Atheism: A Guide for the Perplexed

Guides for the Perplexed

by Kerry Walters

Atheism: A Guide for the Perplexed moves beyond the polemics to present an overview of atheism that is rigorous but still accessible to the educated layperson as well as to the undergraduate student in philosophy and theology. After a preliminary investigation of what atheists mean when they use the words 'atheism' and 'God'-a much more complex investigation than one might suspect-the book explores the differences and similarities between 'old' and 'new' atheism; places atheism of either variety in context by examining the naturalistic worldview that grounds it; provides a short historical sketch of atheism; examines a number of arguments against God-belief; investigates whether an atheist worldview is consistent with ethics and a sense of purposefulness; inquires into whether the current militancy against religious belief is pertinent or a red herring; and concludes with a few suggestions for continued dialogue between believers and nonbelievers.The goal throughout is to present a balanced, non-partisan introduction to the worldview, principles, and arguments of atheism that highlights the position's strengths as well as its weaknesses.

Genres: Religion, Philosophy

208 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2010

Reviews

[Kevin Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

“When…an atheist comes across a clever new version of an argument for the existence of God which she cannot refute, she does not say, ‘Ah! So now I must believe in God!’ Rather, she says, ‘That’s clever. There must be something wrong with it. Give me time, and I’ll find out what it is.’ Similarly, a theist will not lose her belief just because she cannot refute an argument for atheism. Rather, that argument will simply become a challenge to be met in due course.”

Julian Baggini’s observation about belief and doubt aptly captures the central tension in Kerry Walters’ Atheism: A Guide for the Perplexed. Walters approaches this polarizing topic with commendable fairness, examining common arguments against the existence of God and evaluating their merit.

I found the hiddenness argument and the problem of evil to be the most compelling and well-articulated sections. While the book didn’t sway my beliefs in any direction, it encouraged meaningful reflection on my views about the possible conception and nature of God.

One of the book’s standout strengths is its accessibility. Walters writes in a way that is approachable even for readers with limited philosophical background. Additionally, the extensive notes and references provide ample material for further exploration. For example, I plan to read Divine Hiddenness and Human Reason and The Evidential Argument from Evil based on recommendations in this book.

That said, the book leans slightly toward a naturalistic perspective, which may not fully satisfy readers seeking perfect neutrality. However, this does not diminish its overall value.

While I don’t think this book will change anyone’s mind about the existence of God, it offers significant value to those who enjoy critically engaging with arguments from both sides. Walters presents complex ideas with clarity and thoughtfulness, making this a rewarding read for anyone interested in the debate.

[Victor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pros:
Very good introductory book on atheism. The author addresses the central themes of atheism deeply enough to engage the reader, but also succinctly so as not to tire them.

Cons:
The author often tries to position himself as "neutral", but clearly he has a bias towards the atheistic side of the discussion. For me, this is a minor irritation, but for religious readers, I imagine it could be quite annoying.

The book is too "christian-centric". The author ignores religious conceptions that don't come from Abrahamic roots, such as Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Taoism, Shinto, Animism, etc.

[Davis Goodman · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book does not do what it says it will do. Critical of emotional extreemism from both atheists and fundamentalists of Abrihamic religions...the book is supposed to offer a tempered balanced study of both sides. Ultimately the pages are filled with positive arguments that lean towards atheism...but with a watery disclaimer thrown in...because...hey you never know...there just could be an unmoved mover...or...don't be so fast to deny spiritualistic spiritualness. The book also claims to be tempered...but no matter how relaxed the narrative seems...it will still ilicit strong emotional reactions. I'm not sure any tempered and balanced presentation on atheism could be offered...and this one doesn't make it.

[Kamakana · Rating 2 out of 5]

270810: interesting non-polemical introduction, but little more, to the ongoing arguments offered and countered and refined by those people who concern themselves with the existence of god or not. it does offer some interesting gradations of either side, contrasting world views that can be radically stretched out of any recognizable shape. conflict is seen as between naturalism versus supernaturalism, and despite some difficulty reconciling existentialism with it, i am very much a naturalist...

[Josh Jones-Horrock]

I read almost most of this book, but then decided to stop and read "origin of Species" and some David Hume text, in which the title book referneces from.

[Tampines House]

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