In this episode, we’re joined by David Newheiser, a Senior Research Fellow in the Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry at Australian Catholic University, and the editor of the book, The Varieties of Atheism (2022). We learn about how David went through a heresy trial when he was a teenager and how this shaped his views of religion. We talk about the complex historical roots of atheism, the potential for a positive atheist identity, and how atheists and theists can communicate better. We also learn whether a True Atheist can have hope for the future.

In the bonus section, available to supporters on Patreon, we talk about David’s surprising philosophical influences and how studying atheism helps to understand religion better.

For more on David: https://dnewheiser.net/
David’s recent edited book, The Varieties of Atheism: Connecting Religion and Its Critics: https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/V/bo182880666.html
Find David on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newheisereye/
And on Twitter and Threads: @dnewheiser

Follow Nathan on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NathGAlexander
Nathan’s website: https://www.nathangalexander.com/

If you find the podcast valuable and want to support it, check out our Patreon page, where you will also find bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/beyond_atheism We are grateful for every contribution.

Beyond Atheism is produced and distributed by Atheists United Studios: https://www.atheistsunited.org/au-studios