Books matching: faith and delusion
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- #1
The Spire by William Golding is a novel that delves into the obsession of the protagonist, Dean Jocelin, to build a spire on an already existing cathedral despite lacking foundations. The story unfolds through the protagonist's point of view as he descends into madness, forcing the builders to continue the impossible task, leading to curses, deaths, and torments. Golding's writing style is described as a stream of consciousness, reflecting the thoughts of the insane bishop building the spire. The book explores themes of faith, delusion, fertility, and paganism through extensive symbolism.
He was laughing, chin up, and shaking his head. God the Father was exploding in his face with a glory of sunlight through painted glass, a glory that moved with his movements to consume and exalt Abra... - #2
'The God Delusion' by Richard Dawkins is a thought-provoking exploration of atheism and the arguments against the existence of God. Dawkins presents a compelling case for rationalism and science over religion, dissecting the flaws in religious beliefs and the impact of faith on society. Through eloquent and witty writing, Dawkins challenges readers to question their beliefs and consider the implications of a world without the need for a divine being.
The God Delusion in the hardback edition was widely described as the surprise bestseller of 2006. It was warmly received by the great majority of those who sent in their personal reviews to Amazon (mo... 'The Magic of Reality' by Richard Dawkins is a popular science book aimed at teenagers and young adults, exploring various scientific topics like the Big Bang and evolution. Dawkins contrasts scientific explanations with myths and legends, emphasizing the value of rational thought and the scientific method over unsupported beliefs. is richly illustrated and presents complex scientific principles in an accessible manner, while also delving into the question of why to believe in scientific facts.
REALITY IS EVERYTHING that exists. That sounds straightforward, doesn’t it? Actually, it isn’t. There are various problems. What about dinosaurs, which once existed but exist no longer? What about sta...'The Demon-Haunted World: Science as a Candle in the Dark' by Carl Sagan explores the importance of critical thinking, skepticism, and the scientific method in a world filled with pseudoscience, superstition, and misinformation. Sagan delves into topics such as alien encounters, faith healing, witchcraft, and religion, advocating for a rigorous application of scientific principles to combat ignorance and irrational beliefs. Through a series of essays, Sagan challenges readers to question popular myths and encourages a rational, evidence-based approach to understanding the world around us.
It was a blustery fall day in 1939. In the streets outside the apartment building, fallen leaves were swirling in little whirlwinds, each with a life of its own. It was good to be inside and warm and ...'The End of Faith: Religion, Terror, and the Future of Reason' by Sam Harris delves into the clash between reason and religion in the modern world. Harris provides a historical tour of how religious beliefs have led to some of the worst human atrocities and warns against the encroachment of organized religion into world politics. Drawing on insights from neuroscience, philosophy, and Eastern mysticism, Harris calls for a modern foundation for ethics and spirituality that is secular and humanistic. He argues that without ending dogmatic religions and the beliefs they create, the future of reason, logic, and civilization is at risk.
Harris presents a cogent analysis of why specific dogmas are dangerous as a whole and how individualized internalization of these beliefs can be detrimental to society and world cultures. challenges readers to question their beliefs and resulting actions, urging atheists to find valuable resources in the book and believers to critically examine their faith. Harris's writing style is described as thought-provoking, original, and deeply disturbing, presenting arguments that deserve a wide audience for their importance and impact.
- #6
'The Anti-Christ' by Friedrich Nietzsche is a sharp and intense critique of Christianity and organized religion. Nietzsche attacks the inherent contradictions of Christianity, its impact on Western civilization, and its poisoning of society. He delves into topics such as the concept of sin, the psychology of Christians, and the corruption of the Church and priesthood. Nietzsche presents Christianity as a weak and parasitic belief system that stifles individual strength and freedom. The writing style is described as bitter, angry, and sustained, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.
- #7
'On the Genealogy of Morals' by Friedrich Nietzsche is a philosophical work that delves into the origins of moral concepts, particularly those of Christianity and Judaism. Nietzsche presents three treatises that trace the evolution of moral values, addressing the prejudices ingrained in society. He explores the dichotomy between good and evil, dissecting the meanings behind these concepts and how they have evolved over time. The book discusses the aristocratic way of thinking versus the slave morality, highlighting the power dynamics and conflicts that have shaped our moral beliefs. Nietzsche's writing style is described as iconoclastic and thought-provoking, challenging readers to question their preconceived notions about morality and ethics.
We are unknown to ourselves, we men of science, and for good reason. Since we have never searched for ourselves, how should we ever find ourselves? Truly has it been said: ‘Where your treasure is, the... Christopher Hitchens' 'God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything' delves into the harmful impacts of religious beliefs on humanity. Hitchens presents compelling arguments demonstrating the ways in which religion influences political, emotional, and physical aspects of society negatively. Through a masterful storytelling approach, Hitchens explores the atrocities committed in the name of religion, making the reading experience both enlightening and thought-provoking.
If the intended reader of this book should want to go beyond disagreement with its author and try to identify the sins and deformities that animated him to write it (and I have certainly noticed that ...'50 Reasons People Give for Believing in a God' by Guy P. Harrison is a thought-provoking exploration of the reasons behind religious beliefs. The author delves into common arguments for the existence of a god, presenting counterarguments in a rational and respectful manner. The book challenges readers to critically analyze their beliefs and consider alternative perspectives, making it a valuable read for both believers and non-believers.
Harrison's writing style is clear, engaging, and accessible, making complex religious topics easy to understand for readers of all backgrounds. Through a series of short chapters, the author explores different reasons for belief in a god, providing insights into the psychology of belief and encouraging readers to think critically about their own convictions.
Obvious or not, belief in gods deserves to be challenged. Believers owe it to the world and our collective future to at least hear and consider basic questions about gods. These claims can't be given ...'Breaking the Spell: Religion as a Natural Phenomenon' by Daniel C. Dennett delves into the evolutionary analysis of religion, exploring who benefits from it and how it has evolved over time. Dennett presents the idea of religion as a social phenomenon that has both benefits and costs, providing a deeper understanding of its role in society. He discusses the concept of religious beliefs as competing memes and offers an inquisitive approach to studying the evolution and nature of religious ideas. The writing style is described as thoughtful, funny, and accessible, encouraging open questioning and research of religion's utility.
You watch an ant in a meadow, laboriously climbing up a blade of grass, higher and higher until it falls, then climbs again, and again, like Sisyphus rolling his rock, always striving to reach the top...