Theist Spars w/ Atheists on Burden of Proof, Depression & Evolution | Forrest Valkai + Seth Andrews

Seth Andrews and Forrest Valkai host a call-in show focused on atheism, science, and skepticism. Several callers participate, leading to discussions on a range of topics.

One caller asks about the burden of proof when it comes to atheism vs theism. Seth and Forrest explain why extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence, using examples like the teapot orbiting the sun.

Another caller asks for advice on dealing with depression as a nonbeliever. Seth shares his perspective on finding meaning and purpose without religion. They also recommend seeking professional mental health support.

Other topics include different forms of Christianity, maintaining optimism as a teacher, whether atheism causes depression, and how one might go about falsifying evolution. The hosts and callers have thought-provoking exchanges, with moments of lightheartedness mixed in.

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Jimmy Snow: @JimmySnow
Matt Dillahunty: @SansDeity
Katy Montgomerie: @KatyMontgomerie
Forrest Valkai: @RenegadeScienceTeacher
Dr. Ben: @FamilyDrBen
Aron Ra: @AronRa
Shannon Q: @ShannonQ
John Gleason: @godlessengineer

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[jasmijnariel]

I am proud of him, openly admitting that he is scared of his world crumbling down.... he dare to say what millions are scared to do

[timg]

The second half of this video is actually a very profound message from Seth and also Forrest too.

[ralphmunn]

Community, tribalism, and extended families are all important, perhaps even NECESSARY for a healthy life... but so is HONESTY.
At an AA meeting some while back, I "outed" myself as an atheist and agnostic to a chorus of gasps and outrage; I offered that it was OUR JOB to help ourselves and each other.
After the meeting, a few people condemned me openly; but one gentleman quietly told me that a LOT of people there felt just as I did, but they just didn't TALK about it.
SOMEBODY has to have the spine to say that "the Emperor has no clothes, " and more people may eventually thank you and follow your honest example than condemn you! 🙏

[samuelstone]

The things Seth said toward the end there were extremely hard hitting for me. I went through those exact things and to this day I still haven’t won my family back. It is incredibly important for the psychological health of an individual that religious parents do not let their beliefs influence the way they see or treat their own children. I have 6 brothers and a sister and every one of them have been greatly impacted by our upbringing. I was the only one who walked away from it and I have lost everything I once thought I had. If it wasn’t for the atheist community and their amazing support I don’t know where I would be today. These issues are so real in society and there needs to be more done on the atheist side of things to help rehabilitate these people from the severe damage that has been done to their psychological wellbeing.

[blanktester]

As a fellow Indian American, I get Vihaan's fear of disconnecting from his culture and his people if he leaves Hinduism. My parents are Hindu and my mom is basically an atheist as well. There's a broad spectrum of different ideas within Hinduism and some of those are naturalist perspectives. If he sees this comment, I hope he finds his place. He's doing his best and he's going to keep doing better every day.

[JeffCloutier]

As a lifelong atheist and quite an introvert, I realize that only now, community without religion is so important. I'm lucky to have other communities, like musicians, to belong too. I look forward to a time we can go to a human group and just exist with others.

[rlwemm]

Seth, you excelled again. You made ME cry. I’m so sorry I couldn’t connect with you years ago when you were in San Francisco. You still manage to make me feel that I am an important person in your life in spite of the fact that we have never met face to face. I’m sure I’m not the only person who you affect that way. It is quite a gift and I am so glad that you use it so effectively. 18:12

As for you, Forrest, I am in awe of your biological expertise and the way you explain it so that the implications are clear. I also love that infectious smile of yours. You are the epitome of The Joyful Atheist.

[sparki]

Why is it so hard for people to understand that if you have a claim you need to support it? Especially when they actually watch the show!

[PDWEDD]

Gentlemen, I am very impressed with what I just saw. Forrest, this is the first I’ve seen of you. Seth, I’ve listened to several of your podcasts, but never seen you interact with an individual.

MOST call-in shows (religious and political) lambast callers who are struggling with the topical concept of the show. You guys embraced the caller and were very kind.

I almost didn’t watch the video because of the title, but I was intrigued. However, I fully expected a Bob Larson’esque beat down of the caller. I am happy you didn’t do that. I am also glad I watched this video.

Much respect!

[ysf-psfx]

Seth, you are the best of the best. Thank you so much. Your compassion is moving. TBH the work you have done and your videos are the best replacements for sermons many people getting out of religion can get.

[rivertowne]

really digging this guy's honesty. major respect

[iamtheproxy]

I really like Forrest. He is intellectually curious, an extremely good listener and has a very sharp mind. Im constantly disappointed how many smart people lose their intellectual curiosity and forget how to listen. Forrest is fantastic at all three.

[thepurplebox]

Vihaan. From one Indian to another, it may interest you to learn about the Indian school of philosophy called "Charvak" or "Charvaka". It's a school of Indian atheism that predates modern Hinduism.

[Jax_Destro]

Me and my dad are no longer Christian, but we still go to religious celebrations with our family. My dad even likes to go to Catholic mass on Christmas as a tradition. It is amazing to have a family like that. It's unfortunately that a lot of people don't have that.

[Ironic_daemonic]

Man, what a dream team. I would love to see them together again some time. Seth has such a deep understanding of the heart and soul of being in religion and Forrest has the knowledge and passion for education and they both positively glow with charisma.

[michaeltrimble]

I have been deconstructing for three and half years from Christianity, and I found this channel last week and can’t get enough.

[trey-rey]

The "communal" aspect is HUGE... I was part of a cult called the Iglesia ni Cristo (Church of Christ) for years and the way they ostracize people who leave and the intense pressures they put on their members to NEVER entertain the thoughts of leaving because of community. So many people are stuck in these religious groups/cults due to being socially ostracized or holding them hostage if they make the decision to be truly free. Seth, absolutely on point... love the message heard today.

[BilliamJoyBoy]

Sometimes I believe in a soul. Only because sometimes it looks like Seth is looking right through it

[mildredmartinez]

This is the dream team of atheist society.

[SamKnause]

Great job Forrest and Seth. I appreciate and enjoy your shows.