It creates, or at least informs, a conscience. But any religious person believes that he.she lives under the unseen eye. The atheist may also posit such a “guardian” in the form of the good opinion of others, who serve as a kind of “church” for the unchurches. Once one is out of their sight, and knows it, the morality tends not to have an effect on behavior. The religious person will do good or ill in order to find favor in the sight of his god and the godly. The unreligious only looks to his neighbor for judgement.
Sure, them atheists just sponge off our Free Christian Society!
;-)
Actually, indeed, I have a Swedish friend, and an atheist, he told me he wants the 10 Commandments posted and taught.
He told me, he likes a Society with VALUES! And, wants his children taught as well.