- Paperback: 160 pages
- Publisher: Gerald Duckworth & Co Ltd; New edition edition (10 April 2003)
- Language English
- ISBN-10: 0715632299
- ISBN-13: 978-0715632291
- Product Dimensions: 18 x 11.4 x 1.1 cm
- Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
- Amazon Bestsellers Rank: 1,138,071 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
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More About the Author
Product Description
Review
'Daniel Harbour is an intellectual steam-roller, combing wide erudition with a razor-sharp mind... Whatever your take on the question of God, this book will challenge and engage you.' Rabbi Shmuley Boteach
Product Description
A controversial study that argues for the value of atheism in modern society. The debate about atheism has staled since the time of Bertrand Russell. In this work, Daniel Harbour returns to its core issues - the existence of God, the values of faith, the role of religion in society - and casts them in an entirely new light. The real question, he argues, is how we should consider our urge to understand the world. Only then can we ask ourselves whether atheism or theism forms part of a coherent worldview. This new debate between atheism and theism forces us into an investigation of philosophy, science, history, ethics and aesthetics, and a desire for intellectual integrity and commitment to truth. It is far removed from the usual listing of the errors of theism. Nor can atheism be equated with denialism. It holds real and practical implications for the place of religion and the obligations of atheists in our society. Suitable for both the student and the general reader.
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Customer Reviews
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
42 of 47 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
The atheist's bible (!) - Well worth reading!,
By A Customer
This review is from: An Intelligent Person's Guide to Atheism (Intelligent Person's Guides) (Hardcover)
There are very few books that deals with the case of atheism from a positive point of view, that is providing a case *for* atheism, rather than a negative one, one *against* theism. Daniel Harbour does exactly that and this work could easily be seen as the ultimate atheist's 'bible' (to be somewhat ironic). Although Harbour explicitly states that "This book is about why atheism is correct, why theism is incorrect, and why anyone who cares about truth should be an atheist" it should not merely be read by atheists (and those 'undecided' out there) but also by religionists, believers, 'theists' of the world as it is a fresh look at the debate from an atheist's point of view, rather than an addition to the age-old slanging-match saturated with negative arguments about theism. Well researched, thoughtfully written, and with a good slice of humour this book is an ideal read for 'the intelligent person' maybe not only during "...a comfortable afternoon beside a swimmingpool..." as Harbour suggests. A book to come back to again and again! Well worth reading!
4.0 out of 5 stars
Original approach to the debate,
This review is from: An Intelligent Person's Guide to Atheism (Paperback)
I enjoyed this book very much and have recommended it to atheist friends. I agree with Harbour that a world view based on no assumptions is the best way to achieve a better undestanding of the world, as opposed to one based on dogmatic belief. Rather than holding up just social, moral or scientific arguments against religion, Harbour tackles the intellectual debate at it's core, challenging us to change the way we think completely about the world.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent little book - original argument - highly recommended.,
By
This review is from: An Intelligent Person's Guide to Atheism (Paperback)
A short book, yet worth its weight in gold. It follows an original, new argument for atheism. It shows that religion is just one of several dogmas - all of which lead to negative outcomes. The only means to truth is to start with nothing - no assumptions - and test each idea/hypothesis on its merits. Harbour calls this the "Spartan Meritocracy". He contrasts this with "Baroque Monarchy". Baroque means over-ornate, convoluted. Monarchy means dogmatic. The religious viewpoint starts with an assembly of ornate dogmas - angels, gods, demons, heaven, hell etc. Then it tries to make the world fit these views. Harbour's contrast between Spartan Meritocracy and Baroque Monarchy is very fruitful and enlightening. I also enjoyed the way in which he showed the flawed thinking of those who try to excuse religious atrocities by saying "that's not true Christianity". Highly recommended.
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