One of my favorite videos

I've spent a lot of time watching some video channels lately, mostly about atheism and belief, because I believe that there is no way one's understanding of one's own position could be too deep. I've come to admire some of these channels immensely, for their willingness to open themselves to being yelled at, for their incredible skill and knowledge and common sense. I can't imagine any way to make a more important contribution to society. I wish I could do the same effort myself but I just don't think I'm cut for that task.

This clip below is a great example. It's from the channel The Atheist Experience, by the Atheist Community of Austin. In this episode, host Matt Dillahunty and co-host Jen Peeples take callers with religious questions and assertations.

I understand Dillahunty has been criticised for being harsh or hostile on the shows and I can't help thinking about what I felt when I first came across things like the writing of Dawkins. I did feel that it was too shrill, that the message should have been more subtle and gentle. A few years later and after seeing and reading more of the discussions I have abandoned that standpoint. There is no need or reason to be gentle about this message - all the more reason to admire the endless patience and goodwill of the hosts on shows like the Atheist Experience.

In this clip (episode #705, April 17, 2011) there are a few callers with general questions (but no screamers or preachers and nobody with a new proof for the existence of gods) but the reason I love the clip is what comes after the show's over. The program is an hour long but the clip continues with Matt and Jen talking to the final caller, and not only are they brilliant in dealing with the calls but the final caller is also great. It's a young man who is actually listening and making progress through the conversation.

If watching the whole 80 minutes is too long, the good part starts at about 57 minutes but I recommend watching the whole thing (and as many as possible of the other episodes from Atheist Experience).

The important thing: I want to say I admire that last caller to the show. He shows some of the best qualities a person can have: honesty and willingness to listen to a view different to one's own. I hope he goes far and I think he will.