Atheism atheist and Psychology

Atheism is a general term implying a rejection of the common belief in God or supernatural beings. In research and clinical practice, atheist is a self-identity term. As can be seen, the concepts of atheism and atheist are negatively defined.

Standing in Awe

In social psychology research, the term atheist is often provided when the researchers consider the religious or irreligious identity of the participants. Clinicians may also include the term when reporting patient information.

Approximately 73% of philosophers identify with atheism or lean toward atheism (Bourget & Chalmers, 2013).

Pew Research Center (2009) reported "33% of scientists say they believe in God." "Finally, the poll of scientists finds that four-in-ten scientists (41%) say they do not believe in God or a higher power, while the poll of the public finds that only 4% of Americans share this view."

One feature of an atheist worldview appears to be the embrace of scientism (Schnell et al., 2023).

Philosopher Daniel Dennett has suggested atheists use the term brights as analogous to the concept gay widely accepted for men who are exclusively attracted to men.

See also agnosticism.

Reference

Schnell, T., de Boer, E., & Alma, H. (2023). Worlds apart? Atheist, agnostic, and humanist worldviews in three European countries. Psychology of Religion and Spirituality, 15(1), 83–93. https://doi.org/10.1037/rel0000446

Geoffrey W. Sutton, PhD is Emeritus Professor of Psychology. He retired from a clinical practice and was credentialed in clinical neuropsychology and psychopharmacology. His website is  www.suttong.com

 

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