Atheism’s shocking woman problem: What’s behind the misogyny of Richard Dawkins and Sam Harris?

[cbayer]

12. She may not have written the headline, but it is a bit

over-dramatic, I agree.

I do not agree that atheism by it's very nature rejects leaders, dogma or unity. I think the only thing one can say about the very nature of atheism is that it rejects god.

There are a growing number of organizations, meetings, local and national groups and even weekly services. Some will join, others will not, but one can not deny their existence.

Leaders aren't always chosen or elected. They are the ones that rise to prominence as spokespeople. Whether they represent anyone's particular atheism or not doesn't generally matter, they are seen by the general public as leaders.

And, as such, I think they have a responsibility to take a stand on this issue.

I also don't agree that people want to equate atheism to religion. The ones who are forming groups that have similarities to religious groups are atheists, not believers.

You can dismiss the article as sensationalist nonsense or you can take the opportunity to hear what many outspoken female atheists like Amanda Marcotte are saying. And their voices are increasingly being join by outspoken male atheists.

There is an opportunity to be and do something different than the rejected religious organizations have been and done.

Ms. Marcotte puts that together eloquently, imo.