The Atheist and the Monstrous: Debunking Myths and Embracing Horror
Given that atheists are often not fans of horror films, which frequently feature demons and ghosts, one might wonder: why would someone choose to embrace atheism and still enjoy such films? This is a question that delves into the complexities of belief and entertainment.
I’m an Atheist, Not Afraid to Watch Horror
I have been an atheist for over six decades, and I am a big fan of horror films, including the gruesome and gory 'Saw' series. Does being an atheist entail a prohibition against horror films? In my experience, the pursuit of atheism is not inherently contradictory with a love for films about demons and spirits.
I find that horror films, when well-crafted, offer a thrill and an experience that can be both exhilarating and intellectually stimulating. What I love most about these films is the fun of deriding deities and their minions. It’s a genre that allows me to enjoy the macabre without having to believe in the supernatural.
Horror Films and Reality
Many argue that horror films should be avoided by atheists because they deal with fictional supernatural elements. However, the line between fiction and reality is often blurred, especially when it comes to media and entertainment. Movies, by their very nature, are an artistic interpretation and do not represent absolute truth.
Similarly, I don’t need to believe in Thor or the Hulk to appreciate the Thor: Ragnarok film. Just as I can enjoy a ghost story or a hopeful comic book story, the fictional aspects of horror films do not detract from my enjoyment. In fact, I find the idea of religious fundamentalists believing that movies like Harry Potter are teaching kids magic to be a bit bonkers!
Understanding Atheism: A Path of Discovery, Not Decision
One of the most intriguing aspects of the atheist perspective is the idea that people “choose” to be atheists. Is it a conscious decision, or is it a journey of discovery? My own experience with atheism was not a conscious choice. I grew up in an evangelical and fundamentalist environment where believing in God was nearly a given. I spent a considerable amount of time studying Hebrew and Greek, questioning everything, and trying to understand the core of religious teachings. Eventually, one day, I simply realized that much of what I had been taught was made up.
This is a common experience among atheists. The process of realizing that organized religion doesn’t align with reality is often a gradual one. It’s not something that happens suddenly, but rather a realization that comes with time and reflection. In my case, I didn’t seek out atheism – it found me. I never deliberately decided to be an atheist, but rather, I stopped believing in the mythological framework that had been constructed around me.
Embracing the Unknown
Ultimately, being an atheist does not preclude one from enjoying stories that embrace the unknown and the monstrous. Horror films, with their reliance on the supernatural, offer a unique kind of storytelling that can be thrilling and thought-provoking. Just as I appreciate the enjoyment derived from knowing that airplanes exist, I can appreciate the thrill of films that might involve demons and ghosts without having to believe in them.
In essence, being an atheist doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the excitement and entertainment that horror films offer. It’s about understanding that the stories we consume, whether they involve demons, ghosts, or superheroes, are simply narratives that inspire and enrich our lives.