Is "Atheist" perceived negatively?
Posted by Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit | AskAnAmerican | View on Reddit | 396 comments
I've moved to the US a couple years ago and have often heard that it is better here just not to mention thar you're atheistic or to say that you're "not religious" rather than "an atheist". How true is that?
Irresponsable_Frog@reddit
I am an atheist. Raised non religious. It only comes up when people ask. I’m almost 50 I just tell the truth. I’m an atheist. But 25 years ago? I said, I’m not religious. I lived in the south. Southerners see that as a challenge and i would be invited to everyone’s church. I’d go, why not? Never had really been to one before. I thought their churches were fine. The people were kind. Food was good. It was boring AF. But I don’t have blind faith and never will. So I went as a learning experience. If you find something in it, go for it.
theoneandonlybecca22@reddit
You’re basically describing the majority of Christian folk in my country. They don’t hear ‘I’m (insert different faith)’, or ‘I’m irreligious/agnostic/atheist’ and are like ‘Oh okay’ and the discussion ends.
They behave like men and women who make a move on someone they like and when they hear no, it’s equal to try harder. Very disrespectful of people’s boundaries and worldview.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Same for me. I have been going to a local community church with my grandma and singing in the choir there
backbodydrip@reddit
"Atheist" is associated with those pretentious loudmouths who, despite being atheists, can't seem to stop thinking or talking about religion.
firerosearien@reddit
It really, really depends on where you live and who you're talking to.
Lady_Alisandre1066@reddit
This! People 50 and over in the rural South or Midwest are gonna take that sh** as a challenge! Here is a soul to save, people! Goes double if the person you’re talking to is Mormon or a Jehovah’s Witness. You’re gonna get the introductory “all about our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ” speech, so many Watchtower copies you could wallpaper your house, well meaning and incessant invitations to church on Sunday…
brickbaterang@reddit
In the case of mormons, just tell them you're a felon and they will fuk right off faster than you can blink
Lady_Alisandre1066@reddit
Sadly in my case, they’re in-laws and therefore know better. My poor pagan self married into a hornet’s nest. My husband’s family is a three way split- Mormon, Jehovah’s Witness, and Hillbilly Pentecostal… Yeah, holidays are FUN!
RemonterLeTemps@reddit
That's some trifecta!
Lady_Alisandre1066@reddit
He’s a child of divorce- mum was raised LDS, her brothers split to the JW, and her current husband is East KY hillbilly Pentecostal. Like, I’m not talking snake handling, but pretty close. His bio dad on the other hand is pretty meh about religion in general.
Mediocre_Daikon6935@reddit
That poor Pentecostal, having to endure Mormans & jehovahs witnesses…
At least they have you to keep them sane.
idfuckingkbro69@reddit
Why would you do that to yourself? I can’t imagine any dick being that good.
Lady_Alisandre1066@reddit
He’s the whole damn enchilada- and he sings! He’s also an atheist :)
Soltinaris@reddit
I wish I could be a fly on the wall for some of those conversations.
Anomandiir@reddit
Mines interesting but has much more curiosity and tolerance - Episcopal family and my married in BIL is Taoist, and I’m the married in Atheist.
brickbaterang@reddit
Oh jeebus that's nuts
Jealous-Associate-41@reddit
It's much more entertaining to REALLY express interest in polygamy and how soon you can get assigned your first wife
MossiestSloth@reddit
Tell them you're an apostate
JeddakofThark@reddit
I've never had an issue with mormons. Just tell them you aren't interested and they leave you alone. Not so much with the JWs.
sociapathictendences@reddit
People used to yell that stuff at us thinking it worked lol. I baptized several felons.
brickbaterang@reddit
They were trying to convert a friend of mine for about 3 months, threw every trick in the book at him, very aggressive. Then he told them about his felonies and they stopped coming around
sociapathictendences@reddit
Ok, pretty much every missionary will fuck off if you ask them to be put on the do not contact list.
jereezy@reddit
Or they might just elect you as POTUS....
RemonterLeTemps@reddit
It really depends on where in the Midwest. In Chicago, you'll likely get, "Hey, I'm an atheist too!". Doesn't matter the demographic either, there are many, many atheists over 50. My father was one, and if still around, he'd be well over 100.
Lady_Alisandre1066@reddit
Very fair. Major metros in general are going to be more open minded than small towns.
TheOneTrueNeb@reddit
Idk about the south but as a Christian Midwestern I think I can speak for a decent amount of ppl and say that many Christian midwesterners will think that it's unfortunate, but we're not gonna bother challenging the person on it since it's likely to just push him away
Guardian-Boy@reddit
I'm an agnostic that was raised in a Lutheran family from the rural Midwest, it used to be this way but not so much any more. It was very common to be asked, "What church do you go to?" as a greeting, and in my case an awkward silence once I said I didn't go to church, but nowadays nobody really cares.
shelwood46@reddit
I grew up in the very Catholic part of Wisconsin back in the day and basically they would check which parish and if you said you were anything other than Catholic, immediately lost interest. I do love a non-proselytizing sect.
PremeTeamTX@reddit
Forgot Southern Baptists and Seventh Day Adventists. They're looney tunes, too lol
Zealousideal-Web9737@reddit
Oh, honey. What a generalization. I am 60 and from the rural south. I despise the hypocrisy of organized religion. I don't care what a person's religious/non- religious beliefs are as long as they are kind, thoughtful, and an all-around good person.
amethystmap66@reddit
Definitely. I’m an atheist from the liberal northeast and it’s a complete nonissue. I’m not afraid of saying that I’m an atheist, although it’s not really something I’d bring up out of context bc it’s not like it forms a huge part of my identity the way that having a religion might.
Genetically I’m Ashkenazi Jewish though, so I’ll often add this when I say that I’m atheist to give some context to my ethnic/cultural background because I was raised in really diverse communities where most people were way more in touch with their culture than I was.
BlindWalnut@reddit
This. I'm in the South East but in a very liberal city. It's just as common to hear someone say they are atheist as it is to hear someone say they're Baptist.
tekhnomancer@reddit
It also matters how you say it.
If you say, "No, sir, I'm an atheist," you generally are received neutrally.
If you say, "Ha screw you theist sheeptard," you will, deservedly so, get mocked.
That goes both ways, btw.
SeawolfEmeralds@reddit
Agreed.
Are atheist perceived negatively no same with pagans agnostics and all the other various religions who hold vast common ground
the negativity is when people open their mouth to promote their ideological rhetoric and religion. Not grasping the topic at hand.
Of particular note are the atheists who can often be seen celebrating pagan rituals digitally on their social media outlets
Having a conversation with them throughout time is anecdotal. However most people who call themselves atheist typically don't hold much understanding of science or religion.
The cosmos its a vast universe
To declare they are omnipotent
Is ironic
Most people might be shocked to find out how little of their thoughts are even their own they've NEVER sat in Silence, contemplating existence in deep thought.
they've moved from one moment to the next instinct clarification Always being told what to think what does say what to do
People can talk about taking drugs and going on excursions, those are called drug tourists
That these drug tourists don't portray the requirements necessary for that type of exploration
shelwood46@reddit
Yes, this is what you should absolutely not do.
SeawolfEmeralds@reddit
Religion atheist https://www.reddit.com/r/AskAnAmerican/s/PO8a7hEEFT
Dramatic-Blueberry98@reddit
Exactly, depending on who it is, and how it is said tends to matter the most when it comes to reactions.
wormbreath@reddit
It doesn’t really ever come up tbh. I’m an atheist. No one asks and no one cares.
Pewterbreath@reddit
I think the sort of person who announces that they're an atheist without being asked tends to rub people the wrong way but in the same way as someone bringing up religion in an otherwise unrelated conversation. Saying you're "not religious" is a way to sidestep that sort of conversation.
trueraiderfan@reddit
Basically people hate when someone makes something small their entire personality (ex:religion, gender, sexual preference, politics…)
brickbaterang@reddit
I find that those people that showily read Dawkins in public tend to be pretentious insufferable douche waffles
AutisticTumourGirl@reddit
What constitutes "showily"?
MattieShoes@reddit
I find that people who showily read anything tend to be pretentious insufferable douche waffles. The issue is the showily read part -- the Dawkins part just identifies which flavor of douchewaffle.
brickbaterang@reddit
Fair point
Gudakesa@reddit
If someone is vegan and it’s not their entire personality are they really vegan?
yinzer_v@reddit
Morrissey also manages to be xenophobic.
jesusismyupline@reddit
not if they don't do cross fit too
okiewxchaser@reddit
Hey now, they also have cross fit to fill out the other half of their personality
Dul_faceSdg@reddit
Not really, the only requirement is you don’t use animal products you can still have hobbies, a job, or a family
CoolNebula1906@reddit
Sounds like hating on vegans is your entire personality
MattieShoes@reddit
Let's just get it out of the way and add D&D and anime to that list. Hobby? Great! A central part of your personality? ech, stop.
CoolNebula1906@reddit
None of these things are small.
_CPR__@reddit
But also none of them are a substitute for a real personality.
CoolNebula1906@reddit
I agree
PCN24454@reddit
How small is it really?
stuck_behind_a_truck@reddit
Bingo
olivegardengambler@reddit
I would say this is the biggest thing that I don't think people get. The number of people who have openly proselytized to me, is less than five. I don't think I had it happen to me a single time since I turned 21, and especially after COVID. I think that it is fair to say now that most Americans are pretty indifferent to religion, like if they would put down their Christian on a survey, the number of Americans that go to church weekly is very low. Like I think I read something somewhere that in the most religious states, it's like 30%. When you consider that tends to skew towards very old people, mostly retirees, it's no surprise that the average person you interact with if you're under the age of 50, probably doesn't go to church very often.
ReasonableSal@reddit
We get JWs at our door occasionally, but that's about it. I tend to only bring up religion (or lack thereof) in company I know is like-minded, though.
overts@reddit
I do the “I’m not religious” thing because I don’t really care but I think the fact that a lot of atheists feel they have to sidestep the conversation answers OP’s question perfectly. You really just shouldn’t tell people you’re an atheist at all in America, particularly in the south.
Anecdotal but the one time I actually did tell someone I had recently met that I was an atheist they started telling me about the Bible.
