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Peter Atkins
Peter Atkins
Peter Atkins
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Peter William Atkins FRSC (born 10 August 1940) is an English chemist and a Fellow of Lincoln College at the University of Oxford. He retired in 2007. He is a prolific writer of popular chemistry textbooks, including Physical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, and Molecular Quantum Mechanics. Atkins is also the author of a number of popular science books, including Atkins' Molecules, Galileo's Finger: The Ten Great Ideas of Science and On Being.

Key Information

Career

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Atkins left school (Dr Challoner's Grammar School, Amersham) at fifteen and took a job at Monsanto as a laboratory assistant. He studied for A-levels by himself and gained a place, following a last-minute interview, at the University of Leicester.

Atkins studied chemistry there, obtaining a BSc degree in chemistry, and a PhD degree in 1964 for research into electron spin resonance spectroscopy, and other aspects of theoretical chemistry. Atkins then took a postdoctoral position at UCLA as a Harkness Fellow of the Commonwealth fund.[1] He returned to Britain in 1965 as a fellow and tutor of Lincoln College, Oxford, and lecturer in physical chemistry (later, professor of physical chemistry). In 1969, he won the Royal Society of Chemistry's Meldola Medal. In 1996 he was awarded the Title of Distinction of Professor of Chemistry. He retired in 2007, and since then has been a full-time author.[2]

He has honorary doctorates from the University of Utrecht, the University of Leicester (where he sits on the university Court), Mendeleev University in Moscow, and Kazan State Technological University.

He was a member of the Council of the Royal Institution and the Royal Society of Chemistry. He was the founding chairman of IUPAC Committee on Chemistry Education, and is a trustee of a variety of charities.

Atkins has lectured in quantum mechanics, quantum chemistry, and thermodynamics courses (up to graduate level) at the University of Oxford. He is a patron of the Oxford University Scientific Society.

In 2016 Atkins received the James T. Grady-James H. Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry for the Public from the American Chemical Society.[3]

Views on religion

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Atkins is a well-known atheist.[4] He has written and spoken on issues of humanism, atheism, and conflicts between science and religion. According to Atkins, whereas religion scorns the power of human comprehension, science respects it.[5]

He was the first Senior Member of the Oxford University Secular Society, a Distinguished Supporter of Humanists UK (formerly known as the British Humanist Association) and an Honorary Associate of the National Secular Society.[6] He is also a member of the advisory board of The Reason Project, a US-based charitable foundation devoted to spreading scientific knowledge and secular values in society. The organisation is led by fellow atheist and author Sam Harris. Atkins has regularly participated in debates with theists, including John Lennox,[7] Alister McGrath, Stephen C. Meyer, Hugh Ross,[8] William Lane Craig,[9][10] Rabbi Shmuley Boteach,[11] and Richard Swinburne.

In December 2006, Atkins was interviewed by journalist Rod Liddle in a UK television documentary on atheism called The Trouble with Atheism. In the documentary, Liddle asked Atkins: "Give me your views on the existence, or otherwise, of God." Atkins replied: "Well, it's fairly straightforward: There isn't one. And there's no evidence for one, no reason to believe that there is one, and so I don't believe that there is one. And I think that it is rather foolish that people do think that there is one."[12] In July 2016, Atkins was quoted as stating, “We are a hiccup on the way from one oblivion to another oblivion.”[13]

Atkins is known for his use of strident language in criticising religion: He appeared in the 2008 documentary-style film Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed, in which he told interviewer Ben Stein that religion was "a fantasy" and "completely empty of any explanatory content. It is also evil".[14]

In 2007, Atkins's position on religion was described by Colin Tudge in an article in The Guardian as being non-scientific. In the same article, Atkins was also described as being "more hardline than Richard Dawkins", and of deliberately choosing to ignore Peter Medawar's famous adage that "Science is the art of the soluble".[15]

Personal life

[edit]

Atkins married Judith Kearton in 1964 and they had one daughter, Juliet (born 1970). They divorced in 1983. In 1991, he married fellow scientist Susan Greenfield (later Baroness Greenfield). They divorced in 2005. In 2008, he married Patricia-Jean Nobes (née Brand).

