Atheist, agnostic, skeptic….all these words have a societally developed, negative connotation. Why? Many people view an interrogative approach to religion impious. This is such a shame because peace and prosperity are stifled by this intolerant preconception. A secular morality is the notion of moral obligation void of some type of divinity. A non-secular morality is one that is dependent on God. Individuals look to a God or a divine right to live “morally”, as the Ten Commandments teach us right from wrong in a non-secular morality. Do we as human innately yearn for authority? Do we instinctively not know what is right from wrong, and therefore need divinity as a guideline? No, we do not. In my opinion, the greatest argument to secular morality is Immanuel Kant’s “Categorical Imperative”. According to, Matt McCormick of the Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Kant stated, “Act only according to that maxim by which you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law.” Kant illustrates through this quote that before one acts, he or she must ask themselves, would this action be universally moral and acceptable (i.e. would it make the world a better place) if everyone else in the world executed the same action, or would it be detrimental to humanity? If the former is true then one may execute the contemplated action. If the latter is true it is not moral and one should therefore abandon the action. This concept is completely void of any type ‘God wouldn’t like it…” mentality. This idea proves that secular morality is possible, and is indeed the most poignant and strongest argument for the secular cause. Doesn’t the categorical imperative sound much more realistic and rational, while yielding a better frame of reference for the impeding execution of an action…? I am not anti-religion; I actually find it to be extremely helpful in providing people with hope and meaning in their lives. Religion infuses positivity when used correctly. I would be lying if I said I don’t pray to some kind of higher power when things are going really wrong in my life. I do however feel that organized religion has been the catalyst for much of history’s tribulation and conflict. The main area of aggravation within this notion is the source of morality and its inconsistencies between all the religions. If we universally agreed that morality should be derived for the betterment of humanity and not for any other selfish motivators the world would be a better place. For within a non-secular morality, the motivation is to get into heaven or have a better life for doing something for God etc. We miss the power of right now with this rather limiting and selfish mindset. With a secular morality you are free to live in the moment because right now is all we have and all you are focused on. Stay tuned for my next blog about the “Power of Now”…