Atheism/why change recently?

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Expert: - 11/16/2005


Question
hi im just curious and im conducting some research, why is it in modern times that there is an increase in secularist religions such as atheism, agnosticism and humanism? (as aposed to the main religions such  as christianity, islam, busdism, ect.)

Answer
Atheism, agnosticism, and humanism aren't religions, secularist or otherwise. Something that is secular can't be a religion, by definition, anyway - secular means "not reliigous." A secular institution is one that isn't religious.

More on atheism, agnosticism, and humanism:

http://atheism.about.com/od/aboutatheism/p/atheism101.htm
http://atheism.about.com/od/aboutagnosticism/p/overview.htm
http://atheism.about.com/od/abouthumanism/

There is a form of humanism that is religious, known as religious humanism, and there is also Christian humanism. Humanism is not inherently religious, though.  

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Austin Cline

Expertise

I can address questions regarding atheism, agnosticism, skepticism, humanism, religious philosophy & history, and arguments both for and against theism. I am also familiar with many of the skeptical and atheist resources in print and on the internet.

Experience

I have been an atheist and a secular humanist for many years. I actively run a site about agnosticism & atheism and attempt to help people understand more about these topics. I have made extensive study of both philosophy and of a wide vareity of religions.

Organizations
I belong to the Freedom From Religion Foundation and the Council for Secular Humanism.

Publications
My writings appear every week on the Agnosticism/Atheism site

Education/Credentials
I have a BA from the University of Pennsylvania and an MA from Princeton University. I have also studied in Germany and Switzerland.

Awards and Honors
Phi Beta Kappa and a Fulbright Scholar.

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