The Spiritual Journey from Theism to Atheism: Exploring the Sense of God's Presence
Do theists who have turned atheists still have a feeling that God is there, even though intellectually they reject him? This question has been a topic of significant debate in the realm of secular and religious discourse. To delve into this topic, let's first explore the personal journey of an individual who underwent such a transformation.
Realization and Rejection
As a student, I was profoundly stunned and uncomfortable when I realized that some adults still believed in religious stories. I had always thought that stories about gods were merely tools used by adults to encourage good behavior in children, similar to telling stories about Santa.
My grandfather openly admitted that the concept of gods was a "failure to install," a phrase that implied the stories were not rooted in reality but were instead cultural constructs. This realization came to me during a religion class in Catholic school. The transition from belief to non-belief was more about recognizing the absence of something I once thought was present rather than seeking evidence of its non-existence.
The Nature of Belief
Belief is a powerful force that shapes our societies, cultures, and even our identities. When a large population collectively interprets religious experiences in a similar manner, it leads to profound communal impacts. For instance, if a significant number of people believe they are spoken to by a common god, this belief not only shapes their cultural practices but also can motivate them to join in conflicts or wars. In that sense, such a collective belief system—or religion—can be seen as a powerful entity that influences the world.
However, many atheists dismiss these experiences as "wrong" or "non-existent." They argue that such belief systems are flawed due to the lack of empirical evidence. Yet, focusing on evidence alone misses the fundamental human experience and the impact of these beliefs on a collective level.
The Evidence of Collective Belief
Religious experiences among individuals who share similar beliefs have shaped our world in profound ways. These experiences have given rise to cultural traditions, moral codes, and societal norms. In a way, collective belief can be seen as a form of existential creation. Just as a hive mind creates a collective consciousness, the beliefs of a large group of people can create a shared reality that profoundly affects the world.
It is important to recognize that the concept of disbelief itself is a form of belief. Atheists, while rejecting certain ideas, are also making a choice based on their worldview. This choice is just as powerful and influential as a belief in a god. Moreover, the lack of belief in a god does not mean there is no sense of something greater or more profound that shapes our understanding of the world.
Reframing the Conversation
Instead of focusing on the "evidence" versus "non-evidence" debate, it is crucial to consider the impact of belief systems on individuals and societies. The experiences and feelings of those who have left belief for disbelief are valid forms of evidence. These personal experiences can provide insights into the nature of human consciousness, collective human behavior, and the power of belief.
Moreover, instead of labeling certain beliefs as "wrong," it is more productive to acknowledge the subjective nature of human experiences. Beliefs, whether of the theistic or atheistic variety, are deeply personal and can be shaped by a variety of factors, including upbringing, culture, and individual experiences.
In conclusion, the journey from theism to atheism involves a profound reevaluation of one's beliefs and perceptions. While it is true that some theists may still feel a sense of the divine presence, this feeling is not necessarily a sign of continued belief. Rather, it may be a recognition of the profound impact that religious experiences and collective belief can have on individuals and societies.
The key takeaway is that belief, whether in a deity or in the absence of one, is a powerful force that shapes our understanding of the world. Understanding and respecting the subjective nature of these experiences can lead to a more nuanced and empathetic approach to discussing these beliefs and their impact on humanity.