Why are atheists so poorly treated?

Im not a religious man but if you want people to respect your believes, then respect others believes

But I've never actually said anything rude to a religious person, or disrespected them. I just want to know where they find the justification to think of me poorly

I am a christian and I can say that they are treated differently because the term "atheist" has a bad reputation. Most people only take notice to the stereotype of atheists rather than actually looking into what the term actually means and who the people actually are. It is ignorance that i strongly disagree with.

I am also an atheist and I somewhat agree with the previous comment. I believe that the main reason why there are so many religious disputes between Christians and Atheists, is that because, in their eyes, anybody who doesn't believe the ways of the god that they follow is a "sinner" and is going to hell. They strongly believe that their way is the only way, and that anybody who thinks differently (including other religions such as Muslim and Jewish followers) are wrong and "unpure." What all of this really boils down to, it how close-minded some people choose to be.

Really, its down to the individual and their own views on respect. I have met plenty of religious people that strongly believe in their own faith, but also respect that I do not share their views, and respect that it is my right to do so, but others have told me Im wrong, tried to convert me, failed, and promptly condemned me to hell. On the flip side of that, Ive met ignorant and opinionated athiests who laugh at other people for their beliefs. I think that each individual has the potential to rest on each end of the scale, but no one has the right to attack people because of their religion (or lack thereof), and everyone just needs to learn a little respect and tolerance. An important thing to remember is that you should not judge the entire religion/following because of the actions or opinions of the individual or isolated group, because there are plenty of good and accepting people out there.

I'm a christian daughter of an atheist father and a Mormon mother. We obviously all have different religion aspects and that's fine, religion is not the basis of a relationship we usually talk about how life has been and the latest movies, it's the same with other people.If you go up to a fairly religious person and say "I'm an atheist" don't expect them to respect that, they WILL retaliate. We're built to stand up for our beliefs just as you seem to be doing with yours.It really comes down to this; treat people how you wish to be treated. You're wanting people to respect you're beliefs? Respect theirs and try not to make it a common social concept.

I think it's because society in the past and now, basically looks down upon it.

The world we live in has some terrible people in it. I am undecided on my religion. I believe there may be a god, but the bible is not what I believe. It was written by human beings, not god himself, if there even is one. No one will ever really know. I find the best way to cope is to just keep it to yourself, it's ok to be proud, but religion is not a topic to discuss with people who are just going to put you down. Talk about it with people who are understanding and open minded only. If someone brings it up, politely decline to talk about it.