Beyond Belief: How Does Atheism and Race Intersect? A Conversation with Dr. Daniel Swann

Pondering Thoughts Podcast

In this engaging episode, host K. Wilkes interviews Dr. Daniel Swann a professor and scholar in the field of atheism and its intersection with race. The conversation delves into his background and expertise, exploring the fascinating findings from his research and the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding atheism. Dr. Swann offers a fresh and enlightening perspective, engaging a thought-provoking conversation that challenges preconceived notions and broadens the understanding of this complex topic. Join us as we explore the intersection of atheism and race through the lens of Dr. Swann’s expertise.
Guest Bio:

Daniel Swann is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Goucher College and has also taught at the University of Maryland, College Park. He completed his doctorate in sociology at the University of Maryland and earned his undergraduate degree at Rutgers University. Dr. Swann has taught courses on comparative social media, Generation Z, race and ethnic relations, social movements, as well as wealth, power, and prestige. He is the author of the book, A Qualitative Study of Black Atheists: “Don’t Tell Me You’re One of Those!

Summary
In this conversation, Daniel Swann discusses his background and interest in atheism, the impact of atheism on relationships and perception, the definition of atheism and its differentiation from agnosticism, his research on black atheists, the stigmas and misconceptions about atheism, reasons for leaving faith and common questions, the rise of the 'nones' and factors influencing religious affiliation, the concept of deism and its influence on the founding fathers, and challenging religious worldviews.

Takeaways

• Atheism is often stigmatized and misunderstood, leading to misconceptions and negative perceptions.
• Black atheists face unique challenges due to the intersection of race and religiosity in black communities.
• Many people leave their faith due to skepticism, questioning religious beliefs, and finding contradictions in religious texts.
• The rise of the 'nones' and the decline of religious affiliation can be attributed to factors such as individualism, access to information through social media, and a decrease in emphasis on in-person religious gatherings.
• .There may be a paradigm shift in society and academia regarding the value of religious texts.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Background
03:25
Impact of Atheism on Relationships and Perception
08:16
Defining Atheism and Differentiating from Agnosticism
11:22
Research on Black Atheists
15:40
Religious Identity and Black Culture
18:15
Stigmas and Misconceptions about Atheism
22:43
Reasons for Leaving Faith and Common Questions
28:38
Rise of the 'Nones' and Factors Influencing Religious Affiliation
31:50
Deism and Influence of Founding Fathers
41:25
Challenging Religious Worldviews
47:03
Paradigm Shift in Society and Academia
50:10
Different Spiritual Paths
51:08
The Clergy Project
57:28
Curiouser and Curiouser Game
01:02:40
The Power of Social Media
01:13:12
Closing Remarks