Exclusivism and tribalism are what enable one group of humans to demonise and damage another group or individual. Religion is an inherent basis of exclusivism and tribalism. Race and nationality are other such bases, but they don't invoke a higher power to justify tribal acts against others. Religion can be an exclusive differentiator of religious against non-religious people, as this religion-exploiter author illustrates.
The thing about religion or any faith based belief is that they are based only on belief, built up through mystique and tradition. Witchcraft, animism and sorcery are just as valid, just as steeped in legend and belief.
You don't find examples of atheists combining under their lack of faith based tribalism to attack religious groups, although there are cases of national regimes attempting to suppress religion.