On a separate occasion my wife and I made friends, met up at a local bar for months, even went to their house for a get together, and when religion was brought up by them my wife told them we were atheist. They ghosted us afterwards.
virtual_human@reddit
Of course it's not like religious people ever announce their beliefs.
olivegardengambler@reddit
I'd still say that it's not exactly condoned. And the easiest way to prove this, try to pass a law that makes soliciting and loitering exempt if it is to express religious beliefs. Guaranteed, many people would go along with that, until somebody brings up the point that it would mean that those door-to-door evangelists can now go door to door in your hoa, with impunity, and a no soliciting sign is not going to stop them. You think nimbies are bad, wait until you see NOMDS
CoolNebula1906@reddit
I disagree that it is not condoned. Religion, especially Christianity, is unavoidable in America unless you live in a major city and even then its unavoidable
olivegardengambler@reddit
Unavoidable in the way that it's like, "oh look, there's a church over there?" Or "There's that crazy guy holding up a crazy sign about God on the street corner"? I feel that with especially the former, that's going to be the case literally anywhere you go that used to have Christianity as the dominant religion. Like how often really do people ask you about your religion? I can't even remember the last time I was asked.
CoolNebula1906@reddit
People don't ask me about my religion almost ever. However, they constantly talk about their own religion or religious beliefs. And the crazy preacher people harass people. No, they arent that common but they aren't super uncommon. And i didnt mean seeing churches, but seeing "you are going to hell" kinda billboards is an every day occurance. I dont have a problem seeing churches or people being religious. Im just saying that as much as people complain about atheists shoving their beliefs in peoples faces, I just never see anything like that. I see just the opposite all the time however.
sgtm7@reddit
I don't really see either, except online.
okiewxchaser@reddit
Eh, there is an old saying about sex, religion and politics not being acceptable casual conversation.
CoolNebula1906@reddit
I hear those three things talked about all the time
virtual_human@reddit
Many religious people exude religion, they can't help themselves. They are also more than happy to force it on other people.
OO_Ben@reddit
You can dislike that too my guy
tearlock@reddit
It's the same form of irritation. Anyone who publicly declares their "ism" loudly whether it be religion, politics, or some other belief or lack of belief as a declaration of identity or a challenge to that of others is doing something that typically stirs the pot socially and it's irritating. I find vocally outspoken self-labelers e.g. christians, atheists, democrats, republicans, or virtually any other reflection of lifestyle to be kind of annoying annoying, especially when it's all they seem capable of talking about, like they are some 1-dimensional fanboy/girl that can only focus on this one subject like it's the meaning of theirs and all lives. I tend to like disagreeing with such people even if i don't actually.
awalkingidoit@reddit
Yes, but we’re not talking about them, are we?
jda404@reddit
Spot on. It goes both ways. I don't like anything shoved in my face whether someone is forcing their religion down my throat or forcing their atheism down my throat. If you're religious cool, if not cool. If someone makes their religion or non religion their whole personality and life, respectfully that's just not someone I'll get along with.
PacSan300@reddit
Yeah, I am atheist but never brought it up unless someone asked me what religion I practiced. The vast majority of time, the reaction was “Oh okay”, and nothing else.
s1a1om@reddit
Depends where you live. In Texas people will frequently ask what church you go to when first meeting you.
sgtm7@reddit
I lived in Texas for over 10 years, and was never asked what church I go to. Not even once.
BlindWalnut@reddit
Same. I'm an atheist in the south and can't remember the last time my beliefs were brought up randomly in any conversation that didn't involve hallucinogenics.
6a6566663437@reddit
This is very much regional.
In the South, especially as you get more rural, “What church do you go to?” Is usually the 2nd thing someone asks when meeting you.
_Nocturnalis@reddit
To the extent it's a thing answering, oh, I don't works out just fine.
enstillhet@reddit
Same. But I'm also in one of the least religious states in the nation.
ThisCarSmellsFunny@reddit
This has been my experience in Virginia as well.
Odd-Local9893@reddit
This is what I’ve found too. You don’t have to talk religion with anyone, and if they do you can just remain neutral. Only people who go around broadcasting that they are atheists will get shit for it. Most people don’t give a shit what you believe as long as you’re not an asshole.
That said, unfortunately there are a lot of Christian types who don’t forget to mention their religiosity at any given moment and they generally aren’t shunned for it like an atheist would be who did the same.
CupBeEmpty@reddit
Oh wormy, you know I care. But you already asked me not to evangelize so I just keep it to myself.
manicpixidreamgirl04@reddit
I only starting saying 'not religious' instead of atheist because some people don't understand how it's possible for me to be culturally/ethnically Jewish without believing in god.
RemonterLeTemps@reddit
I believe many people have never had it explained to them. Luckily, my mom sorted that out for me when I was young, and growing up in a Jewish neighborhood.
ContractSmooth4202@reddit
They’re that dumb?
Infernal_139@reddit
Yes
bigdreamstinydogs@reddit
You’re going to get extremely biased answers here on Reddit, which leans younger and less religious than the rest of the population. If I’m talking to someone I don’t know very well, I just say I’m not religious. Some people definitely see atheism as extreme, especially in certain areas of the country
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
I'm aware. They actually turned out to be a bit less biased than I thought
ContractSmooth4202@reddit
American pop culture is very secular. Do you see people quoting the Bible in arguments in movies and TV shows made in the US? You don’t, so how religious can Americans living outside of the South really be?
OscarGrey@reddit
American pop cukture has been always more secular than the American population. Entertainment industry has a disproportionate amount of Jewish and atheist people, and a lower amount of Evangelicals/Pentecostals than the general population.
Low-Equipment2767@reddit
One-third of Americans' self identity as christian nationalist or christian nationalist sympathizers. Given the recent election, you really want to stay off any lists.
DepthInternational47@reddit
As someone who lives in the Bible Belt it happens a ton and I’m so tired of it , ready to get away from it
DeathToTheFalseGods@reddit
Not usually. People usually only have a problem with the annoying atheists that won’t shut the fuck up about. But that’s the same with vegans, electric car owners, and just about everything.
If you turn it into an overbearing personality trait, it will rub people wrong.
NeuroticKnight@reddit
Trump is shameless and is afraid of no one, but even he pretends to be a Christian, though it is empty and everyone knows it, USA just needs someone to be religious at least politically, though for everyday life it isn't so hampering.
GodzillaDrinks@reddit
Very much situationally dependent. Most of the time, you're probably okay, particularly if you aren't loud about it.
But there are fairly large parts of the US that are basically owned and operated by Fundies/Evangelicals (Read: Christian Cultists) and they can get nasty. They don't usually jump to violence, but they have been known to participate in either committing or at least covering up the occasional hate crime.
Sabertooth767@reddit
Every group except Jews and atheists themselves rated "atheists" more cooly than "agnostics" and "nothing in particular."
https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2014/07/16/how-americans-feel-about-religious-groups/
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
That's a very interesting study; thanks for linking it. That is actually even worse than I thought. Damn
Maquina_en_Londres@reddit
I think you're misunderstanding the data.
Over 50% of people picked said "no opinion". A majority of people just truly from the bottom of our hearts, don't care.
That's what tolerance means. Being able to say "you do you, have fun" to things that are none of your business.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
I do understand. 50% is low though
Rabidmaniac@reddit
It’s worth noting that by far the most common form of Judaism in America is Reform Judaism, which while technically theistic, is entirely compatible with atheism and agnosticism. I would go as far as to safely say that a majority of reform Jews are effectively atheistic or agnostic, yet still define themselves as Jewish due to strong cultural or communal ties.
Arleare13@reddit
This is interesting, but 10 years old. I wonder how it's changed since then.
Maquina_en_Londres@reddit
I think you're misunderstanding the data.
Over 50% of people picked said "no opinion". A majority of people just truly from the bottom of our hearts, don't care.
That's what tolerance means. Being able to say "you do you, have fun" to things that are none of your business.
lionseatcake@reddit
These questions like you traveled to another planet...have you never been around anyone other than your parents?
Yes. Some people in some places think a certain way about some things.
Other people in those same places will think a different way.
Other people in OTHER places will think even more differently!
It's a wide world we live in, full of various opinions and ideas!!!
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
I pretty much knew the answer. I just wanted a confirmation because this topic simply never gets brought up in real life
lionseatcake@reddit
Do you just talk to strangers about religion all the time where you come from? We just have politeness mores that we follow where it's not polite to discuss religion with just any and everybody.
I thought this was just standard for developed countries.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
We don't talk about it outside of families (except for the very few religious fanatics). Moreover, if someone does openly say they're an atheist, nobody cares; negative prejudices toward atheists are pretty much nonexistent. That last part is very much not the case for the US
snarkypant@reddit
In Texas you cannot be elected to office if you are an atheist. And to join the Elks club, you have to state that you believe in a god.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Is the office thing just de jure, or de facto?
snarkypant@reddit
Honestly don’t know. The idea of a religious test for office would always nope me right out of there. And in my district/county, there’s no way anyone could be elected if they couldn’t put their “charter member of God’s Favoritest Church Home, LLC, on the posters.
snarkypant@reddit
“Texas Constitution Article 1, Section 4 of the Texas Constitution states that no religious test can be required to hold office in the state. It also prohibits the exclusion of anyone from holding office based on their religious beliefs, as long as they acknowledge the existence of a Supreme Being.”
So mayyyybe an agnostic could do it, holding their nose and crossing their fingers, but an atheist willing to bend over on that point? I sure wouldn’t.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Wow. That's like straight-up discrimination based on religious beliefs on the highest jurisdictional level possible.
... would a pastorianin, a follower of Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster cut it?
Rough-Driver-1064@reddit
Of course it is, any reasonable or obviously correct position is perceived negatively in Cheeto Land.
HalcyonHelvetica@reddit
Most people will just say they aren’t religious. Affirmatively claiming that you're an atheist tends to lead people to assume you're more hostile to religion as opposed to indifferent or just non-practicing. There's a subset of religious people who have a major martyr complex and will view atheists negatively since they perceive them as hostile.
broadfuckingcity@reddit
Many Americans believe atheism per se is immoral as well, though. They believe that morality requires a belief in a deity.
