Lets start with the word; The term atheism originates from the Greek word ἄθεος (atheos), meaning "without god(s)." Atheists basically believe in no god and in no Spiritual existence whatsoever. Some other religions (Buddhism etc) also come under the category atheos but they do believe in Spiritual existence which separates them from the Atheism. Atheism takes its from Metaphysical materialism; which believes only in Physical existence, nothing but the touchable things, Objects fit under the definition of Mass to be precise.
Now, the most interesting recent phenomenon is change of the way Atheists try to define their belief just to somehow get rid of burden of defending their opinion. How? Previously, Atheists used to express that: "We believe there's no god" but that's not how they express themselves now a days. Now they express by saying: "We have no belief of God at all." You see what they did here? They went from having an opinion to no opinion at all. When you say that you deny the existence, it clearly indicates you're being reasonable and you're asking for argument. That's not the case in the latter definition where they try to prove they have no knowledge about any god or spiritual existence whatsoever.
HISTORY:
The first credible document in favour of Atheism is traced back to 1674 written by a German religion critic Matthias Knutzen which was followed by his two other writings.
Atheism was brought into the discussion of a common man, in streets and institutes in 19th century mainly by the French Revolution. The credit of which goes to Baron d'Holbach, a prominent French atheist of his time.
Atheism in the 20th century, particularly in the form of practical social atheism, advanced in many societies. Atheistic thought found recognition in a wide variety of other, broader philosophies. This century also provided concept of atheism recognition in worldwide Politics. Major events included: a) Russian Revolution of 1917 leading to the Ban on religious instruction in the state. b) Rise of atheist leaders and concepts after the Departure of British from Sub continent in 1947. c) In the second half of the 20th century many states went aggressive against religions due to many global theological movements.
New Atheism (2004-05 Onward) is the name given to a movement among some early-21st-century atheist writers who have advocated the view that "religion should not simply be tolerated but should be countered, criticized, and exposed by rational argument wherever its influence arises. The rise creators of this New Atheism and the concept itself was triggered by the all famous 9/11 terrorist attacks thought to be result of religious motivation.
VIEWS ABOUT ATHEISM:
Sam Harris (Pioneer of New Atheism) Says:
"In fact, "atheism" is a term that should not even exist. No one ever needs to identify himself as a "non-astrologer" or a "non-alchemist.".....Atheism is nothing more than the noises reasonable people make in the presence of unjustified religious beliefs."
C.S. Lewis (Biggest believer of Spirituality of 20th century) Said:
"Atheism turns out to be too simple. If the whole universe has no meaning, we should never have found out that it has no meaning..."
Francis Thompson:
"An atheist is a man who believes himself an accident."
A survey held in 2010 showed that Atheists on average are more knowledgeable about religion that the actual followers of major faiths.
-ZQ
