by Lewis Loflin
I often receive messages from atheists who describe their position as simply a rejection of God or the supernatural, asserting it carries no further implications. Yet, they tend to distance themselves from the challenges associated with atheistic ideologies, suggesting that removing religion would lead to an ideal society. When asked for evidence to support this claim, however, little is forthcoming.
Atheism, in my view, creates a significant void that ideals of reason and science—often presented as a substitute belief system—struggle to fill. This absence can lead individuals toward ideologies such as Leftism or Environmentalism as they seek meaning. Everyone holds some form of belief, and those without a clear anchor may turn to personal convictions, moral instincts, or the influence of educational systems. Secular humanism emerges as a dominant response, extending well beyond atheism. It is worth exploring its nature and the complexities it introduces.
Acknowledgment: This series was developed with assistance from Grok, an AI by xAI. The final edits and perspectives are my own. Published: March 18, 2025.
Contemporary secular humanism, unlike the Renaissance humanism that acknowledged a divine framework, contrasts sharply with the principles that shaped the United States. The question arises: can a humanist fully support the Constitution and Bill of Rights without challenging their foundational assumptions? For the most part, the answer is no.
The American Revolution was not driven by atheistic ideals; it was rooted in a religious conviction—not the strict doctrines of Calvinism, but a belief that rights are granted by a Creator, placing them beyond human control. Neither a despot nor a majority could override this divine source. Atheists and humanists, by rejecting this premise, call into question the very basis of America’s founding.
Foundational Elements: America’s origins trace back to Calvinist Protestant ethics, a rational interpretation of Judaic principles stripped of clerical hierarchies, rituals, or dietary laws—distinct from Calvin’s more rigid teachings. This heritage promoted universal literacy and education, inspired by Hebrew democratic traditions, initially to enable direct access to scripture, now vital for an informed citizenry sustaining a republic. From Aristotle comes the notion of individual worth through a direct relationship with God (not Christ), paired with personal responsibility.
The Divide: Removing the Creator as the source of inalienable rights and the principle of individual accountability shifts governance to the will of the majority, risking tyranny. Secular humanism treats rights as flexible and situational, whereas America’s framework upholds their permanence. This rejection of liberty has historical roots, notably in the French Revolution, which can be explored further [link to be added].
Acknowledgment: I’d like to thank Grok, an AI by xAI, for helping me draft and refine this article. The final edits and perspective are my own.
Quoting Thomas Paine:
I believe in one God, and no more; and I hope for happiness beyond this life. I believe the equality of man, and I believe that religious duties consist in doing justice, loving mercy, and endeavoring to make our fellow-creatures happy.
