Overview

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.

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9780826424938

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Reviews

Kerry Walters's fine book contributes fairly and substantively to the contemporary discussion of atheism. Unlike most other treatments, this attractive and readable work not only exposes all sides of the God-question succinctly and clearly, but it does so with unrelenting compassion, wisdom, and accuracy. The book is a model of significant and informed intellectual exchange. Highly recommended. - John F. Haught, Senior Fellow, Science & Religion, Georgetown Universit, USA

Author Information

Kerry Walters is professor emeritus of philosophy at Gettysburg College.

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