What Is Atheism? Atheism is a term that’s become increasingly familiar. It represents a lack of belief in the existence of God. People who adhere to atheism believe that God doesn’t exist. Often, atheism is equated with agnosticism, leading to the misconception that they share the same disbelief in God. However, the terms atheism and agnosticism have distinct meanings.

Defining Atheism

According to the Kamus Besar Bahasa Indonesia (KBBI), atheism is the lack of belief in God’s existence. Atheism is a philosophy or belief system asserting that there is no God or deity. Atheists are individuals who reject theistic beliefs, accompanied by claims.

The term “atheism” originates from the Greek word “átheos,” referring to people whose beliefs are contrary to the established religion in their surroundings. The use of the term “atheist” to describe individuals who don’t believe in God emerged in the 18th century.

Atheists tend to be skeptical about the existence of religion and paranormal phenomena due to the lack of empirical evidence explaining such occurrences. Atheists are often assumed to be people without religious affiliations or irreligious. Buddhism is often labeled as an atheistic religion because it doesn’t mention the concept of God in its various rituals and ceremonies.

Agnosticism Defined

While atheism represents a lack of belief in God, agnosticism is characterized by doubt regarding God’s existence. Agnostics argue that the existence or non-existence of God or supernatural phenomena is unknowable.

The concept of agnosticism emerged much later than atheism, specifically in the 19th century. Agnostics doubt the presence of God because there is no concrete evidence that definitively proves or disproves God’s existence.

Agnosticism and atheism are distinct concepts. Agnostics neither accept theism (belief in God) nor atheism, as they find neither belief to be supported by concrete evidence.

Differing Perspectives

Agnosticism and atheism represent contrasting viewpoints. Atheists firmly deny the existence of God, while agnostics adopt a position of uncertainty, asserting that the knowledge of God’s existence is beyond human capacity.

The Common Ground

While atheism and agnosticism differ in their perspectives on God’s existence, they share a common theme of skepticism and questioning. Both positions rely on rational thinking and empirical evidence to form their beliefs. Atheists assert that the absence of evidence justifies their disbelief, while agnostics assert that the absence of evidence leaves the question open and unanswered.

In conclusion, atheism is the absence of belief in God’s existence, while agnosticism is characterized by doubt regarding the knowability of God’s existence. Although these terms are distinct, they share the common thread of skepticism and rational inquiry in shaping their beliefs about the divine.