Decolonise the anti-woke Atheism: Beyond the Western values - Hein Htet Kyaw (Abu Bakr)

About this Video

• Video Title: Decolonise the anti-woke Atheism: Beyond the Western values - Hein Htet Kyaw (Abu Bakr)
• Channel: Secular Party of Australia
• Speakers: Hein Htet Kyaw (Abu Bakr), and an unnamed moderator from the Atheist Society.
• Duration: 59:23

Introduction

This video features a lecture by Hein Htet Kyaw (Abu Bakr) challenging the notion that atheism is solely a product of Western values. He argues that anti-woke atheists often misrepresent or oversimplify the complexities of Western philosophical history, and that a truly inclusive atheism must address global social injustices and consider non-Western perspectives on atheism and secularism.

Key Takeaways

• Atheism's Non-Western Roots: The speaker argues that atheism existed long before the Enlightenment, citing examples from ancient India and the Middle East. He contests the assertion that atheism is inherently tied to Western values.
• Colonialism's Impact on Atheism: The lecture explores how Christian and Islamic colonialism have impacted both religious and secular movements globally, suppressing alternative beliefs and practices.
• Critique of "Anti-Woke" Atheism: The speaker criticizes the "anti-woke" movement within atheism, arguing that it often relies on a selective and simplified understanding of Western philosophical history and fails to engage with global social justice issues.
• The Importance of Social Justice: Hein Htet Kyaw advocates for incorporating social justice as a core value within atheistic thought, emphasizing the need to move beyond the limitations of past philosophical movements.
• Alternative Atheist Movements: The lecture highlights examples of non-Western atheist movements that have successfully challenged religious and social hierarchies, emphasizing their relevance to a more inclusive and globally aware atheism.