Publications

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General readers

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  • The Creation. W. H. Freeman & Co Ltd. 1981. ISBN 0-7167-1350-0.
  • The Second Law. Scientific American Library, an imprint of W. H. Freeman and Company. 1984. ISBN 0-7167-5004-X
  • Creation Revisited. W. H. Freeman & Co Ltd. 1993. ISBN 0-7167-4500-3.
  • Second Law: Energy, Chaos, and Form. W. H. Freeman & Co Ltd. 1994. ISBN 0-7167-5005-8.
  • The Periodic Kingdom: A journey into the land of the chemical elements. BasicBooks. 1995. ISBN 0-465-07266-6.
  • Atkins' Molecules. Cambridge University Press. 2003. ISBN 0-521-53536-0.
  • Galileo's Finger: The Ten Great Ideas of Science. Oxford University Press. 2003. ISBN 0-19-860941-8.
  • Four Laws That Drive the Universe. Oxford University Press. 2007. ISBN 978-0-19-923236-9.
  • The Laws of Thermodynamics: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press. 2010. ISBN 978-0-19-957219-9.
  • On Being: A Scientist's Exploration of the Great Questions of Existence. Oxford University Press. 2011. ISBN 978-0-19-960336-7.
  • Reactions: The private life of atoms. Oxford University Press. 2011. ISBN 978-0-19-969512-6.
  • What is Chemistry?. Oxford University Press. 2013. ISBN 978-0-19-968398-7.[16]
  • Physical Chemistry: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press. 2014. ISBN 978-0-19-968909-5.
  • Chemistry: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press. 2015. ISBN 978-0-19-968397-0.
  • Conjuring the Universe: The Origins of the Laws of Nature. Oxford University Press. 2018. Bibcode:2018cuol.book.....A.[17]

University textbooks

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Media appearances

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Footnotes

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Sources

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Peter Atkins

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Peter William Atkins (born 10 August 1940) is a British physical chemist and emeritus professor at the , renowned for his extensive authorship of textbooks that have fundamentally influenced the teaching of worldwide. Atkins earned his BSc in 1961 and PhD in 1964 from the , followed by a at UCLA from 1964 to 1965. Upon returning to the , he joined , as a tutorial fellow in 1965, advancing to university lecturer and eventually professor of before retiring in 2007, after which he became emeritus professor and supernumerary fellow. His research focused on electron spin resonance, spin relaxation processes, and the electromagnetic properties of atoms and molecules, resulting in approximately 100 technical papers. Atkins has authored over 70 books, including seminal textbooks such as —first published in 1978 and now in its 12th edition—and Molecular Quantum Mechanics, first issued in 1970 and updated through five editions, which elucidate core principles of , , and molecular structure for students and professionals. He has also produced accessible works for broader audiences, such as The Periodic Kingdom (1995) and Four Laws That Drive the Universe (2007), emphasizing the foundational laws governing chemical phenomena. Among his honors are the Meldola Medal from the Royal Society of Chemistry in 1969, honorary degrees from universities including and , and visiting professorships across multiple continents.

Early Life and Education

Childhood and Family Background

Peter William Atkins was born on 10 August 1940 in , , . Public records provide scant details on his immediate family or upbringing, with no verified accounts of his parents' occupations or siblings emerging from biographical sources. Atkins' early years appear to have unfolded in post-war Britain, though specific influences shaping his interest in chemistry during childhood remain undocumented in available .

Academic Training and Early Influences

Peter Atkins earned his Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from the University of Leicester in 1961. He remained at Leicester to pursue doctoral research, completing his PhD in 1964 under the supervision of Professor M. C. R. Symons, with a thesis centered on applying electron spin resonance spectroscopy to elucidate the structures of inorganic radicals. This work introduced Atkins to spectroscopic techniques and radical chemistry, foundational elements that shaped his early expertise in physical chemistry. Symons, a prominent figure in electron spin resonance studies, served as a primary academic influence during Atkins' graduate training, guiding his initial foray into quantum mechanical interpretations of molecular behavior. Following his PhD, Atkins secured a from the , enabling him to conduct postdoctoral research at the , from 1964 to 1965, where he explored theoretical models of spin relaxation processes. This international exposure broadened his perspective on computational and theoretical approaches, bridging experimental with quantum theory and influencing his later emphasis on rigorous mathematical frameworks in chemical dynamics. These formative experiences at and UCLA established Atkins' commitment to theoretical , prioritizing quantitative analysis over empirical description, a methodological stance evident in his subsequent career. By 1965, he transitioned to as a tutorial fellow at Lincoln College and lecturer in the Physical Chemistry Laboratory, integrating these early influences into pedagogical and research roles.

Academic and Professional Career

Early Positions and Research Focus

Following his PhD in chemistry from the in 1964, which focused on electron spin resonance spectroscopy, Atkins held a at the (UCLA) from 1964 to 1965. During this period, his research emphasized theoretical aspects of spin relaxation processes in chemical systems. In 1965, Atkins returned to the and took up the position of Fellow and Tutor in at Lincoln College, , concurrently serving as a University Lecturer in —a role that later evolved into a professorship. These early academic appointments at marked the beginning of his long tenure there, initially centered on advancing theoretical frameworks in . Atkins's early research focus lay in , building on his doctoral work in electron spin resonance to explore magnetic resonance techniques and relaxation dynamics, which provided insights into molecular interactions and energy transfer at the quantum level. This foundational emphasis on spectroscopic methods and theoretical modeling laid the groundwork for his later contributions, though he progressively shifted toward broader applications in and by the late 1960s and 1970s.

