What do you think?
Rate this book
Why Our Children Will Be Atheists: The Last 100 Years of Religion and the Dawn of a World without Gods
One of the top 5 atheist books to be published in recent times. Will our current Gods and Religions disappear in the next 100 years? The race for the most momentous change in human history has started. Discover the origins of our Gods, religions and why the world will ultimately become atheist in the next 100 years. Reading this book will fundamentally change your outlook of the world.
The book fearlessly examines our current major religions, their origins, and the path of their final demise. It examines the evidence we've uncovered regarding primitive religions, evidence dominated by myth, ritual, taboo, and superstition— and shows how so much of each is still present in our current religions.
The book then asks if today’s gods were really always there, presiding over the world since its creation, each the ultimate Creator and Ruler of our cosmos—or if, in fact, they ever really existed? The human race’s powerful dependence and reliance upon religion is then considered in detail. He describes the ordeal of a boy, trapped by a deadly sickness, using his god and religion to find answers. He also explores the psychological impact of religion on human thought and behavior throughout history.
Next, Why Our Children Will be Atheists tackles the question of whether religion imbues a person with better morals and essential goodness. In particular, it critically discusses research claiming that religious children are happier and more content than their non-religious counterparts. Also examined are the powerful mechanisms that religion deploys to ensure its survival, and the use of the state to advance religion.
The final section part of the book briefly outlines our current knowledge of the universe, the origins of life, and its evolution, all of which are gradually replacing our notions of Special Creation. The new, emergent phase of human spirituality is then described, representing a model that will eventually render current faiths irrelevant, heralding the beginning of a religion-free era. The last 100 years of religion is here.
The book fearlessly examines our current major religions, their origins, and the path of their final demise. It examines the evidence we've uncovered regarding primitive religions, evidence dominated by myth, ritual, taboo, and superstition— and shows how so much of each is still present in our current religions.
The book then asks if today’s gods were really always there, presiding over the world since its creation, each the ultimate Creator and Ruler of our cosmos—or if, in fact, they ever really existed? The human race’s powerful dependence and reliance upon religion is then considered in detail. He describes the ordeal of a boy, trapped by a deadly sickness, using his god and religion to find answers. He also explores the psychological impact of religion on human thought and behavior throughout history.
Next, Why Our Children Will be Atheists tackles the question of whether religion imbues a person with better morals and essential goodness. In particular, it critically discusses research claiming that religious children are happier and more content than their non-religious counterparts. Also examined are the powerful mechanisms that religion deploys to ensure its survival, and the use of the state to advance religion.
The final section part of the book briefly outlines our current knowledge of the universe, the origins of life, and its evolution, all of which are gradually replacing our notions of Special Creation. The new, emergent phase of human spirituality is then described, representing a model that will eventually render current faiths irrelevant, heralding the beginning of a religion-free era. The last 100 years of religion is here.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 14, 2013
218 people are currently reading
311 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 22, 2021
What a great book. the title is so misleading though. I guarantee if the this book had the right title it would reach many more readers. I thought its more of a secular parenting book, but I was surprised to see that it was much more extensive and rich with the history and future of religion/ god. its a fascinating read. as an Atheist I've learned a few new things about religious groups and religion.
It has almost nothing to do with Atheist children. I really dont know why the author chose that bad title for such an amazing book. I would title it "The history and future of god" or "god is dying" or something like that.
The book covers the (pretty dang detailed) history of each major religion, where and how it started and it takes us all the way to today and the future of religion and why it is getting extinct.
I highly recommend this book to Atheists and religious people alike. I loved how the author always kept the respect for religious groups and even brought up the (few) benefits of religion.
Great read! I highlighted many paragraphs and looking forward to read it again.
It has almost nothing to do with Atheist children. I really dont know why the author chose that bad title for such an amazing book. I would title it "The history and future of god" or "god is dying" or something like that.
The book covers the (pretty dang detailed) history of each major religion, where and how it started and it takes us all the way to today and the future of religion and why it is getting extinct.
I highly recommend this book to Atheists and religious people alike. I loved how the author always kept the respect for religious groups and even brought up the (few) benefits of religion.
Great read! I highlighted many paragraphs and looking forward to read it again.
January 26, 2017
Sweet lord Jesus, it's over. Guess how much of this book was about WHY our children will be atheists? Zero percent. Apparently the author is agnostic about the need to accurately name his book (Bam! Pun #1.).
In the beginning (Pun #2, on a roll) more than half this book was dedicated to a poorly done history lesson on Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Hindu. During this highly abridged comparative religions synopsis, no relation to WHY our children will be atheists was made.
Then the book gets into abuses of religion. As if that's stopped people in the world from continuing their beliefs? Nope. Another irrelevant topic.
So the author takes another turn into discussing evolution. Again, pretty sure evolution hasn't eradicated religion. He doesn't even try to claim such. He's just rambling about evolution.
