Weigel on Atheism

Re “Pope Is the Embodiment of Transformed Humanism,” Commentary, Jan. 21: George Weigel argues that because communist countries are atheistic and tyrannical that atheism inevitably leads to tyranny. This is false reasoning. If we consider the record of countries that do officially support belief in God, we find that tyranny and oppression are just as common. The Spanish Inquisition, the Crusades, and the Nazi Holocaust were all supported by ostensibly Christian countries; Islamic theocracies like Iran show us very clearly that a belief in God does not necessarily lead to any respect for human freedom of thought or speech.

Weigel demonizes atheists and claims that concern for humanity requires belief in God. However, a respect for the inherent worth and dignity of every person requires no belief in God and can serve as a common moral ground between secular and religious humanists. It is far better to seek commonalities between those of differing religious views than to imagine that some are outside the realm of moral reasoning.

AARON BROADWELL

West Hollywood

*

Weigel seems to believe that atheism and communism go hand in hand. Does that mean that since Hitler was a Christian that all Christians are Nazis? As an atheist, I find his commentary insulting.

REBECCA HADDEN

West Hollywood