SURVIVORS of ‘blasphemy’ accusations send open letter to Irish people

The International Humanist and Ethical Union has coordinated an open letter from 24 survivors of blasphemy accusations to the Irish people

Islamic radicalisation in Birmingham–A Scottish perspective

It’s always important when discussing ideological issues, such as Islam, to distinguish between the idea and the person. As a humanist I value the intrinsic worth of every person, regardless of their beliefs. However I also believe strongly that all ideas are open to criticism, and that in a liberal democracy, no ideology is beyond … Continue reading Islamic radicalisation in Birmingham–A Scottish perspective →

BBC Radio Scotland Discussion: Should there be a religious clause in a Scottish constitution

This is a 15 minute discussion which I participated in, following the news that an interfaith group had called for special protection for 'religious freedom' in any possible written Scottish constitution. Participating were; Right Rev Lorna Hood, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland; Richard Holloway, former Episcopal Bishop of Edinburgh; Ronnie … Continue reading BBC Radio Scotland Discussion: Should there be a religious clause in a Scottish constitution →

The Kirk will one day apologise to atheists, as it has to Irish Roman Catholic immigrants

In researching various articles about anti-Catholic bigotry in Scotland, I came across a chilling report by the Church of Scotland, called the “Menace of the Irish Race to our Scottish Nationality”1. This report began as a document produced for the General Assembly in 1923 by the Presbytery of Glasgow & The Synod of Glasgow and … Continue reading The Kirk will one day apologise to atheists, as it has to Irish Roman Catholic immigrants →

Time for atheists, secularists and humanists to engage in interfaith dialogue?

Last month, I attended an event organised by Xaverian Missionaries in the US and UK. The event was titled “A Conversation Between Religious Believers and Humanists on Values and Ethics”. I must admit to be being very sceptical about the idea of being involved in ‘interfaith’ dialogue. As an atheist I do not identify myself … Continue reading Time for atheists, secularists and humanists to engage in interfaith dialogue? →

How I became an atheist

At the age of 15 I was a committed and devoted Roman Catholic. I would visit Church often, consult with my Parish Priest and at this time I was busy saving money to participate in a trip to rural Kenya to build a multi-purpose church/classroom. I am now an atheist, and active secular campaigner. I … Continue reading How I became an atheist →