Instead of finishing up the last few pages in bringing all these disparate ideas together to explain something resembling the topic that the book title proclaims, he ends on discussing his ideal atheist world. In this utopia, everyone is super happy, gets along, loves their children, and sings kumbaya (as long as that doesn't have religious undertones) around a fire of science and rational thought. Was there any coherent explanation or evidence as to why our children will be atheists? No. Waste of time.
In the beginning (Pun #2, on a roll) more than half this book was dedicated to a poorly done history lesson on Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Hindu. During this highly abridged comparative religions synopsis, no relation to WHY our children will be atheists was made.
Then the book gets into abuses of religion. As if that's stopped people in the world from continuing their beliefs? Nope. Another irrelevant topic.
So the author takes another turn into discussing evolution. Again, pretty sure evolution hasn't eradicated religion. He doesn't even try to claim such. He's just rambling about evolution.
Instead of finishing up the last few pages in bringing all these disparate ideas together to explain something resembling the topic that the book title proclaims, he ends on discussing his ideal atheist world. In this utopia, everyone is super happy, gets along, loves their children, and sings kumbaya (as long as that doesn't have religious undertones) around a fire of science and rational thought. Was there any coherent explanation or evidence as to why our children will be atheists? No. Waste of time.
October 27, 2014
The author makes a pretty huge claim in the title of his book, but by the time I finished reading it, I would agree that religion as we know it will possibly fade away over the next hundred years. (I just hope religious fanatics won't kill more and more people in the process.)
Williams argues his claim by first describing the origins of Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, which serves to remind us just how archaic and irrational these religions have been, and they in the long run hold back our greatest potential as human beings. With the emergence of science, and rational and critical thinking, these religions will not be able to withstand the forces of modernity. As Williams says in his book "Our gods have never appeared to us and never will. We have fooled ourselves into creating and believing in them. It is time to propose formally the next day of our spiritual[?] and cultural development."
Quite frankly in order for us to survive and persevere, humanity will have to move past outdated religious beliefs, and use the guiding principles of humanism to fashion a better world. In the second part of the book he explains evolution — i.e. the origins of life, and the origins of us Homo sapiens sapiens. His descriptions of religion and evolution are clear and easy to read. One of the necessary ways that we move away from a dependence upon religious myths is that we become more scientifically literate about the origins of life and the nature of the universe, and that we better understand our human psychology.
Future generations will increasingly see that the claims of religion have no evidence, and ultimately religious practices and institutions have not and will not solve most of the worlds problems. This is why the claims of this book point to the type of knowledge and confidence we need to ensure that our children and future generations are not shackled by religious dogma and confusion.
"Why Our Children Will Be Atheists" is fairly short, and most descriptive, but it's well the worth the read for getting a framework about how world is chaining without the need for gods and mythical beliefs.
Williams argues his claim by first describing the origins of Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, which serves to remind us just how archaic and irrational these religions have been, and they in the long run hold back our greatest potential as human beings. With the emergence of science, and rational and critical thinking, these religions will not be able to withstand the forces of modernity. As Williams says in his book "Our gods have never appeared to us and never will. We have fooled ourselves into creating and believing in them. It is time to propose formally the next day of our spiritual[?] and cultural development."
Quite frankly in order for us to survive and persevere, humanity will have to move past outdated religious beliefs, and use the guiding principles of humanism to fashion a better world. In the second part of the book he explains evolution — i.e. the origins of life, and the origins of us Homo sapiens sapiens. His descriptions of religion and evolution are clear and easy to read. One of the necessary ways that we move away from a dependence upon religious myths is that we become more scientifically literate about the origins of life and the nature of the universe, and that we better understand our human psychology.
Future generations will increasingly see that the claims of religion have no evidence, and ultimately religious practices and institutions have not and will not solve most of the worlds problems. This is why the claims of this book point to the type of knowledge and confidence we need to ensure that our children and future generations are not shackled by religious dogma and confusion.
"Why Our Children Will Be Atheists" is fairly short, and most descriptive, but it's well the worth the read for getting a framework about how world is chaining without the need for gods and mythical beliefs.
January 12, 2014
In this brilliant book, the author argues that it is only a matter of time before the world becomes atheist. In a hundred years our children will be born and raised as atheists. Our current religions will become a distant memory as the human race moves into a post religious world. No longer will rationale and reason be subjected to religious institutions and governments. Rather the isolated pockets of religion left will operate under secular and non-religious governments. The author eloquently illustrates how our current Gods came into existence and then also their final demise. The hour glass is emptying.
September 30, 2016
القدرة على قراءة كتب باللغة الإنكليزية تفتح أمام القارئ مجال عظيم للتنوع في القراءات.
هذا الكتاب جديد من نوعه في النظر نحو المستقبل بنظرة مختلفة جدا عن النظرة التي عاش الجنس البشري عليها منذ آلاف السنين أي منذ بدء الهومو سابينز بالاهتمام بالشعائر الدينية والطوطمات.
