QUOTE(Paradox of Life @ Mar 13 2006, 9:51 AM)

What I'm trying to say is that Satanism isn't a religion.
Uhhh...
Main Entry: re·li·gion
Pronunciation: ri-'li-j&n
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English religioun, from Latin religion-, religio supernatural constraint, sanction, religious practice, perhaps from religare to restrain, tie back -- more at RELY
1 a : the state of a religious <a nun in her 20th year of religion> b (1) : the service and worship of God or the supernatural (2) : commitment or devotion to religious faith or observance
2 : a personal set or
institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices3 archaic : scrupulous conformity : CONSCIENTIOUSNESS
4 : a cause, principle, or system of beliefs held to with ardor and faith
Alright, that clears that up. By definition, Satanism is a religion.
QUOTE(Paradox of Life @ Mar 13 2006, 9:51 AM)

Therefore, they don't have a religious mindset.
Well, I just disproved your premise that Satanism isn't a religion, so... moving on.
QUOTE(Paradox of Life @ Mar 13 2006, 9:51 AM)

Anyone who claims to be a Satanist has no idea what they're talking about.
Seems like a very wide generalization and sweeping statement, however... in what respect do you mean?
QUOTE(Paradox of Life @ Mar 13 2006, 9:51 AM)

Never in my LIFE have I ever run into a Satanist that knew what they were talking about.
What you have, for the most part, demonstrated to me is that, as you seem to have no idea what you are talking about, you may come across much difficultly in understanding what a Satanist may be talking about in the first place. I do suspect a great amount of psychological noise involving your preconceptions on this issue. Nonetheless, such a piece of evidence does not much prove anything.
QUOTE(Paradox of Life @ Mar 13 2006, 9:51 AM)

I've only seen these Churches of Satan as online forums with a bunch of angsty, rebellious teens complaining about Christanity and talking about their dark lives.
That's unfortunate for you. I have had the pleasure to speak with practicing Laveyan Satanists who have visited "Grottos" (Or Churches of Satan). They may complain about Christianity, but I never heard them talk much about their "dark lives." Infact, they seemed to have been enjoying their lives rather throughly.
They even have a priesthood and qualify for tax exemption (Although, they do not seek it.)!
*gasp*
QUOTE(Paradox of Life @ Mar 13 2006, 9:51 AM)

I'm sure there wouldn't be a lot of people attending or seriously practicing Satanism in a Church of Satan.
I wish I could find you a number representing practicing Laveyan Satanists, cause you would be painfully surprised.
QUOTE(Paradox of Life @ Mar 13 2006, 9:51 AM)

And really, they would have to HIDE because no one likes a crazy, angsty Satanist.
Satanism is a protected religious institution. Just as any other in the United States.
QUOTE(Paradox of Life @ Mar 13 2006, 9:51 AM)

Satanism is so subliminal and ambiguous, it can't even really be considered a religion.
Try reading the Satanic Bible by Dr. Anton Szandor LaVey. It is a very detailed, unambiguous, and explicit detailing of the philosophies which govern the Church of Satan.
QUOTE(Paradox of Life @ Mar 13 2006, 9:51 AM)

Or at least no one takes it seriously.
Plenty of people take it seriously. Actually, tons of people do. There was moral hysteria that crossed nationwide during the early 80's concerning the Church of Satan. The church has recieved a great amount of media attention. Many books have been written, seriously, on the subject. The Church exists and has many practicing members today, an active priesthood, an on-going "blackmass" (Much like Catholic mass), and an increasing membership.
I happen to know some of them.
QUOTE(Paradox of Life @ Mar 13 2006, 9:51 AM)

It's probably the most controversial of "religions". And before you call me a hypocrite, what I mean by mindsets for religions are like the real, official religions: Judaism, Buddhism, Christanity, Islamic...
"Real, official religions."
Alright, read about Laveyan Satanism before you start to talk again. This is pathetic.