Name: Atheism 2.0
Uploaded: 2012-01-17T15:05:04Z
Duration: 19 min 3 s
Description: What aspects of religion should atheists (respectfully) adopt? Alain de Botton suggests a "religion for atheists" -- call it Atheism 2.0 -- that incorporates religious forms and traditions to satisfy our human need for connection, ritual and transcendence.

Alain de Botton: Atheism 2.0

Atheism 2.0

What aspects of religion should atheists (respectfully) adopt? Alain de Botton suggests a "religion for atheists" -- call it Atheism 2.0 -- that incorporates religious forms and traditions to satisfy our human need for connection, ritual and transcendence.

A new vision for non-belief invites atheists to borrow the best parts of religion—ritual, community, and moral guidance—without accepting the supernatural. While the Catholic Church generates billions and organizes millions, secular life often lacks meaningful traditions and communal practices. By adapting structures like sermons, calendars, and art with clear purpose, even non-believers can find connection and depth. This approach suggests that religion’s strengths are cultural tools anyone can use to meet universal human needs.