يبدأ الكتاب بسرد تأريخي للفترة البدائية التي بدء خلالها الهومو سابينز بالنظر تجاه الظواهر الطبيعية وفهم العالم من حوله واستيعابه للموت بأنه مرحلة انتقالية للجسد إلى حياة أخرى, ثم ينتقل الكاتب لسرد تطور الأديان الرئيسية الكبرى, الإبراهيمية والهندوسية فالبوذية. ليصل إلى القسم الأخير بالكتاب وهو كيف تربي أطفالك في عالم بلا دين.
قد اتفق مع الكاتب في نظرته التفاؤلية تجاه العالم, ولكنها تبقى أكثر حلما من واقعيتها, فعلينا أن لا ننسى أن العوامل الكبرى في انتشار الأديان يأتي في مقدمتها الفقر والجهل وما ينشأ عنهما من تفكير في رحلة أبدية بعد الموت, فما الحياة الدنيا إلى فانية, وهي المواساة الكبرى لأولئك الملايين من البشر.
قد تستطيع المؤسسات الإنسانية المساعدة في تحول عشرات الآلاغ, ولكن التحول الكبير من حالة إيديولوجية إلى أخرى يحتاج إلى الأنسان نفسه, ولكن على هذا الإنسان أن يكون متخلصا من براثن الجهل الذي يُقاد من قبل الفقر.
فبرأيي لكي نقوم فعلا بالتفكير في مستقبل حياة بلا أديان تعتمد على الإنسان وحده, يجب علينا التفكير في كيفية التخلص من الفقر وسوء توزيع الثروة, لأنه العامل الأول في سلسلة طويلة من الأمراض الإجتماعية الي تطورت بفعل تطور عقل الجنس البشري عبر ملايين السنين.
الكتاب جيد جدا وقسمه الأخير هو فعلا منهج يمكن بناء آلاف الكتب عليه والتوسع في أفكاره.
هذا الكتاب جديد من نوعه في النظر نحو المستقبل بنظرة مختلفة جدا عن النظرة التي عاش الجنس البشري عليها منذ آلاف السنين أي منذ بدء الهومو سابينز بالاهتمام بالشعائر الدينية والطوطمات.
يبدأ الكتاب بسرد تأريخي للفترة البدائية التي بدء خلالها الهومو سابينز بالنظر تجاه الظواهر الطبيعية وفهم العالم من حوله واستيعابه للموت بأنه مرحلة انتقالية للجسد إلى حياة أخرى, ثم ينتقل الكاتب لسرد تطور الأديان الرئيسية الكبرى, الإبراهيمية والهندوسية فالبوذية. ليصل إلى القسم الأخير بالكتاب وهو كيف تربي أطفالك في عالم بلا دين.
قد اتفق مع الكاتب في نظرته التفاؤلية تجاه العالم, ولكنها تبقى أكثر حلما من واقعيتها, فعلينا أن لا ننسى أن العوامل الكبرى في انتشار الأديان يأتي في مقدمتها الفقر والجهل وما ينشأ عنهما من تفكير في رحلة أبدية بعد الموت, فما الحياة الدنيا إلى فانية, وهي المواساة الكبرى لأولئك الملايين من البشر.
قد تستطيع المؤسسات الإنسانية المساعدة في تحول عشرات الآلاغ, ولكن التحول الكبير من حالة إيديولوجية إلى أخرى يحتاج إلى الأنسان نفسه, ولكن على هذا الإنسان أن يكون متخلصا من براثن الجهل الذي يُقاد من قبل الفقر.
فبرأيي لكي نقوم فعلا بالتفكير في مستقبل حياة بلا أديان تعتمد على الإنسان وحده, يجب علينا التفكير في كيفية التخلص من الفقر وسوء توزيع الثروة, لأنه العامل الأول في سلسلة طويلة من الأمراض الإجتماعية الي تطورت بفعل تطور عقل الجنس البشري عبر ملايين السنين.
الكتاب جيد جدا وقسمه الأخير هو فعلا منهج يمكن بناء آلاف الكتب عليه والتوسع في أفكاره.
January 22, 2016
"The religious model can no longer sustain itself. Creating long under ever-increasing scrutiny, it is bound to change or disappear in the next 100 years". One could perhaps disagree with this prediction or wish of the author but the analyses while coming to this conclusion is brilliant. The problem is that such predictions were made in the past as well but the "dogmas" have grown and some religions have become even more obscurantist . It is the human psychology, in need of affirmation and sustenance, leads to religious beliefs. What is even worse is that we pick up such facets of our "faith" that perhaps defeat the essence of each of these religions. This is not likely to go in the near future.
