Introduction to the Misconception

It is a widespread assumption that atheism inevitably leads to a materialistic outlook, with the notion that atheists view humans as no more than raw matter, devoid of any moral or ethical value. This misconception, often fueled by sensational arguments, overlooks the rich complexity of an atheist's worldview. I, an atheist, find such a view both simplistic and dismissive of the nuanced understanding of human behavior and consciousness that most atheists embrace.

Atheism and Ethical Behavior

Recently, a kind young woman at my local supermarket thanked me for always being nice to her. Her gratitude, and my choice to respond with kindness, was not predicated on any belief in the supernatural. Rather, it stemmed from a basic understanding that courtesy and kindness are universally positive traits that contribute to a better environment for everyone.

Friedrich Nietzsche, a philosopher who is often fiercely labeled as atheist and elitist, was affectionately known as "il Santo" by the locals in Turin for his polity and respect towards them. This anecdotally illustrates that ethical behavior and respect are not confined to religious or spiritual beliefs.

The Informationalist-Materialist Perspective

My worldview can best be described as "Informationalist-Materialist." I believe that our physical bodies are repositories of information, and that this information can be altered by new inputs. When I watched Alex Honnold climb El Capitan, I felt a physiological response because I projected my own experiences of such a climb. This example illustrates how a material object, such as rock, can evoke emotions and sensations in a person, even without direct interaction.

Alex Honnold's ascent of The Boulder Problem on El Capitan, a notoriously difficult traverse with minimal holds, serves as an illustration of how the material world can be transformed by human information and consciousness. The rock itself does not elicit fear or awe; it is the mental projection and informational structure of the climber that does.

Information and Consciousness

Information, whether encoded in matter or transmitted through sound, print, or electromagnetic radiation, does not equate to the material itself. When we listen to music, we interpret the sounds in our subjective experience, which can evoke emotions and moods that are distinct from the mechanical processes of sound waves. This subjective interpretation is a fundamental part of consciousness, which is itself a material construct, albeit one imbued with information.

The capacity for pain and pleasure, whether it is experienced by humans or other sentient beings, is a direct result of the elaborate material interpretative structures in our brains. These structures, richly encoded with information and capable of complex emotional responses, allow us to experience the world in nuanced ways. Recognizing this in others beings, whether human or otherwise, can lead to more positive interactions and a reduction in suffering.

The Need for Ethical Behavior

While theistic scriptures provide guidance, the principles they espouse are not unique to religious belief. Ethical behavior, such as treating others with kindness and respect, can be motivated by the simple understanding that such behaviors foster a better social environment. Whether or not one believes in a supernatural realm, these concepts can guide our actions and promote a more harmonious society.

For instance, my continued positive interactions with “the material girl” at the supermarket reflect the belief that we are more than just organic matter. She is a sentient being with her own consciousness and experiences, and I treat her with the same respect and kindness I would expect in return.

Conclusion

Atheism does not imply a lack of ethical principles or social consciousness. By understanding the role of information in our material bodies and the subjective experiences that result from it, we can develop a more informed and compassionate approach to our interactions with others. This perspective, grounded in an Informationalist-Materialist viewpoint, challenges the notion that atheists are inherently materialistic and uncaring.