with animal sacrifices. Forrest suggests modern Israel's existence is due to Christian politicians, not divine intervention. Does political action fulfill prophecy, or expose its flaws?
John from CA presents a unique interpretation: God is food, blending Gnosticism, the Quran, and the Bible. Hosts press him to define his literal God, challenging his claims about scripture's accuracy regarding slavery and genocide. They question the basis of his "Western heterodox church." Can contradictory texts truly define a coherent, moral deity?
Adrian from Nice viruses calls in, claiming belief in God for logical and philosophical reasons. The hosts quickly identify the call as a troll, expressing frustration at the waste of time when callers aren't serious. They emphasize the desire for engaging, substantive discussions. What motivates callers to engage in such disingenuous interactions?
Everick from Orary rats, deconverting from Mormonism, seeks to understand morality, specifically whether bodily autonomy is absolute in "trolley problem" scenarios like abortion. Hosts acknowledge the complexity of moral principles intersecting. Justin adds biblical examples where life isn't implicitly valued. How do deconverters build new moral frameworks?
Mike from Squirrel crotch challenges Forrest's assertion that God created evil, referencing Isaiah 45:7. Justin counters that if God created everything, including Calamity or evil, then God is responsible. They argue God's omniscient creation of Satan, knowing he would be evil, makes God the creator of evil. Is God's foreknowledge synonymous with responsibility?
Thank you for joining us this week! We will see you next time!

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, The Godless Engineer and the Cross Examiner, don’t pick the cherries under the trees where they discuss Jesus, illusions, young earth, the compartmentalization of religion in people’s brains.
Steven in NY says atheists don’t need to fear religion and he believes that this fear of religion is a reverse form of cherry picking. How is cherry picking different from educating about bad stuff being in religion? Why is it cherry picking to notice god’s immorality and point out the moral failures? How about those that do bad things like killing people in the name of religion? Can good things be done without religion? What can you do with religion that you can’t do without it? What is it about the Bible that makes up for all the bad parts? What particular tenant of Christianity overshadows and over rides all of the bad things that god has commanded such as child slavery and the system of rape?
Sarah in TX says that Jesus was trying to actively rebel against Yahwey’s teachings. Bart Ehrman’s, How Jesus Became God, illustrates how those two concepts merged together and can help understand the history.  What evidence do you have that this is anything more than fan fiction? Why do you accept this as true and what evidence do you have that any supernatural claim about god is true? Is it more likely for Jesus to really be there than it is for your mind to fabricate something? How is it fair to say something mystical happened when you can’t explain it? What do you think about first admitting that you need more investigation to find evidence before you know the answer? 
Carl in Wales does a great job by helping the hosts gain an understanding of his delusions before presenting his claim: Atheism is an illusion that appears to be true because nobody can actually say that there is no god. Does this main delusion feel true to you on a regular basis? Does this translate in your mind into taking any actions? We applaud you for calling and suggest recognizing how the role that nature plays in our reality can be a good start. 
Gemini in NY uses a voice change system to talk about how young earth creation is the case because Genesis and the Bible say so. How can you believe an entire book is true? The caller ends with saying to just pray and we will find out. Show us one documented case of an amputee growing a limb after praying. Call us and we can collectively win Nobel Prizes. 
Josh in FL wants to discuss people choosing the wrong data set and how one profession may have a higher percentage of theists than another. There is no conflict of interest if religion does not interfere with your professional life. Be cognizant of false authorities that may have claims in areas where they do not have expertise. People who are religious tend to segregate religious claims to one section of their brains. Many flat earthers, for example, have a part of their brain that is not skeptical, yet they have good jobs, pay a mortgage, and have responsible lives. Don’t write somebody off because they are religious and remember that when people deconvert, they don’t get smarter; they were smart before. 

