Atheism (Agnosticism)

Member Name: jesperado

Product:	Agnosticism
Date:	04/02/09 (27 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: There doesn't need to be a God

Disadvantages: People make assumptions about atheists

I recently wrote a short piece for the "General" discussion topic in which I mentioned that I am an atheist and have been ever since I can remember. One of the people that commented on my article (Squiddly450) asked:

"would you not agree that saying "I think there is something out there but I wouldn't like to say what it is" is probably going to be more true than saying "There is definitely nothing out there"?"

This got me to thinking about how people perceive atheism. Squiddly is quite right that some atheists do indeed state that "There is definitely nothing out there" and take any opportunity to try to prove this and disprove any religious beliefs a person may have. Although I understand why these atheists behave this way - it seems to come from a conviction that religion is inherently damaging, corrupt and/or harmful - I am a little more liberal. I have never experienced anything or seen any evidence that would lead me to believe that 'there is something out there' nor have I ever felt that my life is lacking in any way due to this absence. However, I am willing to change my views if such evidence ever presents itself to me. I think it is important to always question things and this must extend to the beliefs you hold dear. I do not try to talk anyone out of their religion unless they are clearly unhappy because of it and ask me for my advice. Whilst I think religion is not necessary as part of my life it can bring great joy to others and that's absolutely fine by me but often religion is accompanied by negative things such as guilt and feeling 'unworthy' which I don't think any human should feel as a default setting. Like Dawkins' atheist buses say "There's probably no God, now stop worrying and enjoy your lives".

Summary: Dawkins explains this better than me so check out his books