Atheism
The concept of atheism has constantly changed over time: in ancient Rome, pagans called Christians atheists while Christians considered pagans atheists. Some people even refer to Buddhists as atheists. Today, generally speaking, an atheist is someone who does not believe in a god or gods; this has caused tension in a world where most people (publicly, at least) profess a belief in a deity. This guide teaches you what atheism is, what it isn’t, how to become an involved atheist, who some prominent atheist thinkers are and were, and how to find atheist groups. It also provides tips on raising atheist children.
Although there is no dogma, sacred text, special list of rules, or holiday calendar for atheists, ... read more »
While most atheists shun the notion of organized religion, many form groups that are both philosophically and politically active. Many atheist groups are working for a more secular country, while some provide resources and information about atheism, and others seek to promote principles and community. By exploring the numerous sites online, you can learn what’s available and select the elements of each atheist community that best suit your needs.
- You may find that some groups refer to themselves as nontheists instead of atheists.
- As mentioned above, atheism and humanism have become intertwined, and in many cases, to become involved with atheism is to become involved with humanism. That is why many of the links listed below are for humanist organizations.
The Council for Secular Humanism
is one of North America’s largest humanist organizations. The Council creates a community for nonreligious people, and the site includes articles, courses, news, and information about getting involved with the organization. The primary activities of the council are fighting for nonreligious rights, providing education, and helping members to form and connect with local communities.
The American Humanist Association
which was noted earlier for its resources defining humanism, is primarily devoted to supporting the development of humanist values. Through the site, you can subscribe to the Association’s magazine
The Humanist, read select online articles, and find ways to become active.
The Secular Coalition for America
lobbies Congress for the rights of atheists, freethinkers, and other secularists. Keep up with the actions of the organization and developments in Congress or learn how you can get involved.
The British Humanist Association
not only stands for atheism but also seeks to build a community focused on humanity and its merits. An excellent response to religious accusations that atheists are amoral, the BHA emphasizes a meaningful life centered on human behavior rather than faith in God. A good example of the resources provided by BHA is the page on
humanist ceremonies.
Atheist Action Central
is a British blog for atheists that posts daily efforts you can make to both promote atheism and fight for human rights.
The Secular Student Alliance
links atheist college students across the country. The alliance supports individual groups, offers resources, publicizes events, posts articles, and hosts a forum.
The Internet is a great tool for forming virtual communities. These groups can be especially useful ... read more »
Although there aren’t atheist priests, there are scientists, philosophers, and writers who ... read more »
Critics of atheism often claim that it doesn’t teach or advocate morality. As there is no ... read more »
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