Discrimination against religious unbelievers

Active prejudice against non-worshippers
Bigotry against atheists

Nature

Discrimination against religious unbelievers refers to the unfair treatment, prejudice, or social exclusion of individuals who identify as atheists, agnostics, or otherwise lack religious belief. This discrimination can manifest in legal restrictions, social stigmatization, barriers to employment, or violence. In some societies, unbelievers face limited civil rights, are denied public office, or risk prosecution for blasphemy or apostasy. Such discrimination undermines principles of freedom of thought, conscience, and equality, and is recognized as a human rights issue by international organizations. Addressing this problem is essential for promoting tolerance and protecting individual liberties in diverse societies.

Background

Discrimination against religious unbelievers gained international attention in the mid-20th century, as secularism and human rights movements highlighted the marginalization faced by atheists and agnostics. Reports from organizations such as Humanists International and the United Nations documented legal penalties, social exclusion, and violence targeting non-believers worldwide. Growing advocacy and research in the 21st century have further illuminated the persistence and global scope of this issue, prompting calls for greater protection of freedom of belief.

Incidence

The sharp distinction between those considered saved and those considered unsaved, made by those recognizing this distinction, is more than a dry doctrine. It reinforces social structures which minimize contact with unbelievers.

Claim

It is probably the case that more people have been slaughtered in the name of religious faith than for almost any other cause.

Counter-claim

Discrimination against religious unbelievers is not an important problem in today’s society. Compared to the severe persecution faced by many religious minorities worldwide, the challenges faced by nonbelievers are minimal and often exaggerated. In most secular countries, unbelievers enjoy equal rights and freedoms. Focusing on this issue distracts from far more urgent human rights concerns that genuinely threaten lives and freedoms across the globe. Priorities should be set accordingly.