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The Non-Prophets

The Non-Prophets

The Non Prophets is a live internet radio show focusing on news from an atheist perspective airing on the first and third Wednesday of every month, starting at 7:30 PM Central

  • 19 minutes 36 seconds
    Worship Leader Sings Swan Song
    Right-wing Christian worship leader Zach Radcliff charged with child sex crimes

    The Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on Oct 23, 2024

    https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/right-wing-christian-worship-leader

    The discussion highlights yet another scandal involving sexual abuse within a religious institution, this time focusing on Michigan's Liber University and its ties to a former student and church member, Zachary Radcliffe. Radcliffe, once celebrated as a successful Liberty University alumnus, is now facing multiple charges of child sexual abuse, including using online communication to exploit minors. Despite these serious charges, church leaders have distanced themselves from the issue, failing to acknowledge it in services while continuing to condemn others outside their circles, particularly targeting the LGBTQ+ community.

    The conversation touches on the troubling history of religious institutions that have protected abusers, citing examples from various denominations and religious figures. There's a deep frustration expressed about how churches often avoid transparency and accountability, using their hierarchical structures and conservative values as shields that foster environments where predators can operate. These protections not only allow abusers to hide but also enable them to move from church to church, continuing harmful patterns without interference.

    Panelists argue that the Purity Culture propagated within such churches may even contribute to these issues. By suppressing natural expressions of sexuality and demonizing certain behaviors, these institutions create psychological stress that can lead to the abusive release of suppressed urges. Furthermore, power dynamics within the church allow leaders to exploit vulnerable individuals, especially children, while often escaping scrutiny due to their perceived moral authority.

    The problem of victim-blaming within these religious communities is emphasized, where victims are often shamed while abusers are portrayed as repentant sinners deserving of forgiveness. This attitude silences victims, leaving them afraid to come forward for fear of ostracization or further victimization by their own community. The culture within these conservative spaces often upholds an idealized image of the church, minimizing or concealing the abusive actions of those in power.

    The discussion extends to societal issues, with a critique of how certain demographics—predominantly white, conservative men in high-ranking religious roles—repeatedly surface as abusers. There’s a consensus that societal privilege often enables such individuals to evade justice or face minimal consequences, which only perpetuates the cycle of abuse within these organizations. The hosts express outrage over the leniency given to religious institutions, arguing that such environments are no longer safe or justifiable places for children.

    To address these issues, the panel suggests several interventions, including improving education for children on personal safety, encouraging parents to report suspicious behavior, and creating support systems outside of the church for those who do come forward. The dialogue concludes with a strong condemnation of religious institutions that prioritize reputation and tradition over moral accountability, stressing the need for genuine, self-derived morality rather than one dictated by religious texts that seem to enable and protect abuse rather than prevent it.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.45.1 featuring Phoebe Rose, AJ, Cynthia and Jonathan Roudabush

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    12 November 2024, 12:30 am
  • 21 minutes 7 seconds
    Evolution in Real Time
     Scientists Have Observed Evidence of Evolution in Real Time

    Popular Mechanics, By Darren Orf, on October 11, 2024

    https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/animals/a62570259/snail-evolution-real-time/

    In the final segment of the discussion, the spotlight is on a fascinating and often overlooked subject: snails. Kelley, the resident scientist, delves into a long-term research project being conducted in Sweden that has been ongoing for decades. This extensive study has uncovered intriguing data about these creatures that inhabit shorelines and lakes.

    Kelley emphasizes the importance of snails in their ecosystems, highlighting their roles in nutrient cycling and as indicators of environmental health. The findings from this study not only enhance our understanding of the snails’ biology and behavior but also provide valuable insights into evolution and biodiversity. Kelley's excitement about the research underscores the potential implications for conservation efforts and our understanding of how these seemingly simple animals have adapted to their environments over time. The segment paints a picture of snails as more than just slow-moving creatures, revealing their significance in the tapestry of life.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.44.4 featuring Scott Dickie, Damien H, Kelley Laughlin and Stephen Harder

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    10 November 2024, 12:30 am
  • 22 minutes 11 seconds
    Execute a few and the Rest Will Fall in Line
     Publicly execute a few women: Pastor calls for executing women who partook in #MeToo movement

