---
title: "Atheists aren’t so bad, says Pope Francis"
date: "2013-05-23T13:16:18+01:00"
modified: "2013-05-23T13:16:18+01:00"
url: "https://newhumanist.org.uk/2013/05/23/atheists-arent-so-bad-says-pope-francis/"
post_id: 5800
categories: ["Uncategorised"]
---

# Atheists aren’t so bad, says Pope Francis

![Pope Francis](https://newhumanist.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/images/Pope123.jpg "It would appear Pope Francis is taking a more accommodating stance on atheism than his predecessor")

One of the best-known arguments for religious belief comes from the 17th-century French philosopher Blaise Pascal. It goes like this – if you’re unsure whether God exists or not, you’re better off deciding that he/she/it does, because the potential eternal consequences of a life of unbelief far outweigh anything you’ll lose from believing in a non-existent deity during your time on Earth.

While it’s not a position I subscribe to, I can see why this argument, known as Pascal’s Wager, has some appeal. But I think I’ve found a better option and considering the source – none other than His Holiness Pope Francis – it could be a winner.

Speaking [at a mass in Rome yesterday](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/05/22/pope-francis-good-atheists_n_3320757.html?utm_hp_ref=mostpopular), the new Pontiff addressed the question of whether atheists are “redeemed by Jesus”:

> “Even them, everyone,” the pope answered, according to Vatican Radio. “We all have the duty to do good,” he said.
> 
> “Just do good and we’ll find a meeting point.”

Forget Pascal’s Wager – just do good and don’t worry about what you believe. A piece of theology we can all agree on. I’m calling it Francis’s Flutter.