On Atheism – If people continue to think of atheism as a…
““On Atheism – If people continue to think of atheism as a kind of religion, then I demand all the perks that real religions get. I want to build big empty buildings where like-minded people can gather once a week to debate a non-existent deity. I want tax-exempt status. I want real food, not cheap wine and crackers. I want a rocking band. I want altar men! Not altar boys—altar MEN—and I want them to look like the chain-clad guy who hands an envelope to RuPaul at the beginning of “To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar”.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Critiques the idea of treating atheism as a religion by demanding similar privileges and rituals.
In simple terms: Mocks religious structures for atheism.
Question the need for institutional rituals.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- public debates
- community building
- tax status negotiations
- cultural events
- performance art
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do institutional rituals enhance community?
- Can secular groups benefit from tradition?
May overlook genuine spiritual needs of participants.