Physics

Perspective (graphical)

Neuroscience

Perception

Religiosity

Term (time)

Biology

Prejudice (legal term)

Epistemology

Developmental psychology

Philosophy

Paleontology

Artificial intelligence

Psychology

Economics

Microeconomics

Theism

Context (archaeology)

Atheism

Computer science

Quantum mechanics

Preference

Mating

Genetics

Social psychology

Journal of Social and Personal Relationships

The centrality of religiosity in selecting long-term mates suggests atheism could be undesirable for that context. Given recent findings suggesting several positive stereotypes about atheists, a largely distrusted group, individuals could prefer atheists in mating domains not emphasizing long-term commitment (i.e., short-term mating). Two studies tasked U.S. participants with evaluating long-term and short-term mating desirability of theists and atheists while assessing perceptions of their personalities. Study 1 indicated atheists were more desirable in short-term mating than long-term mating, though this preference did not translate to being preferred over theists. The pre-registered Study 2 demonstrated this effect is specific to physically attractive targets. Atheists were further perceived as more prone to infidelity, especially when attractive. Results are framed from an evolutionary perspective while discussing anti-atheist prejudice.

Preliminary evidence for an aversion to atheists in long-term mating domains in the Southern United States