Atheist Views on the End of Life

Tom Flynn

Marilyn Smith-Stoner of Cal State Fullerton conducted an online study of a small sample of atheists (n=86) regarding their views on end-of-life issues. Some highlights:

What Gives Your Life Meaning? Top Four Responses:

Family, friends, pets
Volunteering
Being in nature
Creative activities such as hobbies

How Does Being an Atheist Impact Your Attitude toward Death? Top Four Responses:

Gives peace of mind
Practical and pragmatic approach to life
Realistic/pragmatic about life
Take responsibility for health

Atheist Views of Death

“Death is simply a part of life.”
“We live, we improve and renew, and then we make room.”
“I know that once we die, that’s the end.”
“Take care of things now.”

Do You Want a Memorial or Funeral Service?

Yes=50%
No=44%

Do You Support Physician-Assisted Suicide?

Yes=95%

For more on Dr. Stoner’s work, see http://nursestoner.com/documents/Athiests%20public.pdf.

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