IMO, atheism in itself - that is, the lack of belief in God(s) - has nothing to do with ethics or morals, except in a very abstract and technical metaphysical sense. I don't derive my ideas of right action and doing good in the world from the probable nonexistence of deity. I derive them from my cultural surroundings, and when I have questions or doubts, I consult philosophers and other thinkers I deem worthy of my time. That, after all, is what the "atheists have no morals" canard is attacking - the culture of atheists, and of nonreligious people in general.