Thanks for the remarks, Casey. I've posted a bit lengthier bit about myself this afternoon.

Finally ! ! Another Pipe Smoker . My wife calls me "stinky" hehehe.
First group I've joined in years, but I have discovered a rather interesting lot of Free Thinkers.
Thanks for your page view.
Dave

Thanks for the add, Casey.

Upon further reflection, perhaps what revolutionaries and the successful comedians share is vision.

Exactly. And I don't care who started the war, we're going to finish it. We don't have any other choice.

Military historian and strategist BH Liddell Hart said, "the object of war is to secure a better peace." This is the measuring stick all actions must be weighed against. If violence, even of the non-metaphorical variety, satisfies this criteria, it must be considered an option. If it does not, we are merely stroking our own egos.

That is not to say that we all should follow a formal strategic plan. Sometimes chaos can lead to the confusion that can bring about a paradigm shift. But again, there is a difference between cacophony and noise.

Your example of atheist comedians is very appropriate. I would say that George Carlin has done far more for atheism than the RRS ever could.

Thank you for your very kind words about my video. It was a lot of fun to make and I think it shows.

It's so curious how one little mosquito bite can change a person. She's had more of a lasting impact on me than some of my exes! Glad to meet someone who has experienced something similar. Those of us with such intimate experiences with bugs can appreciate that atheism is an emotional choice, as well as a logical one.

You're right, of course, choosing between the "friendly" approach and the "assertive" approach is a false dichotomy. We would be wise to "speak softly and carry a big stick" as the saying goes. I think the danger is in confusing ridicule (or friendliness for that matter) as a strategy rather than a tactic. To me it seems groups like the Rapid Response Squad are satisfied with ridicule as an ends, rather than a means.

Violence for the sake of violence can bring about rebellion, but never revolution.

Ahhhh, not the books!! :)
He's quite fun! Alas, he is giving up the position, so some guy named Matt Smith will be the new Doctor...not sure how I feel about that!! But, I'm glad you've joined the group--it's fun!

Love Doctor Who...Love it!! And you should pick up some of the DVD's...They are awesome!! Tennant is my fave...so geeky!!
Thanx for joining TARDIS!!! I'm sure it would still hold the same sway you felt as a child...same doctor goodness...same evil daleky menace-ness!!

Yeah. I find AN interesting because it allows our differences to shine through. It's unfortunate when those differences are expressed in unwelcoming ways. Anyway, welcome. :)