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Customer Reviews for Thomas Nelson Why God Won't Go Away
Thomas Nelson Why God Won't Go Away
An accessible discourse written by a trusted expert and scholar critiquing the new atheism on its own merits and claims.
The rise of the new atheism, which includes the manifestos of Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens, has created a public willingness in today's marketplace to talk about God and religion. Yet the debate up to this point has focused largely on rebutting the new atheist critique of Christianity. Why God Won't God Away moves into new territory by challenging the new atheism on its own grounds. Chapters include discussion on:
This book written by Alister McGrath a theology professor, Christian philosopher, and leading intellectual of his generation, has written extensively including best-selling books rebutting the new atheist critique of Christianity and has debated Richard Dawkins in Oxford, Christopher Hitchens in Washington, and Daniel Dennett in London.
The rise of the new atheism, which includes the manifestos of Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens, has created a public willingness in today's marketplace to talk about God and religion. Yet the debate up to this point has focused largely on rebutting the new atheist critique of Christianity. Why God Won't God Away moves into new territory by challenging the new atheism on its own grounds. Chapters include discussion on:
- What is the new atheism
- The problem of religion
- The problem of human nature
- Believing only what can be proved
- Dealing with imagined worlds and myths
- The new humanism and the new enlightenment
- Violence and dogmatism
This book written by Alister McGrath a theology professor, Christian philosopher, and leading intellectual of his generation, has written extensively including best-selling books rebutting the new atheist critique of Christianity and has debated Richard Dawkins in Oxford, Christopher Hitchens in Washington, and Daniel Dennett in London.
Average Customer Rating:
(29 Reviews) 29
Rating Snapshot (29 reviews)
5 stars
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28 out of 2997%customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Why God Won't Go Away
Review 1 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Excellent book with valuable information.
Date:February 1, 2012
Alice Ross
Location:North Carolina
Age:Over 65
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and would highly recommend it to anyone.
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Review 2 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Date:December 2, 2011
James
Location:Arcola, SK
Age:Under 18
Gender:male
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
Personally, I loved this book. It's got such great points, and the author certainly doesn't beat around the bush. He gets straight to the point. When I first received the book, I was a bit taken aback by the small amount of pages- only around 165. But I soon realized that this is all the author really needed.
The author takes us through the 4 main people or, as they call themselves, "horsemen". He gives us an in-depth look at "New Atheism" and the foundations of it, and also how it differs from Atheism. What I really loved about this book was the fact that the author used personal experiences, as well as research he had done, to write this book. I really hope you're able to pick up this book and enjoy it as much as I did!
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Review 3 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Date:October 10, 2011
Quality:
3
out of
5
Value:
3
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
3
out of
5
My purpose in reading Why God Won’t Go Away by Alister McGrath was to be better informed about atheism, particularly what is called new atheism. As a Christian I believe it is important, no Biblical, for us to defend our faith (I Peter 3:15). I know a few atheist personally so I had even more interest in this book.
I believe that the title isn’t what the major point of the book is. McGrath doesn’t get to why God won’t go away until the last chapter. The rest of the book deals with what the new atheism is, particularly from the teachings of the so-called “Four Horsemen” of the movement – Sam Harris, Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett and Christopher Hitchens. McGrath doesn’t give much other space to any others in the movement.
Even though he doesn’t get to the purpose of the book until the end, I didn’t mind. The information the new atheist movement makes the book worth the read. If you have ever had conversations with people who disagree with you on the subject of religion you know that they can get heated and at times mean. McGrath never does. He presents their view and counters it respectively, never writing in a superior or condescending tone.
Throughout the book McGrath addresses objections that new atheists have with Christian beliefs and clearly shows their objections as incomplete, hypocritical or false. One example that sticks out is the objection that atheists have with God because of all of the violence that has been done throughout human history in the name of God yet atheists conveniently ignore the atheism of Stalin and his murderous reign. This is only one of the multiple arguments that atheists use against God that McGrath applies to atheism itself to invalidate their argument.
I learned much about the new atheist movement from this book. He McGrath writes in a clear way that is accessible to most readers. If you have been curious about atheism, this book would be of much help.
