Alt questions fr. Ath in America by M. E. Brewster (21-23)

1.       What was a standard description of the United States’s enemies in the 1950s and 1960s? (187).

2.       Rather than tell people that she was an atheist, what would Pam Zerba simply say? (188).

3.       According to Pam, what was one of the most distressing things about being an atheist in central Pennsylvania? (190).

4.       Within psychology there is a great impetus to be what? (195).

5.       How long does Samuel Needleman think that it will take before we shall see an evolution toward the acceptance of nonbelievers? (200).

6.       What two events did Dr. Camilo Ortiz’s say almost made him a believer? (203).

7.       What did Dr. Ortiz want to be for students who were doubting their religious beliefs? (205).

 Alternative discussion questions.

1.       The personal revelations of individuals in Atheist in America remind us of the challenge many people face when they dare to be different or to express themselves in a way that deviates from what the society or culture of the times deems acceptable. While their actions are admirable, how many students when confronted with the opportunity to start a good high paying career will choose to indicate that they are an atheist knowing that that response might result in not being hired? If they have started a family, that choice could mean that their family will suffer. If you were they, would you still be open about being an atheist?

2.       Why does religion have such a hold on the American’s psyche? Are we so consumed with making a living to provide necessities for our family or are we so overworked that when we finally have a few moments to ourselves, we’d rather watch TV or do something pleasurable? Perhaps many people just want to tune out the real world and not reflect on their role in bettering humanity?