    The Mary Sue, By Rachel Ulatowski, on October 21, 2024

    https://www.themarysue.com/publicly-execute-a-few-women-pastor-calls-for-executing-women-who-partook-in-metoo-movement/

    In a recent panel discussion, the topic centered around controversial remarks made by Pastor Joel Webon of Covenant Bible Church in Texas, who suggested that executing women accused of lying about sexual assault could end the #MeToo movement. The panelists expressed disbelief at his extremist views, emphasizing the lack of empathy and critical thinking in such statements. They debated the effectiveness of the death penalty in deterring crime, questioning Webon's motivations and the underlying Christian nationalist ideology. The discussion also highlighted the importance of distinguishing between religious freedom and public safety, arguing that the safety and rights of individuals, particularly women, should take precedence over harmful religious beliefs.

    The conversation shifted to the media's portrayal of Webon's statements, critiquing sources that sensationalize without providing necessary context. Panelists agreed that shining a light on such extremist views is essential for fostering discussion and understanding the implications of hate speech within religious communities. They concluded that while these ideas are unlikely to disappear, raising awareness and engaging in thoughtful discourse are vital in combating such ideologies.


    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.44.3 featuring Scott Dickie, Damien H, Kelley Laughlin and Stephen Harder

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.
    9 November 2024, 12:30 am
  • 21 minutes 45 seconds
    No Humanist Need Apply?
     Florida Republican says opponent's Humanism 'should disqualify her' from office

    The Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on October 16, 2024

    https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/florida-republican-says-opponents

    In Florida's District 38 State House race, the political landscape is heating up as Democrat Sarah Henry faces off against Republican incumbent David Smith in a highly anticipated rematch. This contest is particularly noteworthy due to the scrutiny surrounding Smith's campaign tactics, which have drawn criticism for their negative nature. Henry, who previously worked as a Communications associate for the American Humanist Association, brings her experience in advocacy and progressive values into the race.

    The dynamics of this election reflect broader trends in American politics, where negative campaigning often overshadows substantive discussions about policy and vision. Henry's campaign aims to respond to these tactics by emphasizing her commitment to constructive dialogue and progressive issues that resonate with constituents. As the election approaches, the focus will likely remain on how both candidates navigate the challenges of campaigning in a polarized environment and what this means for the future of District 38.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.44.2 featuring Scott Dickie, Damien H, Kelley Laughlin and Stephen Harder

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.
    7 November 2024, 12:30 am
  • 23 minutes 46 seconds
    A Teacher Says No to the 10 Commandments
     Louisiana teacher of the year sues to stop state's Ten Commandments law

    Newsweek, By Natalie Venegas, on October 23, 2024

    https://www.newsweek.com/louisiana-teacher-year-sues-stop-states-ten-commandments-law-1973796

    The panel discusses Louisiana's HB 71, a law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public classrooms. Christopher Diehr, the 2020 Louisiana Teacher of the Year, has filed a lawsuit against the statute, arguing it infringes on the separation of church and state.

    Panelists explore the historical arguments for the law, noting a Supreme Court ruling recognizing the Ten Commandments' significance in American history but questioning the law's constitutionality and its implications for teachers and students of various faiths.

    They express concern that the law pressures educators to promote religious doctrine and marginalizes non-Christian students. The conversation also touches on the historical context of religious influence in America and the challenges posed by this law in the education system.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.44.1 featuring Scott Dickie, Damien H, Kelley Laughlin and Stephen Harder

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.
    5 November 2024, 12:30 am
  • 16 minutes 41 seconds
    IT LIVES!!!: Franken - Jelly
    Comb Jelly with Two Butts Is Actually Two Individuals Fused Together

    SCIAM, by Elizabeth Ann Brown, on October 7, 2024

    In this episode, the hosts dive into a quirky yet significant scientific discovery about comb jellies, organisms known for their peculiar biology. The focus shifts to a recent finding where two comb jellies fused into a single body, leading to an odd scenario where each retained its own transient anus, yet shared digestive and nervous systems. This unique event challenges traditional ideas about individuality and offers potential breakthroughs in fields like transplant medicine. The researchers believe this study could reveal key insights into the process of allorecognition, the mechanism by which the human immune system identifies and sometimes rejects transplanted organs. The discussion then explores the broader implications of this discovery, including its relevance to human medical advancements and ethical concerns about such experiments.