Disclaimer - I received this resource free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their Book Sneeze book review blogger program. All that was required of me is that I review it, positively or negatively, on my site.
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Review 4 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
McGrath is a refreshing and intelligent debater
Date:September 24, 2011
bookbagger
Location:Indiana
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
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Meets Expectations:
4
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I found Alister McGrath to be refreshing and engaging as he took on the “New Atheist” in this book.
Of course there is nothing “new under the sun”, but McGrath explains who the current high-stakes players are in this movement and what their tactics entail (namely ridicule and dismissal, but with militant zeal). The end result, of course, is that conversation is shut down, not engaged in rationally.
In contrast, McGrath entertains many questions asked by “new atheists” and gives reasonable responses. In reading this book (and I also recommend watching a discussion/debate or two between Alister McGrath and Richard Dawkins or Christopher Hitchins – such debates can be found online), one cannot help but see the difference between McGrath’s sensible (even humble) handling of a challenging subject and the defensive and insulting manner in which the “new atheist” handles it.
A truly reasonable person should be able to rise above defensive and insulting posturing, not succumb to it as a main tactic in winning an argument. Insult and dismissal are not the tactics of those who honestly desire to have reasonable and rational discussion. Regardless of what side of the divide you may be on, I suggest giving Alister McGrath a read. The contrast in style between McGrath and the “new atheist” is stark indeed.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
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Review 5 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Great Book
Date:August 29, 2011
realivepastor
Location:South Carolina
Age:35-44
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
Atheism is certainly nothing new. In fact, many first century Christians were accused of being atheists because they stopped believing in the pantheistic system of many gods of their culture. The beginning of atheism being the main stream thought in Western Culture began as a philosophic outpouring of the industrial age. The so-called Modern man was too rational and too logical to be bogged down with the superstitious subjects of faith and religion. This full blown cultural shift was brought to bear populously by the Scopes “Monkey” trial and seen its culmination culturally in the Ữber logical Mr. Spock on TV’s Star Trek.
But a cultural shift only lasts so long before it begins to be overrun by the next philosophical upheaval. Modernity was rapidly replaced by post-modernism and the “end of reason” crowd soon told us that “what’s good for you is good for you, and what’s good for me is good for me.” Along with this came a renewed interest in all things spiritual. Not necessarily the religion of your grandparents, but absolutely not the stagnant, cold, unbelieving rationality of your parents either. Gen X began to seek after a new spirituality that was zen and created fung shui.
Coming out of this new postmodern, all things go, mentality, the clerics of atheism began a new atheistic movement, dubbed unoriginally as “New Atheism.” Targeting not just the illogicality of religion, but taking a much nastier turn than the live and let live of old, new atheism pompously touts itself as the only kid on the block. Men such as Richard Dawkins (the scientist, not to be confused with Newkirk on Hogan’s Heroes), Christopher Hitchens, and Sam Harris do battle with the likes of Ravi Zacharias and Alister McGrath, and William Lane Craig, three of the brightest minds in Christian Apologetics.
McGrath’s Book, Why God Won’t Go Away, answers these critics from New Atheism and delivers a resounding blow to an anti-religion fad that is on its way to the junk piles of philosophies. The book would be suitable for someone that is above average in the knowledge of apologetics, but it is really designed for the individual with an even higher understanding than that. Not recommended as casual reading or for the causal theologian…unless you’re suffering from insomnia. But for the pastor or serious Bible student, this would come as highly recommended.
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Review 6 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Scholarly Book on the New Atheism
Date:August 25, 2011
ruthhill74
Location:Yelm, WA
Age:35-44
Gender:female
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
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Meets Expectations:
5
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5
When I began this book, I had not even heard of the "new atheist" movement. I knew what an atheist was, but I was not aware of the new direction it had taken. I was amazed with how brazen this movement had become and how hostile to religion it is. I am only familiar with tolerant atheists, and this book showed me that new atheism has gone far beyond that. It is kind of funny that new atheism, in a way, has become a religion or a church group in itself. The very thing they are fighting against is what they have become. Which is why new atheism is not the tour de force it once was.
My favorite section of the book was the section that dealt with science. I really did a lot of thinking about science's role in our everyday lives here on earth. Science answers questions like: How did we get here? and the like. What science does not answer is: Why are we here? I think that when the author pointed out that not everything can be answered by reason, he really struck a chord with me.
