Atheism

From metawiki

Atheism is distinct from Pantheism, even though some philosophers have tried to claim otherwise.

Atheism Versus Pantheism

Atheists tend to agree with fundamentalists in that the literal interpretation of scripture is assumed. Atheists reject the possibility that religion is based on allegory because that would not allow for the superficial spurning of the supernatural and smug sense of self-satisfaction that it brings.

Since Pantheism and most theology agree that scripture is allegory, it is atheists that set themselves apart in there adherence to literalism. The line of demarcation is between literalism and allegory, not between materialism and the supernatural.

While atheists on social media have gone a long way to move the overton window regarding discussions of religion, their point of view is inherently contrarian and therefore not a philosophy that can be positively ascribed to.

Asexuality Versus Pansexuality

Consider Asexuality versus Pansexuality. No offence to the Ace community, but which one sounds more fun? If you are inclined towards sex at all, it is much better to indulge your passions (in moderation!) than to abstain from them. It is the same with spirituality. Most people have an innate desire to seek spirituality just like they do with sex. Atheists abstain from all forms, while Pantheists can pick and choose among the many religions, rituals, and traditions that have existed over the centuries. Many of these beliefs are quite interesting, can reveal truth when interpreted as allegory, and offer useful rituals that can enhance mindfulness or elicit the placebo effect. Pantheism is more fun, and satisfies primal desires that abstinence cannot.