The author is also perhaps incorrect when he asserts that "Nothing is truth unless proven by knowledge and reason". Knowledge will always be limited and the "Truth" continues to get discovered as we move along. The contours of "truth" cannot be defined by knowledge.
The book sets you thinking. Hence, makes for a very interesting reading.
The author is also perhaps incorrect when he asserts that "Nothing is truth unless proven by knowledge and reason". Knowledge will always be limited and the "Truth" continues to get discovered as we move along. The contours of "truth" cannot be defined by knowledge.
The book sets you thinking. Hence, makes for a very interesting reading.
April 11, 2015
Why Our Children Will Be Atheists: The Last 100 Years of Religion, and the Dawn of a World without Gods by Albert Williams is by far the most logical and well-researched rationale to adopt healthy skepticism I have yet to read, and I have read a good deal on the topic. Williams takes an unbiased look at the early days of animism and nature-god worship, and traces these superstitions forward to the development of each of today's great religions. His book explores why mankind felt the need for religion in the past, what worthwhile purposes religion served in human lives then, and how today's world makes competing religions not only outdated but potentially dangerous. If you're a theist having doubts or an atheist wishing to better defend your skepticism against the onslaught of theistic attacks, I can't think of a better book to read.
March 16, 2015
Well done and well written. A history of the the "Big Three," Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Our lessening need for supernatural beings to hold responsible for our lives and choices; our changing attitudes toward the proof that science can offer us as opposed to religion which has not, and likely will not provide even a modicum of proof. A history of who wrote about whom and when. It's hard to reconcile people writing about Jesus and his quoted words when they'd never been close enough to actually here his words. Discrepancies abound in the books of all religion. Taking bits and pieces from Norse, Greek and Roman mythology and rewriting a history of one religious man or another...Step out of the shadows, Jesus, and prove your existence. Period.
October 6, 2018
A well written book
A good summary of major religions, how they evolved and took over human race and now with the increasing knowledge of science why we don’t need them. It summarises key points in an easy to read and understand format. A good starting point for someone wants to explore the roots of human civilisation.
A good summary of major religions, how they evolved and took over human race and now with the increasing knowledge of science why we don’t need them. It summarises key points in an easy to read and understand format. A good starting point for someone wants to explore the roots of human civilisation.
June 1, 2024
A VISION OF A FUTURE WORLD WITHOUT RELIGION
The Foreword of this 2014 book states, “this book… reveals the origins of our gods, in particular where and how they became our gods. [It] discusses the profound impact of these gods on our lives, and the measures taken by their followers to keep these gods alive… The new era is anticipated by many: a post-God era in which the human race will emerge from its religious past with a new understanding of the universe and humanity---a new model with which to face the next few thousand years on Earth and elsewhere. It is a book that predicts the end of religion as we know it. The transformation has started.”
Author Albert Williams explains in the first chapter, “The world is about to change and three outcomes are possible: 1. Religion will cease to exist, having been replaced by a new model of human behavior and understanding; 2. Religion as we know it will change to adapt to a modern world; or 3. Religious ideology will replace our current knowledge, transforming the world into a backward theocracy. [This book] fearlessly examines our current major religions, and the path of their final demise… The book then asks if today’s gods were REALLY always there, presiding over the world since its creation, each the ultimate Creator and Ruler of our cosmos---or it, in fact, they ever really existed?” (Pg. 3-4)
He suggests, “Ritual serves the human psyche well. It induces forceful emotions and feelings, particularly if chanting, fire, darkness, and killing are added. In the performance of a ritual, the individuality barrier breaks down; the individual loses his or her identity to become part of a larger group, where all are equal. This creates a sense of group identity and strengthens social bonds… Rituals ultimately induce religious experience that becomes so emotional and inspiring that it reinforces belief.” (Pg. 19)
He says of Jesus, “Jesus was not only a preacher, but a healer: did this power come from God, or was Jesus able to deceive his audience into believing in his healings? In his time, miracle workers were common. We know that Jesus said that he was unable to perform miracles in Nazareth, his birth town, as they did not believe in him there… The truth is, even today faith healers are not uncommon, especially in ‘primitive’ tribes; for example, thousands of people in the traditional Zula culture of South Africa will happily swear upon the healing capabilities of a Sangoma. Most ancient tribes had faith healers of their own.” (Pg. 59-60)
