Home⇛Psychology and Education: A Multidisciplinary Journal⇛vol. 23 no. 9 (2024)

Cognitive Metamorphosis: Exploring the Lived Experience of Filipino Atheists in their Journey from Belief to Non-Belief

Marco Andrew Tagao

Discipline: theology and religious studies

 

Abstract:

This qualitative research highlighted the lived experiences of individuals transitioning from believers to atheists in the Philippines, a country deeply influenced by religious perspectives. The study employed a phenomenological approach and had six participants who were residents of Quezon City, Rizal, Cavite, Pasig City, Cavite, and Makati City. The study identified 10 superordinate Themes using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), highlighting the intricate nuances of the participants' experiences. These themes included: Religious Influences of Schooling, Family, and Personal Curiosity; Influence on Personal Morality and Skepticism; Experiencing Dissonant Texts, Actions, and Conversations; Inward Dilemmas due to Social Fear, Rationality, and Moral Ambiguity; Intersecting Influences from Local, Global, and Digital Environments; Sexuality, Hypocrisy, and Personal Beliefs; Contradictions in Religious Teachings Lead to Atheism; Shared Viewpoints Affirmed Personal Views; Disputations in Shared Circles Lead to Personal Discovery; Unfolding of Identity through Personal and Social Dynamics. The process of moving away from religious beliefs and embracing atheism was a multifaceted journey that involved numerous factors. One's upbringing in a particular religion, combined with personal exploration, societal pressures, and exposure to a variety of viewpoints, all played a role in shaping individual convictions. The study explored the process of how Filipino atheists converted from believers to atheism, and what factors influenced their journey towards atheism. The study emphasized the role of cognitive dissonance, interpersonal contacts, societal support, and social dynamics in shaping individuals' belief systems. The study also highlighted the challenges faced by Filipino atheists, including those related to sexuality and hypocrisy within religious contexts. Overall, the study shed light on the complexities of religious conversion and de-conversion and the importance of social support in shaping individuals' beliefs and identities. Ultimately, becoming an atheist required a thorough introspection that was shaped by internal and external variables, resulting in a redefinition of one's identity and a change in beliefs.



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