If you had to choose between atheist or theist...

I think the burden of proof lies with the deity. Much as I dislike New Age ("rhymes with sewage!" a friend always adds), here's a recommendation again: Deepak Chopra has written interestingly about how the idea of god arises out of different human circumstances.

For many who are atheists or agnostics, but who perceive the interplay of the strands of life within what might be called a unifying principle, social, Sunday-religion is anathema. ...as is the use to which spirituality is put by the state and by hierarchical religious institutions having piles of worldly goods and promoting narrow social and political goals. Particularly now, at this period in our history, any discussion of "god" is tainted by the commercial and political uses of the concept. So when people click on the "atheist" button, they may not be denying spirituality but rather distancing themselves from corruption and hubris in religious institutions.

Tartarin

Yes! Well said.

Apathy am I, atheist here, but not proselytizing for it.

Tartar, I'm not sure what you mean by "spirituality," but I don't believe in any gods. My "spirit" dies when my body dies. c.i.

I always find it interesting when different people look at the same evidence and reach different conclusions.

I believe in God.

Hmm. . . . I tend to identify myself as a nonchristian agnostic but having to choose I guess I'd go with atheist. . . . does theist only apply to certain religions? I just don't tend to think the existance or nonexistance of God, gods, or ultimate something really matters all that much because no matter what I believe things are the way they are and the universe isn't going to rearrange itself for me. I'm going to live the same way I live no matter what label I identify myself with.

Since this is the thread that won't die -- I guess I gotta come back and say: Agnosticism is the only way to go.

I go with Borges -- entirely -- Midnight. Am very doubtful about the existence of linear time.

Ci and I seem to be in the same camp, hi, CI.

Jim, That's known as "subjectivity." c.i.

Excellent >:-) I shall look forward to your reply in my "Does there exist a deity?" thread... ;-)

Grr. The smilie machine doesn't recognise the generic "evil grin"...

It is not the definition that counts but the substance, it is not a matter of choice but reasoning.
Theist wants you to believe in things with no explanation and atheist are more rational, they evaluate the issue and provide you with the alternative.
If you are a reasonable person , you line to believe what is understandable and not what they tell you DON'T WORRY, THIS IS RIGHT