| atheism: a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, especially when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/religion
At least by one definition, atheism COULD be considered a religion. Note: especially...superhuman agency --> not a necessary element. Furthermore, Humanism (especially those who label themselves as Religious Humanists) and Satanism (which is actually a form of humanism, not usually worship of Satan)have churches. There are even Churches called Churches of Atheism. Though one of them is a scam to get tax advantages in the US, there are others that meet regularly. Now I would agree that it seems incongruous to call atheism a religion, but words are generally defined by how they are used. And it seems that many use religion to include atheism. |