What does 'atheism' signify?

Atheism signifies the disbelief or lack of belief in the existence of God or gods. This definition centers on the absence of faith or belief in any deities, which distinguishes atheism from theistic beliefs, where acceptance of one or more gods is fundamental.

In the wider context of religious studies, understanding atheism is crucial because it frames the discourse around belief systems. Atheism is often juxtaposed with various religious beliefs, thereby allowing for an exploration of differing worldviews, values, and moral frameworks that arise in its absence.

The other choices represent concepts that do not align with the definition of atheism. The belief in multiple gods pertains to polytheism, while a spiritual practice like meditation often connects to various religious traditions but does not specifically define atheism. Lastly, a framework for understanding the cosmos through science is more aligned with scientific inquiry than with either belief in or denial of the divine. Thus, C is clearly the definition that encapsulates atheism.