After Jesus’ death, “The grief of Maria Magdalene was unbearable, and in her anguish she ‘saw’ an angel sitting at the tomb. Jesus also appeared to some of his disciples, who at first did not recognize him; only later did they realize it was Jesus. We will most probably never know the truth about what happened to the body of Jesus after his death, but whatever occurred, it was assumed that Jesus was brought back to life before he ascended to Heaven to take his rightful place next to God. Resurrection, therefore, is the foundation of the Christian faith.” (Pg. 63)
He states, “It’s quite likely that Paul experienced an inner struggle between his original beliefs and convictions and the tenets of the new Jesus movement. In his misery and doubt, he finally succumbed to his own reasoning and accepted the new belief system, replacing his previous belief system with the new one. The intense emotional high he experienced was like a bright light that left him in a daze… Paul’s most significant contribution was his decision to bring the new religion to the gentiles; because until then, the teachings of Jesus were still reserved for Jews, which limited their wider acceptance. To take on the beliefs of Jesus, one had to convert to Judaism… Paul… must have reasoned that the God of Jesus was also valid for others. Paul struck a deal with Peter… that Peter would continue preaching to the Jews while Paul targeted the gentiles…” (Pg. 68)
He points out, “Over the past few years, many studies have been performed in an attempt to establish a link between religion and health, with different outcomes depending upon the tools and analysis used for the study. However, none of these studies clearly indicate that one religious group has better outcomes than any other religious group… There is, however some evidence that positive emotions and/or attitudes can benefit health and well-being… The religious persons may be emotionally strong, due to his belief that his religion gives him a better chance of recovery. He may also enjoy the benefits of community support. But again, any religion or belief will fulfill this purpose. Statistics show that there is no better strategy for survival during a medical crisis than the used of modern medicine. There are no miracles, no intervention of a god.” (Pg. 144)
He suggests, “As the concept of morality developed, it also got hardcoded in our genes to some extent; some of us are natural givers, altruistic in behavior. We’re also taught expected moral behavior by our peers and caregivers. Children are taught to share, care about others, and to have compassion, which reinforces whatever genetic predispositions they have… Once we get older, our internal reasoning takes over to reinforce our moral code. We developed our genetic predispositions to morality in our evolutionary past as a means of survival. Along with this, societies developed moral frameworks as we started building settlements. Order was required in order for a settlement of a few hundred people to be able to live together… Morality is manmade, not god-made. God was (and is) used as a fear factor to instill a particular moral code. No religion can claim morality or good as its unique purview.” (Pg. 157)
He notes, “It’s no mean feat to stand strong and steadfast in the outside world. Every individual must find ways to negotiate the culture around him, always seeking … a sense of belonging, acceptance and purpose. The ‘I’ is always in search of love and acceptance, to reaffirm himself…. Personally, I want to be someone who gets up early and does productive work. Sometimes I succeed and feel good about myself; other times I fail, and feel badly about myself. Religion also sets expected behavior; and the believer is always engaged in a constant struggle between his actual self and the ideal model demanded by his religious beliefs.” (Pg. 203)
He says, “We should no longer look for gods to give us purpose. That is now our sole responsibility, devolving all the way down to the individual level. It’s up to each of us to decide how to give our lives meaning, and to learn how to live those lives sincerely and affectionately. The question is no longer, ‘What is the meaning of life?’ It is now, ‘What is the meaning of MY life?’ The ego must, in each case, find ways to overcome the emotional pain and challenges that go on living. We must take responsibility for living this life, for finding personal fulfillment, for taking into cognizance those around us, and ultimately for aspiring to the greater good of life and humanity.” (Pg. 210)
He concludes, “I dream of a new era, where we human beings will move beyond our ancient beliefs, myths, and religions. I dream of a world where reason, science, and justice will prevail for each and every one of us… The cruelty and blood of our religions rinses away, and the new day dawns. A world without religion. A world where our children will no longer know our ancient gods. The time has come for our children to be atheists.” (Pg. 229)
This book will be of keen interest to Atheists, Freethinkers, and those leaving religious backgrounds.
The Foreword of this 2014 book states, “this book… reveals the origins of our gods, in particular where and how they became our gods. [It] discusses the profound impact of these gods on our lives, and the measures taken by their followers to keep these gods alive… The new era is anticipated by many: a post-God era in which the human race will emerge from its religious past with a new understanding of the universe and humanity---a new model with which to face the next few thousand years on Earth and elsewhere. It is a book that predicts the end of religion as we know it. The transformation has started.”
