Atheism and the Family

Conclusion

Atheism encompasses the alternative to religious lifestyle in a family. While it can offer activities to fulfill any of the superficial needs of a successful family, the stance it takes by denying universal religious precepts is inherently contrary to the needs of a strong family. While atheism declares little as a common doctrine, the common doctrine of disbelief contains deep enough implications to invalidate either passive (“weak”) atheism or active (“strong”) atheism as a sensible alternative to religion as a family lifestyle. The precepts of a successful family that have been so far considered, mental health, the need of a child for structure and routine, time spent together as a family, involvement with the children, and warm relationships, each require that atheists step away from the core themes they proclaim to follow. These elements of a successful family are founded on the deeper concepts of faith and humility that do not fit within the natural atheist mindset.