Why Atheism?

Smith's monograph presents a systematic philosophical defense of atheism through critical analysis of theistic arguments and epistemological foundations. The work distinguishes itself by approaching atheism not merely as denial of God's existence, but as the absence of belief in God based on insufficient evidence. Smith argues that atheism represents the default rational position when theistic claims fail to meet their burden of proof.

The author employs analytical philosophy to dissect classical arguments for God's existence, including cosmological, teleological, and ontological proofs. Smith contends these arguments contain fundamental logical flaws and unwarranted assumptions. He particularly emphasizes the impossibility of defining God coherently, arguing that traditional divine attributes generate internal contradictions. The work examines how concepts like omnipotence, omniscience, and perfect goodness cannot logically coexist, rendering the theistic God conceptually incoherent.

Central to Smith's methodology is his epistemological framework distinguishing between positive and negative atheism. Positive atheism actively denies God's existence, while negative atheism simply lacks belief. Smith advocates primarily for negative atheism, positioning it as the rational response to unsubstantiated claims. He argues that belief should proportion to evidence, and since theism provides insufficient evidence, withholding belief becomes the reasonable stance.

The monograph engages extensively with contemporary philosophy of religion, responding to theologians like Alvin Plantinga and Richard Swinburne. Smith challenges reformed epistemology's claim that belief in God can be properly basic, arguing this approach abandons rational discourse. He also critiques modern attempts to rescue theism through probability arguments and cumulative case strategies.

Smith's contribution extends beyond mere critique by offering a positive vision of atheistic ethics and meaning. He argues that morality requires no divine foundation and that life's significance emerges from human values and relationships. The work addresses common objections that atheism leads to nihilism or moral relativism, demonstrating how secular frameworks provide robust foundations for ethics and purpose.

The monograph's significance lies in its comprehensive yet accessible treatment of atheistic philosophy. Unlike polemical works, Smith maintains philosophical rigor while engaging seriously with theistic arguments. His systematic approach provides readers with analytical tools for evaluating religious claims independently. The work has influenced subsequent atheist philosophy by establishing clear conceptual distinctions and methodological standards for the God debate.