Afraid Of Dying? Scientists Pinpoint Who Is Terrified Of Death And Who Isnt

[Jonny Appleseed]

3. I heard an anecdote once about how more intelligent people don't value their lives

and are likelier to risk death. I've always agreed with this to a degree. I may have confirmation bias on this but; as an atheist I am terrified of death, however conversely as a (I like to think myself an) intelligent person I am not afraid of dying, nor the actions that we lead me to that state.

It may seem somewhat contradictory, and it really is, but the futility of life that I perceive affords me a degree of recklessness.

To speak to the study; I think that the curve drop off towards staunch atheists could be somewhat skewed. People I've met who identify themselves as a "staunch atheist" often attempt to convey a smugness toward the area, believing chinks in their armor can be exploited in debate by theists (as most, including I, have experienced in the past). Most "staunch atheists" are not outspoken about it. I can assure you however, no matter how we try to present ourselves socially, we will lose many a night's sleep mulling our continuous existential crisis regarding death.