Question 119

How many single atheists actively seek out other atheists to date or for long term relationships?

• Not actively -- it's a bit difficult to actively seek out atheist women to date when you attend a Lutheran college. But I am single, have been for too long, and would like to rectify that -- preferably with an atheist partner. (Dave Holloway #1184)

• I haven't...as is evidenced by my present girlfriend, who is religious. It is one of the hardest things I've ever done. To have a person about whom you care deeply think that what you believe is completely wrong is not a easy or pleasant experience. Tolerance is mandatory...and on matters of faith, that can be difficult for both sides. (The Jester #774)

• Probably not right for me to answer this...

  But I would (were I available) date a non-atheist provided she wasn't judgemental of my opinions and not a fundie. My goodness...that was a redundancy, wasn't it?

  Honestly, a religious humanist wouldn't bother me. There is a certain mind set to conservative theists that I take exception to. Liberals don't rub me the wrong way. I mean, think about it...John Shelby Spong's daughters ain't going to tell their husbands or boyfriends that they're going to HELL if they don't shape up. (Steve Scott)

• I'd have to date an atheist woman. Not even sure I could date an agnostic atheist ;-) Oil and water, if I think about dating a theist -- nothing good could come (so to speak) of my dating a xian. (Dan Chaney #1144)

• Seriously, atheism for relationships, let alone dates, really isn't high on my list of criteria (way below nice hair, cute butt, and a liking for Pinky & the Brain). I could totally see myself going out with a Xian, provided he doesn't take it *too* seriously, or make a big deal of it. (Nicolas P. Demers #155)

• My wife is Christian. We agree to disagree. (Al Klein)

• Honestly, I wouldn't feel comfortable at all going out with a churchgoer, especially if she felt pressured to bring me to her next cult meeting. (JT IceFire)

• While I seriously consider a possible mate's religious orientation, I wouldn't go as far as to say I "actively seek out" atheists. Actively reject fundies, sure. Liberally weed out Christians, of course. Beyond that, I don't press the issue, until she attacks my atheism. As long as she can quietly accept my absence of religion, I can accept any mild religious practices. I view it as a hobby, of sorts, on her part. (Carl Funk #1229)