In the article, Reza writes:
Quote:Anti-theism is a relatively new phenomenon.
It is immaterial to me that he later contradicts himself. It cannot even be said to be recent because it dates to the 18th century.
"The world holds two classes of men - intelligent men without religion, and religious men without intelligence."
-- Abu Ala al-Maarri, 973-1058
"Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able?
Then he is not omnipotent.
Is he able, but not willing?
Then he is malevolent.
Is he both able and willing?
Then whence cometh evil?
Is he neither able nor willing?
Then why call him God?
-- Epicurus, 341-270 BCE
"Since no one really knows anything about God, those who think they do are just troublemakers."
-- Rabia al-Basri, 717-801
I've already mentioned Michel de Montaigne, who lived in the 16th century. So Reza's claim that anti-religion dates to the 18th century is BS. Reza is employing statements from authority. It was the simplest matter to overthrown his putatively authoritative claims.