Ding, ding! Round one of America’s annual Christmas wars have begun with an American Humanist Association press release dated November 11, 2008, announcing their Godless Christmas, "Why Believe in a God?", campaign.
Beginning November 18th, buses in Northwest Washington will be seen with the American Humanist Association motto, "Why believe in a God? Just be good for goodness sake", adorning the exterior. The dreadlocked Santa poster will make its official debut on the inside of buses on December 1st.
For those who live outside the United States, it truly has become a tradition here for some atheists, agnostics, those of other religions, and humanists, to partake in a battle of words with Christians around this time of year.
Christians accuse unbelievers of trying to take the "Christ out of Christmas" which, in the case of the "Why believe in a God?" campaign, they do have a point, although the ads are meant to help unbelievers know they aren’t alone. On the other side, you have unbelievers accusing Christians of trying to shove God and baby Jesus down their throats. Soon to follow will be those offended by those who say, "Happy Holidays" or "Seasons Greetings" instead of "Merry Christmas" and vice versa.
As for those who don’t care to enter into the immature, offended-at-everything-drivel-that-surrounds-Christmas, regardless of belief or lack thereof? Well, we try like heck not to let any extremes ruin the spirit of the holidays, enjoy a few eye rolls, and have a few laughs listening to Adam Sandler’s classic ‘Hannukah Song’ over and over again to boot.
Controversial Godless Christmas Ads
Why Believe in a God? Campaign
Trend Themes
1. Secular Holiday Celebrations - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create innovative and inclusive holiday campaigns that cater to secular individuals and promote a sense of community.
2. Religious Identity Debates - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop platforms or dialogue spaces that encourage open and respectful conversations about religious beliefs and identities, fostering understanding and reducing conflicts.
3. Inclusive Seasonal Greetings - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Invent new culturally inclusive holiday greetings that bridge the gap between different beliefs and reduce polarization during the festive season.
Industry Implications
1. Advertising and Marketing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create advertising campaigns that challenge traditional religious norms while promoting inclusive values and providing a voice for marginalized communities.
2. Interfaith Dialogue - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop platforms, conferences, or organizations that facilitate constructive interfaith dialogue to foster understanding and cooperation among diverse religious groups.
3. Cultural Sensitivity Training - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Implement educational programs or workshops focused on cultural sensitivity and religious awareness to promote empathy and reduce conflicts in multicultural societies.