A recent yearlong study to investigate the psychological well-being of — rural-residing and woman-identified atheists reveals various issues experienced because of their non-belief.

We’ve come a long way in the last thirty years, but we still have farther to go. We can’t say we live in a truly secular society if people can’t be open about their faith or lack. Too many communities feel entitled to punishing anyone who doesn’t conform to their expectations.

  • catshit_dogfart@lemmy.mlEnglish
    51·
    1 year ago

    I’ll admit I’m in that category.

    When really pressed I’ll just say something like “I don’t go to any church” or “I don’t believe in those things”. Only in trusted company will I say the words “I am an atheist”.

    It’s easier that way, and people don’t need to know anyway. To me, atheism means complete separation from religion, and caring about it enough to tell everybody is akin to practicing a religion. I think one should consider what they gain from using the word atheist, and what harm it might cause, and make a decision based on that. If you really don’t care about religion, then there’s little need to talk about it.