Oxford Career and Professorship

Atkins joined the in 1965 as a tutorial fellow at Lincoln College and a university lecturer in , following his at UCLA. He held the tutorial position at Lincoln College, where he instructed undergraduates in , for over four decades. In 1996, Atkins was appointed Professor of Chemistry at , a role that recognized his contributions to and education. As professor, he continued to lecture and supervise research in , emphasizing and in his teaching and departmental activities. Atkins served on Lincoln College's finance committee for many years and acted as Rector in 2007 during the transition following his retirement from active professorial duties that year. Upon retirement, he became Professor Emeritus of , maintaining his fellowship at Lincoln College.

Retirement and Post-Retirement Activities

Atkins retired from his professorship in at the in 2007. Following retirement, he was designated Professor of Physical Chemistry and Supernumerary Fellow of , retaining formal ties to the institution. In the years after retiring from active academic duties, Atkins transitioned to full-time authorship, expanding his output of textbooks and works on chemistry and related topics. He has maintained a rigorous writing schedule, contributing to ongoing editions of established texts such as while authoring additional volumes that build on his earlier research in and . This period has seen him prioritize book production over original research, with his total publications exceeding 60 by the early 2020s. Atkins has also engaged in public outreach through lectures and interviews, including a 2010s address to the Society of Chemical Industry titled ": Chemistry's Contribution," which explored chemistry's dual role in conflict and resolution. He continues to participate in discussions on scientific philosophy, as demonstrated by a 2025 emphasizing empirical approaches to and toward non-scientific explanations. These activities reflect a sustained commitment to disseminating principles beyond academia, unencumbered by teaching or administrative obligations.

Scientific Contributions

Research in Theoretical Chemistry

Atkins's early research at the centered on electron spin (ESR), employing quantum mechanical frameworks to probe the electronic structures and dynamics of paramagnetic molecules and radicals. This work involved theoretical modeling of spin interactions, which provided insights into reaction mechanisms and molecular orientations under magnetic fields. As a Harkness Fellow at the in the late 1960s, Atkins advanced theoretical studies of spin relaxation processes, deriving equations for relaxation times in both and nuclear spins, which elucidated energy transfer pathways in condensed phases and influenced interpretations of spectroscopic data. These contributions extended to broader in chemical problems, such as hyperfine interactions and line broadening in magnetic resonance spectra. His theoretical efforts culminated in the 1969 Meldola Medal from the Royal Society of Chemistry, recognizing advancements in quantum-based analyses of magnetic resonance phenomena. Subsequent work at integrated these foundations into , though Atkins increasingly prioritized pedagogical expositions over original theoretical developments, reflecting a career pivot toward and equilibrium properties by the . Despite modest citation impacts relative to contemporaries—totaling around 1,500–3,000 across 300+ publications—his models informed experimental validations in spin dynamics and remain referenced in texts.

Key Publications in Specialized Fields

Atkins' contributions to specialized fields in are exemplified by his Molecular Quantum Mechanics, first published in 1970, which provides a rigorous mathematical framework for applying to molecular systems, including treatments of operators, atomic and molecular orbitals, and spectroscopic transitions. Subsequent editions, such as the fifth in 2010 co-authored with Ronald S. Friedman, expanded on , applications, and computational methods, establishing it as a foundational resource for graduate-level studies in despite its demanding formalism. His research output includes approximately 100 peer-reviewed papers, concentrated in electron spin resonance (ESR) and related theoretical domains. Early work at the advanced ESR techniques for probing radical , while postdoctoral research at UCLA in 1964–1965 developed models for relaxation mechanisms under . At , collaborations with Keith McLauchlan from the 1970s onward produced publications on time-resolved ESR, elucidating dynamic processes in photochemical reactions and intermolecular interactions, including contributions to understanding optical activity and van der Waals forces. These efforts, though less voluminous than his pedagogical works, provided empirical and theoretical insights into magnetic spectroscopy, influencing applications in radical kinetics and material properties.

