""It's really hard for religious people to believe that atheists are "sincere in their views because being religious it's hard for them to think outside the "religious" box. If you believe something so passionately, it's hard to accept that everyone doesn't believe the same way.""


(I am kinda confused about where to post what, as there are a number of related threads and I posted something related on another one)

OK, What is puzzling is you seem to accept that there is a wide-spectrum of Athiests, but, at the same time find it difficult to believe there is also a wide spectrum of people who believe, to a varying degree, in a god.

I am not sure what you refer to as "religious people". Does it mean those who strongly adhere to a particular organized religion or religrous practice? If so, those are on the decline in Christianity (maybe, globally less so in other religions). Maybe there is a better way of characterizing those who believe in a god?

IMO, to get a more enlightened and insult-free discussion, people should show a bit more caution for "the feelings" of those they wish to carry on a respectful conversation. That is a fairly basic element of communication. Trying to stimulate people by talking down to them, demonizing them or acting as if they are stupid is a poor starting point.(that is a general observation, not pointed at you Stringsinger, or any other poster).