The Thomistic Institute Is Atheism Rational? | Prof. John O'Callaghan
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Feb 4, 2025 
John O'Callaghan, Director Emeritus of the Jacques Maritain Center at Notre Dame and a member of the Pontifical Academy of St. Thomas Aquinas, shares his insights on atheism. He examines the philosophical roots of atheism, contrasting it with divine revelation. O'Callaghan delves into Aquinas's view that without divine insight, God’s existence isn’t easily grasped by reason alone. He highlights the historical evolution of atheism and emphasizes the need for compassion from believers to bridge divides, fostering respectful dialogue between belief systems.
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Atheism and Rationality
- Atheism is not inherently irrational, containing elements of truth.
- Truth is a sufficient condition for rationality, but rationality is not a sufficient condition for truth.
Contextualizing Atheism
- Atheism's meaning is contextual, varying across history and cultures.
- Professor O'Callaghan identifies as an atheist in three ways: rejecting a childish god, Athenian gods, and political gods.
Contemporary Atheism's Focus
- Contemporary atheism primarily denies the Christian God, not pagan gods.
- This shift signifies Christ's triumph over the pagan pantheon.