The gods who walk among men.

"I think that Bill's issue, regarding beliefs that he doesn't share, is attached to the acceptance by some people of unexamined and unthinking embrace of comforting beliefs. I think he believes that if we did examine many of those beliefs that we would see the irrationality of them"

In a nutshell.

Amos.... I take on board what you say, but you are hardly a typical unbeliever, having a kindly nature and open mind, unlike may of the anti religion fanatics on this forum.

You must bear in mind that what you see as equality, is seen by others as an attack on their centuries old and firmly held beliefs
the "gay marriage" issue being a very good example

The traditional definition of marriage as man/woman and designed for the procreation of the species is not up for debate among the vast majority of believers.

Personally, I would not like to argue the case against homosexual marriage on only these grounds ....but like you, I am an atheist :0)