He’s a Closeted Atheist in His Personal Life, but a YouTube Activist Online

I’ve been enjoying Drew McCoy‘s videos for nearly a year now (his channel is Genetically Modified Skeptic), which is why I was surprised to learn he’s actually in the closet, relatively speaking, about his atheist activism.

How is it possible that a YouTuber who is pretty open about his beliefs online is quiet about his beliefs everywhere else? That’s what he explains in his latest video.

I understand what he’s saying. I’m (obviously) open about my beliefs online, but I don’t usually bring up what I do or believe when I’m around family members. Not unless they ask. I’m not afraid of the reaction so much as I just don’t want to have “those conversations” all the time with people eager to start an argument.

But Drew makes a great point that, even if you want to be silent about your beliefs in your private life — or because it might impact your career or relationships — there’s still so much you can do to spread critical thinking and fight religious irrationality.