Cultural_Ebb4794@reddit
I would bet that the Venn diagram for "people who hold that belief" and "people who are Christian" would come pretty close to one perfect circle.
Comediorologist@reddit
Totally. I had been married for a couple years when my wife and I realized that we had different definitions of atheist. She's nominally religious, and she knew I didn’t believe in anything spiritual, but one time I described myself as an atheist in front of her mother and she freaked out. Not because it was supposed to be a secret, but rather because she seemed to think atheists claimed to know there is no God. She seemed mollified when I explained that it simply means I don't think God exists.
gharok13@reddit
I think technically athiests affirm there is no god, while agnostics believe its impossible to prove either way.
Ive heard some people describe themselves as 'agnostic athiests' to delineate they dont think theres a god but they cant prove it one way or the other.
Clever_plover@reddit
Ya, it almost seems many people confuse atheism (lack of belief in god) with anti-theism, or a belief system that is certain there is no god.
Even just when describing atheism, many folks seem to struggle with the concepts of 'lack of belief' in something, which in turn can lead to crazy assumptions being. Lack of belief and certainty something doesn't exist might sound the same to some, but are incredibly different concepts when you ponder them, ya know?
GandalfTheTeal@reddit
There's atheist (do not believe in dietes) and theist (believe in dieties), agnostic (don't know) and gnostic (know), you can combine those however you want, you know there is no god (gnostic atheist), you don't think there is a god (agnostic atheist), you know there is a god (gnostic theist), you think there is a god (agnostic theist).
CODENAMEDERPY@reddit
So you’re agnostic?
CupBeEmpty@reddit
That’s my experience. There’s folks that just don’t believe and are low key about it. There are others that are distinctly hostile to religion and will let you know.
Clever_plover@reddit
That's my exact experience with people and their personal religion/belief system as well. It's almost like that is a more universal human condition you are describing vs the way an atheist would act!
shelwood46@reddit
I am atheist enough to be mildly annoyed when the cashier at the supermarket tells me, "Have a blessed day," but socially intelligent enough to never beef with her because can you even imagine what an asshole move that would be, just take my receipt and go it won't kill me.
LA_Nail_Clippers@reddit
Yeah that’s my experience as well. I tend to just say “I’m not religious” and most people leave it at that. Sometimes I’ll share more specific details if they’re genuinely curious and not just looking for a fight.
Maester_erryk@reddit
My approach as well. My boss and one of my close co-workers are pretty Christian and it rarely comes up I just say I'm not religious
JakeVonFurth@reddit
Entirely not helped by the /r Atheism types that are militantly Antitheist, and spent the front half of the 2010s making Christians hate people calling themselves atheist.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
That's what I've heard. Never tested it in real life, though, so I decided to get confirmation on reddit without any... uhh... risks?
Maquina_en_Londres@reddit
There are no risks.
Just most people don't like to talk about religion. They don't want to hear about atheism, Christianity, or any other faith.
You will not offend anybody, just possibly annoy them.
Naive-Beekeeper67@reddit
Depends where you live and type of people you mix with. I'd say.
pickleops@reddit
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/in-atheists-we-distrust/
Level_Criticism_3387@reddit
Theological noncognitivist on the streets
Sagan-Day Atenist in the sheets
Dio_Yuji@reddit
For most people, if they find out, they’ll view you negatively. However, it’s unlikely that the subject will ever be brought up in polite, informal conversation
SevenSixOne@reddit
Yeah, the best thing to do most of the time is just not mention it; most people don't care and it will probably never come up anyway.
Icy-Student8443@reddit
no i’m an atheist and most people don’t give a fuck that i don’t believe in god
MaleficentCoconut594@reddit
For most of the country I don’t think anyone really cares. In the Bible Belt you may get some looks, but other than that I don’t think so
Mmmmmmm_Bacon@reddit
To religious people, yes. Because we’re basically saying we think your religion is stupid and wrong. Which is exactly what we’re saying on the inside but we usually don’t let them know that 😅
jcrowde3@reddit
If you live in the south you might as well be Satan. You can't tell anyone with a big hit to your perception as a worker and a human being.
meandering_simpleton@reddit
Just don't be like the average redditor and call people stupid who believe in God
ArbysLunch@reddit
I just tell people I believe in my lord and savior, Sasquatch.
ComesInAnOldBox@reddit
It depends, really. Some people have a negative connotation with it, others don't. You'll be looked at as a heathen by one household, and welcomed by the next.
Overall, though, the label of "atheist" does carry a bit of extra baggage with it thanks to a select group of notorious loud-mouthed atheists that go out of their way to be complete assholes to anyone who displays even the slightest hint that they might be of the Christian persuasion. These are the kind of douchebags that if someone says "thank God for that" as a simple turn of phrase, they'll jump all over the person who said it with an almost fanatical fervor. Some folks call these idiots "evangelical atheists," and they make up an extreme minority of actual atheists, but they're also the loudest and unfortunately color the rest of the crowd for everyone else.
It's for this reason you'll get people identifying as "not religious" or "agnostic" instead of "atheist," because they don't want to be lumped in with those dickheads.
Clever_plover@reddit
Agnostic and atheistic are not the same thing either though.
OscarGrey@reddit
Yes, religious right hasn't been pumping out anti-atheist propaganda since like the 90s. /s
ZaphodG@reddit
I'm an atheist. I'd never announce that in a social setting in real life. My sister died a week ago. When it came up, I informed people her memory care facility, her executor, and the funeral home that she was an atheist so there would be no religious funeral and no viewing or wake. Medical autopsy and cremation, please. I'll pay the up-charge for the nicer box for the ashes.
pinniped1@reddit
I just use the term "agnostic". I'm not looking to start a brawl, but I also don't want to talk about religion.
Thankfully it doesn't come up much.
appleparkfive@reddit
Well they're different things. Agnostic is more along the lines of "I don't know. Could be a higher power. We probably don't have the technology or understanding to know even if there is". Atheism is more a rigid "I don't believe at all".
I've noticed that this is one of the more confused things in the past few years. People seem to think they're the same. A lot of agnostic people just assume they fall into the atheist category.
Personally I think it's kind of weird to say "No I KNOW that nothing is out there". Because we can't really know that. That's basically just being as sure of your belief as a religion is, ultimately. But that's just my perception of it.
Agnostic, secular, and non-religous are a lot more acceptable in most of those rural areas I'd say
Strange-Goat3787@reddit
I think I'm sort of in between these in a sense, and I don't exactly know which would be correct. Honestly, I don't even really care about the label, but it's interesting to know other perspectives. I'd consider myself an atheist in that I, personally, do not believe in anything, but I'm never going to try and argue or state that as fact because no one knows. For me, it's "I don't think there's anything, but I could be wrong," while I view agnostics more as "I just don't know."
SeawolfEmeralds@reddit
Its the more inclined to know term as opposed to recent buzzword indicator.
Agnostic v atheist
If there was some metric or study it would likely show that more people claim to be atheist in this new digital age they've become far removed from community spiritual amd and science.
Science isn't new people throughout history have had great difficulty claiming to be scientific and spiritual in fact the moment the scientiststeps foot in spiritual they've lost their grants and their career.
Any questions see the individual who sent darwin the telegraph.
DARWIN SAID THAT SOB
Are atheist perceived negatively no same with pagans agnostics and all the other various religions who hold vast common ground
the negativity is when people open their mouth to promote their ideological rhetoric and religion. Not grasping the topic at hand.
Of particular note are the atheists who can often be seen celebrating pagan rituals digitally on their social media outlets
Having a conversation with them throughout time is anecdotal. However most people who call themselves atheist typically don't hold much understanding of science or religion.
The cosmos its a vast universe
To declare they are omnipotent
Is ironic
Most people might be shocked to find out how little of their thoughts are even their own they've NEVER sat in Silence, contemplating existence in deep thought.
they've moved from one moment to the next instinct clarification Always being told what to think what does say what to do
People can talk about taking drugs and going on excursions, those are called drug tourists
That these drug tourists don't portray the requirements necessary for that type of exploration
Is "Atheist" perceived negatively?
pinniped1@reddit
You lost me with a lot of that. But the negative perception depends on how religious the other person/people are.
"Agnostic" is code for "you do you, I'll do me, and I don't want to talk about religion."
"Atheist" is more like "you're wrong and I'm ready to debate it with you right now."
SeawolfEmeralds@reddit
The both have distinct definitions in no way are they what is listed above.
nosomogo@reddit
I'm an athiest, and it doesn't come up. I don't give a shit what anyone else's religious beliefs are and I'm not interested in sharing mine either.
Library_IT_guy@reddit
"I'm not religious" has been my go to phrase when pressed about it. A lot of religious people seem to think of atheism as "hates religion/thinks religious people are stupid". Going with the "I'm not religious" route seems more acceptable, even though it means the same thing.
Griegz@reddit
I want to say "I'm not the least bit superstitious" because I want to be sure they understand it to include not just their religion but also luck, and voodoo, and santeria, and spirtualism, and whatever else, but I'm sure that wouldn't go over well.
syo@reddit
"Oh I'm not into fanfiction."
JeddakofThark@reddit
The only thing I know about Santeria is the Sublime song.
I used to enjoy responding to questions about my religion by saying I wasn’t superstitious. Religious people often saw atheism as just another belief system, and if I wasn’t actively debating it, it could come across much like saying I was Jewish or Buddhist or something more traditional. However, saying I wasn’t superstitious was often perceived as a direct challenge to their beliefs, which it was.
I’ve mellowed out over the years and moved past being an angry atheist, so I’m not nearly as confrontational now. That said, depending on the context, going around asking people about their religious beliefs can be a bit intrusive. Still, it’s rare that anyone actually deserves to have their beliefs called stupid. Even when they are.
sgtm7@reddit
I am not religious. Whenever an atheists proclaims it, it is accompanied by talking crap about people who are religious. That is what I have seen online. Have never seen it in real life.
BringBackApollo2023@reddit
Religion, sex, and politics. How to start a war in zero seconds. Literal third rail topics.
1337b337@reddit
The only winning move is not to play. How about a nice game of Chess?