Author Albert Williams explains in the first chapter, “The world is about to change and three outcomes are possible: 1. Religion will cease to exist, having been replaced by a new model of human behavior and understanding; 2. Religion as we know it will change to adapt to a modern world; or 3. Religious ideology will replace our current knowledge, transforming the world into a backward theocracy. [This book] fearlessly examines our current major religions, and the path of their final demise… The book then asks if today’s gods were REALLY always there, presiding over the world since its creation, each the ultimate Creator and Ruler of our cosmos---or it, in fact, they ever really existed?” (Pg. 3-4)
He suggests, “Ritual serves the human psyche well. It induces forceful emotions and feelings, particularly if chanting, fire, darkness, and killing are added. In the performance of a ritual, the individuality barrier breaks down; the individual loses his or her identity to become part of a larger group, where all are equal. This creates a sense of group identity and strengthens social bonds… Rituals ultimately induce religious experience that becomes so emotional and inspiring that it reinforces belief.” (Pg. 19)
He says of Jesus, “Jesus was not only a preacher, but a healer: did this power come from God, or was Jesus able to deceive his audience into believing in his healings? In his time, miracle workers were common. We know that Jesus said that he was unable to perform miracles in Nazareth, his birth town, as they did not believe in him there… The truth is, even today faith healers are not uncommon, especially in ‘primitive’ tribes; for example, thousands of people in the traditional Zula culture of South Africa will happily swear upon the healing capabilities of a Sangoma. Most ancient tribes had faith healers of their own.” (Pg. 59-60)
After Jesus’ death, “The grief of Maria Magdalene was unbearable, and in her anguish she ‘saw’ an angel sitting at the tomb. Jesus also appeared to some of his disciples, who at first did not recognize him; only later did they realize it was Jesus. We will most probably never know the truth about what happened to the body of Jesus after his death, but whatever occurred, it was assumed that Jesus was brought back to life before he ascended to Heaven to take his rightful place next to God. Resurrection, therefore, is the foundation of the Christian faith.” (Pg. 63)
He states, “It’s quite likely that Paul experienced an inner struggle between his original beliefs and convictions and the tenets of the new Jesus movement. In his misery and doubt, he finally succumbed to his own reasoning and accepted the new belief system, replacing his previous belief system with the new one. The intense emotional high he experienced was like a bright light that left him in a daze… Paul’s most significant contribution was his decision to bring the new religion to the gentiles; because until then, the teachings of Jesus were still reserved for Jews, which limited their wider acceptance. To take on the beliefs of Jesus, one had to convert to Judaism… Paul… must have reasoned that the God of Jesus was also valid for others. Paul struck a deal with Peter… that Peter would continue preaching to the Jews while Paul targeted the gentiles…” (Pg. 68)
He points out, “Over the past few years, many studies have been performed in an attempt to establish a link between religion and health, with different outcomes depending upon the tools and analysis used for the study. However, none of these studies clearly indicate that one religious group has better outcomes than any other religious group… There is, however some evidence that positive emotions and/or attitudes can benefit health and well-being… The religious persons may be emotionally strong, due to his belief that his religion gives him a better chance of recovery. He may also enjoy the benefits of community support. But again, any religion or belief will fulfill this purpose. Statistics show that there is no better strategy for survival during a medical crisis than the used of modern medicine. There are no miracles, no intervention of a god.” (Pg. 144)
He suggests, “As the concept of morality developed, it also got hardcoded in our genes to some extent; some of us are natural givers, altruistic in behavior. We’re also taught expected moral behavior by our peers and caregivers. Children are taught to share, care about others, and to have compassion, which reinforces whatever genetic predispositions they have… Once we get older, our internal reasoning takes over to reinforce our moral code. We developed our genetic predispositions to morality in our evolutionary past as a means of survival. Along with this, societies developed moral frameworks as we started building settlements. Order was required in order for a settlement of a few hundred people to be able to live together… Morality is manmade, not god-made. God was (and is) used as a fear factor to instill a particular moral code. No religion can claim morality or good as its unique purview.” (Pg. 157)
He notes, “It’s no mean feat to stand strong and steadfast in the outside world. Every individual must find ways to negotiate the culture around him, always seeking … a sense of belonging, acceptance and purpose. The ‘I’ is always in search of love and acceptance, to reaffirm himself…. Personally, I want to be someone who gets up early and does productive work. Sometimes I succeed and feel good about myself; other times I fail, and feel badly about myself. Religion also sets expected behavior; and the believer is always engaged in a constant struggle between his actual self and the ideal model demanded by his religious beliefs.” (Pg. 203)
He says, “We should no longer look for gods to give us purpose. That is now our sole responsibility, devolving all the way down to the individual level. It’s up to each of us to decide how to give our lives meaning, and to learn how to live those lives sincerely and affectionately. The question is no longer, ‘What is the meaning of life?’ It is now, ‘What is the meaning of MY life?’ The ego must, in each case, find ways to overcome the emotional pain and challenges that go on living. We must take responsibility for living this life, for finding personal fulfillment, for taking into cognizance those around us, and ultimately for aspiring to the greater good of life and humanity.” (Pg. 210)
He concludes, “I dream of a new era, where we human beings will move beyond our ancient beliefs, myths, and religions. I dream of a world where reason, science, and justice will prevail for each and every one of us… The cruelty and blood of our religions rinses away, and the new day dawns. A world without religion. A world where our children will no longer know our ancient gods. The time has come for our children to be atheists.” (Pg. 229)
This book will be of keen interest to Atheists, Freethinkers, and those leaving religious backgrounds.
