When man comes to the realization that he is not the “favorite” of God; that he was not specifically created, that the universe was not made for his benefit, and that he is subject to the same laws of nature as all other forms of life, then, and not until then, will he understand that he must rely upon himself, and himself alone, for whatever benefits he is to enjoy; and devote his time and energies to helping himself and his fellow men to meet the exigencies of life and to set about to solve the difficult and intricate problems of living.

Joseph Lewis (1889-1968) American activist, publisher, educator

“An Atheist Manifesto” (1954)