Despite a new survey that shows most Americans still have negative views toward nonbelievers, it's been a pretty good year for atheism. The foundation has added thousands of members, is starting a national talk radio show, and claimed two legal victories in disputes with states in recent weeks. Meanwhile, a spate of books have been selling around the nation advancing the notion that religion is the root of many evils.

Against that backdrop, prominent atheists and agnostics will gather today through Sunday to hear speeches, give awards, and plot ...