AnmlBri@reddit
I’d say there’s a difference between being “religious” and being “spiritual.” My mom generally believes in God but is unsure about Jesus and the Devil and other aspects of Christianity, and she describes herself as “spiritual, but not religious.” I’m somewhere in that neighborhood myself as a reluctant agnostic (as in, I wish I had stronger faith in a higher power than I do). I tend to be kind of cynical about organized religion, but I don’t want to let that stop me from holding beliefs that might otherwise feel right to me.
Maquina_en_Londres@reddit
Yup.
I don't want to hang out with militant atheists or the deeply religious that much.
Just not a topic I find interesting.
novavegasxiii@reddit
As an athiest to some extent that's true. On the other hand you see people proudly and openly display their christianity at my job and i get the sense it really wouldn't be appreciated or treated the same if i did the same with my beliefs.
That and ive overhead some coworkers usually managers disparage non religous people when they think no one can hear them.
SnugglyBabyElie@reddit
From my experience, the term Atheist tends to have a negative connotation. Now that I live in "Jesus country", I keep it to myself unless someone asks me a direct question. Even then, I just say I'm not religious.
Of course, that doesn't stop them from saying something along the lines of, "oh, I had no idea. I always thought you were so kind. I just assumed you were God-fearing." I get to tell them my kindness is genuine and comes from my heart.
Synaps4@reddit
Are you atheist or are you agnostic?
An atheist has a positive opinion that god does not exist, and often wants to tell other people about that.
An agnostic doesn't know one way or another, and so isn't trying to convert anybody.
People feel the same way about atheists as they do about evangelicals. Both are groups who are out to convert others to their point of view.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
I am an atheist. And no, we don't want to convert anyone. Those who do are the minority. Chances are, you simply don't hear many people from the majority of atheists who don't have it as an objective to argue with theists. An average atheist, from my experience, simply doesn't care. You believe in God? Ok. It makes your life easier than if you wouldn't? Good for you. It makes your life harder than if you wouldn't? Well, shit; good luck with that, I guess. That is all.
22paynem@reddit
Depends on where and who your talking t0
neoprenewedgie@reddit
If you are walking in Memphis and Muriel asks "are you a Christian, child?" tell her "ma'am, I am tonight."
Strange-Goat3787@reddit
I guess "not religious" will be perceived slightly better by some, but please don't hesitate to say you're atheist. Lots of us are. Obviously, we're more concentrated in some areas, but it's actually really important for those in more religious areas to meet atheists and understand other people don't share the same views, but are still good people they can get along with. The US is supposed to have freedom of religion and a division of church and state. We don't have that in its truest form, and what we do have is slipping away. So please don't hide your beliefs.
_S1syphus@reddit
Depends on where you are but on the whole theres a negative connotation, to the point that atheism legitimately hurts your political career
AladeenModaFuqa@reddit
Atheist comes off harsh in the south, but you’re also around a ton of religious people and telling them your belief is their belief is a lie.
I’m agnostic, a lot smoother with religious people. Because they ask what’s that and it’s a “I don’t know and can’t prove either way, but I try to be a good person”.
MattieShoes@reddit
Know your audience.
From a country-wide perspective, yes it's viewed negatively. But most of that is from the bible belt doing what they do -- dragging down the average for the entire country. In most of the country, nobody really cares.
0tteroy@reddit
Ehhh well, it depends on where you go irl(and online tbh) in my experience, some people are quick to pull up 2010's Athiests and act like that's how all Athiests are. I've had experiences where people were judgemental, and experiences where people weren't bothered by it at all.
Internal_Flamingo_38@reddit
Depends on where you are; in some parts of Brooklyn, not at all, in other parts of Brooklyn, very much so!
(This is a joke about the proximity of the queer and Hasidic Jewish communities thank you for coming to my set).
flareon141@reddit
Depends. Location is key. Texas? I wouldn't mention it to very many NYC? F7ew would care
Rogue_Cheeks98@reddit
Depends where you live I guess. Im an atheist, but I havent really told anybody because nobody around me really talks about religion
sics2014@reddit
I don't think I've ever had the chance to tell anyone I'm an atheist. Religion never comes up at all.
Meattyloaf@reddit
Must be nice. I'm not atheist but I classify myself as more a diest, but I don't practice religion. My MIL is constantly trying to prove my wife and I into going to her church and some of her family going on about x, y, and z on how we don't go to church or whatever.
ItsCalledDayTwa@reddit
is "prove somebody into doing something" a regional usage? I read that sentence three times and then went to look up if it was something I just wasn't familiar with, but couldn't find it. I get your meaning from context, but I've just never seen "prove" used that way
Meattyloaf@reddit
Nah that was autofill or whatever it's called changing a word. I had originally wrote force, no clue why it changed to prove
ItsCalledDayTwa@reddit
haha ok, thanks for clarifying.
CoolNebula1906@reddit
Man the difference in culture between the northeast and the south is so insane. There are nearly a dozen churches in my small rural town
Sensitive-Issue84@reddit
I say it a lot. I'm in California and have told many people in random conversations. It's usually no big deal because I live in California.
hypo-osmotic@reddit
The closest that happens to me is someone asking if I go to one of the churches in town. The intention feels less like needing to know my theological views and more like wondering if we share any of the same social circles. I wouldn't be surprised if a few of them quietly judged me when the answer is no but I've never been interrogated about it further
Haram_Salamy@reddit
I spent most of my life as an atheist without anyone ever caring. Went on a camping trip with a friend out to the boonies, and his extended family nearly crucified me. Depends in where you are.
AliVista_LilSista@reddit
Not to me.
I don't understand how it's possible to not be aware of a higher power, but I'm sure atheists don't understand how I could have a lifelong concept of God, and that's fine.
Anti-religion, anti-theist, areligious or agnostic aren't "atheist" and it bugs me when people get terminology wrong.
Fuzzylittlebastard@reddit
Despite what the media tells you most people don't really care about that stuff. As long as you don't go around bragging about it, nobody will usually care.
MajesticBeat9841@reddit
110% depends on where you are
Racheakt@reddit
You know how some vegans don’t eat meat and other vegans must tell you that they don’t eat meat and you are bad for eating steak…. Atheist are kinda judged on that scale
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
To be fair, in real life, I've maybe seen 1 vegan who told anyone that they were bad for eating meat
a3r0d7n4m1k@reddit
In highly religious places, probably not great to mention, but most people are probably not going to start too much conflict about it. I think atheists get it from both sides though because I feel like I knew a few edgelord atheists in high school that made it everyone's problem so it has a not great mental association for me even now, even though I really don't care after the first gut reaction. I suspect that type of atheist has somewhat ruined it for atheists in much of America.
QuantumCinder@reddit
Just as long as you’re not also a vegan CrossFitter, you’ll be fine.😉😆
BadKarma_012@reddit
A lot of self proclaimed atheist are more religious-phobic than non-religious
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
That's usually because non-extremist atheists are too afraid to use that word. Like, to give an extreme example, not all nazis were bad people, but nobody called themselves that after the WW2 ended except the extremists.
Smart_Engine_3331@reddit
The US is a majorly Christian country, and atheists are largely perceived negatively. Less so in more liberal locations, but in some places, they are perceived as evil or Satan worshippers.
Accomplished_Mix7827@reddit
It depends what part of the country you're in. East or West Coast, they usually don't care. Deep South? Admitting you're an atheist is asking for trouble.
ChaskaChanhassen@reddit
Just say "I'm not churchy." It's kinda cutesy, and I've never gotten a bad reaction.
Round-Sprinkles9942@reddit
Yes and no, honestly though when I hear it I have a mental "thank gawd" moment. Easier to communicate with the atheists I've met compared to my Christian peers(90% of whom I doubt really know what they believe they just want someone to tell them), and they seem to welcome actual deep thoughts kinda conversation vs the redundant small talk niceties I'm used to. You say it around a bible robot though and you instantly are met with some kind of dissonance though. What ever you were about to communicate to them is gonna be met with mental dissonance and that air of superiority shit as deep down for w/e reason they snuggly n truly think their souls better than yours.
Consistent_Damage885@reddit
In general, better to be vague about this and just say you are not religious or are unsure about your beliefs, etc.
2pnt0@reddit
I fell out of religion in the late 00's when I was in college at the height of what I now hear referred to as the 'new atheist' movement... Hitchens, Dawkins, Harris, and a whole bunch of YouTubers.
When I see people holding Atheism as a core identifier, I see it as a red flag.
The communities split and veered towards far right and far left. I'm so thankful I came to my senses. Every time I hear someone leading with Atheism, it reminds me how close I got to falling down the gamergate, alt-right pipeline and I cringe so fucking hard.
If you gave me a form with a whole bunch of religions and both non-believer and atheist were on there, I'd probably pick atheist... But I wouldn't say it out loud.
I just don't really talk about religion... It's not a big thing, and I don't insert myself in it. If asked about religion, I'd answer with values I hold. Things I actually believe in, like freedom of choice, autonomy, caring for each other, and kindness... Pressed, I'd say non-believer.
softabyss@reddit
Being an “Atheist” is cringe to me. I think its better to just say yr not religious, more mature.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
As a non-American, I feel exactly the opposite. Not objecting to anything; just interesting how the culture is different
botulizard@reddit
I think that identifying oneself as an Atheist lost a lot of its appeal in the last ten years or so, mostly because of obnoxious and annoying "New" or eventually "Reddit" Atheists- embarrassing nerds who made calling yourself atheist terminally uncool by being both elitist and evangelical about it.
There was a time when every pseudointellectual, actually-it's-a-trilby-wearing-ass dickhead on the internet fancied himself a genius among morons because he stopped believing in god(s). I myself was caught up in it for a short time, but luckily, I grew the fuck up.
Now I just say "not religious", or "I grew up Catholic". The latter is especially useful because it allows me to sidestep the tremendous guilt I felt for calling myself atheist, guilt of course felt because I grew up Catholic.
mklinger23@reddit
To most people, no. To most people over 65, yes.
ruat_caelum@reddit
It's a big deal. While "protected by law" from being fired etc. It happens all the time in the bible belt etc.
GlassAngyl@reddit
Atheist is perceived negatively by religious ppl. Religion is perceived negatively by atheists. Stop over thinking it.
Time_Garden_2725@reddit
I would never hold that against anyone.
Arcaeca2@reddit
I don't think many people would care if you just don't believe in God or don't go to church.
