Why do people hate atheists so much?

FEAR--some secret place inside the theist is deathly afraid that the atheist might indeed be correct. Because they are afraid (and their faith weak) they feel they have to use any means at their disposal to neutralize these non theist ideas.

This was my experience too. If a person truly believe in God that person will be feeling extremely happy and contended then certainly that person will not pick on others. People who pick on others simply because of bitterness; frustration, conservative, understanding very little, very lacking of life experience, panick when facing test and etc. Just ignore them.

I do not hate anyone whether it be race, religion etc. We are all gods children. This is a free America and therefore you have the right to believe or not believe it's your choice. There will always be hatred in the world no matter what.

When you tell the Emperor he's wearing nothing, the other people lavishing praises tend to feel stupid. They get resentful.

However, those who respectfully and non-boastfully hold their beliefs tend not to react negatively when the nakedness is referred to.

We've figured out the "game" and refuse to play.

I like most atheists, I can't stand most Christians.

Religious people are emotionally invested in their belief. Hence when people credibly rebut their beliefs they feel outraged.

People do not like being reminded that they are superstitious.

b'cuz we are sensible ppl, same reason ppl hated Galileo during his time.

Jealous that we can think for ourselves.