    The hosts also reflect on how this finding highlights the adaptability of life, linking it to earlier experiments from the 1930s where similar fusions were observed. The hosts raise ethical questions, noting that while this study may have significant medical applications, it also underscores the need to reconsider how experiments are conducted, even with "simple" organisms. The conversation concludes by contemplating the importance of understanding life at its most fundamental levels, and the ways this knowledge could eventually benefit humanity. They joke about the humorous nature of the study, particularly the jellies’ "transient anuses," while acknowledging that such lighthearted framing helped make a dry scientific topic engaging.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.43.4 featuring  Kara Griffin, AJ and Infidel64 

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.
    2 November 2024, 11:30 pm
  • 16 minutes 11 seconds
    I'm Right! Science said!
    Why people always think they’re right, according to science

    Fortune, By Ani Freedman, on October 9, 2024

    The conversation starts with a humorous introduction about always being right, but quickly shifts to a discussion about a recent study on the "illusion of information adequacy." This study found that when given incomplete facts, people often believe they have enough information to make informed decisions. However, when presented with the full picture, they tend to change their opinions. This leads to optimism that people are more open to changing their minds than previously thought, encouraging curiosity for deeper and more honest conversations.

    The discussion evolves into a broader examination of stubbornness in human nature, highlighting how echo chambers and preconceived notions may prevent individuals from altering their views, especially in real-world scenarios outside of controlled environments. AJ and the group reflect on how small misunderstandings, like how someone does laundry, could be addressed with curiosity, setting the stage for handling larger, more contentious issues such as politics and religion.

    Kara notes that while curiosity and empathetic communication can help in many cases, there are situations where some people remain entrenched in their beliefs for reasons beyond logic or evidence, such as religious motivations. The conversation touches on the "backfire effect," which suggests that people sometimes dig their heels in when presented with contradicting information, although recent studies show that this is not always the case. The key, the group agrees, is how information is delivered—kindness, empathy, and compassion are more likely to lead to open-mindedness than rudeness and condescension.

    The discussion transitions into a review of the Dunning-Kruger effect, explaining how people with limited knowledge tend to overestimate their abilities, while experts may underestimate their expertise. The group emphasizes the importance of being self-aware and acknowledging when one doesn't know enough. The ability to admit ignorance and stay open to learning is seen as a crucial tool in avoiding falling for conspiracy theories or getting trapped in misinformation.

    The conversation concludes with a reflection on the importance of self-awareness, humility, and being comfortable with nuance, uncertainty, and the possibility of not having all the answers—especially in complex areas like politics or science. The group acknowledges that while it's uncomfortable to admit a lack of knowledge, it is a necessary step toward better understanding and more meaningful conversations.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.43.3 featuring  Kara Griffin, AJ and Infidel64 

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.
    1 November 2024, 11:30 pm
  • 20 minutes 2 seconds
    SC Woman Charged After Premature Birth
    Turned My Whole Life Upside Down’: South Carolina Woman Charged with Murder After Giving Birth to Baby Prematurely On Toilet

    Atlanta Black Star, By Jill Jordan Sieder , on September 24, 2024

    The conversation focuses on the case of Mary Marsh, a young Black woman from South Carolina who was charged with murder after the loss of her pregnancy. This tragic event unfolded in March 2023, and Marsh, just 23 years old, was accused of failing to save her newborn after giving birth in a bathroom. This incident brings to light the severe consequences of today's reproductive laws, which increasingly criminalize women over the outcomes of their pregnancies. The case is seen as a reflection of the systemic issues in healthcare that disproportionately affect marginalized communities, especially Black women.

    The discussion highlights the broader impact of abortion bans and the overturning of Roe v. Wade, which has escalated the criminalization of pregnancy outcomes. These restrictive laws create an environment where women fear seeking medical care during pregnancy, knowing that any complications or losses might lead to legal consequences. Black women, in particular, are often the most vulnerable in these situations, already grappling with healthcare disparities and higher maternal mortality rates. The speakers emphasize how society’s expectations of pregnancy outcomes are often unrealistic, and yet, when complications arise, these women are treated with suspicion instead of care.

