Atheism and belief system

[qaisrakhan]

I was just having a discussion and the following question came up. Thought it might be a good way to start our discussion form so_

Is Atheism a belief system?

Regards

Qaisra

[janlovett]

Hi Qaisra

Yes, I think it is a valid belief system.

Regards

Jan

[qaisrakhan]

Hi Jan,

Firstly of all thank you very much for your response. I was hoping that people may begin to use this discussion board for a number of reasons but one of them is so we can understand each other better.

I must amit I view atheism as a valid belief system and have argued that with a number of people.
I have also used the word faith to describe athesism which I am now not sure is correct. People often say 'people/communities of faith and none' which I think is basically saying that atheists do not have a faith but on one level dosn't everyone. A faith in humanity, the universe but not necessarily a God. What do you or any one else think?

Qaisra


Yes, I think it is a valid belief system.

Regards

Jan[/quote]

[janlovett]

Hi Qaisra

I think atheism could/might be called a type of belief/faith because although a person might not believe in God, they may well have a belief in themself, in the universe and their fellow human beings. It's also a way of life, because one does not have the comfort of a formal religion or a God to guide and support them; it can be very very difficult to have to rely on one's own internal workings to get through the really tough parts of life and to see things differently from one's friends and relatives who may have a formal religion and a belief in a God. But the key to it all, I think, is understanding and acceptance of others' beliefs too.

Well, that's what I think, for what it's worth!

Jan

[qaisrakhan]

Dear Jan,

I agree and think it is definately something we should all keep in mind! Being different can be a postive choice because we are all individuals and should be able to show it. it is also annoying when others keeping telling you are wrong.

Regards

Qaisra