Throughout human history religions have been a staggeringly powerful force in the hearts and minds of their adherents and in society as a whole. It has moved men and women to inspiring acts of bravery and spurred the creation of some of the most sublime works of art, and arguably has been pivotal in the creation of stable societies and the social order we see today. At the same time, though, it has also been responsible for some of the most heinous atrocities ever committed and has imposed many arbitrary limits on individuals that serve as a massive detriment to their well-being. As time has marched on, we have developed new systems for making sense of the natural world and for living together harmoniously. The barriers that separate us have eroded and we have built alternatives to the systems that religion has used to maintain order.
This book aims to look at some of the notions that atheists hold. The first two chapters are an exploration into the factual inadequacies of faith. The third will touch on the social evils of religion and their deep rooting in the very nature and psychology of faith itself. The last three chapters will address the alternative, non-theistic solutions to three separate problems previously solved by faith. It is by no means exhaustive, and so at the end is a further reading list of books which go into much deeper detail on the issues raised herein.
Ultimately, this book is written so that anyone on any point on the scale of faith, from the most sincere believer, to the strongest antitheist, and anyone in between can understand even just a little better the arguments atheists put on the table.
Here's a preview of the contents
Why reject the supernatural? Our “special place” in the universe The harm caused by faith Morality without God Facing mortality Finding meaning and purpose in life
This is one of the very few books which talks about theism and atheism with a logical perspective instead of just spreading hate and imposing ideologies. The author has subtly portrayed the flawed structure of religion and its atrocities on humankind, while bringing out the beauty of life in its whole which does not need any religion to enable living one's life to the fullest. Its a short read, hence, it won't take up much of your time. This book is perfect for anybody who's pondering over atheism and it's impact on humanity, but does not have the patience to sit through a usual 300 page book.
"Holding out on a belief based on what we do not know is an uneasy position. As the known continues to encroach into the unknown, it is inevitably not God that we find."
This is a relatively short book of 33 pages with a total of six chapters, each covering a broad topic concerning religion and supplying logical answers to them. Naturally, theists refuse to believe anything that provides reasonable, logical objections to their beliefs, so it doesn't surprise me that those who have read this, as well as any other atheistic literature, discard it as "junk". Those who are neutral will agree that this book is well-written, clear, and concise. A must for anyone interested in atheistic ideology and theology in general.
It seems to constantly attack religion. It also preaches about how wonderful society would be without religion. This book has made me believe in God. If these are the only arguments against faith.