Since emerging, chastened, from the militant atheism of my not-so-distant past, I have in recent years come round, despite being an unbeliever myself, to the opinion that wide-scale secularism is a maladaptation that sharply — perhaps even lethally — reduces a society’s fitness.
In a recent lecture at Washington University in St. Louis, George Will discussed the continuing importance, and necessary role, of religion in America. It is brilliantly done, and I urge you all either to watch or read it.
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Oh dear, two intrusions in five minutes – sorry! But, may I recommend a book which has moved me considerably in all senses, that is, intellectually and emotionally. It is written by the Chief Rabbi of Great Britain, Jonathan Sacks, and is called:
“The Great Partnership: God, Science and the Search for Meaning”
A profoundly wise and civilised man with an enormous breadth of knowledge. Alas, he failed to convince me to believe in God but he certainly convinced me that Judaeo-Christianity is crucial to a civilised society.
Thanks for the recommendation, David. I have ordered a copy.
Oh Lord, me and my big mouth, Big Henry!
Hope you enjoy it.