I appreciated the way in which the author wrote. His style is academic but quite understandable. I suppose that if you are not a theology student, you might struggle to understand some of what he says, but thankfully he deals with the topic in a simple and abbreviated way. His sense of humor often came out at just the right time, which was a nice change. Some theologians don't understand what humor is.
I would recommend this book to anyone who may be dealing with an atheist--new or not. This is one I plan to keep in my library for a long time to come!
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
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Review 7 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
An Interesting Exposure Of The New Atheism
Date:August 23, 2011
serenecsl
Age:18-24
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
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Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Atheism is not something new, but the New Atheism is something that has been on the rise in recent years. McGrath's book gives a clear background on the New Atheism movement. A very informative, thought-provoking read. The New Atheism, as I learnt from this book is not the typical disbelief in God that atheism holds. It goes far beyond disbelief to mockery of God and religion in general. It treats religion as if it were some disease that one needs to get rid of. A New Atheist views religion as the main problem in the world today. Simply put, all religion is evil. As scary and negative as it sounds, McGrath exposes the nature of the New Atheism and the cause they believe in.
But he doesn't stop there. In well-categorized sections, he explores the different themes related to the New Atheism and argues agaisnt the invalidity of their arguments. For those who have The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins, this book also has a few counter-arguments against Dawkins' ideas that are convincing. You always need both sides of the story. However, he does not get personal and uses alot of other references to back up his views as well.
I was expecting a strong defence of Christianity in particular since McGrath is so well-versed in Christian theology as written in his book of the same title. But the main purpose of this book is to really expose people to the New Atheism. In that case, it has served its purpose well. Kudos to McGrath who once again, writes in such a compelling way. I have much respect for the way he structures his arguments. Although his views are mostly countering that of New Atheism, he does not publicly put anyone down. What a contrast to the New Atheism writers who have attached many leading advocates of religion. My favourite sections were the ones on reason and science being inadequate to answer all of life's questions. I also personally loved the ending of the book. One will only understand when one reads.
If you're interested in knowing about the New Atheism, this is the book to read. Even if you're not, the book still does good in reminding us that religion will simply not fade despite there being many who do not believe. For us believers, we can rest assure, that God will not go away.
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Review 8 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
The Christian answer to atheism
Date:August 19, 2011
Darlene
Location:Las Vegas, NV
Age:45-54
Gender:female
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
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Meets Expectations:
4
out of
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I received a complimentary copy of " Why God Won't Go Away" by Alister McGrath from Thomas Nelson Publishing Co for review purposes.
The author, Alister McGrath has written a timely book on the movement he calls " New Atheism". It is a discussion and written response to a movement that came about after the events of 9-11. There was a return to religious faith at that time and the atheist writers rose up to declare God had no place in American life. This book asks the pointed questions about the nature of atheism, its' movement into societal thoughts and culture. McGrath writes about several specific authors, Sam Harris, Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett and Christopher Hitchens, their published works and their inability to dialogue with anyone of faith without animosity.
I think that a book of this cultural necessity is useful to believers today. Cultural norms are moving away from the faith of our fathers into the realm of secular intellectual discussion. This book gives Christians, and any other religious group the means to understand the atheist movement and at least attempt a knowledgeable dialogue.
I recommend this book to pastors and Christian educators. It is a useful reference when confronted with the atheism that is increasingly prevalent in our society today.
I think that a book of this cultural necessity is useful to believers today. Cultural norms are moving away from the faith of our fathers into the realm of secular intellectual discussion. This book gives Christians, and any other religious group the means to understand the atheist movement and at least attempt a knowledgeable dialogue.
I recommend this book to pastors and Christian educators. It is a useful reference when confronted with the atheism that is increasingly prevalent in our society today.
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Review 9 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Why God Won't Go Away – Allister McGrath
Date:August 18, 2011
K.I.