June 26, 2015
I had high hopes for this book. We didn't get to the actual argument until the last chapter and even then I felt it was incomplete. HOW and WHY are we in the last 100 years of religion? What about new gods popping up? I agree with the premise that there is an awakening happening but I don't know if its happening fast enough to be complete in 100 years. Give me some statistics of people converting to atheism. I really like the IDEA of this book but I finished it feeling very unsatisfied, there was more I wanted to discuss. The beginning is just a vague history lesson on each of the major religions, many people already know at least that much. Then the book goes on and on about why region is detrimental for people, and why it doesn't make any sense. Yes but WHY are we ending religion?! What makes it seem that in 100 years we will be atheists. I feel as though the author just argued why our children SHOULD be atheist not why they will actually be atheist. A good book for people new to the idea of atheism.
February 13, 2020
Essential reading
Highest recommendation. I was impressed with clear and easy to read style of the book. The descriptions of the various religions and their origins made for a very convincing argument for atheism. It gives overwhelming evidence that beliefs in these religious superstitions are nothing more than fantasies. If you are on the fence in your belief systems about religion, this book will put your doubts to rest.
Highest recommendation. I was impressed with clear and easy to read style of the book. The descriptions of the various religions and their origins made for a very convincing argument for atheism. It gives overwhelming evidence that beliefs in these religious superstitions are nothing more than fantasies. If you are on the fence in your belief systems about religion, this book will put your doubts to rest.
May 11, 2015
Be ready to have your religious beliefs challenged . It was a good book and give a lot of food for thought. you have to read with an open mind no matter what your beliefs are. but still a challenge to your mind
December 29, 2015
Drones on a bit too much without really going anywhere -'lots of intellectual wanking but I'm sorry, while the logic is sound, I'm not convinced logic will be enough to beat religion
June 25, 2017
A
good clear read well structured helped me as a newby to put my thoughts in better order bit long winded on evolution thou.
good clear read well structured helped me as a newby to put my thoughts in better order bit long winded on evolution thou.
June 20, 2018
3.5 Stars.
I do agree with some reviewers that the title of this book is a bit misleading. What I loved most about this book is that the author has beautifully described many scientific views/phenomena in an easy language.
In the initial chapters, the author tells us about how man created gods and religions in a convincing manner. Then the author goes on to talk about major religions of the world in the following order: Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism. The author has presumed that the major religious figures of these religions such as Moses, Jesus, Muhammad, Buddha might have existed in real. Whereas, there are also some theories which say that these figures might have been made up due to lack of evidence. It would have been great had the author also considered the other view. Moreover, I found some inaccuracies in the section which was about Islam which probably requires revision.
Furthermore, I was actually expecting the author would provide some data on why in the future our children will be atheists but the author has made this presumption because in a nutshell science is gradually providing all the unanswerable questions and resolving/explaining phenomena which have very badly shaken the foundations of religions!
I would recommend this book to any atheist, agnostic and freethinker who would like to know about the genesis of gods and religions and how these are futile.
I do agree with some reviewers that the title of this book is a bit misleading. What I loved most about this book is that the author has beautifully described many scientific views/phenomena in an easy language.
In the initial chapters, the author tells us about how man created gods and religions in a convincing manner. Then the author goes on to talk about major religions of the world in the following order: Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism. The author has presumed that the major religious figures of these religions such as Moses, Jesus, Muhammad, Buddha might have existed in real. Whereas, there are also some theories which say that these figures might have been made up due to lack of evidence. It would have been great had the author also considered the other view. Moreover, I found some inaccuracies in the section which was about Islam which probably requires revision.
Furthermore, I was actually expecting the author would provide some data on why in the future our children will be atheists but the author has made this presumption because in a nutshell science is gradually providing all the unanswerable questions and resolving/explaining phenomena which have very badly shaken the foundations of religions!
I would recommend this book to any atheist, agnostic and freethinker who would like to know about the genesis of gods and religions and how these are futile.
May 27, 2020
This book has a specific view of the future which I feel is unrealistic. Religion is not just going to go away. It will evolve, be called something else... and then eventually in this sense, sure, there will be no more "gods--" because we will not have the word anymore. I think the concept itself of God (and other gods) is evolving almost daily, now with information tech and information growing virtually exponentially.
Anyway, the author has a vision of atheism taking over, which can inspire an atheist, so it might be worth reading. I read it, as it cost me nothing, and I would even have paid a dollar if I hadn't known better. Other than libraries, though, I wouldn't bother with books like this.
Dawkins, Hitchens, Harris,... authors like these who attacked faith and religion have their place in history. I don't know about everybody else, but I think now that I have moved on to seeking freethinking direction and guidance, beyond just dismissing gods. I found humanism in the American Humanist Association, decided to join, and now am a contributing part of the worldwide movement more than I was just by buying a few books--
Not that I will stop buying books.
Anyway, the author has a vision of atheism taking over, which can inspire an atheist, so it might be worth reading. I read it, as it cost me nothing, and I would even have paid a dollar if I hadn't known better. Other than libraries, though, I wouldn't bother with books like this.
