Are atheists kidding themselves?

Provocative way of phrasing, but after hearing a lot of arguments for atheism, or by atheists, it seems like atheism is as dogmatic and faith-based as any religion. It is also, as far as I can tell, based on faith. The basic idea that God does not exist cannot be proven through any scientific means, or any philosophical argument. The reliance on evolution as evidence of the faults of “deism” is also faulty. For instance, evolution explains in a general sense why we have biodiversity, and how in different areas organisms with common ancestors developed different characteristics. At the same time, there are huge gaps in the information regarding the development of certain traits. The answer provided by atheists leans on sporadic mutation, and if there is no evidence, “Science will find one…because there’s a rational explanation there.” The intelligent design answer states that these traits, which seem to pop up perfectly formed to serve the purpose for which they’re used, show that there is some form of intention in the design, and evolution is not based wholly on chance. Creationists would say “See? God!” All answers require faith.

So, why is atheism not a belief system, a religion even, like any other?