Criticisms and Limitations of His Research

Eric R. Scerri, a philosopher of chemistry, has critiqued Atkins' interpretations of the periodic table and electronic structure, arguing that Atkins overstates the explanatory power of quantum mechanics for chemical periodicity. In his 2000 analysis, Scerri contends that Atkins' framework in works like The Periodic Kingdom (1995) inadequately addresses the limitations of quantum theory in fully accounting for periodic trends, such as atomic radii and ionization energies, without invoking additional empirical adjustments. Scerri specifically challenges Atkins' reliance on simplified orbital models, noting that the aufbau principle's prediction of filling 4s orbitals before 3d in transition metals (e.g., potassium's configuration [Ar] 4s¹ rather than promoting to 3d) requires relativistic corrections and many-body effects that Atkins downplays, leading to an oversimplified narrative of quantum determinism in chemistry. Scerri further accuses Atkins of neglecting the broader philosophical implications of the Pauli exclusion principle, portraying it merely as a rule for electron filling rather than a foundational constraint with implications for quantum indistinguishability and chemical bonding theories. This omission, per Scerri, misrepresents historical developments, such as the transition from Bohr-Sommerfeld models to full quantum mechanics, and undervalues non-quantum factors like nuclear charge screening in electronic structure explanations. Atkins' emphasis on a "quantum mechanical kingdom" is seen as promoting a reductionist view that philosophy of science critiques deem incomplete, as it sidesteps ongoing debates about whether quantum mechanics provides a complete or merely approximate basis for the periodic law. A noted limitation in Atkins' research career stems from his shift toward textbook authorship, which he acknowledged reduced his output of original investigations. In a 2025 interview, Atkins stated that maintaining a large graduate group in the early phases of his "tailed off" as writing demands—particularly for and related volumes—diverted time from novel theoretical work in areas like reaction dynamics and molecular spectroscopy. This prioritization, while enhancing educational dissemination, constrained deeper empirical or computational advancements in his primary fields of and , with his later publications leaning interpretive rather than pioneering.

Educational Impact and Publications

Development of Influential Textbooks

Atkins' seminal contribution to chemical education lies in the development of , first published in 1978 by as a comprehensive, mathematically rigorous treatment integrating , kinetics, quantum theory, and . This initial edition established a framework emphasizing first-principles derivations and conceptual clarity, drawing from Atkins' research in to bridge abstract theory with practical applications. The textbook's rapid adoption prompted Atkins to pivot from primary research to full-time authorship and in the 1980s, recognizing the rewards of influencing generations of students despite the demands on his scientific output. Subsequent editions of Physical Chemistry—reaching the twelfth by 2023, often co-authored with Julio de Paula and James Keeler—reflect iterative development through extensive revisions, incorporating computational advances, molecular spectroscopy updates, and expanded "Impact" sections linking principles to biology, materials science, and environmental applications. These evolutions maintained its status as the globally preferred text for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses, with over 40 years of refinement ensuring alignment with evolving curricula while preserving core rigor. Atkins extended this approach to specialized and introductory levels with Molecular Quantum Mechanics (first edition 1970, co-authored with R. S. Child; fifth edition 2011 with Ronald S. Friedman), which developed from his expertise in quantum applications to molecules, featuring detailed operator methods and for and bonding. For shorter courses, Elements of Physical Chemistry (first edition 1991; seventh edition 2017) distilled key concepts into a concise format, prioritizing essential derivations and problems while mirroring the flagship's pedagogical style. Similarly, Chemical Principles: The Quest for Insight (first edition 2002, co-authored with ; eighth edition 2022) targeted , fostering insight through interconnected fundamental ideas rather than rote memorization, with calculus-inclusive explanations for broader accessibility. In 2024, Atkins released Concepts in as a free digital resource via the Royal Society of Chemistry, synthesizing core ideas accessibly to democratize advanced understanding amid open-access trends. This body of work underscores his sustained commitment to evolving textbooks through evidence-based updates, prioritizing empirical foundations and causal mechanisms over superficial narratives. Atkins has produced a series of books aimed at non-specialist readers, elucidating fundamental concepts in chemistry and physics through metaphorical narratives and . These works emphasize the elegance of scientific laws and molecular behaviors, often portraying abstract ideas as tangible journeys or landscapes to bridge the gap between technical detail and public comprehension. One early example is The Periodic Kingdom: A Journey into the Land of the Chemical Elements (1995), which analogizes the periodic table to a geographic map, exploring elemental properties across "regions" defined by atomic structure and reactivity. The book highlights how electron configurations dictate chemical trends, such as the nobility of group 18 elements or the reactivity gradients in the alkali metals. Reception praised its imaginative framework for making the table's organization accessible, though some noted its brevity limited deeper quantitative insights. In Galileo's Finger: The Ten Great Ideas of Science (2003), Atkins delineates core scientific paradigms—including , atoms, , , and quantum theory—tracing their development from intuitive challenges to empirical validation. He argues these ideas invert , such as 's inexorable increase undermining , supported by thermodynamic data like the second law's application to isolated systems where disorder rises from 0% to near 100% probability over time. Critics appreciated its breadth and wit, with references to everyday phenomena, but faulted occasional and a perceived gimmick in the titular metaphor linking Galileo's preserved finger to scientific progress. Later titles, such as Four Laws That Drive the Universe (2007), distill ' principles—zeroth to third laws—using examples like heat engines achieving Carnot efficiency limits of approximately 60% under ideal conditions at 300 K ambient temperatures. Atkins' Molecules (2003 revision of 1987's Molecules) profiles key compounds, from water's hydrogen bonding enabling 100°C points to polymers' chain entanglements yielding plastics' durability. These efforts received acclaim for intuitive explanations grounded in and data, fostering appreciation for chemistry's causal underpinnings without oversimplification.