Dawkins, Hitchens, Harris,... authors like these who attacked faith and religion have their place in history. I don't know about everybody else, but I think now that I have moved on to seeking freethinking direction and guidance, beyond just dismissing gods. I found humanism in the American Humanist Association, decided to join, and now am a contributing part of the worldwide movement more than I was just by buying a few books--
Not that I will stop buying books.
May 4, 2020
This book could have been excellent. In my view, Albert Williams did not fulfil the potential of the first chapter, in which he provided us with a with a summary of how many of the world’s dominant religions spread.
His tone is refreshing and direct. He thinks that Moses was a psychopath and said so. I will agree if you look at the quoted texts through the eyes of a humanist.
The section on humanism is good, and I am happy he introduced me to a website where I can explore this subject further.
However, he did not analyse society. If I were to look at the state of education in many countries, I believe that many poor people find comfort in religion. It gives them hope and comfort.
Politicians use religion as part of their propaganda. The nexus between religious and political leaders is deep, and he did not analyse this.
Religion may decline in the centuries to come. What will cause it to decline? This is a question that the book does not answer.
His tone is refreshing and direct. He thinks that Moses was a psychopath and said so. I will agree if you look at the quoted texts through the eyes of a humanist.
The section on humanism is good, and I am happy he introduced me to a website where I can explore this subject further.
However, he did not analyse society. If I were to look at the state of education in many countries, I believe that many poor people find comfort in religion. It gives them hope and comfort.
Politicians use religion as part of their propaganda. The nexus between religious and political leaders is deep, and he did not analyse this.
Religion may decline in the centuries to come. What will cause it to decline? This is a question that the book does not answer.
September 2, 2018
Very informative
It was a surprisingly slow read for me.... not because it was boring or difficult. It just seemed to never move on or maybe it is a long book it's hard to tell with ebooks. The section about Moses is very well written and educative although the author is evasive and unclear if the Moses character was a real being or a fictitious hero. I was left none the wiser even though there is plenty of good detail there
It was a surprisingly slow read for me.... not because it was boring or difficult. It just seemed to never move on or maybe it is a long book it's hard to tell with ebooks. The section about Moses is very well written and educative although the author is evasive and unclear if the Moses character was a real being or a fictitious hero. I was left none the wiser even though there is plenty of good detail there
March 22, 2022
Must read for new age parents
A must read for everyone, and especially so for new age parents. Our kids MUST not be fed lies which have been conclusively ruled out by exciting scientific discoveries of last 100 years, and they should be honestly told about what we still don't know, but hopefully will know, in future. All parents owe it to their kids, to read this book and help their kids grow into rational human beings.
A must read for everyone, and especially so for new age parents. Our kids MUST not be fed lies which have been conclusively ruled out by exciting scientific discoveries of last 100 years, and they should be honestly told about what we still don't know, but hopefully will know, in future. All parents owe it to their kids, to read this book and help their kids grow into rational human beings.
September 26, 2021
Good primer on the origins of religious belief. And why it isn't real
As an atheist I've always been interested in the origin stories. And always b known they'd been something pulled from their nether region
As an atheist I've always been interested in the origin stories. And always b known they'd been something pulled from their nether region
November 24, 2021
Over simplication of the religions and no arguments given for the authors claim of this being the last 100 years of religion. Because the info is sound, this may be a book for an absolute beginner in the history of religions, I could have done without it though.
March 1, 2022
well researched
I gave this book a five star. He was able to look at history and biology to explain man’s evolution and how man created gods. He was able to extrapolate from his knowledge how mankind can go forward with improved lives without religion and created gods.
I gave this book a five star. He was able to look at history and biology to explain man’s evolution and how man created gods. He was able to extrapolate from his knowledge how mankind can go forward with improved lives without religion and created gods.
October 12, 2022
The Meaning of life without god.
This book is realistic, science based. I am in full agreement, after 70+ years as an evangelical Christian. I devoutly wish that I had bread and believed what is written in it. Leon Clymore
This book is realistic, science based. I am in full agreement, after 70+ years as an evangelical Christian. I devoutly wish that I had bread and believed what is written in it. Leon Clymore
October 21, 2017
Interesting perspective.
I like the way everything is laid out and then pulled all together at the end. Well worth the study.
I like the way everything is laid out and then pulled all together at the end. Well worth the study.
October 9, 2019
Weak arguments
I agree with the conclusion but the arguments are weak disjointed and scattered. This is difficult to read with a straight face.
I agree with the conclusion but the arguments are weak disjointed and scattered. This is difficult to read with a straight face.
March 12, 2020
A book exposing the construct of god and religion and why our children will be atheists
dnf
February 20, 2024DNF will return to later.
March 10, 2025
مقدمہ اچھے انداز میں اٹھایا لیکن لڑا کمزور طریقے سے۔
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews