The Analytical Agnostic

Editor’s note: my dictionary defines agnostic as “a person who believes that the existence of God is not provable”. In this revealing interview, we learn there is much more to this unique philosophy…

1.) What is your chosen faith?

Agnostic.

2.) Please briefly describe the basis of your faith, as you see it.

It does not assume that there is or isn't a God. Virtue is based on human needs and reasons. (It's not Atheism, which stipulates that there is definitely no God.)

3.) Were you raised in your chosen faith? If not, how did you learn about it?

My mom has been involved in Buddhism for over ten years, and my dad never talks about religion (it doesn't seem to be of importance to him.) I heard about the general premise for Agnosticism at the beginning of college; I forget how. Then I started to question having any particular religion, and concluded that I couldn't truly believe in any. I believe that the human capacity to know any Truths is either very limited or non-existent. As for morals, I've begun to examine the basis for individual "virtues" I've come to take for granted.

4.) What is the most compelling element of your chosen faith, for you?

It doesn't assume that virtue is definitive in itself. If you believe that certain ideas are inherently right or wrong / good or evil, then you will feel that it's alright to use such premises to justify certain ideas or actions; as well as forfeit an in-depth consideration into the morality of ideas/actions that you are challenging. To appreciate morals/virtues, you should be able to take your reasoning to "ground zero," to the most fundamental concepts, which therefore requires you to understand exactly why you “should” have such morals/virtues.

5.) How often do you experience others’ prejudices directed toward you regarding your faith?

It's uncommon, because few acquaintances know my beliefs. Also, I live in a very diverse community (college town).

6.) If you could dispel the most common misconception about your faith, what would it be and how would you go about it?

This would be that being Agnostic means having "given up." On the contrary, it's a very well thought out philosophy, and the most reasonable, for faith is not based on reason and Agnosticism is. Just a note: I would rather use the term "religion" than "faith."

7.)What advice would you give to someone who’s considering joining your faith?

Take your time to consider its full meaning. Even though it's a single idea, it's a very powerful one; like any other ideology.

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