In short, atheism is not a position that is in conflict with agnosticism and these views are not mutally exclusive. Atheism is the lack of belief in a god or gods and agnosticism is a philosophical assertion that knowledge of god(s) and the supernatural cannot be known. The first term is related to what someone believes or doesn't believe and the the other deals with knowledge (specifically what can be known or not known).
I thought I would make this my first post because I have talked to many people who get this confused (usually self-proclaimed agnostics who insist they are not atheists). It seems to me they are intentionally avoiding the atheist label. As an example, if asked "Do you believe in god?", it would not be an appropriate to respond with "I don't know... I'm an agnostic." Surey, the vast majority of people know whether or not they believe or don't believe in a god.
I understand the desire to avoid what is thought to be the negative stimga of atheism but my whole purpose of this group and my entire approach to atheism is an attempt to remove the stigma. In point of fact, I am an agnostic atheist (or would that be an atheistic agnostic?). Either way, I do not believe in a god or god and I do not think that such knowledge can be known or will ever be known.
It is my sincere hope this group attracts like-minded people who will contribute with posts of their own and create an environment of civil discourse and academic debate. If their are any theist or believers who want to contribute, you are more than welcome. However if you want to preach, proselytize, or provoke (ala Matt Dillahunty), please don't. In that case, you might want to consider starting a group of your own for true believers of whatever it is that you believe.
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