Reception and Critiques of Pedagogical Style

Atkins' pedagogical style, as exemplified in his influential textbook series, emphasizes a rigorous integration of mathematical derivations with conceptual , aiming to equip students with a deep, principled understanding of thermodynamic and quantum mechanical principles. This approach has garnered praise for its clarity in illustrating complex phenomena through targeted examples and visuals, enabling advanced learners to grasp underlying mechanisms without superficial analogies. For instance, reviewers have highlighted the text's effective balance of formalism and accessibility, making it a standard resource in university curricula worldwide, with the 11th edition (2018) continuing to support flexible teaching structures for instructors. However, the style has faced critiques for prioritizing depth over introductory , often assuming familiarity with and basic physics that challenges novice undergraduates. Discussions among educators and students note that the absence of extensive step-by-step problem-solving guidance and occasional abrupt transitions between topics can render sections opaque, potentially hindering self-study or early-stage comprehension. One analysis describes the content as "jumbled without any step by step explanations," suggesting it suits reference use more than primary learning for beginners, with alternatives like McQuarrie's text preferred for building concepts from fundamentals. Atkins' broader educational philosophy, articulated in addresses like his 1990s proposal to distill chemistry curricula to an "irreducible minimum" of core laws and mechanisms, underscores a minimalist that favors over exhaustive coverage. While this has been commended for promoting focused mastery amid overloaded syllabi, detractors argue it risks underemphasizing empirical or historical development, potentially alienating learners who benefit from narrative buildup. Such views reflect a tension between Atkins' first-principles orientation—deriving phenomena from universal laws—and demands for more motivational, application-driven in diverse classroom settings.

Philosophical Views on Science and Religion

Commitment to Scientism and Atheism

Peter Atkins identifies as an , rejecting the due to a lack of and viewing religious claims as superfluous to scientific explanations. His atheism is characterized as particularly uncompromising, surpassing even that of in its dismissal of theistic arguments. Central to Atkins' worldview is , the conviction that the alone suffices to elucidate all aspects of reality. He articulates this as a foundational "scientific faith," declaring, "there is nothing that the scientific method cannot illuminate and elucidate." In this framework, the universe's origin is attributed to accidental processes rather than divine intent, with life described as an unintended emergence from chaos, devoid of inherent purpose. Atkins consistently argues that provides the sole pathway to reliable , contrasting it with 's purported limitations and repugnant deference to the incomprehensible. In a 2024 published in January 2025, he reiterated, " is the only way to acquire true understanding," while decrying religion as an active threat in the —"a killer now"—and advocating its elimination to foster rational, evidence-based progress. This stance underscores his broader advocacy for , where empirical supplants narratives.

Arguments Against Religious Explanations

Atkins maintains that postulating a as the cause of natural phenomena renders the explanation superfluous, as scientific inquiry identifies underlying mechanisms without requiring intervention. In his view, the hypothesis of adds no predictive or explanatory power beyond what physical laws already provide, echoing the principle of by favoring simpler, testable accounts over ad hoc divine agency. He criticizes religious accounts for devolving into tautology, where claims of divine merely relabel ignorance as intentional design without elucidating how events occur. For instance, asserting " willed it" circumvents the need for causal chains, halting at assertion rather than mechanism, which Atkins deems intellectually lazy and obstructive to . This tautological structure, he argues, conceals rather than reveals , contrasting sharply with science's iterative refinement through . Atkins applies these principles to cosmic origins and complexity, contending that quantum indeterminacy and thermodynamic principles account for the universe's emergence from "nothing" without purpose or fine-tuning by a . Religious appeals to creation ex nihilo by fiat, he posits, ignore viable naturalistic pathways like inflationary models, rendering an unnecessary embellishment on empirical processes. In Creation Revisited (1992), he asserts that all feats attributed to a —such as ordering chaos or originating matter—fall within science's purview, dismissing divine causation as a vestige of pre-scientific thought.

