On Being an Atheist

This influential philosophical essay presents a systematic defense of atheism through careful analysis of traditional theistic arguments and the problem of evil. McCloskey structures his work as both a critique of standard proofs for God's existence and a positive case for atheism based on the prevalence of suffering in the world.

The essay begins by examining three classical arguments for God's existence: the cosmological, teleological, and argument from design. McCloskey argues that each proof fails to establish its intended conclusion. Regarding the cosmological argument, he contends that even if the universe requires a cause, this need not be an omnipotent, personal God. The teleological argument, he maintains, suffers from analogical weaknesses and cannot demonstrate divine purpose rather than mere regularity in nature. Against the argument from design, McCloskey emphasizes that apparent design in nature could result from natural processes rather than divine intelligence.

Central to McCloskey's positive case for atheism is his treatment of the problem of evil. He argues that the existence of gratuitous suffering provides compelling evidence against the existence of an omnipotent, omniscient, and perfectly good God. McCloskey addresses various theodicies, including free will defenses and soul-making theodicies, finding each inadequate to justify the amount and distribution of evil in the world. He particularly emphasizes instances of natural evil and suffering that seem to serve no greater purpose.

The work also examines the relationship between atheism and morality, responding to the common charge that atheism undermines ethical foundations. McCloskey argues that morality does not require divine grounding and that atheists can lead meaningful, ethical lives. He suggests that atheistic worldviews may actually promote greater moral responsibility by focusing on human welfare in this life rather than otherworldly rewards.

McCloskey's analytical approach exemplifies mid-twentieth century philosophy of religion, employing careful conceptual analysis and logical argumentation. His work engages primarily with classical Christian theism and the analytical tradition in philosophy, drawing clear distinctions between various types of arguments and examining their logical structure. The essay remains significant for its clear articulation of standard atheistic positions and its systematic engagement with theistic philosophy, establishing argumentative strategies that continue to influence contemporary debates about God's existence.