There seems to be a misconception about the definitions of Atheism and Agnosticism, which I would like to address.
Though atheism and agnosticism share the same topic (God/s), they are in a different category.
Agnosticism deals with knowledge claims, atheism deals with belief / disbelief claims.
Belief: An acceptance that something exists or is true, especially one without proof.
Knowledge: Facts, information, and skills acquired through experience or education.
Using the Justice system as an example, a criminal is innocent until proven guilty.
A theist claims the criminal is guilty (God exists) whereas an atheist’s is unconvinced of a guilty or not guilty charge, but the default position of innocence, due to insufficient evidence.
Another way to look at this.
Position of belief
1. I believe a God exists. - Theist
2. I’m unconvinced that a God/s exists. - Atheist
3. I believe that this God does not exist.
Whereas Agnosticism is a position of Knowledge
1. I know that this God exists. (Gnostic theist)
2. I don’t know that this God exists. (Agnostic)
3. I know this God does not exist. (Gnostic atheist)
One more thing, atheism isn’t a religion, or a world view, it has no doctrines, or rituals, it’s simple a response to a belief claim.
Hope this helps clear a few things up
From Your loving Agnostic - Atheist, Spew
