How to Discuss Religion Calmly

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Be prepared.

   This is the most crucial prerequisite for discussion on any topic.
   
   Reading is the most important thing in preparation.
   
   Thanks to the recent wave of writing, there is more than enough material to have a good understanding of arguments and counter arguments.
   
   The first rule of engagement is 'know thy enemy' so have also a decent knowledge of religious text, doctrine and dogma.
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   Step 2: Meet the person/target.

   Whether this discussion is planned, as in with a close friend or relative, or with someone you meet randomly on the train, patience is essential.
   
   After having put so much time and effort into the preparation you will no doubt be, to say the least, anxious to vent.
   
   Let the topic present itself and you will feel far more relaxed.
   
   Your goal should not be to de-convert, at least in the first conversation.
   
   It should be to get the person to think critically about their beliefs and other aspects of life in general. , This will give you an idea of how best to approach the discussion.
   
   Though it is often pointed out that atheists have no 'one opinion fits all'
   
   the same is true of the religious, some having markedly differing opinions, even in the same denomination, so you must understand exactly what the person's opinions are instead of prejudging from what they have labeled themselves as.
   
   This will also allow you to create some boundaries. , This will be the biggest test of your ability.
   
   It is most important in any discussion and is difficult to master; you will improve it with experience.
   
   Any one discussion will not often begin in the same way as one had before, therefore you must respond to the point in question directly and, with that, edge closer to a point you wish to make. , Vary the point and question depending on the particular discussion, trying to fashion them to line up with whatever the person is putting forward the most as supportive to their viewpoint, e.g. morality or design or consolation.
   
   Depending also on the length and scope of the conversation you may have to firmly argue or question more than once. , A good thing to do is to repeat what they said before retorting so as to (a) show that you're listening, and (b) make their point clear to yourself. , Other points here should stress evidence, reason, critical thinking, etc., trying to wrap up the discussion without directly talking about religion.
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   Step 3: Analyse the person and situation.

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   Step 4: Be calm

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   Step 5: unemotional and responsive.

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   Step 6: Make a firm point

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   Step 7: ask a firm question; try to make your audience really think.

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   Step 8: Listen to their response.

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   Step 9: Bring the conversation finally towards topics like

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    Step 10: but not limited to

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    Step 11: free speech

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    Step 12: free expression

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    Step 13: free inquiry.

Detailed Guide

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