About Atheism

Atheism is a very broad term, even though it is basically interpreted as the rejection of belief in the existence of deities. The term is contrasted with theism, which suggests that there exists at least one deity. The word atheism dates back to the 5th Century BCE Greek word atheos, which means “without gods.” Over the years, the application of the word has been narrowed down significantly, thanks to the spread of freethought, skeptical inquiry and an increase in the criticism of religion.

Today, there are very few people who understand the concept completely and that is why atheism is often misunderstood and even vilified to a large extent. Different people perceive atheism differently, and hence, it is difficult to determine the total number of atheists in the world. Questions related to atheism can stem from philosophical, social or even historical perspectives. While some rationalize their lack of belief in a supernatural deity as insufficient empirical evidence, others rationalize their stance with the problem of evil that theism fails to resolve at many levels.

Whatever the reason may be for one to turn to atheism, Atheist Republic is one of the few organizations that try to highlight how okay it is to raise questions and seek answers, an idea that is often denounced by many religious people. The team at Atheist Republic strives to educate those interested in atheism, because they unanimously believe that understanding the subject will help one see how most of the attacks made upon atheism and atheists are based on mistaken assumptions and a general lack of knowledge.

Here is hoping you, too, find Atheist Republic to be a resourceful website that not only answers the questions you may have, but also enriches your mind.

Quite often in the Atheist Republic’s members’ page, people ask about the best way to respond to theists. So I thought I’d offer up the best one I’ve ever come across that has worked every time for me: Just laugh.

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With Syria in utter turmoil, horrific videos of scorched children and a certain famous video of a Muslim eating another man’s heart, how can anyone associate Islam with peace?

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The problem of evil is considered by many to be one of the most powerful arguments against the existence of God. Though the theological responses vary considerably, one in particular recently caught my eye.

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An attempt at understanding the how and the why of religious thought.

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Recent developments in the middle east and videotaped murder of a non combatant gives rise to consequences of unjustified religious beliefs on society

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One holiday celebrates violence done to innocent men, women and children, and it’s time to call it what it is: an observance of Divine genocide – Pesah the Jewish Passover.

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People should be able to parent their kids how they see fit, right? And really, what damage could a little religious indoctrination do?

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Kosher- and halal-certified products are a scam because they cost more without raising the quality of the product. And, there is no reason for it except that God said so.

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People who yearn for perfection in an afterlife are more likely to forgo striving for perfection in this one.

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Atheists face tragedy without the protective mechanisms of prayer and a belief in an afterlife. I think, in many ways, this is a gift we can give to our communities in times of grief – offering it gently and with sensitivity, mostly by example. Atheists are just as sensitive, compassionate and empathetic as theists. We are just as capable of holding space for the grieving. In addition, we are able to model practical things that can be done to help, taking action side by side with people of faith.

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