Types of Atheism

Question 1

The term atheism derives from two Greek words ‘a’ meaning ‘without’ and ‘theos’ meaning God.

Answer 1

Atheism therefore describes a position of being without a belief in God or gods. There are different interpretations, however, as to what this means. Namely positive and negative atheists.

Question 2

Negative or weak atheism - involves a lack or absence of belief in God. In other words, a person holding this position simply lacks a belief in the being a God.

Answer 2

This kind of atheism arises because a person may not have thought about God e.g. a child. However, it may also be the result of careful though leading to the idea that a belief in God cannot be justified

Question 3

Positive or strong atheism - goes further than negative atheism and requires a conscious denial of the existence of God which in turn requires satisfactory reasons for this denial.

Answer 3

This kind of atheism can never come through a lack of thought. Critics of such atheists may argue that it can never be established with certainty that God does not exist as it is impossible to prove a thing that does not exist. These atheist may respond that the burden of proof lies with those who believe in God.