atheism

Atheism is the belief that there is no supreme being or deity. In other words, atheism is the denial of the existence of God or of any gods.

A person who holds such a belief can be called an atheist. The word atheist can also be used as an adjective to describe such beliefs or things involving such beliefs. The adjective atheistic can be used in the same way.

The word atheism means something different from agnosticism, which is the belief that it is impossible to know whether or not a supreme being exists. When asked if God or gods exist, an atheist would answer “No,” while an agnostic would answer “It is impossible to know.”

Example: Atheism isn’t the belief that God is bad—it’s the belief that God doesn’t exist.

The first records of the word atheism come from the 1580s. It ultimately comes from the Greek áthe(os), meaning “godless.” In atheism, the beginning part a- means “without” and the main root is based on a word meaning “god” (the words theology and theist are based on the same root). The noun suffix -ism indicates doctrine or belief system.

Historically, being known as an atheist has been dangerous—many atheists have even been tortured or killed, such as in societies that require adherence to a specific religion. Even today, people who embrace atheism face discrimination. Many atheists support policies that ensure that religious freedom applies even to those who do not follow any faith.

What are some other forms related to atheism?

• atheist (noun, adjective)
• atheistic (adjective)

What are some words that share a root or word element with atheism? 

• theism
• theist
• theology
• pantheon

What are some words that often get used in discussing atheism?

• existence
• god
• belief
• deity
• divine
• supreme
• being
• religion
• irreligious

What are some words atheism may be commonly confused with?

• agnosticism

The word atheism is the most common way of referring to the belief that a god or gods do not exist.

Atheism should never be used a political partisan boogeyman. This country was founded on the value of religious freedom for individuals of all faiths or none at all. RT if you agree. @MarshaBlackburn @VoteMarsha

— Secular Coalition for America (@seculardotorg) September 25, 2020

William Barr is wrong. Atheism does not result in moral decay. "The most secular countries in the world today fare much better on nearly every measure of peace, prosperity, and societal well-being than the most religious countries," writes @phil_zuckerman. https://t.co/597R00hHkf

— American Atheists (@AmericanAtheist) November 13, 2019

Mutual respect between theists & atheists will greatly improve when we wholeheartedly embrace freedom of & freedom from religion. This means schools may teach children about all religions & atheism, but may not impose/indoctrinate any one in particular.

— Impiety (@NoHolyScripture) October 27, 2019

True or False?

The word atheism refers to a fear or distrust of religious people.