Nash attributes stigmatization to atheophobia, which he defines as “the fear and loathing of atheists that permeate American culture” (p. 4). This is also expressed by a Harvard undergraduate and atheist student leader who states that even on a tolerant campus like Harvard, he meets people who “despise” him for his beliefs (Reisberg, 1998, para. 29).

A middle aged female noted, "My 6-year-old son was cornered in first grade by 3 other 6-year-olds who screamed at him, 'You WILL believe in Jesus!! You WILL believe in Jesus!!' Not so good."

Do you feel that there would be any social repercussions if people in your [workplace/family/local community] found out that you were an atheist?" The results indicate significant differences between the U.S. and other nations in all three scenarios. While 57% of those respondents from the U.S. felt there would be at least minor repercussions in the workplace, only 12% of those from Western Europe felt that way. The other nations are as follows: Canada 35%, UK 15%, and Australia 24%. While 61% of those respondents from the U.S. felt there would be at least minor repercussions in the family, only 20% of those from Western Europe felt that way. The other nations are as follows: Canada 46%, UK 22%, and Australia 27%. While 68% of those respondents from the U.S. felt there would be at least minor repercussions in the local community, only 18% of those from the UK felt that way.