In a religious milieu, atheism has a sanitary function as cognitive hygiene (practice) or an intellectual prophylactic (theory) ~ anti-magical / anti-supernatural thinking and living. Also, a very late cultural development by comparison to religion (i.e. superstition) e.g. naturalistic philosophies. — 180 Proof

Although it brings with it the burden Camus talked about. It's nice to here you refer to Lucretius as late, though. Some seem to think we went from the stone age to Greece and Rome.

I wasn't referringvto Lucretius; 'recorded' disbelief in state or hearth gods predate him by centuries, if not a millenium or more, in ancient India, China and Greece.

The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good. — Psalms 14:1 (KJV)

wasn't referringvto Lucretius; 'recorded' disbelief in state or hearth gods predate him by centuries, if not a millenium or more. — 180 Proof

Who are you talking about?

You said I was referring to an individual. I was not. Re:

You mentioned naturalistic philosophy, so I thought you meant Lucretius.

Psalms is from the Iron Age. They didn't believe in life after death, btw.

Although it brings with it the burden Camus talked about. — Tate

Which burden is that? A la Sisyphus?

Which burden is that? A la Sisyphus? — Tom Storm

Sisyphus is Camus' answer to the problem.