What is the difference between Freethought and Atheism?
Atheism means nothing more than a lack of belief in god(s). That’s all. Someone could believe in all sorts of magical and mystical powers, or even fairies and leprechauns. But, if they did not believe in god(s) then they would still be an atheist. Freethought is discussed in the NTCOF’s brochure “What is Freethought? What is a Freethinker?” that is included in a packet for each visitor to our monthly service. But, in essence, Freethought is opinions about religious questions that are formed independently of tradition, authority, or established belief. Freethought relies instead on facts and reasons, while bearing in mind their limitations. So a Freethinker would not believe in god(s), fairies, leprechauns, or anything else for which there is insufficient evidence or that is contradicted by facts and reason. In addition, Freethinkers hold their beliefs conditionally, and are willing to reexamine them in the light of new facts and reasons.
