Point of Inquiry

There Are Definitely Atheists in Fox Holes

Mar 27, 2024
Bob Richard, a Vietnam War veteran, writer, and author of 'Open Wound' and 'Apple Pie Atheist,' dives deep into the challenging relationship between war and belief systems. He shares gripping stories from his time in Vietnam, debunking the myth that atheists don’t exist in combat. Richard discusses the emotional struggles faced by soldiers, the randomness of survival, and the complexity of morality beyond religion. His poignant reflections advocate for humanism while highlighting the need to embrace rational thought amid chaos.
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INSIGHT

Myth of "Atheists in Foxholes"

  • The phrase "no atheists in foxholes" originated in WWII and implies belief emerges only in extreme danger.
  • Bob Richard disproves this myth, remaining atheist even under deadly combat conditions.
INSIGHT

Tribalism vs Humanism

  • Humans are naturally tribal, driven by an innate us-versus-them mentality developed for early survival.
  • This tribalism causes conflict but humanism offers a unified path forward.
ANECDOTE

Humanizing the Enemy in Vietnam

  • Bob Richard had an epiphany in a Vietnamese village realizing villagers were just like his family despite harsh conditions.
  • This humanized the enemy, breaking down wartime dehumanization essential to combat mindset.
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