The Arrogance of the Atheists

Richard Dawkins,a prominent writer, scientist, and atheist, has had a speaking engagement at a local country club canceled. The Wyndgate Country Club in Rochester Hills uninvited him after learning that he was an atheist. Dawkins response was that it was an instance of bigotry, and an example of general bigotry against atheists in the community at large. He even went so far as to say that the action, 'violated the spirit of the Civil Rights Act'.

We find it difficult to believe that Dawkins has a hard time getting his views out into the world, given the fact that he is well known as an atheist and has been seen on such shows as Bill O'Reilly's cable program. It was that appearance which led to his un-invitation. But as to his overall charges, they themselves reek of a a certain arrogance, a bigotry of their own, upon a moment's reflection.

The various Civil Rights Acts of the US Congress hardly prevent him from speaking his own mind on his own time. Indeed, they hardly call on a private club at a private function to let anyone in particular speak. As Billy Joel says, you can speak your mind, but not on my time. Nor, we will add, on my dime either. Dawkins' type of bigotry is of the worst kind. It is a form of arrogance and self righteousness which is meant to suggest that we are neanderthals if we choose to ignore him.

The situation did not deal with prejudice against Jews, gays, or blacks, as Dawkins asserts. It deals with people not wishing to hear an atheist speak, which is hardly a civil rights question. His attack is presumption, and nothing more. They do nothing but demonstrate the inferiority complex of the shrieking atheist crowd.