Are there practices of a religious nature that Atheists could practice and benefit from?
For example, meditation on compassion for all beings, or kneeling at the sight of a sunset, because of the grandeur of it all, or just making daily affirmations of good principles?
Tell me if you are an Atheist or not, and what you think?
My question should have been worded differently. I really don’t mean an organized religion. What I mean is just different Atheists who do different types of things normally associated with “religion.”
I guess what I am saying is that I think Atheists could benefit from doing certain things on a daily basis, that are normally only done by religious people. Things like daily affirmations of what one believes. The Atheist could affirm his/her goal in life, or affirm a positive outlook, or his/her concern for other people. This would help one keep his/her eye on the goal and the good things of life. I just wonder how many Atheists do anything like that?
Sasha – Buddhists are usually Atheists. Belief in a Supreme Power is NOT the defining aspect of “religion.” Religion is best defined by a list of various things, and then deciding on a certain number that must be present to consider something a “religion.”
So a list may look something like this:
Belief in a Supreme Power/s
Community
Ritual practices
Philosophy of life
No religion would have to have ALL the aspects on the list. But they would have to have more than one. That is the most appropriate way I know of to define religion.
I am NOT suggesting that Atheism be defined as a religion.
I am ONLY suggesting that Atheists might benefit from some of the things on the list.
Ah – Imrational: Finally. That’s what I’m talking about! I think I didn’t do a good job explaining what I meant by this question!