Counterarguments and Philosophical Challenges

Critics of Atkins' scientism argue that it conflates methodological naturalism—the successful empirical approach of —with ontological claims that only material processes exist, thereby against non-material realities. Philosopher , in her debate with Atkins, contended that excels at describing mechanisms but fails to address normative questions of value, purpose, or , which require broader humanistic ; she accused Atkins of an imperialistic view that reduces all knowledge to scientific measurement, ignoring emergent properties like that defy full reduction. Similarly, in The Folly of Scientism, Austin L. Hughes critiques Atkins' dismissal of as elucidating "nature no better than the ruminations of the ignorant," noting that such anti-philosophical stance undermines the logical foundations of itself, including axioms like the uniformity of nature or the validity of induction, which presupposes but cannot empirically verify. Philosophical challenges also highlight self-referential incoherence in strong : if only counts as , then the claim of itself lacks scientific warrant, rendering it unjustified. J. Adam Carter and Emma C. Gordon analyze this as a common objection, arguing that Atkins' position, which elevates to explain all phenomena including its own limits, encounters circularity since it relies on non-scientific intuitions about explanatory power. In debates, such as with in 2011, Atkins asserted that religious explanations are superfluous as progressively demystifies the universe, but Craig countered that Atkins provided no positive against God's existence, merely deferred to future —a " of the gaps" —and failed to engage cosmological arguments like the , which posit that the universe's finite past requires a transcendent cause beyond physical laws. Theistic interlocutors like have challenged Atkins' on empirical grounds, pointing to the fine-tuning of physical constants (e.g., the precise to 1 in 10^120) as evidence inferring over multiverse speculation, which Atkins favors but which lacks direct observability. Hugh Ross, in a 2022 debate, pressed Atkins on testable predictions: biblical accommodates scientific discovery as revealing divine order, whereas Atkins' pure naturalism struggles to explain the origin of information-rich biological systems or the rational intelligibility of underlying physics, without invoking uncaused brute facts. These critiques underscore that while causally models observable phenomena effectively, it encounters boundaries in ultimate "why" questions—such as why contingent laws exist rather than nothing—where first-principles reasoning reveals explanatory regress demanding non-contingent grounds beyond empirical scope. Atkins maintains will eventually close these gaps, but detractors like argue in related critiques that materialist falters against irreducible subjective experience, suggesting scientism's ignores holistic realities.

Public Engagement and Controversies

Debates with Theists

Peter Atkins has participated in numerous public debates with theistic scholars, primarily arguing that scientific naturalism fully accounts for the universe's origins, laws, and fine-tuning, rendering divine agency an extraneous hypothesis. These exchanges typically highlight tensions between empirical science and theological interpretations, with Atkins maintaining that ongoing scientific progress erodes the explanatory scope of religion. In April 1998, Atkins debated Christian philosopher at the Presidential Center in , Georgia, on the topic "What Is the Evidence for/against the ?", moderated by . Atkins advanced the position that natural processes suffice to explain cosmic origins and complexity, dismissing theistic arguments as unnecessary additions to scientific models. Atkins revisited similar themes in an October 26, 2011, debate with Craig at the , , titled "Does God Exist?". Craig defended via the universe's beginning, objective moral values, and the historical , while Atkins countered that these phenomena await complete scientific elucidation without invoking causes, asserting that introduces untestable entities that complicate rather than simplify explanations. In March 2007, Atkins faced theologian and former molecular biophysicist at the on "Darwin and Humanity: Should We Rid the Mind of ?". Atkins contended that and physical laws eliminate the need for divine intervention in human origins and cognition, urging the abandonment of as an explanatory framework in favor of empirical mechanisms. A 2018 debate with astrophysicist Hugh Ross, hosted by Unbelievable? and moderated by Justin Brierley, addressed "Where Did the Laws of Nature Come From?". Atkins, drawing from his book Conjuring the Universe, proposed that physical laws self-emerge from quantum "nothingness" through inherent instabilities, rejecting theistic origins as intellectually lazy and superfluous to naturalistic accounts. Ross argued for design in the laws' precision, but Atkins maintained that such fine-tuning reflects contingent necessities discoverable by science alone. Atkins has also debated Christian biologist Keith Fox in a December 2024 "God vs. " event, reiterating that empirical inquiry supplants theological claims, and engaged mathematician on and , where he prioritized scientific over divine commands. These debates underscore Atkins' commitment to , though critics from theistic perspectives, such as Craig and Ross, contend his dismissals overlook philosophical limits of science in addressing ultimate causation.

