Theism 101

Introduction to Theism and Gods

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The primary purpose of this site is to provide material and resources necessary to understand atheism and the issues which concern atheists. Atheism is simply the lack of theism - the lack of belief in the existence of any gods. Although atheists certainly have beliefs and philosophies which go far beyond disbelief in the existence of gods, that is all that atheism itself entails.

Understanding atheism requires some understanding of theism. Learning about what types of theism exist, how people define their gods, and why people become theists will enable you to get a better grasp of how and why people can become atheists. There may not be any one path to atheism which all atheists follow, just as there is no one path to theism which all theists follow; nevertheless, there are enough commonalities to justify discussion and study.

Introduction to Theism
One of the ways in which mere theism is transformed in religion is in the nature of the theism itself. In addition to the obvious addition of beliefs like what the gods want and where the gods come from, theism itself can be focused upon a single god (monotheism), many gods (polytheism), and so on. Understanding the differences between these types of theism is necessary not only for understanding the religious systems in which they appear, but also for understanding the variety and diversity which exists for theism itself.

Highlights:
•  What is Theism?
•  Theism vs. Religion
•  Theism vs. Atheism
•  Is Theism Irrational?

Varieties of Theism
One of the ways in which mere theism is transformed in religion is in the nature of the theism itself. In addition to the obvious addition of beliefs like what the gods want and where the gods come from, theism itself can be focused upon a single god (monotheism), many gods (polytheism), and so on. Understanding the differences between these types of theism is necessary not only for understanding the religious systems in which they appear, but also for understanding the variety and diversity which exists for theism itself.

Highlights:
•  Classical / Philosophical Theism
•  What is Monotheism?
•  What is Pantheism?

Arguing About the Existence of God
Does God exist? If so, what type of God exists and what does God want? Are any religions valid? If so, which one(s) and why? These are the sorts of questions debated by visitors to this site - learn more about these questions, the terms involved, and how the debates proceed.

Highlights:
•  What is God?
•  Arguments for Gods
•  Arguments against Gods