Non-Religious Fanaticism

A close cousin of irreligious fanaticism, but emphasizing identity: the zealotry of those who define themselves primarily by being not‑religious. Non‑religious fanatics often gather in communities where the main bond is shared rejection of religion, and they police each other’s purity—expelling anyone who attends a religious wedding, visits a church for art, or expresses any sympathy for spiritual seekers. Their fanaticism stems from a fragile identity that must constantly reaffirm itself by attacking its opposite. The result is a community as dogmatic and exclusionary as any sect.

Non-Religious Fanaticism Example: “The online group banned a member for saying a mosque had beautiful architecture—non‑religious fanaticism, where any positive mention of religion is contamination.”

Non-Religious Fanaticism by Abzugal May 2, 2026