What is the best way to stop a child from becoming an Atheist?

This was posted by a friend of mine recently on Facebook which I couldn’t help but respond too.

 

My initial response is that this is really sad and pompous at the same time. We did get into a respectful debate about the subject but it did leave me with many thoughts left over. My friend (whom shall remain anonymous) was apparently(from my understanding) heavily indoctrinated with religion when he was younger. So he has in a sense rebelled and has taken a harsh stand on religious beliefs. I don’t believe this is a new phenomenom of those brought up in heavily religious households revolting against those belief’s. I’m sure there is some truth to the old cliché that the preacher’s kids were usually the biggest trouble makers. I couldn’t fault my friend much and I respected the way he felt.

The answer above from “David M” still was on my mind very much. I’m not arguing for or against his point (although I do disagree with his main idea). I believe he shoots himself in the foot in trying to make his point and if anything he puts his cause further in the hole. His first sentence he totally insults and degrades anyone by saying they are of lower education or logic(than himself presumably).

 Do not educate them or expose them to critical thinking, logic or science.

-“David M” 

Not exactly the way to win friends or influence those of different beliefs. I’ve come to theory that “David M” wasn’t really wasn’t trying win anyone over but that this was just a forum for him rant and vent his frustration at the world. Why else would one hurl insults like “ groveling to an invisible friend”. Pretty much goes on to further demoralize and picture those not of his beliefs as uneducated and close minded.

The one idea or thought I do agree on is that of intolerance of those of other beliefs. Hardcore believers of many faiths can be intolerant if you don’t believe as they do. The ironic thing is that “David M” doesn’t appear to be very tolerant of those that don’t believe as he does. I actually feel sorry for him but at the same time admire his passion and conviction. I hope he find’s his peace someday.  

I’ll leave with a quote from someone with some experience in critical thinking, logic and science:

“I want to know how God created the world. I am not interested in this or that phenomenon, in the spectrum of this or that element. I want to know His thoughts, the rest are details.”
-Albert Einstein