Pronunciation: [ˈape͡ɪðˌɪzəm] (IPA) 
Apathism, pronounced /ˈæpəθɪzəm/, is a relatively new term used to describe a lack of interest or concern in religion or spirituality. The word itself is derived from the noun "apathy" and the suffix "-ism", which is used to create nouns denoting a particular ideology or belief system. The "a" at the beginning of the word is pronounced like the "a" in "cat", and the stress is on the second syllable.
Apathism is a term used to describe an attitude or stance characterized by a lack of interest, concern, or enthusiasm towards matters of importance or relevance. It refers to an individual's disinterest or indifference towards, specifically, philosophical, political, or religious beliefs and practices.
Apathism can manifest as a deliberate choice to refrain from engaging or taking a firm stance on issues that others may consider significant. It is not to be confused with apathy, which suggests a general lack of interest or motivation in all aspects of life. Apathism, instead, pertains to the deliberate choice to remain detached and uninvolved, particularly pertaining to spiritual or ideological matters.
Those who adopt an apathetic perspective towards philosophical or religious matters often do so as a response to the perceived futility of such debates or the inability to discern definitive truths. By abstaining from engaging in these discussions or actions, they avoid investing time, energy, and emotion into what they consider abstract or uncertain topics.
However, it is important to note that apathism does not necessarily indicate a lack of concern for societal or humanitarian issues. In fact, one can be actively engaged and passionate about making positive changes in the world whilst remaining apathetic towards philosophical or religious questions. Apathism primarily relates to personal beliefs and the disengagement from discussing or participating in matters of faith, metaphysics, or ideology.
A sluggishness of reaction, the opposite of erethism.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "apathism" is derived from the Greek word "apatheia", which means "without feelings" or "without passions". In ancient Greek philosophy, "apatheia" referred to a state of being unaffected or unswayed by emotions or external circumstances. Over time, this concept was extended to include an indifference or lack of interest in matters of belief or religion. The term "apathism" was later coined to describe a philosophical position or worldview characterized by disinterest or apathy towards religious or spiritual matters.