Media Appearances and Advocacy

Atkins has engaged extensively in public media appearances, particularly debates defending atheistic against theistic arguments. In April 2007, he debated philosopher on the question "Does God Exist?" at the Carter Center in Atlanta, Georgia, moderated by William F. Buckley Jr., where Atkins contended that natural laws require no supernatural origin and that scientific inquiry alone suffices for explanation. He participated in a similar confrontation with John Lennox in 2011 at the , hosted by Premier Christian Radio's ? program, arguing that science encompasses all necessary knowledge without recourse to divine agency. Further appearances include a 2018 debate with astrophysicist Hugh Ross on the origins of natural laws, again on Unbelievable?, emphasizing mechanistic accounts over theological ones. In December 2024, Atkins debated biologist Keith Fox on " vs. " before a student audience, reiterating that religious explanations impede rational understanding. He has also spoken at the , as in a 2013 where he described as collective delusions fostering conflict. Through these platforms, Atkins advocates for as the exclusive arbiter of truth, dismissing as a corrupter of empirical . In a 2021 Institute of discussion, he asserted that distorts scientific progress by introducing unfounded supernatural claims. In a January 2025 interview, he characterized contemporary as "a killer," citing its role in global violence and urging its abandonment in favor of evidence-based reasoning. His positions consistently privilege physical mechanisms—such as thermodynamic and quantum processes—as complete explanations for reality, rejecting any irreducible mysteries amenable to .

Recent Statements and Ongoing Influence

In a January 2025 interview, Atkins reiterated his long-standing critique of , stating that "religion is a killer now" and asserting that "humanity only has a future if religion can be put down," while agreeing with historian that religion may have offered past survival value but now poses a detriment to progress. He emphasized as "the only way to acquire true understanding," positioning chemistry as the "central science" bridging physics and biology, and described his role in the movement as that of a "supportive donkey" alongside figures like . These views align with his prior advocacy for , where empirical inquiry supplants non-scientific explanations without reliance on unverified metaphysical claims. Atkins maintained public engagement on these themes into mid-2025, including an interview discussing , , and humanity's future, underscoring his ongoing role in secular advocacy despite retirement from active teaching at in 2007. His influence persists through updated pedagogical works; the twelfth edition of Atkins' Physical Chemistry, co-authored with Julio de Paula and James Keeler, was released on July 26, 2024, incorporating enhanced digital features for dynamic learning in , , and molecular . Further demonstrating commitment to broadening access, Atkins released the second edition of Concepts in Physical Chemistry in 2024 and offered its digital version for free download via collaboration with the Royal Society of Chemistry on May 17, 2024, framing it as a "gift to the chemistry community" to aid undergraduate comprehension of core principles like phase equilibria and reaction kinetics. These efforts sustain his pedagogical legacy, with the textbooks remaining staples in global curricula for their rigorous, first-principles derivations grounded in experimental data rather than abstracted models.

Personal Life and Honors

Family and Private Life

Atkins married Judith Ann Kearton in 1964; the couple had one , Juliet Louise Tiffany Atkins, born in 1970, before in 1983. He remarried Susan Greenfield in 1991; the marriage ended in in 2005 after the couple reportedly "drifted apart." Atkins has described his from his first marriage as a source of support during the latter proceedings. Little public information exists regarding Atkins's private life beyond his marriages and , reflecting his preference for privacy amid a career dominated by academic and public intellectual pursuits. He has resided primarily in , aligning with his long tenure at the there. No further children or subsequent marriages are documented in available records.

Awards, Honors, and Recognition

Atkins was elected a (FRSC), recognizing his advancements in . He also held a from 1964 to 1965, during which he conducted research at the . In 1969, Atkins received the Meldola Medal from the Royal Society of Chemistry for his contributions to . He was awarded the Nyholm Prize for Education by the Royal Society of Chemistry in 1998, honoring his efforts in chemical education. In 2008, the Institute of Chemistry of Ireland presented him with its Annual Award. Atkins received the Distinguished Contribution to Chemistry Education Award from the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry in 2010. For his work in science communication, Atkins was granted the James T. Grady–James H. Stack Award for Interpreting Chemistry by the in 2016. Atkins holds honorary doctorates from , the , and Kazan State Technological University. He serves as an honorary professor at Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology in and is a foreign member of the Bologna Academy of Science.

