Critical Theory of Atheism

The application of Critical Theory to atheism—examining how atheist beliefs and movements are shaped by power, how they can serve domination or liberation, and how they might be complicit in other hierarchies. Critical Theory of Atheism asks: Is atheism always progressive? How have some atheist movements been racist, sexist, or colonial? Whose interests are served by certain forms of atheism? Drawing on postcolonial and feminist critiques, it insists that atheism, like religion, is never just about belief—it's politics, culture, power. Critical theory demands that atheists examine their own assumptions, their own privileges, their own complicities.

"New Atheism claimed to be just reason fighting religion. Critical Theory of Atheism asks: whose reason? Fighting which religion? Often Islam, often from Western, male, privileged positions. Atheism can be progressive, but it can also be a vehicle for racism, colonialism, sexism. Critical theory insists that atheists examine their own politics, not just religion's. No one is immune from critique."

Critical Theory of Atheism by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal March 4, 2026