Don, I agree.

But, ignoring the threads you mention which are comparatively recent and, as you say, appear to have been started as a deliberate wind-up (which I deplore - never let it be said that I'm not even-handed!), over the years there have been many 'religious' threads and my impression has long been that the anti-religionists (for want of a better term) are always straight in there with the sneering and insults, the childish "Invisible Friend" kind of stuff. That's the impression, maybe I'm wrong but that's long been the way it's seemed to me, and I just find it all so unnecessary. One guy believes in his God, another doesn't. Wuppy-fuckin'-Doo! Life's too short. Let's everyone cut out the insults and sneering, which are in fact counter-productive in that they stifle real, meaningful debate, and treat each other with respect. That's all I'm asking.

Personally, I choose not to discuss my own beliefs, nor to try to foist them on others. I believe what I believe for very good, and very real, personal reasons based on my own experiences. But I accept that others have different beliefs (and yes, I see non-belief in God as 'beliefs' too), and I'm happy to hear their views - whatever gives each of us comfort is good AFAIC. But I don't need to sneer and insult others for what they believe, and I'd prefer them not to sneer and insult me for my own beliefs.

What's wrong with that?