Agnostics

Agnostics are individuals who identify with the view that knowledge about the existence of deities is unknown or unknowable. In contrast to theism and atheism, agnosticism concerns epistemology rather than belief as such. The term was coined in 1869 by Thomas Huxley, who used it to describe a position of suspended judgment about religious claims.

Within agnosticism, positions vary. Weak or soft agnosticism holds that the existence of God is currently unknown or inherently unknowable, but does not deny the possibility of future knowledge. Strong or hard agnosticism asserts that it is impossible to know whether God exists. Some people combine agnosticism with belief or disbelief in God, yielding agnostic theists (believe in God but doubt the possibility of proof) and agnostic atheists (do not believe in God and maintain that the truth about God’s existence is unknown).

Agnosticism is a stance about knowledge rather than about belief, and many agnostics maintain a neutral or open attitude toward religious questions. Historically, agnosticism has roots in skeptical thought, but the modern term was popularized in the late 19th century and has since been associated with a wide range of positions and discussions in philosophy, science, and secular thought. Notable figures associated with agnosticism include Thomas Huxley and Bertrand Russell, among others.