The Lapsed Atheists: Deconstructing Their Way To Faith || SLP513
May 8, 2024
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Former atheists Konstantin Kisin, Niall Ferguson, and Ayaan Hirsi Ali discuss their transitions to faith and challenges with atheism, exploring the limitations of atheism in providing purpose. They reflect on the importance of deconstructing default atheism, skepticism, doubt, and the role of faith in shaping perspectives. The podcast delves into erosion of trust, faith sharing projects, personal journeys from atheism to Christianity, and finding meaning in Jesus as a transformative force.
Recognizing the limitations of atheism in providing a meaningful overarching story, 'lapsed atheists' like Konstantin Kisin explore faith for a robust ethical framework.
The concept of 'lapsed atheist' challenges the assumption of purely logical existence by highlighting the faith-driven nature of foundational commitments in daily decisions.
Deep dives
Questioning Default Atheism
Constantine Kissen, inspired by Ayaan Hirsi Ali and Neil Ferguson, starts to doubt the adequacy of atheism for navigating life in the 21st century. Criticizing the lack of a meaningful overarching story in atheism, he embraces the term 'lapsed atheist.' By recognizing the importance of faith in daily life and the limitations of atheism in providing a robust ethical framework, Kissen and others question the assumptions of rationalism and highlight the need for a more comprehensive worldview.
Unveiling the Complexity of Belief
The concept of 'lapsed atheist' sheds light on the dual nature of belief and skepticism within individuals. It emphasizes that everyone, consciously or not, operates on faith-driven assumptions in life, such as human rights and equality. By acknowledging that both believers and unbelievers make foundational commitments, the term challenges the notion of purely logical and evidence-based existence, highlighting the inherent leap of faith inherent in daily decisions.
Seeking a Coherent Worldview
Despite embracing 'lapsed atheism' as a starting point for introspection, there is a call to move beyond mere negation and toward a positive affirmation. Drawing from Alistair McGrath's journey from skepticism to faith, the narrative encourages a deeper exploration of Christianity's coherence in addressing existential questions. Rather than lingering in doubt, the path suggests an invitation to reconsider Jesus's teachings as a transformative lens for understanding the world and one's place within it.
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