References

  1. https://www.chemistryviews.org/details/ezine/11258015/80th_Birthday_Peter_Atkins/
  2. https://www.chem.ox.ac.uk/people/peter-atkins
  3. https://www.ox.ac.uk/sites/files/oxford/Blueprint_September%25202016.pdf
  4. https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7164718.Peter_Atkins
  5. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B000APEH6I/about
  6. https://www.chemistryworld.com/opinion/flashback-1970-meldola-medal-for-peter-atkins/8591.article
  7. https://le.ac.uk/alumni/get-involved/profiles
  8. https://uk.linkedin.com/in/peter-atkins-88a92833
  9. https://www.soci.org/events/prof-peter-atkins--a-journey-through-the-periodic-kingdom
  10. https://occtopus.org.uk/patron/professor-peter-atkins/
  11. https://freethinker.co.uk/2025/01/religion-is-a-killer-now-interview-with-professor-peter-atkins/
  12. http://closertotruth.com/contributor/peter-atkins/
  13. https://www.amazon.com/Elements-Physical-Chemistry-Julio-Atkins/dp/0198727879
  14. https://www.soci.org/videos/public-evening-lecture-videos/war-and-peace-chemistry-contribution
  15. https://humanists.uk/about/our-people/patrons/peter-atkins/
  16. https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Peter-Atkins-20928563
  17. https://global.oup.com/academic/product/molecular-quantum-mechanics-9780199541423
  18. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1023/A:1009906513673
  19. https://www.nature.com/articles/463612a
  20. https://www.goodreads.com/work/editions/1132759-physical-chemistry
  21. https://global.oup.com/ushe/product/atkins-physical-chemistry-9780192608772
  22. https://www.amazon.com/Atkins-Physical-Chemistry-V2-Peter/dp/0198851316
  23. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/ed073pA136.1
  24. https://www.macmillanlearning.com/college/us/product/Chemical-Principles/p/1319137989
  25. https://www.chem.ox.ac.uk/article/peter-atkins-offers-new-book-free-as-a-gift-to-the-chemistry-community
  26. https://www.amazon.com/Galileos-Finger-Great-Ideas-Science/dp/0198609418
  27. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/A-reconstruction-of-development-of-the-periodic-on-Brito-Rodriguez/1d835d0988291d2ff79aa64514d8827d50544ca9
  28. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1325288/
  29. https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/full/10.1086/423519
  30. https://www.amazon.com/Atkins-Molecules-Peter/dp/0521535360
  31. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/ed081p1423.1
  32. https://www.amazon.com/Atkins-Physical-Chemistry-11e-Peter/dp/0198769865
  33. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/ed400429m
  34. https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/is-atkins-physical-chemistry-book-detrimental-for-undergraduates.314538/
  35. https://chemistryhall.com/best-physical-chemistry-textbook/
  36. https://www.quora.com/Which-edition-of-Peter-Atkins-Physical-Chemistry-is-the-best-especially-for-developing-and-understanding-concepts
  37. https://www.acs.org/content/dam/acsorg/about/governance/committees/education/exploring-the-molecular-vision.pdf
  38. https://www.bethinking.org/does-science-disprove-god/on-being-the-scientism-of-peter-atkins
  39. https://reasons.org/explore/blogs/todays-new-reason-to-believe/my-debate-with-atheist-peter-atkins
  40. https://www.patheos.com/blogs/unbelievable/2020/11/when-atheism-becomes-unfalsifiable-peter-atkins-and-the-problem-of-evidence/
  41. http://hermiene.net/essays-trans/awesome_versus_adipose.html
  42. https://todayinsci.com/A/Atkins_Peter/AtkinsPeter-Quotations.htm
  43. https://www.azquotes.com/quote/1325904
  44. https://www.reasonablefaith.org/videos/interviews-panels/craig-vs.-atkins-carter-center-atlanta
  45. https://iai.tv/articles/the-empire-strikes-back-auid-590
  46. https://www.thenewatlantis.com/publications/the-folly-of-scientism
  47. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/meta.12443
  48. https://bbhchurchconnection.wordpress.com/2011/06/10/john-lennox-vs-peter-atkins-reflections/
  49. https://coldcasechristianity.com/writings/the-shortcomings-of-scientism/
  50. https://winteryknight.com/2018/04/08/william-lane-craig-debates-peter-atkins-does-god-exist-9/
  51. https://www.reasonablefaith.org/media/debates/what-is-the-evidence-for-against-the-existence-of-god
  52. https://www.bethinking.org/does-god-exist/does-god-exist-bill-craig-debates-peter-atkins
  53. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justin-taylor/should-we-rid-mind-of-god/
  54. https://www.premierunbelievable.com/unbelievable/god-vs-science-debate-with-peter-atkins-and-keith-fox/18610.article
  55. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alnmla6QWBk
  56. https://www.premier.plus/unbelievable/podcasts/episodes/john-lennox-vs-peter-atkins-can-science-explain-everything-live-debate
  57. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkxakWfz59o
  58. https://iai.tv/video/science-and-its-great-corrupter-peter-atkins
  59. https://www.whyarewehere.tv/people/peter-atkins/
  60. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=keMdWUTdYYQ
  61. https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/physical-chemistry-textbook-now-free-to-download-as-a-gift-to-the-community/4019535.article
  62. https://www.chemeurope.com/en/encyclopedia/Peter_Atkins.html
  63. https://www.standard.co.uk/hp/front/we-just-drifted-apart-7278883.html
  64. https://www.myheritage.com/research/record-10182-171150/peter-atkins-in-biographical-summaries-of-notable-people
  65. https://books.google.com/books/about/Galileo_s_Finger.html?id=UlmjniqglYgC
  66. https://iupac.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/IUPAC-CCE-DCCE-award_description-procedures.pdf
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