But the word "atheist", for a lot of people, conjures up images of unbearably smug, judgmental, fedora-wearing neckbeards who think they're way smarter than they actually are, and who go out of their way to denigrate other people's religious beliefs and insult people over strawmen of what they actually believe. You know... r/atheism types. These people are widely regarded as extremely annoying, and that's what the term "atheist" evokes for many people.
Fit-Smile2707@reddit
They did a survey a while back and asked religious people in the U.S. what they thought about atheists. They think atheists are worse than rapists and murderers. Welcome to 'Merica!
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Oooh the land of the free and the home of the rape
dmbgreen@reddit
Only if they go on about it.
Amockdfw89@reddit
Kind of sort of? Most people outwardly don’t care as long as you don’t mess with them
ChapBobL@reddit
Some people are apathetic, they haven't given religious faith any consideration. It's not a high priority for them. Maybe at some point they'll be interested.
moondancer224@reddit
My perspective is biased by living in the rural south all my life, but Christianity is still "the default" here and people assume that unless you are presenting something else. And the something else is generally perceived as an invitation to try and convert you or make Christian comments to try and open a conversation so they can attempt to convert you.
Atheist down here still makes some people think you said Satanist for some reason. So you should avoid the headache and not mention it to the average people.
EulerIdentity@reddit
I don’t know why you’d ever “just mention” any sort of religious affiliation, but if you were to call yourself an atheist, the reaction would vary dramatically from place to place. Say that at a tech startup in Boston, Massachusetts, and you’ll get no reaction, maybe a shrug. Say that in a small town in Alabama and you’ll get a very different reaction. Hint - don’t say that in a small town in Alabama.
MistaSoviet@reddit
I’ll put it to you like this, you can live very comfortably as an Atheist in America but it’s best that you never mention it because people get VERY offended. Like, you’re legally protected and people will be default treat you well, but if they know you’re an atheist there’s a roughly 33% chance they’ll straight up hate you.
teslaactual@reddit
It really depends on where you live, it's more than a state by state thing it's closer to a town by town thing or even neighborhood to neighborhood thing in some places
BordeuxlineBiDesign@reddit
..Who caressss..?!
BordeuxlineBiDesign@reddit
Then again I AM from NY 🤷🏻♀️
6894@reddit
Atheists aren't allowed to hold office in 7 states.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
De jure, but not de facto, right? RIGHT?
6894@reddit
For the moment it's unenforceable due to a prior supreme court ruling. But since the current supreme court is corrupt as hell they very well could repeal that decision.
ophaus@reddit
In many places, yeah. Southern places in particular.
Odd-Psychology-7899@reddit
To many people, “atheist” connotes intelligence and sophistication. But to some, it connotes someone who is “lost” and needs to be “saved”.
breaker_1986@reddit
It can be depending on where you are and what age group of people you are dealing. In the southeastern part of the US, especially in rural areas, it is really bad unless you practice their brand of Christianity. However, you can be in more progressive states like Massachusetts and if you have old school Catholic grandparents, you wouldn't want to admit you are an atheist to them.
clickmagnet@reddit
I use “not religious” too. I even knew a woman who said she was fine with me not being religious, but could never be with an atheist, because they’re evil. (Not the only screw she had loose.)
But I use that not in deference to bigots, but to defy them. I don’t have to go around defining myself by a disinterest in baseball, or a skepticism of astrology. Why should I define myself by the absence of sharing in somebody else’s pet fantasy?
mellemodrama@reddit
I assume everyone's an atheist these days
rawbface@reddit
That's pretty much the same thing, as far as not believing in any god. The latter might imply an unreasonable amount of certainty, and it could imply hostility toward religion - often justifiable if one suffered trauma by the church. But the former still implies that you treat the Bible the same way you would treat The Hobbit.
broadfuckingcity@reddit
They're not the same thing. You could believe in a god or gods while not participating in a particular religion, and there are also religions that do not necessarily involve or require the belief in a god.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
I know. I've just heard that "not religious" is perceived less negatively and wanted to get confirmation on reddit.
Exactly why I came to a semi-anonymus social media to ask the question.
Thanks!
3mptyspaces@reddit
Though I believe in zero gods, I don’t call myself an atheist because I truly don’t care if anyone else does. Self-titled atheists can have an energy I don’t like any more than the equal and opposite energy.
To me, atheism can be as much as a religion as the traditional ones. My position is that I choose not to participate in any of it.
CoolNebula1906@reddit
Every comment in this thread looks like a clone wrote it. Yes, Atheist is perceived negatively. Just look at this thread, haha.
There is a culture on reddit of simultaneously claiming that we are all atheists and nobody cares anymore (denialism) and of shutting down anything atheists say as "you guys are the annoying ones". I see religious people preach in the streets much more than atheists. In fact, reddit is the only place I encounter them. I live in the southeast and have noticed people from other parts of the country seem to be able to avoid religion more, but in most rural conservative areas atheist may as well be satanist.
Rumpelteazer45@reddit
It depends on where you live. Near major cities no big deal. Rural areas different story.
zaxxon4ever@reddit
Yes. It is perceived negatively most of the time.
Sea-End-4841@reddit
There are few groups trusted less in America than atheists.
FormerlyUserLFC@reddit
I’m not religious means “I don’t care to talk about it”.
I’m an atheist comes off as more of an assertion. I’ll use either label but in polite company I’ll generally stick with I’m not religious.
gloandi@reddit
In my home state, absolutely.
Anon-John-Silver@reddit
I'm not shy about it. Never really been problem.
coredenale@reddit
If you're in, say, Georgia, where there's basically a church on every corner, people will likely react negatively, but fuck those idiots. It's also tied to politics. There's an example from almost 40 years ago where Bush Sr. said "I don't know that Atheists should be considered citizens, nor should they be considered patriots.":
https://www.newspapers.com/article/austin-american-statesman-george-h-w-b/115501544/
The connection between religion and politics has gotten worse recently, with evangelical folks voting in Trump in hopes it will somehow trigger "the rapture" where everyone dies, butt religious nuts go to heaven or whatever. These people are clearly unhinged.
However, in most reasonable places in the US, you don't really need to ever declare what you do or do not believe.
Current_Poster@reddit
I hear a lot of things (from atheists) that I find hard to believe.
So, assuming they're not lying (there's nothing in it for them to do that), things must be different in other parts of the country.
I know it's not like that anywhere I lived, but there must be a lot of variation.
Current_Poster@reddit
I hear a lot of things (from atheists) that I find hard to believe.
So, assuming they're not lying (there's nothing in it for them to do that), things must be different in other parts of the country.
Rhomya@reddit
To me, yes, because I’m probably going to get an edgy lecture on how me being Lutheran is ruining the world.
rsta223@reddit
Nah, unless you're evangelical, in which case your religion kinda is ruining things.
SatanicCornflake@reddit
Depends on where you are, but for the most part today, I don't think so. I'm a atheist. It has come up a few times, people trying to get me to their religion or talk about it assuming I must be Christian. I personally used to be a Christian and when I run into people from back then, they'll either ask or assume I still "practice."
The reaction is usually concern or something, but it's never been judgement, though once in a while someone will try to debate you on things. Gun to my head, Muslims specifically are marginally more accepting about it in my experience, though they'll be more fervent with trying to convince you occasionally.
Overall though, no, I don't think so. Unless someone calls you a reddit atheist, that's an insult, but it has more to do with a personality than whether you're an atheist or not.
Relevant_Airline7076@reddit
So I do describe myself as an atheist when talking about beliefs and its usually not an issue, but I’ll also use “not religious” if talking more about how religion plays a role in my life, because I do celebrate Christian holidays without the explicit religious connotation.
ragingpossumboner@reddit
Only by stupid people
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
So, the vast majority of people. Noted
SoCal4247@reddit
The thing with atheists is they don’t really tell anyone they’re atheist. I am and even I usually just say I’m not religious because I don’t know what someone’s response will be. Not religious sounds nicer than I think you’re an idiot for believing in some god. But as others have said, it doesn’t come up and I avoid it if possible.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Thanks for response. Where I'm from, "not religious" and "atheist" sound the same to all people I've known. I know that things are different in the US, but didn't know to what degree exactly
SoCal4247@reddit
Being not religious leaves room that you (probably) believe in god. Saying I’m atheist makes it clear to them I don’t. They’d prefer I AT LEAST believe in god.
alphafox823@reddit
Yes it is. I am an atheist, and if it ever comes up I usually say I have no religion. It seems that "no religion" or "non religious" is less polarizing than "atheist".
I never say agnostic though because there's no chance of me ever taking up any religion again and I don't want to give anyone who'd like to proselytize hope. My mind is not fertile ground for what they want to sell
Techialo@reddit
America was hijacked by religious nutcases a long time ago.
No-Art8729@reddit
Unless you live in a very highly religious rural southern area then nobody will care
eyeshitunot@reddit
I remember seeing a survey some years ago that said majority of people would rather their child married a convicted felon, than an atheist.
EvilAceVentura@reddit
Not really. The people who ask about what you beleive will be upset, but 94% will just shrug and say "ok"
Roboticpoultry@reddit
According to my grandmother, yes. But I was raised Catholic so I can assure you there is no god
Sixxy-Nikki@reddit
I would say so. By no means is everyone in the U.S is deeply religious but in my experience as someone who lives in FL which is a red state but not super conservative, not believing in a god gets you funny looks from everyone outside of academia. Many people straight up asked, “so you basically have no meaning in your life then”? Which sounds incredibly odd I know, but for some reason many Americans will associate spirituality with meaning
Krayzewolf@reddit
Some places yes, some places no. Where I live, no one gives a shit. Which is nice.
Ornery-Philosophy282@reddit
Depends entirely where one is.
When Iived in the south I called myself a "bad Christian" who doesn't attend church. Because in the smaller towns not being a Christian is about the worst thing one can be. To save myself scorn and ill-treatment, I didn't reveal my lack of belief.
In California, where I live, people respect atheism and I can be open about it.
115machine@reddit
Depends on where you live. I am from the rural south and wouldn’t dare use the term “atheist” to describe myself if it’s with people I care to maintain relationships with. “Atheist” is practically a slur here. I remember once when I was in college, a professor had an assignment due immediately after Easter break and my dad said “that man is an atheist” like it was an insult.
