Friday, March 7, 2008

The atheist creed!

I'm not one who relishes statements of conformity. I never have been. Over the last two years I have been much more open and outspoken of my rejection of institutions that claim to know through revelation the nature of the almighty. As such I am often asked what do I believe. So much so I grow weary of the query. Recently PZ has posted what I think is a wonderful sum-up of what it means to be a naturalistic - atheistic being. It's perfect!

The atheist creed

I believe in time,
matter, and energy,
which make up the whole of the world.

I believe in reason, evidence and the human mind,
the only tools we have;
they are the product of natural forces
in a majestic but impersonal universe,
grander and richer than we can imagine,
a source of endless opportunities for discovery.

I believe in the power of doubt;
I do not seek out reassurances,
but embrace the question,
and strive to challenge my own beliefs.

I accept human mortality.

We have but one life,
brief and full of struggle,
leavened with love and community,
learning and exploration,
beauty and the creation of
new life, new art, and new ideas.

I rejoice in this life that I have,
and in the grandeur of a world that preceded me,
and an earth that will abide without me.

R.