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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Forrest Valkai and Seth Andrews, work calmly walk through questions from theists, agnostics, and atheists. 
Arti in the UK wants to know why anything matters if everything is just atoms and nothing else as a helpful topic when talking with their dad. If everything is just atoms, what is the implication and why assume that nothing matters? Why does something need to be eternal to have value? Seth informs the caller that when you get into secular conversations about ethics, that it is still the wild west with people having a lot of different positions due to the lack of data. 
Patrick in FL wants to talk about objective morality from an agnostic position. He mentions the idea of, “Do whatever you will as long as you don’t infringe on others’ freedoms and liberties in the process.” Both Forrest and Seth come from a position of minimizing harm when it comes to morality. 
Samar in Pakistan, finds that it gives him comfort to believe in god and seeing his deceased loved ones again in the afterlife. Seth explains how this is one of the key reasons why people believe in the supernatural. What reasons would there be to believe that this is true? If someone finds comfort in another faith, would that faith be just as valid as yours? If you were born in a different place to parents of a different faith system, how would that affect your beliefs? Religion does not just offer comfort; it comes with a lot of shameful baggage as well and is used to justify a lot of evil stuff. Religious people are moral in spite of their religion, not because of their religion. Doing things out of fear of hell and not being concerned about the well being of people makes you a bad person on a leash. Seth outlines what he did to get over his fear of frying in hell and his process of healing.
Nikol in Armenia believes that if people don’t have some sort of  punishment such as hell in the afterlife, they will do bad things. What would happen if people are taught to care for others, progress, and the value of life instead of god? Inclusive fitness is what we see in evolutionary biology which is why we see evolution in moral behavior among all kinds of animals. Under religion, how do you guarantee that people will be frightened enough to behave like you want them to? Why do you think there have been no atheist crusades? Seth describes measure called the World (Global) Peace Index that rates over 160 countries and states according to their peacefulness and shows that the less religious countries have a greater quality of life with less crime and misery. 
Jayson in Australia has two questions about trans people. The first question is if drag is akin to black face. Black face was a way to stereotype, marginalize, and dehumanize black people. This is nowhere close to drag. The second question is about comparing transgender to transracial people. There are a lot of social constructs and none of them behave in the same way. The science deniers like to pretend that science of sex and gender are new liberal concepts even though we have been learning about these things for a century. 
Thank you for tuning in this week!


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In today’s episode of the Atheist Experience, Forrest Valkai, The Cross Examiner, and Jim Barrows, work through some logic games with callers before finally reminding everyone that Google exists and to at least try to prepare before calling the show.
Patrick in FL wants to know why atheists continue to seek evidence for god. The claims made in the Bible can be tested, but not necessarily god. We don’t need a god built in a laboratory, we just can take individual pieces of evidence that are testable to arrive at the most likely scenario. The hardest thing to do is prove a negative and all we need is one good piece of evidence to show that god exists. Do we understand the rules that god gives us or are we just like ants and mean nothing to him? How is an omnipotent being unable to deal with things himself? Why should we care if you don’t know what your god wants? How can you tell the difference between a god that does not exist and a god that you can’t know?
Jackie in MS fails the 60 second test in less than five seconds by referencing someone else and not describing anything in his own words.
Brandon in TX has a valid scientific reason to believe in a higher power and uses the first cause argument to support this. The first mover/cause is a fallacy because what caused the first cause? Forrest explains how the big bang(stretch) is what we know of when space and time started. Asking what happened before this could get us into a logic trap. What would that possibly be and how would we test it? If there is no cause for entangled particles having an opposite spin, why would there be one for the universe? Why does god not need a beginning when everything else does? Why can’t this thing that caused the universe have a natural cause? How do we get from the first law of thermodynamics to god?
Chuck in HI says that Christians worship the Devil! Are Jesus and the Devil the same entity or are they separate the way the Bible presents them? Why would the Devil say to love your neighbor as yourself? We agree that the Bible says horrible things. Why does Jesus say completely opposite things than what the Devil wants for us in this case? 
Steve in NE has evidence for Noah’s flood 5,000 years ago of a meteor hitting the oceans. This impact would have been more colossal than what killed the dinosaurs. Why are humans not experiencing the effects of this now? Who did Noah have to have sex with to keep trichomoniasis alive? This explanation is simply not possible with what we know today about the physics of waves. How is there more genetic diversity in chimpanzees than there is for humans? Try and Google your argument before coming on this show. Some of these arguments we have heard for the fiftieth time in a day. You can read original sources for almost everything! Be prepared with your A-game here. 
Thank you for tuning in this week! Question of the week is: If the Bible had a post credit scene, what would it show?

