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stephenvhenn's review
2.0
The title of the book is itself an indicator that the text would be split into two smaller books - the case against religion the first and the other on humanism. Overall, the arguments about humanism are deep, good, and thoughtful. For those wanting to learn about humanism for whatever reason, be that to understand a friend or family member or to explore ones own faith/spirituality, the second half of the book is an incredibly intellectual approach to humanism (and thus morality and ethics) that was refreshing for a former political theory student. However the first half of the book - the case against religion - was too much.
Understandably Grayling needs to lay out his opinion on the ways that religion holds back humanity and that humanism is the alternative. Yet, Grayling goes about this with the stereotypical 'angry atheist' bent towards religion, stating early on that he is perplexed why religions get respect.
As someone who has evolved in my conception of religion, secularism, and faith I know the 'angry atheist' trope very well having probably been close to it at different points in my young life. Yet, Grayling does not approach the argument against religion with nuance or respect, instead opting to dissect the issues with religion in an almost legal way. To be fair, this first half was interesting and made me rethink my own criticisms of religion - yet the tone could have been more nuanced and/or respectful.
Overall, this book is a decent way to explore humanism as an alternative to religious faith. However for someone who wants a more balanced - or at least respectful - criticism of religion, this text is not it.
Understandably Grayling needs to lay out his opinion on the ways that religion holds back humanity and that humanism is the alternative. Yet, Grayling goes about this with the stereotypical 'angry atheist' bent towards religion, stating early on that he is perplexed why religions get respect.
As someone who has evolved in my conception of religion, secularism, and faith I know the 'angry atheist' trope very well having probably been close to it at different points in my young life. Yet, Grayling does not approach the argument against religion with nuance or respect, instead opting to dissect the issues with religion in an almost legal way. To be fair, this first half was interesting and made me rethink my own criticisms of religion - yet the tone could have been more nuanced and/or respectful.
Overall, this book is a decent way to explore humanism as an alternative to religious faith. However for someone who wants a more balanced - or at least respectful - criticism of religion, this text is not it.
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