as dead-air pointed out, Satanists (proper) don't believe in religion in the sense that some higher deity should be the focal point, yet the word "Satan" names a deity, a traditional Christian deity, but a deity nonetheless.

Gilmore says the Church of Satan promotes individuality. yet, doesn't belonging to a congregation of others who believe the same things tend to negate this individuality, at least conceptually? why the need, then, to belong? then again, Gilmore might reply that it is human nature to have a desire to be amongst those with whom one can relate.

additionally, why the need for any sort of laws, rules, "sins", etc? but, it could be argued that without these, there would be total anarchy, which can't last long. and it is human nature to organize. still, there are numerous philosophies of the individual (interesting Gilmore cited Nietzche) which promote very similar ideologies, but without spelling out codes of behavior necessarily. it just sort of negates it.

another thing, too: Gilmore says the Church promotes logic and reason, but from some of LaVey's writings, and some of Gilmore's responses, it becomes apparent that there is at least some belief in the ability to cast spells, witches, warlocks, and so on.