What it's Like to be Raised as an Atheist: A Perspective from a Non-Indoctrinated Childhood

My upbringing was unique, as my parents were believers who chose not to indoctrinate me with either religious or political beliefs. Instead, they encouraged me to think for myself, a gift that has been invaluable throughout my life.

Freedom from Indoctrination

As a child, I was not forced to attend church, and I never heard the threat of "eternity in Hell." I was taught to think critically and without the brainwashed beliefs that often accompany early indoctrination. Many people I know are intelligent but still defend the religion their parents forced upon them without questioning. Thanks to the guidance of my excellent parents, I was able to make my own choices and believe what I wanted, rather than simply believing because it was "indoctrinated" into me.

Enjoyment of Life

Not being burdened by religious indoctrination has made life much more enjoyable. My childhood was filled with a sense of exploration and curiosity, rather than the dogmas and superstitions that are often associated with religious upbringing. My parents were open to answering my questions, never resorting to "because God chose to do that." For instance, when I asked "Dad, why is the sky blue?" his response was factual and enlightening, "The sky appears blue because of how sunlight interacts with the Earth’s atmosphere." This approach taught me to question and seek answers, rather than accepting unverifiable claims.

Misconceptions and Facts

There are common misconceptions about atheists. People often believe that those without religious beliefs are immoral and filled with lust, whereas believers are full of love and goodness. However, these are oversimplifications and stereotypes. The truth is that atheism does not dictate one's morality; it is simply a lack of belief in gods. Many inmates in jails are actually atheists or agnostics, not religious believers. In fact, there are Bible college programs in some prisons, and inmates can earn four-year degree equivalency in prison to teach about religion.

Not Raised as a Fan of College Athletics

Being raised as an atheist can be compared to not being a fan of college athletics. It's simply not part of your life, and you don't think about it constantly. Atheists are not a monolith; some may be born into families that actively promote atheism, while others are not taught religious beliefs at all. The default state for humans is to lack belief in gods, and this state can be maintained by not indoctrinating children in any religious or spiritual beliefs.

So, what it feels like to be raised as an atheist is a matter of focusing on facts and critical thinking rather than accepting dogma. It involves freedom from the pressure to conform to religious or political beliefs, and the ability to explore life on your own terms. Unlike theists who need to be "raised" to believe, atheists are simply not taught to believe in gods, making it a straightforward default state.