Chapter 11: Atheism "The way of No Way"

Secularism

Secularism

a worldview that emphasizes life on earth as opposed to transcendent realities, with an emphasis on strictly separating church and state.

Secularization Theory

argued that as societies modernized they would abandon religion.

What are the 3 types of atheists that Plato refers in Laws?

those who don’t believe in the existence of gods, those who believe the gods stand aloof from human affairs, and those who believe the gods are unresponsive to prayers and sacrifice.

In short, atheism (and agnosticism) are part of a(n) ________ that pursues human flourshing in a godless universe by rejecting religion as false and harmful.

skeptical tradition

________ are critical of the trappings of "organized religion, "which they see as irredeemably hierarchical and complicit in sexism, racism, and homophobia.

SBNRs

The word "atheism "derives from the Greek term atheos, which means?

“without God” or “god-less”

Exemplars of Atheism

freethinkers who think for themselves rather than follow the secondhand teachings of prophets, messiahs, priests, and other authorities.

Secular Humanism

a worldview that rejects religion and supernaturalism in order to emphasize and celebrate human life here and now.

Techniques of Atheism

reason, science, skepticism, and critical inquiry.

A(n) ________ is anyone (agnostics included) who doesnt affirm theism.

negative Atheist

________ is the belief that God does not exist.

Atheism

Organic atheism

is chosen, and coerced atheism is mandated by a nation- state.

Problem of Atheism

ignorance

Solution to Atheism

knowledge

Strong agnosticism makes a bolder claim

"Whether God exists is not knowable"

Humanism

a worldview affirming the supreme importance of human beings, human agency, and human life here and now

Secular Humanism

a worldview that rejects religion and supernaturalism in order to emphasize and celebrate human life here and now