    While some claim that these types of cases are unrelated to the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the speakers argue that the rollback of reproductive rights has made pregnancy itself a legally precarious condition. Women, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, are increasingly exposed to legal risks simply for being pregnant. The fear of criminal charges discourages women from seeking medical help, further exacerbating the already severe gaps in healthcare access and outcomes for women of color.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.43.2 featuring  Kara Griffin, AJ and Infidel64 

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.
    30 October 2024, 11:30 pm
  • 20 minutes 6 seconds
    Bad News Falwell...
    Jerry Falwell Jr. is back and it's bad for everyone

    Religious News, By Karen Swallow Prior, on October 4, 2024

    The story dives into Christian hypocrisy, particularly examining the scandal surrounding Jerry Falwell Jr., his fall from grace, and his eventual return to Liberty University during homecoming week. Falwell’s behavior highlights the deep contradictions within institutions like Liberty, which impose strict moral codes on students while their leaders, like Falwell, live by completely different standards. Falwell himself openly rejected the notion that he should be held to higher standards, especially after being involved in a sex scandal. This hypocrisy is compounded by Liberty’s rigid rules for students, prohibiting actions as minor as hand-holding or using certain pronouns, while its leaders exploit power without consequence.

    The discussion also touches on how financial interests play a significant role in shaping Liberty’s response. After legal settlements involving the Falwell name, the University welcomed Falwell back, prioritizing reputation and loyalty over addressing the deeper issues of power abuse. This contradiction between forgiveness and justice reveals a systemic tendency to protect abusers while punishing victims or those who point out wrongdoing. The culture of institutions like Liberty often celebrates the return of powerful leaders despite their scandals, overshadowing the harm done to victims and avoiding accountability.

    Religious doctrines that emphasize forgiveness, often at the expense of justice for victims, play into this dynamic. Congregations are more likely to forgive or side with abusers than victims, aligning themselves with narratives of redemption rather than recognizing the pain and damage inflicted. The focus remains on restoring abusers to positions of power while silencing the voices of victims through financial settlements, leaving them marginalized and dismissed. The system enables continued abuse by excusing misconduct, as demonstrated by Falwell’s homecoming return being portrayed as a "heroic" moment, disregarding the broader harm caused by his actions.

    Another critical point is the involvement of Falwell’s wife, Becky, in her own scandal involving a relationship with a pool boy, which her husband was reportedly aware of and even encouraged. The abuse of power by both Falwell and his wife showcases their predatory behavior, targeting vulnerable individuals and luring them with false promises of wealth and business opportunities. The story emphasizes the disparity between the university’s strict expectations for its students and the unrestrained behavior of its leadership, who seem immune to the consequences of their actions.

    In the broader scope, this narrative highlights the failure of religious institutions to hold their leaders accountable, allowing them to abuse power without facing the same rules imposed on others. The issue extends beyond just Falwell, pointing to a systemic problem within organizations that prioritize power, money, and loyalty over moral integrity, creating environments ripe for exploitation and harm.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.43.1 featuring  Kara Griffin, AJ and Infidel64 

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.
    28 October 2024, 11:30 pm
  • 22 minutes 27 seconds
    23.42.4 DeSantis: Abort the Ads, Silence the Choice!
     DeSantis Administration Threatens News Station With Criminal Charges for Airing Abortion Amendment Ad

    Truthout, By Chris Walker, on October 9, 2024

    https://truthout.org/articles/desantis-administration-threatens-news-station-for-airing-abortion-amendment-ad/

    The state government of Florida is attempting to suppress a news station, WFLA, by threatening to criminalize them for airing a pro-Amendment 4 ad that advocates for extending abortion rights up to 20-26 weeks. This intimidation comes as Governor DeSantis strongly supports a six-week abortion ban currently in place. A letter from the Florida Department of Health's general counsel seeks to bully the station into pulling the ad, revealing an attempt to silence the press and undermine free speech.

