Larry Sanger, the co-founder of Wikipedia, has made headlines recently with his remarkable journey from skepticism to a firm belief in Christianity. In a candid blog post, Sanger shared insights from his 35-year quest for truth, revealing how a lifelong skeptic found faith in God.
Sanger, who co-established Wikipedia in 2001 with Jimmy Wales, dedicated his early years to what he termed "methodical skepticism." This philosophy led him to question everything, including the existence of God. Raised in the Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, Sanger’s early experiences with faith were overshadowed by a growing disillusionment that began in his teenage years. He recounted, “Without realizing it, I probably stopped believing in God when I was 14 or 15.”
His academic pursuits in philosophy only deepened his skepticism. By the mid-1990s, he became frustrated with the academic community, feeling it lacked genuine concern for truth. This disillusionment shifted his focus toward exploring the existence of God. Unlike many atheists who outright dismiss the divine, Sanger maintained an openness to the possibility of a higher power. He explained, "I was always willing to consider seriously the possibility that God exists."
Sanger’s agnostic stance allowed him to explore theological questions without the dismissive attitudes he often encountered. However, it was his engagement with Christian apologetics that sparked a significant shift in his beliefs. He began to examine philosophical arguments for God’s existence, particularly the "First Cause" argument, which posits that everything that begins to exist has a cause. This exploration was not merely academic; it was deeply personal.
In February 2020, Sanger embarked on a new phase of his faith journey by reading the Gospels. He described this moment as pivotal, stating, “I should admit to myself that I now believe in God, and pray to God properly.” This realization, however, was not accompanied by dramatic fanfare; instead, it was a quiet acknowledgment of faith that had been slowly forming over the years.
Sanger’s conversion experience, while not explosive, was nonetheless profound. He expressed that he now holds a belief akin to "Orthodox Christian faith" and aims to defend this faith through his writing. Yet, like many new believers, he grapples with questions about church affiliation. After attending a service in May 2020, just as the pandemic began to reshape worship practices, Sanger admitted he still hasn’t settled on a church home. “While I think I am called to worship with my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, I am aware that my presence is probably going to be like a bull in a china shop if I am not very careful,” he humorously noted.
Sanger’s reflections extend beyond personal faith; he has also critiqued the bias he perceives in Wikipedia. He argues that the site, which he co-founded, has strayed from its original mission of neutrality. In his view, the articles on Christianity and related topics often reflect a lack of balance, stating, “A great many Christians would take issue with such statements, which means it is not neutral for that reason.”
As Sanger continues to explore his faith and its implications, his journey serves as a reminder of the complexities of belief in the modern world. With a blend of skepticism and curiosity, he encourages others to engage deeply with their faith, reminding us that the search for truth can lead to unexpected and enriching destinations.
For those interested in Sanger’s full account, you can read his blog post detailing his philosophical journey and conversion here. His story underscores the dynamic interplay between skepticism and faith, inviting readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the paths that lead them to truth.