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"You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me."

-C.S. Lewis


What we read has such an impact on us, and I am always on the lookout for something that will inspire me to be a better person. Here is a sampling of books that have been in the teetering stack sitting on top of what is rumored to be my bedside table.





Sunday, July 31, 2011

Why God Won't Go Away: Is the New Atheism Running on Empty? - Alister McGrath

Why God Won't Go Away: Is the New Atheism Running On Empty? by Alister McGrath, is a thought-provoking book about the flaws of the New Atheist movement. While the title is a bit misleading - McGrath states in the final chapter that this book isn't the forum to explain why humans continue to be drawn to a higher power - the book is an interesting read.

The first section of the book contains a literature review of New Atheist authors and ideals. It also discusses the difference between New Atheism and more traditional atheist views. McGrath then goes on to discuss what he feels are key tenets of New Atheism - namely the ideas that religion promotes violence, that religion stands in opposition to reason, and that religion is at war with science.

The discussion of religion  and violence was moot for me - after all, there are many other things besides religion that humans use as an excuse for their violent tendencies. This led straight into the discussion on reason. I enjoyed McGrath's assertions that while the New Atheism purports to belittle belief systems, theirs is a belief system as well.

However, it was the discussion of the so-called war between religion and science that I found to be the most compelling. McGrath takes a look at the view that religion and science must naturally stand against each other, with surprising insights.

In conclusion, I enjoyed this book for the ideas it presented. Highly recommended for anyone interested in apologetics.

Four out of Five Stars

Disclaimer: I was provided this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

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