I keep getting asked in round about ways, what could have possibly happened to me

[Orrex]

4. Atheists are, to a smaller degree, subjected to a similar "analysis"

That is, a certain brand of theist assumes that atheism can only be a response to religion-based trauma, such as sexual assault or some vile experience. This is a reductionist attitude and might describe some atheists but certainly doesn't describe most or all, and such victims of trauma shouldn't be seen as emblematic of the whole.

I imagine that some feminists have been inspired to their views as a result of trauma or assault, but I would imagine also that this is likewise a small and nonrepresentative sample of feminsts in general.


When asked when I "became" atheist, my usual response is that I have always been atheist, at least since I was old enough to consider the matter, but certainly since before I knew what the word meant.

I suspect that a lot of feminists could say something similar: they didn't "become" feminst so much as they realized that this term is consistent with their views on gender and equality.


And you're right about your roundabout questioners--it's none of their damn business.