“the atheist denies the existence of god” Atheist don’t deny the existence of god(s). Atheists don’t believe in god(s). Atheism is not a religion, but our good Crusader TR doesn’t get it. I don’t have to prove a non-existence of Unicorns (yet, with Genetic Manipulation they might exist in a close future), fairies and Tak (the God who wrote the World, according to the Dwarves’ set of belief).

“and often are as radical in their belief and faith in that their position is true as the religious believers they oppose.” That is a very easy claim to do. However, I am still waiting to see Atheists Suicide Bombers who will die for the cause of “there is no reward after Death” or “I will be worm’s food. Well, what will be left of me. I mean”.

“they often make the same baseless claims as well” Like what?

“If I reject a claim there is mermaids, I than should provide evidence there is no mermaids.” So you believe in mermaids as well? What do you think of the belief in the Big Flying Spaghetti, creator of the World for the Tomatoes Sauce Original Can? Can you prove me it doesn’t exist, or do you accept it as a solid base for Debate?
Well, I give you that if you can believe in God, why not in Mermaids? There are a lot of books and movies about them…