A History of Unbelief: Atheism in ancient times, Part 2

The video explores the philosophical views of Epicurus, who was known for his materialist philosophy that questioned the existence of gods, despite not denying them outright. It also discusses Lucian, a satirist who critiqued Greek religious customs. The video compares the religiosity of ancient Greece and Rome, highlighting the ingrained nature of religious practices. Finally, it examines the shift in the concept of atheism following the Christianization of the Roman Empire, where non-belief in the Christian God became synonymous with atheism.

What was the core idea of Epicurus' materialist philosophy?

• The existence of a non-material spirit

• The world is composed of atoms and void

• Gods are essential for moral reasons

• The afterlife is a fundamental belief

Why might Epicurus have insisted on the existence of gods despite his materialist views?

• To promote a non-material spirit

• To avoid prosecution for unconventional ideas

• To align with the trial of Socrates

• To support the existence of an afterlife

What was Lucian's approach to Greek religious customs?

• He embraced them wholeheartedly

• He ignored them completely

• He mocked and satirized them

• He tried to reform them

How did Lucian view the practice of animal sacrifices?

• As a necessary religious ritual

• As a way to honor ancestors

• As a means to feed humans

• As a genuine offering to gods

How did religious practices in ancient Greece differ from those in Rome?

• Rome was more monotheistic

• Rome had less religious activity

• Greece had more state-sanctioned festivals

• Greece integrated religious acts into daily life

What change occurred in the definition of 'atheist' during the Christianization of the Roman Empire?

• It meant disbelief in any supernatural being

• It referred to those who believed in many gods

• It described those who rejected all religious practices

• It signified disbelief in the Christian God

What term did Christians use to describe those who believed in multiple gods during the Roman Empire?

• Monotheist believers

• Polytheist atheists

• Religious skeptics

• Pagan worshippers