    The discussion highlights the vagueness of Florida’s abortion laws, which potentially obstruct necessary medical procedures even in life-threatening situations. Across the U.S., pregnant individuals facing complicated pregnancies are often denied care due to ambiguous abortion laws. The debate centers around Amendment 4, which aims to reinstate broader abortion access, a position supported by a majority of Floridians. However, the amendment requires a 60% supermajority in the upcoming referendum, raising questions about the state's electoral processes and why such a high threshold is necessary.

    Amendment 4, if passed, would protect abortion rights up to fetal viability (22-25 weeks), directly challenging Florida’s restrictive six-week ban. It would also clarify legal uncertainties for healthcare providers, reducing the fear of legal repercussions in providing necessary medical care. The amendment is seen as crucial for women's health and reproductive rights, addressing real-life consequences seen in other red states. Although supported by many, the amendment is likely to face legal challenges from anti-abortion groups and could influence abortion legislation nationwide.

    Beyond the abortion debate, the segment emphasizes a broader issue of government overreach into press freedom. The Florida government’s attempt to prevent an ad supporting a lawful amendment exposes a dangerous authoritarian trend, wherein the state tries to dictate what the media can or cannot air. This goes beyond abortion—it challenges democracy itself, with the government stepping into an election process to stifle public discourse. The hosts express outrage over the nerve of this suppression, likening it to dictatorship behavior.

    The hosts conclude that this is fundamentally a democracy issue, with Florida’s government stepping into territory that violates both freedom of the press and free speech, as protected by the First Amendment. The debate also touches on the global differences in political campaigning, noting that such interference would not be seen in European democracies. Ultimately, they argue that the Florida government’s actions are an affront to democratic principles, setting a dangerous precedent for future government interference in the media.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.42.4 featuring Kelley Laughlin, Jonathan Roudabush, Cindy Plaza and Cynthia McDonald

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.
    26 October 2024, 11:30 pm
  • 20 minutes 22 seconds
    Stop Wokeness Before Facts Infect Us All!
    War on wokeness: the year the right rallied around a made-up menace
    the Guardian, By Michael Harriot, on December 21, 2022

    https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/dec/20/anti-woke-race-america-history

    The discussion opens with a focus on the "war on woke," examining whether it's a real issue or just a political creation. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' rhetoric against the so-called "woke mob" is dissected, revealing how this term has been twisted into a tool for political gain, especially on the right. The anti-woke movement is viewed as a deliberate attempt to stoke fear, promote white grievance, and maintain social hierarchies, distracting from the real issues of systemic racism and inequality. The discussion points out how the right often co-opts the term "woke," turning it into a negative caricature of social awareness.

    Cynthia dives deeper, illustrating how anti-woke legislation like DeSantis’ "Stop Woke Act" seeks to whitewash history, curb critical conversations about race, and protect the status quo. She draws parallels to historical backlash, showing how every civil rights advancement has been met with resistance—just as the election of the first Black president was followed by a rise in right-wing backlash. Cynthia criticizes the manipulation of language, pointing out that what was once a movement for awareness and empathy has been weaponized into a boogeyman used to scare people into supporting conservative causes.

    Further into the conversation, a clear distinction is made between legitimate criticism and personal insults. The group notes how political violence is often misrepresented by both sides of the debate. The labeling of leaders like Trump as fascists, for example, is seen as a factual observation based on behavior rather than an insult. The need for more nuanced discussions on television and in the public sphere is stressed, as simplifying or "both-siding" these issues leads to confusion.

    Cynthia and Cindy explore the complex dynamics of political labeling and the use of terms like fascism, socialism, and communism, suggesting that many people misuse or misunderstand them. They stress that it's crucial to challenge harmful ideas, not just to insult individuals. This type of critical thinking, they argue, is essential for societal progress. Cynthia concludes by emphasizing the importance of intellectual honesty and the need for honest debates free of strawman arguments or misleading narratives.

    The conversation wraps up by reflecting on how the U.S. is viewed on the world stage, suggesting that current events are tarnishing its reputation. There is a shared frustration over the close political races and the growing divide between reality and rhetoric in public discourse.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.42.3 featuring Kelley Laughlin, Jonathan Roudabush, Cindy Plaza and Cynthia McDonald

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.
    25 October 2024, 11:30 pm
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