On Atheism by Hilaire Belloc (1927)
The work is a critique of atheism and its implications on society. It argues that atheism leads to moral relativism and the erosion of traditional values. The author contends that without a belief in God, individuals are left with no objective moral framework, leading to chaos and disorder. The text also explores the historical and philosophical roots of atheism, tracing it back to ancient Greece and the Enlightenment.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1927 · Genre: Philosophy, Theology, Essay · 1,242 words
First lines
The Atheist is he that has forgotten God. He that denies God may do so in many innocent ways, and is an Atheist in form, but is not condemnable as such. Thus one man will reason by contradiction that there can be no God. If there were a God (says he), how could such things be? This man has not read or does not know sufficient to his purpose, or is not wide enough. His purpose is Truth, so he is not to be condemned. Another will say, "There is no God," meaning, "There is none that I have heard called God": as, the figure of an old man; some vengeful spirit; an absurdity taught him by fools; and so forth. Another also will say, "There is no God," as he would say, "Thus do I solve this riddle! " He has played a game, coming to a conclusion of logic, and supposes himself right by the rules of the game. Nor is he more to be condemned than one who shall prove, not that God is not, but that God is, by similar ways.
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On Atheism is listed on Textopian as an essay by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1927 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Hilaire Belloc
- Date: 1927 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophy, Theology, Essay, Social Commentary, Ethics
- Length: 1,242 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Philosophy — The text explores philosophical themes related to the existence of God, atheism, and the nature of belief.
- Theology — The work discusses theological concepts, particularly the relationship between God and society, and the implications of atheism.
- Essay — The writing style and structure are characteristic of an essay, presenting arguments and reflections on atheism.
- Social Commentary — The text provides commentary on the societal impact of atheism and the role of religion in maintaining social order.
Tags
atheism · philosophy · religion · agnosticism · secularism · critique · argumentation · rationalism · reasoning · logic · ethics · morality