Navigating Non-Belief: Identifying Labels for Spiritual Skeptics

When asked to label themselves, non-religious Americans often gravitate towards various terms. According to a survey, 57% identified as atheists, 14% as humanists, 7% as agnostics, and 5% each as skeptics and freethinkers. Amid these choices, the question arises: how do you self-identify in a world where labels often overlap?

Common Terms and Their Overlaps

This survey highlights the complexity of non-religious identity. Many terms like 'atheist,' 'humanist,' 'agnostic,' 'skeptic,' and 'freethinker' are not mutually exclusive. Each term carries its own set of beliefs and values, and these labels often overlap in nuanced ways.

I, for one, identify as an atheist, secular humanist, transhumanist, agnostic, skeptic, freethinker, and nonbeliever. Each of these labels speaks to different aspects of my worldview. However, I don’t solely label myself as a "non-believer." Instead, I describe myself based on what I do believe.

Labeling oneself as a "non-believer" is sometimes seen as uninteresting or unnecessarily contrasting. It’s more about embracing one’s values and beliefs rather than simply rejecting them.

Preferred Labels

For those who prefer to use specific terms to describe their beliefs, I’ve found that the following labels resonate with me:

Eudaimonist: This term refers to someone who prioritizes virtue ethics, focusing on moral and ethical living for the sake of personal well-being and societal contribution. Objectivist: An adherent to a form of virtue ethics that emphasizes reason, individualism, and self-reliance. This label aligns with a strong belief in personal responsibility and rationality.

If I had to choose a term close to “non-believer,” I would opt for "atheist." However, even this label falls short in fully capturing my identity. Unlike some who falsely believe that agnosticism and atheism are mutually exclusive, I view atheism as a succinct answer to the question, 'Do you believe in gods?' Essentially, atheism is the simple lack of belief in deities.

The Diversities Within Bigger Labels

Labels like "agnostic," "atheist," and "humanist" come with nuanced distinctions, yet many people commonly use them interchangeably. The term 'agnostic' itself doesn’t definitively answer the question 'Do you believe in gods?' An agnostic, who might not have a firm belief either way, could still be classified as an atheist if they lack a belief in gods.

It’s essential to recognize that individuals who identify as agnostic often do not claim the existence or non-existence of deities as a truth. If someone identifies as agnostic, it’s reasonable to assume they are an atheist due to the absence of a believing stance.

Atheism: I do not believe in gods. This is a straightforward and concise description of my belief. Nothing more, nothing less.

Theist: This term encompasses those who believe in one or more gods, including religious doctrine to varying degrees. A theist could be fully religious or deist, depending on their beliefs.

Agnostic: This term is more about the lack of knowledge or claim to knowledge. One does not necessarily assert the existence or non-existence of gods. Agnosticism is about acknowledging the limitations of human knowledge in this matter.

Conclusion

Non-religious labels like atheist, humanist, and agnostic provide a starting point for self-identification, but they often hide more complex beliefs and values. Embracing labels that resonate more closely with one’s principles can offer a richer and more truthful representation of a non-believer's identity. Whether it’s through labels like eudaimonist, objectivist, or the straightforward "atheist," the key lies in finding the words that best describe one’s true beliefs and values.