My preference is for seeking elusive truth in the company of like minded persons. My preference, learned by the example of Socrates, is for the disciplined critical perspective of others. The expression of opinion as though it were fact is not nearly as appealing. I am deeply resistant to any person or group claiming sole possession of truth. It matters not if they are theist or atheist as I am neither.
And yes, there are far too many who discredit the word by their profession of it. These, as you have said, cling to vain hope rather than face and address our shared human dilemma.
George