An agnostic is defined as someone who claims to not know if God or a supreme deity actually exists. Agnostics base their position on the lack of knowledge that proves or disproves the existence of a higher power. Strict agnostics believe that no one can know the nature or validity of a higher power. Weak agnostics personally believe that they cannot know if God exists, but that it is possible for someone else to know.

Reason #1 to be an Agnostic: Disdain for Organized Religion

Some agnostics may have been involved in an organized religion before changing their viewpoint on whether or not a God actually exists. Traditional organized religions dictate strict interpretations of the nature of God without offering logical proof of the existence of such a supreme power.

When a person chooses to become an agnostic, they are disconnecting themselves from organized religious beliefs and the power organized religion holds over their lives. This can be freeing, especially for those agnostics that were part of a strict religious sect.

Reason #2 to be an Agnostic: A Belief in Logic

“The whole subject is beyond the scope of man’s intellect.” This quote from Charles Darwin, a self-proclaimed agnostic, states a logical argument for the inability of man to contemplate the existence of a God or higher power.

Agnostics believe that until there is logical proof of a higher power, humankind cannot claim to know the reality of God. How can one believe in something they have not experienced?

Reason #3 to be an Agnostic: Moral Repercussions

Since agnostics do not believe in God, they are free to live their lives as they see fit. Agnostics need not fear being divinely condemned for immoral behavior or being judged by a supreme being in the afterlife.

Becoming an agnostic gives an individual complete control over his life, and the choices he makes. Good and evil can become subjective to the agnostic, who does not live by a set of religious rules or expectations any longer.

Reason #4 to be an Agnostic: Suffering & Tragedy

Tragedy and suffering exist in staggering amounts in the world today. Some people turn to agnosticism after living through a tragic experience. The rationale being, if there is a God, how could he let this happen?

Becoming agnostic lets people evaluate suffering and tragedy as things that happen and are a natural part of the world, rather than warnings from an angry God.

Reason #5 to be an Agnostic: Unwillingness to Explore Religion

Some people decide to become agnostic because they do not want to explore religion. It is much easier for agnostics to believe that they cannot claim to know if there is a God or not, than to actively pursue religious or spiritual avenues to find the answer.

It is impossible to accurately state how many agnostics are in the world. Many people may say they are a member of a religious organization but be true agnostics at heart and never reveal it. Agnosticism is considered a valid philosophical doctrine, and is becoming more accepted as people turn away from organized religion.