There are no atheists in foxholes
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While the first part is almost universally true, and the second is certainly understandable, the conclusion does not follow. Wishing for something does not make it true. | While the first part is almost universally true, and the second is certainly understandable, the conclusion does not follow. Wishing for something does not make it true. | ||
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| + | To suggest there are no atheists in foxholes is to suggest there are no believers in hospitals. | ||
==Real-life counterexamples== | ==Real-life counterexamples== | ||
Revision as of 01:59, 16 November 2008
For more information, see the Wikipedia article:
"There are no atheists in foxholes" is a saying that means, roughly, that when things are bad, everyone turns to God for help. The same sentiment has been expressed in other forms.
Counter-arguments
This is an incredibly weak argument. In essence, it boils down to
- I am not strong enough to handle all of life's problems on my own.
- Therefore, I want a higher power to help me.
- Therefore, that higher power exists.
While the first part is almost universally true, and the second is certainly understandable, the conclusion does not follow. Wishing for something does not make it true.
To suggest there are no atheists in foxholes is to suggest there are no believers in hospitals.
Real-life counterexamples
Even taken literally, the saying is not true. Many atheists have served in the military and have seen combat.
- Pat Tillman - an American Football player who joined the military and died fighting in Afghanistan.
- Atheists In Foxholes Veterans Day Event - a parade and rally held on Veteran's Day, 2005 to recognize those who have served in the Armed forces. The event was sponsored by American Atheists.
