4 of 34

Write now Article Tools

Like any religion, atheism has its beliefs. The central belief is the non-existence of God, and to affirm such a statement is equally as bold as affirming that there is a God. Atheists are sometimes referred to as non-believers, but this is untrue. Atheists have beliefs, they are just different beliefs from those of theists.

Does this then imply that atheism is a religion? Not necessarily. Although anthropologists debate the exact definition of religion, it is generally accepted to include some element of organized faith, worship, or belief. The issue here is the organization - although there are plenty of atheist groups and societies, do they share the same qualities that we normally associate with religion? I believe that either answer can be the case. For those who meet regularly to discuss their beliefs, who perhaps try to bring others around to their point of view, and who wear the label atheism as some badge of honor, there is really no distinction from a religion. They have their set of beliefs, they are bound together by these beliefs, and have formed a society based on them. However, those people that simply do not believe in God, but feel no need to join a society or discuss this fact with others, could not be said be religious. There are really two aspects to one's personal philosophy. The first is what we believe in - whether theism, atheism, or any other belief. The second is whether we join a group or society based on these beliefs and share ideas and practices together. This is what determines whether we are religious.

Hence, just as many Buddhists describe themselves as not religious, so could many atheists describe themselves as being religious. It really comes down to the way in which you practice and express whatever you believe.

Learn more about this author, Chester Johnson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Atheism as a religion?
We want to hear your view. Write now!