Thoughts On Religion

Initially written for the author¿s family and friends, this little book examines many of the contemporary issues regarding religion and may have interest to a wider range of readers. The author¿s extensive training as a natural scientist, his lifelong interest in religion, and his acquired atheism have predisposed him to examine the evolutionary, cultural and psychological roots of religious belief and human morality. He convincingly explains how many prosocial behaviors traditionally attributed to religious instruction (e.g., altruism, sense of fairness) are more the result of evolution than religion. Indeed, citing recent research, he argues that formal religion may actually impede the development of altruistic behavior and promote cultural xenophobia. An individual¿s innate ¿moral compass¿ may be perverted to the service of a particular belief system at the expense of a more global sense of charity and fairness. The preponderance of the text examines the many disadvantages (¿evils¿) and dubious advantages of most religious belief. The author suggests that supernatural belief systems tend to: inhibit scientific, social and moral progress; promote and perpetuate numerous cruel and anachronistic practices; and waste enormous global assets in their maintenance. The author uses both light humor and sarcasm to make the case for a naturalistic worldview. Contemporary claims that religious persons are happier, healthier, and more honest and charitable than nonbelievers are debunked. Emphasis is on Western (Abrahamic) faiths, but some Eastern and minor religions and cults are also considered.

• | Author: Kevin A. Fox
• | Publisher: Fox Editing
• | Publication Date: Jan 26, 2018
• | Number of Pages: 162 pages
• | Language: English
• | Binding: Hardcover
• | ISBN-10: 1947587013
• | ISBN-13: 9781947587014