How does atheism view humanity's goals and afterlife?

Atheism fundamentally holds that there is no belief in a deity or deities, which extends to its views on humanity's goals and the afterlife. In this perspective, individuals often arrive at their own understanding of purpose without relying on divine guidance or religious traditions. As a result, atheism typically posits that humanity lacks a universally defined goal determined by a higher power.

The concept of the afterlife is also significant in atheism; many adherents reject the idea of a life after death, viewing human existence as finite. Therefore, without a belief in an afterlife, it follows that goals must be created and chosen by individuals or communities based on personal, secular reasoning rather than religious directives.

This understanding aligns with the nature of atheism, as it emphasizes individualism, critical thinking, and the human capacity for setting personal goals in the absence of religious or spiritual frameworks. In contrast, traditions and cultural practices can certainly influence individual goals, but they are not seen as definitive or prescriptive in an atheistic worldview.