Atheist: Overlooked by Sociology?
by Michael E. Marotta
Sociology 405: Senior Seminar
Dr. Ron Westrum, Summer 2007
Abstract: Reliable public opinion polls reveal that very few Americans strongly deny
belief in God. Yet, few sociological investigations exist. This paper begins an in-
depth study of atheists by surveying and evaluating the existing literature. In addition
to statistical surveys, this paper examines both historically important and recent books
as well as periodic literature from the past and present. It also includes the results of
interviews with individuals who, by their membership in formal organizations, identify
themselves as atheists.
Introduction:
Reliable public opinion polls from Harris Surveys and the Gallup Organization reveal that very small percentages of Americans admit to complete disbelief in God. The actual numbers can vary widely from 15% down to 0.3% depending on the nature of the survey. Open-ended online surveys tend to harvest larger numbers than telephone interviews on specific statements. Nonetheless, the numbers are small.
And yet, they are large. Only 1% to 2% of all Americans identify themselves
as “Jewish.” The same range applies to Mormons and Muslims. The number of self-
identified non-believers (“atheists” plus “agnostics”) is at least equal to this and perhaps
ten times larger. However, the non-religious do not receive the social deference, political attention or academic investigation that the other groups do.