In the tradition of Bertrand Russell’s “Why I Am Not a Christian” and Sam Harris’s recent bestseller, “The End of Faith,” Christopher Hitchens makes the ultimate case against religion. With a close and erudite reading of the major religious texts, he documents the ways in which religion is a man-made wish, a cause of dangerous sexual repression, and a distortion of our origins in the cosmos. With eloquent clarity, Hitchens frames the argument for a more secular life based on science and reason, in which hell is replaced by the Hubble Telescope’s awesome view of the universe, and Moses and the burning bush give way to the beauty and symmetry of the double helix.
| Title: | God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything |
| Author: | Christopher Hitchens |
| Genres: | Sociology & Anthropology, Sociology & Religion |
| Publisher: | Twelve Books |
| Published: | 2007 |
| Format: | Hardcover |
| Page Count: | 307 |
| Goodreads Rating: | 4.3 |
| ISBN: | 0425227634 |
“Our belief is not a belief. Our principles are not a faith. We do not rely soley upon science and reason, because these are necessary rather than sufficient factors, but we distrust anything that contradicts science or outrages reason. We may differ on many things, but what we respect is free inquiry, openmindedness, and the pursuit of ideas for their own sake.”
Christopher Hitchens’ “God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything” stands as a provocative and incisive critique of religion in modern society. Released in 2007, this work not only showcases Hitchens’ sharp wit and eloquence but also serves as a clarion call for secularism in an increasingly polarized world.
From the outset, Hitchens establishes a compelling thesis: that religion, rather than being a source of morality and unity, is often a catalyst for division, violence, and suffering. His arguments are bolstered by a tapestry of historical references, philosophical discourse, and his personal observations. Each chapter delves into various aspects of religion—from the impact of biblical texts on moral reasoning to the political ramifications of faith-based ideologies—painting a grim picture of its influence.
One of Hitchens’ strengths is his ability to tackle complex ideas with clarity. He dismantles the arguments for the ‘positive’ contributions of religion, such as charitable acts or the fostering of community, by illustrating cases where faith has perpetuated conflict, abuse, and discrimination. His discussions about the intersections of religion with topics such as war, science, and sexuality are particularly enlightening and resonate with readers who grapple with contemporary issues.
However, perhaps the most compelling aspect of Hitchens’ work is his deeply personal narrative. He does not simply regurgitate statistics or quote famous atheists; he recounts his own experiences with religious dogma, offering a candid glimpse into how these encounters have shaped his worldview. This personal touch enriches his critique and humanizes the philosophical arguments.
Readers looking for a balanced portrayal of religion may find Hitchens’ approach one-sided. His writing is unabashedly polemical, and at times, it can feel overwhelmingly negative. Critics might argue that he overlooks the more nuanced aspects of faith—such as personal spirituality and the positive roles that religion can play in individual lives. Yet, this singularity of perspective is, in many ways, what makes “God Is Not Great” a rallying point for atheists and skeptics alike.
Hitchens’ prose is both accessible and engaging, punctuated with sharp humor and memorable turns of phrase. His command of language elevates the narrative, making it not just a book to be read, but an experience to be felt. For those with an interest in philosophy, religion, or contemporary societal issues, Hitchens offers a wealth of thought-provoking material ripe for discussion.
In conclusion, “God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything” is a bold and unapologetic examination of religion’s influence in the world. While it may not appeal to devout believers, it is an essential read for anyone interested in the discourse surrounding faith, morality, and the human condition. Hitchens challenges us to confront uncomfortable truths and to question the narratives we often accept without scrutiny. Whether one agrees with him or not, he undoubtedly compels us to engage critically with the role of religion in our lives and society at large.