21st Century: A Challenging Era for Atheism✍ Written by: Idrees Azad
❖ The 21st Century — An Unfavorable Time for Atheism
If atheistic ideologies had emerged right after Newton, they might have found a more receptive era. However, in today’s world, the progress of science and philosophy has significantly weakened the foundations of atheism.
Scientific Advancements and the Challenge to Atheism
The Nature of Time and the Universe
Einstein’s Theory of Relativity portrayed time and space as flexible realities, which made the physical universe more enigmatic than ever.
✔ For instance, if someone claims to be from the future, modern physics offers no conclusive basis to refute such a possibility.
Quantum Physics and the Question of Reality
Since the 1920s, physics has begun to question the nature of reality:
✔ Niels Bohr (Copenhagen Interpretation):
Reality exists in superposition — what we observe is just one possibility among countless others.
✔ Everett’s Many-Worlds Theory:
Every possibility is real, and there are infinite universes, each hosting different versions of ourselves.
✔ String Theory:
Suggests ten dimensions of reality where not only can the universe be understood, but potentially even altered.
Modern Technology and Atheism's Difficulties
Artificial Intelligence and Global Communication
The emergence of the internet and artificial intelligence has transformed human thought and lifestyle.
✔ A single person today can instantly communicate across the globe.
✔ In such a world, atheism lacks strong arguments to dismiss religion or metaphysical realities.
Crisis in the Definition of Existence
Modern physics and biology have raised complex questions about human existence and consciousness that further complicate atheistic views:
✿ Do particles of time exist?
✿ Can we access other dimensions?
✿ Is our present reality authentic, or dream-like?
The Current State of Atheism
The Decline of Materialism
Since the 20th century, scientific developments have severely undermined materialist atheism.
✔ For example, quantum physics demonstrates that defining the material world is no longer possible in absolute terms.
✔ Theories of multiple realities create new and unresolvable dilemmas for atheistic thought.
The Final Flicker of Atheism’s Flame
Today’s atheism resembles a flickering candle, flaring brightly before extinguishing — because it no longer stands on a solid foundation.
Religion and Atheism: A New Perspective
Atheism as a Religion
Modern atheism now mirrors the structure of a religion — complete with doctrines, beliefs, and dogmatic assertions.
It is no longer just opposing religion, but has become one itself in form.
⚖ True Religion vs. False Representatives
Atheism’s primary conflict is not with true religion, but with its false representatives —
those who appear as clerics, pundits, or priests and use religion to exploit and oppress.
✔ Authentic religion also stands against such corruption and tyranny.
Conclusion
In the light of scientific revelations, philosophical progress, and the rise of metaphysical questions,the 21st century has become an inhospitable time for atheism.
✔ Atheism is no longer supported by a firm intellectual base.
✔ The very disciplines once used to support atheism are now raising questions that draw man closer to a transcendent reality.
