PHIL 3310. Exploring the philosophical, ethical, spiritual, existential, social, and personal implications of a godless universe, and supporting their study at Middle Tennessee State University & beyond.
I agree with Dr. Oliver about getting it right. It's not infrequent that the theistic beliefs of a surviving family overwhelms how the deceased atheist really lived their lives. Such instances can feel like attempts to make up for--save, even--the potentially lost atheist. Whatever getting it right looks like in a given situation, it is important to consider some way to mark the death of an atheist. Just because religion isn't at play, doesn't mean some kind of ritual wouldn't be appropriate!
I think that funerals are important, especially for those who are still living. It is a way to honor someone's life, and I don't think the only way to hold a funeral is in the traditional, religious way. Like Jamil said, I think it is best to consider the deceased person's views when putting together their funeral.
It's more important to get it right, if only for the sake of those who knew and loved the dear departed secularist.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Dr. Oliver about getting it right. It's not infrequent that the theistic beliefs of a surviving family overwhelms how the deceased atheist really lived their lives. Such instances can feel like attempts to make up for--save, even--the potentially lost atheist. Whatever getting it right looks like in a given situation, it is important to consider some way to mark the death of an atheist. Just because religion isn't at play, doesn't mean some kind of ritual wouldn't be appropriate!
ReplyDeleteI think that funerals are important, especially for those who are still living. It is a way to honor someone's life, and I don't think the only way to hold a funeral is in the traditional, religious way. Like Jamil said, I think it is best to consider the deceased person's views when putting together their funeral.
ReplyDelete