Disclosure: I am an atheist.

The research is interesting however, my experience is generally the opposite. I have started this next sentence three times because I do not want to generalize nor disrespect those who are religious - 90% of people - who are good, genuine, inclusive or 'nice'. But one cannot overlook the (I'll say it) damage that the religious have done.

Intolerance, racism, religious wars and ethnic cleansing don't solely belong to the religious but one cannot deny the overwhelming responsibility that religions (and therefore religious people) must bear. We continue to see the detriment brought in the name of piousness. Hate filled rhetoric, denial of civil rights to certain groups, xenophobia and the use of religion or being religious to spark fear and hatred in others (see the Elizabeth Dole ad or the rumors regarding the religion of our next president).

I know more admitted atheists than I would assume the general public does, merely because we don't 'come-out' for fear of persecution. It is these people, though, who are the most tolerant, educated, thoughtful people I know (I include agnostics). Those I know who are more religious have expressed problems with voting for a black man, woman's fitness to run for high office, are not as charitable and can be scathing when it comes to people of 'unknown' backgrounds.

As I mentioned, the great majority of people in the world are religious and I do not wish to present that it is ONLY they who are not 'nice'. But I'll venture to bet that the person who cuts in line, is rude in the market, won't permit you to pass on the highway or leave you access a space in a line of traffic is religious.