I describe myself as “non religious” if it comes up. Amongst younger folks it doesn’t seem to matter but older adults (50+) react in a way that you can tell they don’t like it.
mwhite5990@reddit
The people most likely to care are your family, especially when it comes to attending holiday masses, getting married in the church, or getting your kids baptized.
zamth0sss@reddit
In Colorado it doesn't matter at all. You go to texas or Georgia then id avoid the topic entirely.
akiraokok@reddit
I lived in a religious rural area and I had people tell me they're so sorry my sibling is an atheist. But I don't think that's specific to America.
No_Entertainment1931@reddit
Urban? No.
Rural? Possibly. But frequently people just shut up about it and mind their business.
Rural South? You best get right with jesus, son
Leucippus1@reddit
It certainly carries a stigma.
Groundbreaking_Bus90@reddit
As an athiest southerner, it doesn't affect my day to day life. But when people do find out, they're very judgemental. I usually don't tell anyone else I'm really close with them. I'll never tell my grandparents 🤣.
Groundbreaking_Bus90@reddit
As an athiest southerner, it doesn't affect my day to day life. But when people do find out, they're very judgemental. I usually don't tell anyone else I'm really close with them. I'll never tell my grandparents 🤣.
dm_me_kittens@reddit
Jesus christ, I'd love for religion to never come up.
I live in the deep south and that Jesus fucker is everywhere. Only people very close to me (son, partner, close friends who don't live around me) know, because otherwise it could be a detriment.
c4ctus@reddit
Here in the deep south, absolutely. It's not enough to be Christian. You have to be the right flavor of Christian. When I still attended church, I was constantly told by baptists or church of Christ that I was going to burn in hell because I was Lutheran. I pretty much get the same reaction now that I am agnostic.
MaskedFigurewho@reddit
The term itself means "Does not believe in a diety". Unfortunately, however, a lot of pseudo intellectuals and Narcassist believe the term means "Scientist."
They believe that "Not believing in a diety" makes them all knowing keepers of science and knowledgeable pursuits. People who fit the caricature of "Brian Griffin" from family guy. Who think they are better and above everyone but are really just arrogant idiots.
So, simply not believing isn't the thing that people dislike. Any Christian will try to befreind you if they think you have yet to be converted. Simply saying you do not believe in any diety is ATHIESM. It's just a lot of people do not know what ATHIESM is.
So people pretend they know anything about science by using ATHIESM as a front. I knew someone who had a 4 year degree in environmental science and was believed in Athiesm.
Apparently, that made him a qualified psychiatrist because he would go around diagnosing people against their will. Which made it hard to talk around them because it risked you being diagnosed.
Oh, you just can not organize stuff because you have ADD, or Oh, you are so autistic it's so funny. Then go tell everyone about their diagnoses of people and saying "No one can debate me. I have a bachlors in environmental science. I know everything, and I'm Athiest. Look at my genuis. "
These are the type of people who often take up the label and it's really makes the group look obnoxious. Since that isn't even what Athiesm mean. So people equate Athiesm to being a complete knob.
FalloutRip@reddit
It really depends - where you are, who's asking, how you say it, etc.
In general Atheist tends to carry more of an aggressive anti-religion connotation more than Agnostic. That strong connotation may turn people off more strongly, because they're wary they're about to get a lecture about how religion is the root cause of all of Earth's problems.
That said, nobody has asked me what my faith/ religion/ etc. is. In the past I would've answered Atheist, but now I'm more Agnostic, raised Presbyterian. It's just not something I think about or put time into. Try to live well, and if there's an afterlife cool. If not, oh well, at least I lived being a generally nice person.
mis_no_mer@reddit
Yes it is. I am an atheist and I don’t hide it because I don’t think I should have to. That’s who I am and I’m free to be myself, as is every American. However it will definitely get me into some contentious conversations or at least get me dirty looks. People just don’t seem to understand what it means to be an atheist. I simply just lack belief in one more god than theists. It’s not that I proclaim “there are no gods!” as a statement of fact or that I hate religious people, I just personally have not seen good sufficient evident to warrant the belief in a deity. The hate is one sided, directed at atheists. Like they say, there’s no hate like Christian love.
LukasJackson67@reddit
Yes in some circles.
My brother was in the army. His is an atheist.
I said “why don’t you tell people?”
He said, “because people equate ‘atheist’ with ‘communist.’ “
Ancient0wl@reddit
I’d say overall most people don’t care, but there is a stigma attached in certain areas, but I’ve also been on this website long enough to know Reddit likes to exaggerate the effects on their lives for vindication and karma, so it skews the perception somewhat. Most people will never know your religious inclination unless you tell them.
neorealist234@reddit
Depends on where in the US.
In the South, I can’t imagine it would help you socially…best outcome is it would be benign.
Urban areas (especially on the coasts), no one cares…you’re probably amongst more atheists than any other area. Most suburban areas will be the same.
Rural areas tend to be much religious. Again, won’t be helpful.
Totally common to just not talk about your religious beliefs too in America.
Maquina_en_Londres@reddit
Most people don't care in the South either.
Liberal America wayyyy overestimates the religiosity of conservative America.
Most people wanna talk about food, sports, sex, clothes, and gossip basically everywhere on earth.
beenoc@reddit
From the rural south - at least around here, you're right that pretty much nobody is going to actively seek out atheists to righteously debate them, but they're right in that if they found out you were an atheist they'd definitely look at you differently, in the same way they'd do it if you said you were gay or trans. Not necessarily worse (though if you were trans, definitely worse), but certainly differently.
Source: Am an atheist in the very rural, deep-red south (and have heard what some of my coworkers and neighbors have to say about gay people and "transgenders or transvestites or whatever they're calling themselves now" - their words, not mine.)
OscarGrey@reddit
The same way that conservative America wayyy overestimates the wokeness of liberal America.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
That's exactly what I've been doing the last 3 years. Just wanted to confirm everything I've overheard about religion in America
Cheap_Coffee@reddit
That's a hard question to answer as most of the self-proclaimed atheists I've met would better be described as anti-religious.
Kgb_Officer@reddit
Depends entirely where you are and the company you're around. My cousin and I are atheist, but growing up in a very rural Midwest town, probably as Bible thumping as you could be outside the Bible belt, we never admitted it for years because I was worried about admitting it.
Now I'm open about it if asked, but the number of comments I still get from extended family members about how they hope I come back to Jesus some day, or they'll pray for me, is astounding. I don't know entirely if they view me negatively or just think I'm "lost", I don't know but either way isn't positive.
However I've moved to a more urban area (smaller city) and I know a handful of people of all beliefs/lack of.
1200multistrada@reddit
I've found that not talking about religion or politics has never offended anyone I've ever met.
CupBeEmpty@reddit
Heh, as the local Catholic crank then yes. You should convert and find faith.
As a generalized American, no. It has been decades since being atheist was scandalous or even noteworthy. The only annoying bit about atheists are the online ones that are smug and condescending with little to no basis in history or theology.
These days being an out and out “atheist” is no more worrisome than admitting you are a “devout Catholic.”
You might say “not religious” just to spare some folks feelings but most atheists aren’t “anti religious” just “non religious” which is by and large just fine in US culture.
So long as you aren’t shitting on people with faith then it is just fine.
xERR404x@reddit
If I do, will my clothes stop smoldering every time I’m within 500 ft of a church? :P
CupBeEmpty@reddit
Can’t guarantee it but maybe.
Seriously what kind of clothes are you wearing? Pretty much anything is allowed if you are headed to mass.
BunnyHugger99@reddit
Depends if you come off as a asshole or not
BunnyHugger99@reddit
Depends if you come off as a asshole or not
Almajanna256@reddit
Depends on the religion/region. Generally, the more traditional the family, regardless of background, the more oppositional towards apostasy/blasphemy.
DieSchungel1234@reddit
Not in daily life. In politics it is pretty much a career killer. There are many nonreligious politicians but if you call yourself an actual atheist you will lose your election
Vexonte@reddit
It is a contentious topic. Alot of non religious people will say they are not religious or agnostic, and people will assume they are athiest. If someone calls themselves an athiest, the assumption is that they are an athiest and they will be annoying about it.
Weather athiesm itself is viewed negatively depending on region, subculture and individual. But it is far more common to have negative sentiments towards "that kind" of athiest.
nskaats@reddit
I think a lot of it is because of atheists themselves. Anymore, they're like vegans. They just can't wait to find a way to tell you all about it and be as condescending as possible. Its really off-putting to most people if you cram it in their face and tell them how stupid they are for not adhering to your belief.
Gatodeluna@reddit
As many others have said, it all depends on who/what you live in the middle of. As others have also said, telling people you’re an atheist or agnostic is no different than announcing you’re a Christian in-neon-lights, so both are unnecessary and potentially offensive to their opposite. If someone needs to announce to me they’re Christian, I’m very comfortable saying ‘I’m not.’ With a grin. And ‘I lean toward paga, though😊.’
Livvylove@reddit
I personally won't tell anyone older than me because they tend to be religious.
forgotwhatisaid2you@reddit
People are not usually outwardly hostile to you because you are atheist. It does matter to a lot of people though. More so in small town areas. Churches function as social clubs and members help each other with jobs and such. Religious people are the ones that usually bring religion up because many believe they are commanded by God to bring you to their religion. I have never met a belligerent atheist in the wild but have seen religious people harassing people about their religion. There are people that are hostile towards religion but mostly keep it to themselves except on the Internet. A lot of that hostility comes from trauma they experienced at the hands of religious figures in their past. I am an atheist but not the kind that gets angry when I sneeze and someone says God bless you.
AmbitiousBad178@reddit
Being from a southern state and only having lived in the south… I have certainly caught flak for being non-religious. Lots of “how could you not believe” and lots of “you’re going to hell, y’know”.
Unfortunately, religion is a big conversation piece in the south and drives a lot of day to day happenings.
Crepes_for_days3000@reddit
No.
LOOKATMEDAMMIT@reddit
Yes and no. Capital “A” atheist is, but that’s because those people are often times insufferable whenever the subject of any of the abrahamic religions comes up. Particularly Christianity. They don’t seem to mind most of the other religions.
