Was Atheism an important movement during the Victorian era?

Answer

In a word, no. While the era before the victorian era, the Georgian era, was characterised in large part by weak theism in the Victorian era saw areligious revival in Britain.

That said, there were a number of famous atheists during this time. It was during the Victorian era that the term agnostic was coined, and also that the Theory of Evolution was published.

Answer

Atheism is arguably a belief, in that atheists believe that there is no divine being, but should not be classed as a religion.

Atheism is usually a private affair, unlike many religions, where adherents publicly display their devotion. Because it is usually private, atheism is not organised and does not have "major movements". You will not find in Victorian times, great organisations, important leaders or mass rallies to proselytise atheism.

In modern times, atheism has grown through the widepread awareness that religions may not really have a factual basis. Until Victorian times, there was little research done into the basis of biblical claims, and thus little reason for people to consider atheism as a valid belief system.

Answer

Some people in Britain in mid-to-late Victorian times (c. 1870 onwards) declared themeselves atheists, non-believers or agnostics. However, the notion that there was an 'atheist movement' or any kind of campaign against religion, or that Darwin inspired widespread atheism is pure fantasy.

First answer by Dick Harfield. Last edit by Joncey. Contributor trust: 1572 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 20 [recommend question]