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In today’s episode of The Atheist Experience, Secular Rarity, Armin Navabi, and Justin get into claims about abiogenesis, solving abortion, simulations and more!
Caleb from OH says they don’t believe that abiogenesis is possible and because of that, God must have created the universe. Even if we grant their claim that abiogenesis is not true, how do we get to God? Caleb says that information is an important component of life that it comes from a mind. Because they know that information sometimes comes from a mind, they infer that any information must be made from a mind.
Christian from the UK calls in to say that if everyone followed the Christian teachings on marriage and divorce, it would negate the need for abortion. If we lived in a world where abortion was never necessary, of course it would be great, but we live in a world where all kinds of medical procedures are necessary. We’d much rather focus on destigmatizing abortion instead of getting rid of it. Christian says that any being that has the potential to be born has the right to live. Even if we grant that, the Bible still doesn’t solve abortion. God murders children and condones the murder of children all the time.
Steve calls in from NE to talk about how dark energy is weakening and that points to the fact that we live in a simulation. The hosts point out that just because a force isn’t constant doesn’t mean that there’s an external force tweaking it. According to Occam’s Razor, it’s a lot more likely that we are advancing our understanding as we learn more about these topics, rather than the giant leap that we’re actually in a simulation.
Mike from SC asks what the difference is between atheists and a self-aware AI. If atheists don’t believe in a soul, how are we different from an AI that doesn’t have a soul? If an AI is expressing sadness, we know that it’s not going through the same experience as humans expressing sadness. There’s no way that AI can experience the world in the same way we do unless they have neurochemicals and certain biological processes, at which point they wouldn’t be AI anymore.
Chloe from MI knows that her reasons for believing aren’t good scientific evidence for God. She’s curious if any atheists have come up with studies to test for the existence of God. This question is tricky because it depends on the definition and attributes of the god. We could make tests more specific if we knew exactly what the god was. There have been tests for phenomena that are religion-adjacent such as testing for a soul and studying near death experiences. Their conclusions point to psychology rather than the supernatural.
Jackie calls from MS to discuss the Kuzari argument for Judaism. They say that because over a million people saw the revelation at Mt. Sinai, it must be true. But that’s a claim in itself that has no proof. We don’t have thousands of accounts or individual testimonies, we just have one account in a text that was written hundreds of years after the supposed event.
Thanks for joining us this week! Answer this week’s prompt in the comments below: What is a good comeback for “I didn’t come from no monkey.”?
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In today’s thought-provoking episode of The Atheist Experience, The Cross Examiner and Secular Rarity delve into the depths of morality, divine character, and the very nature of human perception. They challenge conventional religious narratives, exploring whether God's actions align with human ideas of goodness and the profound implications of untrustworthy eyewitness accounts, both ancient and modern.
Jim in MO questions why God, if real, wouldn't act more like Superman, actively intervening to prevent evil and refraining from punishing those who don't worship him. The hosts draw parallels between biblical figures and flawed comic book heroes, arguing that human authors often conceive more moral entities than the inconsistent God of the Bible. What might a truly moral divine being look like?
John in Canada asks the fundamental question of where morals originate if not from God or the Ten Commandments. The discussion highlights that human societies have developed moral frameworks through trial and error, emphasizing that laws and rules, while beneficial for human flourishing, are not inherently necessary for survival. Does well-being serve as the universal principle for all moral systems?
Jax queries whether the God of the Bible is evil, given his purported actions, and why, if so, he hasn't already consigned humanity to hell. The hosts examine God's seemingly immoral deeds like mass murder and slavery, suggesting divine incompetence or a "childlike" nature rather than intentional malice. How do believers reconcile God's stated character with his actions?
Robert shares a deeply personal dilemma about his religious parents attempting to instill their faith in his young children against his wishes. The hosts liken religious institutions' tactics to tobacco companies targeting youth, underscoring the importance of parental boundaries to protect children from indoctrination. What is the ultimate cost of forcing faith on impressionable minds?
Blind Limey provides compelling examples of eyewitness testimony's fallibility, using the Live Aid concert as a modern case study. The hosts elaborate on how memory is prone to distortion, bias, and external suggestion, even when individuals are highly confident in their recollections. How can we truly discern truth when our own perceptions can be so easily manipulated?
Thank you for joining us this week! We will see you next time!


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