The Surprising Rebirth Of Belief In God S2 E19. The Rise Of The Lapsed Atheists
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Aug 26, 2025 
Joe Folley, an Atheist YouTuber with a philosophy degree from Cambridge, and Alex O'Connor, known as Cosmic Skeptic and host of Within Reason, delve into the intriguing phenomenon of 'lapsed atheists.' They discuss the growing trend of public figures exploring faith, sharing personal stories about what could lead them back to belief. The conversation touches on the complexities of identity, rational inquiry, and the emotional resonance of spirituality, emphasizing a shift from mere skepticism to a deeper understanding of faith and community.
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A Different Kind Of Atheism
- New atheism's combative style has waned and been replaced by thoughtful skeptics who engage rather than mock.
- Figures like Alex O'Connor model open curiosity that normalises serious conversation about faith.
Listen To Learn, Not To Win
- Listen without preparing your rebuttal to actually learn from interlocutors on religious questions.
- Ask genuine questions and let answers change your view rather than score points.
Choral Beauty And Doubt
- Joe Folley recounts being raised in a Church of England household and later moving between faith and atheism.
- He says beauty and religious experience appealed to him despite his atheism.
