Factors and Effects of the Rise of Atheistic Tendencies الحادی رجحانات کے فروغ کے عوامل اور اثرات

Abstract

In the contemporary era, atheism is no longer merely a theoretical denial of God's existence; rather, it has evolved into an organized intellectual and civilizational movement that is significantly influencing minds across the globe, particularly among Muslim youth. This paper presents a comprehensive academic analysis of the factors behind the rise of atheistic tendencies, their intellectual and social dimensions, and their individual and collective impacts. The research reveals that numerous internal and external factors contribute to the spread of atheism. Key among these are modern scientific theories—especially materialistic interpretations of evolution-materialism, misconceptions about religion, the intellectual shortcomings of religious leadership, and the pervasive influence of Western civilization. Furthermore, social media, liberal educational systems, and unchecked intellectual liberalism have fostered an environment where religion is portrayed as outdated, unscientific, and irrelevant. As a result, many young individuals experience intellectual voids, spiritual restlessness, and crises of identity, leading them toward atheism or religious indifference. The study categorizes and examines various forms of atheism—such as philosophical atheism, scientific atheism, cultural atheism, and practical atheism—and demonstrates that atheism is not merely a matter of belief, but one that impacts moral, psychological, and social aspects of life. Among its effects are the erosion of individual moral values, spiritual anxiety, social disintegration, and civilizational decay. The research emphasizes that countering atheism cannot rely solely on sermons or moral exhortation. Rather, it necessitates a well-structured intellectual, educational, and invitational strategy. It is imperative to present the rational foundations of Islamic thought, the comprehensiveness of divine revelation, and the moral and spiritual system of Islam in a manner suited to the intellectual frameworks of the modern age. Religious institutions, scholars, and thinkers must respond to atheistic ideologies with scholarly depth and logical reasoning, so that Muslim youth may return to the path of balanced faith, knowledge, and spirituality.

Keywords: Atheistic Tendencies, Contemporary, Civilizational, Religion Comprehensive, Philosophical