FAQ

What is atheism?

Atheism is the lack of belief in the existence of a God or gods. Atheists don't have to claim absolute certainty. They just don't believe. That's the simplest, most universal definition of atheism, but it is not the only one. For example, Atheism is sometimes used to describe a fully developed philosophy of life that consciously places the good of our fellow humans above any religion, creed, nation, race or god. Atheism in this sense is similar to secular humanism.

Is there evidence for atheism?

It's up to believers to demonstrate that God exists. Non-believers have nothing to prove. Nevertheless, atheists usually do offer reasons for their atheism. Generally speaking, atheists examine the arguments for God and find them lacking. This is especially true of the personal, interventionist God described by traditional religions. Atheists also notice that the more we learn about the universe, the more it seems to have developed naturally from simple beginnings. Why does the universe exist at all? That's a puzzle we may never solve, but atheists don't think it helps to conjecture an even more puzzling "creator."

How can you know for sure there is no God?

Atheism is simply the lack of belief in the existence of God. Absolute knowledge is not necessary. Even so, many atheists go ahead and draw the practical conclusion. We do it with mermaids, dragons, fairies, Zeus and countless other things for which there is no convincing evidence. Why not God?

Is agnosticism more rational than atheism?

Agnosticism is about knowledge while atheism is about belief. They are not mutually exclusive, nor is one necessarily more rational than the other. Nevertheless, some atheists prefer to use the word agnostic. They may do it to seem less argumentative, to express doubt, or to emphasize intellectual humility. Or they may just feel uncomfortable with the word atheist. We're all on an intellectual journey, and it helps to meet people on the road, share stories and compare notes. That's exactly what our group is for! What words do you use to describe your beliefs?

Is atheism a religion?

No. Atheism admits no God. It has no rituals, prayers or dogma. As Don Hirschberg wrote, "Calling atheism a religion is like calling bald a hair color."

Doesn't atheism require just as much faith as theism?

No. The word faith has many meanings, but in the context of God it usually involves belief without evidence - or belief despite evidence! Atheists, however, choose not to believe because there is not enough evidence. That's not faith. It's discernment.

What is the difference between atheism and humanism?

Humanism usually describes something bigger than just atheism. Humanism is a philosophy of life that conceives of morality and purpose in terms of human welfare and freedom. Humanism usually takes an optimistic view of human potential, and may emphasize art as well as science. Humanism proceeds without direct reference to the supernatural, but it is possible to combine some aspects of humanism with some religious ideas. When this happens it is called religious humanism to distinguish it from secular humanism.

What about morality?

Most atheists probably agree that morality is a social necessity because it makes cooperation possible. The whole story is undoubtedly more complicated, but the point is that morality does not have to be imposed by God for it to be real. People of faith sometimes claim that their particular religion has a superior track record. But skeptics point out that the ethical systems found in sacred texts contain many barbaric, anachronistic rules that no sane person would follow today. Believers are skilled at shirking the bad rules and focusing on the good ones. In other words, people naturally use their own sense of morality to filter religious information. We all know that honesty, humility, courage and integrity are virtues for any society. We don't need religion to tell us that.

Where does joy and meaning come from if there is no God?

Atheists, like all people, find purpose and meaning in lots of different ways. Some find a limitless source of wonder, joy and curiosity in the natural sciences or in the arts. Others find it in friends and family. What about you? What gives your life meaning and purpose? Tell us all about it at the next meeting!

Can atheists believe in the paranormal?

It is theoretically possible to disbelieve in God while still believing in such things as ghosts, astrology and ESP. However, since atheists are not convinced by the evidence for God, and since there is no better evidence for paranormal claims, most atheists are likely to reject these as well.

I don't consider myself an atheist. Can I still join the group?

Yes! Everyone is welcome to join us for fun, respectful conversation.