Lower case “a” atheists aren’t perceived negatively because they aren’t really annoying when the topic of religion comes up.
In summary, the only time people perceive atheists as annoying is when they make it their entire personality. The same could be said of anyone of any religion.
deebville86ed@reddit
Whether it's perceived negatively or not greatly depends on where you live and some other factors.
I wouldn't consider atheism and lack of religion to be the same thing. An atheist denounces the possibility of the existence of any higher being, whereas someone who isn't religious can acknowledge that there is a higher being, but ultimately chose not to devote their lives to it an any way
I consider myself to have no religion. The higher power that I acknowledge is the universe. It works in mysterious ways, but unfortunately, there is no church for that, apart from living life itself
lavasca@reddit
Depends on where you are.
Karfedix_of_Pain@reddit
It really kind of depends on the context.
Broadly speaking the US is still pretty religious. Political candidates have to all at least pretend to be religious. I don't know if an openly atheist candidate would do too well.
And it wouldn't be unheard-of for somebody to mention that they were going to church on Sunday. Or maybe in some context ask you what church you go to.
But it doesn't really come up for me in my day-to-day conversations. I don't think any of my friends or co-workers have ever asked what my religion is. They may have picked up some hints through our conversations, but they've never asked directly or commented on anything.
If you're going around calling people dumb for being religious that'll obviously be perceived negatively. Some parts of the country are more religious than others... If you even casually mentioned that you were atheist you might get a scowl or something... But, generally speaking, it's just not normally a topic of conversation.
AnimatronicCouch@reddit
Like any religion, typically nobody cares unless you get all superior and preachy about it and put down other people's beliefs.
Dan_Dan_Revolution-@reddit
As an atheist of 20+ years who has lived in Florida and the Midwest pretty much my whole life, if I were open about it, it would very much limit my career opportunities and people who would be willing to associate with me.
eliminate1337@reddit
Disbelief in God is extremely common in the USA. But the label atheist doesn't just mean disbelief in God, it is also strongly associated with the New Atheism movement which is much more negatively received.
R0B0T_DIN0S4UR@reddit
Unfortunately yes. Many parts of the country still believe in sky daddy and it's holding us smart people back.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
RIP your karma /j
thenickpayne@reddit
Don’t be like that guy and you’ll be fine OP.
Used_Return9095@reddit
i’m gonna assume if you’re religous, atheists will be perceived negative to you.
Personally i find atheists neutral.
ratelbadger@reddit
In my life I'm much more likely to get a long rambling half baked take on Nietzsche from an atheist than I am to get a Jesus talk.
Both are a bore.
deltagma@reddit
Depends where you live. In Utah, yes.
It’s not as bad as being an apostate (someone who left the faith) but it’s still up there…
eLizabbetty@reddit
No, freedom of religion (or not) is the American way.
Bluemonogi@reddit
It depends.
I’m an atheist. If someone flat out asked me my beliefs I would tell them straight out. I don’t bring up religion and usually don’t get asked. I don’t think the majority of people care or they just assume people are like them. I’m pretty respectful of other people having different beliefs as long as they are not imposing those beliefs on others.
Nodeal_reddit@reddit
Yes. I think so.
“Agnostic” has a much less decisive connotation.
DaddyyBlue@reddit
Where I live, in a Midwest city, nobody has any problem with non-religious people. It’s probably the most common mentality, in fact. It’s how I describe myself. Calling yourself an “atheist” sort of implies that you actively oppose religion, and you’re someone who is looking to argue with religious people. “Non-religious” sounds a bit less confrontational.
Kbbbbbut@reddit
To me, it kind of is. Sort of in the same way vegans are, only if they talk about it a lot. Growing up I remember atheists telling me I was an idiot if I mentioned I just came from church or something like that. They wanted to start arguments about it, sort of bully religious people for believing in something they view as made up
dear-mycologistical@reddit
I think a lot of people kind of think of it negatively, deep down. For example, I suspect that many of the people who say they're "spiritual but not religious" are basically atheists but think the word "atheist" sounds too aggressive.
coyote_of_the_month@reddit
There's a stereotype that atheists are loudmouthed, opinionated assholes who look down on their religious neighbors and are always trying to start pointless debates.
As you said, better to not mention it.
GingerPinoy@reddit
This exists almost solely on social media. Who in the real world really cares what you DONT believe in
ColossusOfChoads@reddit
I went to the atheist club a few times when I was in college. All I can say is, go looking and you'll find it.
albertnormandy@reddit
No one. No one cares what you don’t believe in until you act like a dick about it.
GingerPinoy@reddit
Exactly, which is why I've never met anyone in real life who makes it point to bring up that they are an atheist
elsalila@reddit
I meet plenty that bring up religion though. It's always the first question in the Bible belt when you meet anyone. "What religion are you?"
albertnormandy@reddit
Always the first? I find that hard to believe.
UnfairHoneydew6690@reddit
At most you’ll probably get a “do you go to church anywhere?” and a casual invite to their church. It’s usually more of a way to welcome and include the new person in the community.
Source: grew up around tons of religious people in the Deep South.
Starbucksplasticcups@reddit
I live in Los Angeles. I’ve come across many people who are legit surprised that we have no belief. They are totally understanding of not being religious most of them do not attend church. But the complete lack of higher power is shocking to some. And then there is the group that will say things like, “yeah I don’t really believe in a God either but I am really spiritual. What are you into?” And I’m like, “no god, no crystals, no spiritual, no meditation, no yoga but I do do cardio and weights….” I have kids so when choosing schools it comes up a lot.
bjanas@reddit
Oh, I agree that it's turned up to 11 online, but in my experience even only moderately religious folks will sometimes (usually politely enough, but still) judge and want to question an atheist on it. It can be pretty condescending, u really find that it's best to avoid the topic if possible. I'm tired of people "just asking!" where my morals and ethics can possibly come from, if not from a religious belief.
It's just tiresome, neither one of us is going to change the others' mind; I have no issue with like 99% of religious folks, I'll high five ya if going to church on Sunday helps you. That's great. But why we gotta debate, you know? Why we gotta make this weird?
coyote_of_the_month@reddit
Who in the real world brings it up?
GingerPinoy@reddit
Almost no one, that's my point
Unreasonably-Clutch@reddit
Odd. IME growing up in the Bible Belt as an agnostic with an atheist friend it was in real life the opposite. We were quiet and respectful while certain religious people did all the bad behavior you describe.
CupBeEmpty@reddit
Those are the ones that stand out because they’re jerks. 9/10 atheists just interact normally with everyone and have their own personal beliefs which never come up in normal conversation.
droppingatruce@reddit
My experience is Atheism is misunderstood like the word Socialism and leaves a bad taste in people's mouths because all they know are the words "mean bad things" or have been used by people they don't agree with. I got tired with people being comfortable with me practicing Buddhism, but not with Atheists. I've been making it a point to tell people that I am an Atheist because I practice Buddhism. Then watch them struggle with their misguided assumptions about Buddhism.
AshTheGoddamnRobot@reddit
In major American cities, even more conservative ones, not really.
Not by most ppl and most that do, keep it to themselves. In rural religious areas, yes. It doesnt carry the same stigma as "socialist" or "communist" but it is seen as a negative.
slim_slam27@reddit
Not really. I'm a Christian but I understand how people don't believe and it doesn't bother me. Some people are curious, want to know, and might convert, and some don't care/ don't want to know/ don't want to talk about it and either way it doesn't affect me or my perception of them.
Self-Comprehensive@reddit
I just avoid talking about my lack of belief. I was raised in the church though, so I can talk about the Bible with the best of them. My funniest religion story is the pastor of the local episcopal church saw my band at a town festival and liked our hard rock style. He started chatting me up after the show and invited me to come to church and I said, "Well I'm not particularly religious" and just laughed and said "We're Episcopalian, that absolutely does not matter. Come to the Fat Tuesday pancake dinner, it's just for fun!" So I did, and I had a great time. And no one bothered me at all about how deep my faith was, if I knew Jesus, or tried to convert me.
naliedel@reddit
Yes. By my experience
itds@reddit
My faith (or lack thereof) is my business. And don’t try to push yours on to me.
IthurielSpear@reddit
Raised in the 70s, my parents taught me never to discuss politics or religion with friends/family/strangers. Just don't.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Exactly why I meantion it for the first time since I've moved to the US 2 years ago and am doing it on Reddit :)
Cicero912@reddit
I mean, Athiest means something different than "not religious." It's certainly not a negative thing, but it's different.
For example, im not religious, but im also not an athiest. Im agnostic. You could also be a diest
Celticssuperfan885@reddit
Mostly in the south
virtual_human@reddit
Years ago I was at a new job and something was mentioned about god or something and I said that I was an atheist. One of my coworkers said, "you don't believe in god?" I replied, "Which one?" You could almost see the smoke coming out of her ears, she never did answer. It was probably not the best move because my boss was an evangelical christian but he never said anything about it. So, if you want to say it go for it. Be aware that in some places in the US it could be detrimental to you.
DrunkHacker@reddit
Living in SF and NY for the last two decades, I literally can’t remember a time the topic has some up. I only have one good friend who believes in God, and a few more who might attend services for High Holidays or Christmas/Easter — religious performance is often separate from belief in these parts.
My good friends know I’m an atheist (technically agnostic, but for any practical purpose atheist) and they still keep me around. Nobody else needs to know or even cares.
webbess1@reddit
Where in the country are you?
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Illinois, so it's pretty chill in here
Equinsu-0cha@reddit
Sometimes. I use it as a screening method. If people take issue with it, id rather they left me alone.
Iuris_Aequalitatis@reddit
It depends on where you are. In most major and even mid-tier urban areas though, nobody cares if you're an atheist.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Three instant responses and it's already mixed answers. Nice
Arleare13@reddit
Weird that different people might have different experiences.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Not weird, just ironic
Arleare13@reddit
I don't think it's ironic at all. It's exactly what I would have expected.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Agreed. My bad; poor choice of words. Never had so many comments pour onto me in such a short time
MrLongWalk@reddit
almost as if its a complex issue
CupBeEmpty@reddit
Just hive mind 300M people and get one single answer. That’s what we made this sub for right?
ProfessionalAir445@reddit
Did you think we’re a hive mind or something?
