5 Work Of Scholars

Question 1

What is meant by atheism?

Answer 1

The lack of belief in any god or gods, not necessarily the denial/rejection of their existence

Question 2

What is strong atheism?

Answer 2

Antitheism = a conscious and deliberate opposition to theism is harmful to the believer

Question 3

What is weak atheism?

Answer 3

Scepticism = doubting knowledge claims set forth in various areas, sceptics have challenged the adequacy of belief

Question 4

What is meant by humanists and what do they believe in?

Answer 4

• they reject the belief in god and trust in scientific explanations
• morality is based on reason
• there is no afterlife and no ultimate purpose

Question 5

What do rationalists believe in?

Answer 5

Reason, logic and truth

Question 6

What do naturalists believe in?

Answer 6

• human life is natural
• belief in scientific enquiry

Question 7

What are some reasons for atheism?

Answer 7

• existence of evil
• loss of faith
• contradictory teachings
• distrust of organised religion

Question 8

What 5 crucial factors did Durkheim argue were the reasons why suicide rates were high?

Answer 8

1. Individualism
2. Excessive hope
3. Too much freedom
4. Atheism
5. Weakening of the nation and the family