Performing Atheist Selves in Digital Publics: U.S. Women and Non-Religious Identity Online

This book explores how non-religious individuals perform their identities online in the context of digital culture and technology, highlighting the tension between perceived sinfulness and amorality and the hyperrational discourse of the atheist movement. It suggests that women atheist vloggers create third spaces of emotive resonance that enable a counterpublicness of performing atheist visibility, contributing to the understanding of digital religion and opening up new avenues for engagement.

Format: Hardback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the fascinating realm of how the non-religious self is showcased publicly online, and how digital culture and technology intricately mold this dynamic process. Through a comprehensive analysis, it presents unique empirical data on non-organized atheism in the United States, drawing from a captivating YouTube case study involving women vloggers. The author, Lundmark, suggests that the online portrayal of atheism exists in a delicate balance, oscillating between a perception of atheism as sinful and amoral, in contrast to the dominant hegemonic Christianity in the U.S. Additionally, she highlights the hyperrational, male-centered discourse that has historically defined the atheist movement.

However, Lundmark's study unveils a remarkable twist: women atheist vloggers play a pivotal role in co-creating third spaces of emotive resonance, enabling a precarious counterpublicness of performing atheist visibility. These spaces serve as havens where individuals can express their beliefs, connect with others who share similar perspectives, and challenge the societal norms associated with atheism.

This volume makes a significant contribution to the ongoing discourse on how the public, private, and the spaces in between are understood within the realm of digital religion. It offers a fresh perspective and opens up new avenues for engaging with the heightened visibility of atheist identity in our increasingly mediatized society. By exploring the complexities and nuances of the non-religious self in the digital age, this book provides valuable insights and encourages a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of religious expression and identity.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032021676