About Atheism

Atheism is the position that deities do not exist, or the rejection of theism.In the broadest sense, it is the absence of belief in the existence of deities. The term atheism originated from the Greek ἄèåïò (atheos), which was derogatively applied to anyone thought to believe in false gods, no gods, or doctrines that stood in conflict with established religions. With the spread of freethought, skeptical inquiry, and subsequent increase in criticism of religion, application of the term narrowed in scope. The first individuals to self-identify as \"atheist\" appeared in the 18th century. Today, about 2.3% of the world\s population describes itself as atheist, while a further 11.9% is described as nontheist. Up to 65% of Japanese describe themselves as atheists, agnostics, or non-believers; and up to 48% in Russia. The percentage of such persons in European Union member states