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Reddit often acts like one. It's just a bit ironic that the first 3 answers are all different
Significant_Foot9570@reddit
We will add your biological and technological distinctiveness to our own.
sto_brohammed@reddit
Shouldn't be surprising in a continent-spanning land of 330M+ people.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
It's not surprising to me. Just, kinda, ironic
sto_brohammed@reddit
In what way?
sneerfuldawn@reddit
I live in the West and from the West Coast. It hasn't been much of an issue for me, outside of my family. I have briefly lived in the Midwest and South and felt more inclined to keep my views to myself and just say I don't go to church, avoiding religion all together.
It really doesn't come up and by the time it does I feel like I know the person well enough to gauge how I answer any questions.
But, yes, even though my experience hasn't been too negative, some people tend to take a personal offense to it. I've had people try to debate me and prove my ignorance, only to get upset when I say you do you, I'm good and refuse to engage.
baalroo@reddit
Depends on where you are. Where I live, yes, it is very much perceived negatively. Overall, we are perceived quite poorly, but there are pockets of more liberal areas where this is less true.
When sampling the US population, atheists are considered on par with rapists when it comes to how trustworthy the average American considers us.
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2012/02/anti-atheist#:~
Where I live, it's completely commonplace to hear people speak very openly about their hatred and disgust towards atheists and atheism. Even in my last job in a white collar IT office environment, I would hear coworkers talking very negatively about atheists and non-christians completely and entirely unprovoked maybe once or twice a month on average.
Crafty-Photograph-18@reddit (OP)
Lmao
Maquina_en_Londres@reddit
I call myself "non-religious," in part to signal that I have absolutely no desire to have a conversation about religion.
Nobody would be upset if I call myself atheist, but people, both atheists and religious people, occasionally take that word as an invitation to talk about their ideas on theology.
Nobody ever asks a follow up question to "not religious."
xERR404x@reddit
I’ve definitely met people who became much more hostile when they found out I’m atheist, but by and large people are fine with it. I generally try to sidestep the question when religion comes up on the off chance they do react badly.
atlasisgold@reddit
It’s pretty much a direct correlation with whether liberal is perceived negatively
brookish@reddit
Depends on who says it and the context. But I would say that it has become seen as its own kind of anti-religious ideology as opposed to just an absence of faith, by both a subset of atheists and some religious people.
liberletric@reddit
Strongly depends on where you are. There are a lot Christian’s who hate atheists but theyre more concentrated/more vocal in the South.
JackC1126@reddit
In a weird way I think the word atheist has a slight negative connotation, but the actual meaning behind the word doesn’t matter to most people. Like, if you are an atheist that’s fine, but if you go around telling people you’re an atheist it could rub people the wrong way. Idk if that makes any sense but that’s what I think.
No_Economics_7295@reddit
(Live in Indiana) and I can say it would not be perceived well in a rural, conservative, religious area. I’ve been asked to attend church and I just say I don’t go to church. But what I REALLY want to do is launch into a lengthy diatribe about organized religion.
Ok_Stop7366@reddit
Depends where you live. When I moved to Texas a decade ago, I was asked by multiple people what denomination I was and where I went to church.
There’s better ways to approach your answer than “I’m not and I don’t, and I think anyone who does is an idiot”
That said, outside of those first 6ish months of being here, it’s literally never come up again.
If you are looking to dunk on religion, it’s always safe to start and stop at “I’m not a big fan of organized religion”.
c1m9h97@reddit
Not to me. I think it's a perfectly respectable belief and a lot of kind and intelligent people I've met are atheists. However, my mom is an extreme religious fanatic and she believes anything that is not Catholicism is untrue. We both live in a major US city.
West-Improvement2449@reddit
So true. If you're in the South, I wouldn't mention it at all
sundial11sxm@reddit
"No religious affiliation" is my best phrase. Yes, it's an issue.
TheBimpo@reddit
I lived in THE SOUTH BIBLE BELT for 13+ years and think I had 2 conversations about religion at the most.
A very sweet friend gave a casual invitation to church, once, and respectfully understood my decline. I'm guessing there was at least one more, but it wasn't noteworthy enough to remember.
It's not something that ever comes up in my life. Religion is generally a taboo subject at work. I don't have a social circle that makes a big deal of it. I never had a neighbor ask what church I attend. Etc. It simply doesn't come up, at least in my nearly 5 decades of life it doesn't.
tychobrahesmoose@reddit
Strongly depends on the region of the US.
In the South among certain groups, ABSOLUTELY. Some evangelicals literally think that atheism is about worshipping the devil. In high school, I had friends' parents who told their children not to socialize with me because I was an atheist.
Outside of super religious areas, though - it's pretty neutral.
machagogo@reddit
By some yes. By most no.
But no one likes a belief, or non-belief that's not theirs being preached to them.
The_Lumox2000@reddit
Most people won't care. Most of the people who do will care because any answer but their specific sect of their religion is unacceptable to them.
notsosecretshipper@reddit
It can be, depends on who you're talking to. I'm just at the edge of the 'Bible Belt' and in a pretty heavily religious area. People tend to hear atheist and think devil worshipper.
JoeCensored@reddit
Atheists are a minority, but you usually won't get into any arguments about it unless you get preachy.
Vast_Reaction_249@reddit
It's definitely a don't ask don't tell situation.
Cheaperthantherapy13@reddit
It depends on the area. In more diverse, urban areas, asking about one’s religion is considered rude, and people are more likely to not identify with any religious group.
In rural areas, it’s different. Asking which church you attend is a normal ‘getting to know you’ question, along with what kind of work you do and how many kids do you have. Saying you’re not atheist, or even just not Christian may be met with surprise. Outright hostility is uncommon, but non Christians may be met with some level of suspicion and coldness.
calicoskiies@reddit
I’m atheist. If people ask me I just say I’m not religious. I feel like people wrongly think being atheist means worshipping the devil, which is funny because we don’t believe in the devil. I don’t want to be judged and I don’t care to debate anyone, so it’s honestly easier to say I’m not religious.
SpeakerOfMyMind@reddit
As an atheist who grew up in the deep South, yeah, it is typically received quite poorly and can come up quite easily and somewhat often.
BakedBrie26@reddit
All I know is I LOVED being the token atheist in my very LDS and christian town. What fun! My presence will never be that shocking again lol
Starbucksplasticcups@reddit
I often say “we’re not religious” and then get told things like “ohh that school isn’t too religious they only go to mass like 2 times a month.” So then have to say, “we’re Atheist.” It oddly comes up a bit as we have school age kids and choosing an elementary school is a big deal where we live. I’ll often say that we were raised religious so culturally we celebrate Christian holidays. I live in a very liberal area but some people are often surprised when they hear. We have friends who attend church regularly and friends that attend on special occasions and we just don’t talk about religion with them. I however will not befriend people who are involved in religions that excommunicate former members (or whatever you want to call it). That would seem incredibly odd.
Ok_Effect_5287@reddit
The only time it comes up is with bible thumpers and really I'm going to say atheist in hopes that they won't return.
CheezitCheeve@reddit
It depends on your area, context, and more. From the other side, when I go to many university events or music events, I never say I’m religious because the negative stereotype it has.
In general, the flow in America is don’t ask, don’t tell. It’s a revolutionary concept, but if you just treat people kind, most don’t care. If anything, most Americans are apathetic about religion. They might go to church on Christmas or Easter and might pray should something super bad happen like a car crash or something super good like a wedding. In general though, the day-to-day American just wants to not be bothered.
Salty_Dog2917@reddit
I don’t want to know your business. I don’t want to know what god you worship the same way I don’t want to know who you are sleeping with.
MrLongWalk@reddit
I'm an atheist and it generally doesn't come up, when it does nobody cares.
DullQuestion666@reddit
Atheist sounds militant. Like someone who is going to fight about religion.
Just saying you're not religious is less aggressive.
ayebrade69@reddit
It’s a weird thing to announce randomly but it generally doesn’t matter otherwise
Redbubble89@reddit
Like any religion, it's okay if they keep it to themselves. A Christmas tree or three words on money really shouldn't offend anyone. I don't really put up with religious victimhood of any kind especially in the US.
bjanas@reddit
By some, yeah. People may look at you with anything from indifference, to pity, to revulsion.
I generally just try not to bring it up, even only moderately religious folks will often want to get into a discussion about it if they learn. "But how to you know that right and wrong is? What do you LIVE for?"
Most people won't really care, or we least have the good sense to not grill you on it. But it's often enough that people want to get into a debate, even if you emphatically say "hey, I don't have any problem with religion!", that it's usually advisable to steer clear.
ibeerianhamhock@reddit
Doesn't come up and I'm an atheist. I do mention that I'm not particularly religious (as in not at all). It's a socially adept way of saying the same thing.
Saying you're religious is kind of oddly offputting to me...I cannot think of a single scenario where it's benefited a conversation to just about anyone.
NArcadia11@reddit
If I was talking with someone about religion and they mentioned they were an atheist, I wouldn't think anything about it. If someone brought up that they were an atheist in a non-religious discussion, I would mentally prepare myself for them to be annoying and either try and convince me that religion is bad (I don't care about religion) or that they're somehow special and smarter than others for having this view. Pretty much the same way I would react to anyone mentioning their religious beliefs out of context lol.
NotTheATF1993@reddit
It's all going to depend on where you're located. If you live in a small town in the south, it may be viewed as negative, but I doubt anyone will really give you a hard time about it or not be friendly with you because of it. Very rarely do I even have discussions on religion when I'm out and about
L_knight316@reddit
"Internet/reddit atheist," Yes.
General, irl atheists, no.
Unless you're a Dawkins atheist, which reddit atheists would largely fall under
NIN10DOXD@reddit
In some parts of the US, yes. I was bullied as a kid and even received death threats from adults as a child on suspicion of being an Atheist in the South. It's what caused me to become an Atheist.
Devious_Bastard@reddit
Living in a more conservative rural area I’d say it comes off negatively. I just tell people I’m not religious if asked. Even I get annoyed by other atheists who make it well known that they are.
sto_brohammed@reddit
It depends really on who you're talking to and somewhat on where you live. I've been an atheist my whole life and never had an issue, even in the very rural area I'm from.