When testifying in court, what do atheists swear upon?

Tabby Tom

In England (other parts of the UK may have different procedures), a person who has conscientious objections to saying 'I swear by Almighty God' is allowed to make an 'affirmation'. The form is normally something like 'I do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm ....' Evidence given on affirmation is subject to the same privileges and penalties as evidence given on oath. It is by no means only atheists who choose to affirm rather than take the oath. Some Christians refuse to swear, because Christ is reported to have told his followers to 'swear not at all' (Matthew 5: 34 to 37 and James 5:12). Similarly, some unbelievers choose to take the oath rather than to affirm, because they believe (rightly or wrongly) that Her Majesty's judges are likely to be prejudiced against people who seem to reject Christianity by refusing the oath. Mar 14 03, 12:48 AM