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
5
Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
Any title with „God“ in it catches my eyes, so did „Why God Won't Go Away“ by Allister McGrath. Having heard a lot about the discussion about the New Atheism on the news – mostly in connection with Richard Dawkins' book „The God Delusion“ - I wanted to know what somebody on the other side, a well known historian and theologian, had to say about the New Atheism. And I wasn't disappointed at all. Examples of things McGrath talks about in his book: Who are the New Atheists? In what do their ideas differ from the ideas of other Atheists? Who are the main proponents of the New Atheist movement? Why do people believe? Is it rational to believe? McGrath presents his findings in a very coherent way, listens to the arguments of the proponents of the New Atheism, but is not afraid to pinpoint contradictions in their arguments. I especially like what Joni Eareckson Tada says about the book “ (…) This book is for serious thinkers who wish to make God real in a world that has forgotten its Creator and Maker (…)”. The book is easy to understand, but still not a book you're going to read between diaper changes, more like a book you're going to read when your husband goes for a walk with the little ones, the house is quiet and you have time to think and maybe read one or the other paragraph twice. All in all an excellent book I am very happy to have read!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
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Review 10 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
A History of the Atheist Movement from A Scientist
Date:August 15, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
out of
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Meets Expectations:
4
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5
In Alistair McGrath’s Why God Won’t Go Away, McGrath examines the current arguments of the “New Atheist” movement. McGrath gives a thorough history of the “New Atheist” movement, including background of the “Four Horsemen.” McGrath explains the key/defining works of the NA movement and how these works have contributed to the NA’s popularity today. McGrath does a phenomenal job of critiquing the Four Horsemen from the perspective of science. McGrath, a biology professor from Oxford, does a phenomenal job at critiquing these men on their own terms. McGrath also does a great job at showing how Christianity is a rational worldview, one that should be taken seriously. I appreciated his arguments, but wish he would have taken more advantage arguments from men such as Alvin Plantiga and his “Warrant of Belief,” or Van Til’s “Presuppositional Apologetics.” I think both arguments demonstrate quite well the rationality of Christianity. I am thankful for McGrath’s work and realize that he probably did not go into these positions because of the audience he was writing for and also for the sake of brevity. I think McGrath fulfilled his purpose in by enlightening those who may think that Christianity is silent or has no response to this new movement. I am also thankful and glad that a simple book has been written on this subject. The new atheist movement has become popular, because their books are written on this level. These authors are writing on a popular level, as if they are atheist evangelists. These new atheist are writing on a simple/pop-culture level. There are many great apologetic works which have great arguments against them, but they are generally written on a scholastic level. McGrath does a great job at bridging the gap between the lay person and logical arguments against the NA movement with this work. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in being versed in the modern atheist movements. I also think that this should be a must read for any pastor. Even if you are not interested in apologetics as a pastor, you should at least be acquainted with these men’s works and what they say for the sake of your congregants.
~The Reformed Reader~
~The Reformed Reader~
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Review 11 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
An excellent overview of the "New Atheism"
Date:August 11, 2011
robibrad
Location:London, England
Age:45-54
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
out of
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Meets Expectations:
4
out of
5
This book provides an overview and assessment of the “New Atheism” promoted by Sam Harris, Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett and Christopher Hitchens. After introducing its origins in the wake of the 9/11 attacks and the movement's major proponents, McGrath moves on to examine its claims and attraction. Part 2 focuses attention on the New Atheism’s three core themes and demonstrates how the movement fails to deal adequately with historical, philosophical and scientific challenges to its assertions. Finally, the author sums up the present state of the New Atheism which, and concludes that while it still continues to have some popular support (particularly on the Web), its intellectual drive seems to have run out of steam.
I found this a very helpful introduction to a movement of which I was before only dimly aware. McGrath applies his broad knowledge of history, science, theology and philosophy to test the claims of the New Atheism. Again and again the movement is demonstrated to be nothing more than hot air; an elitist group increasingly unpopular even amongst atheists. The movement has some appeal at the Sixth form debate level and excels at ridiculing religion, but has little or nothing new of substance to offer.
The one minor grumble I had with the book was on pages 67-68 where McGrath approvingly quotes Professor Robert Pape’s findings in order to demonstrate that the 9/11 attacks (and all other suicide attacks) were political rather religious in motivation. This really does not pass muster as in Islam it is not possible to separate religion and politics into two separate sources of motivation. The 9/11 attacks were therefore motivated by both religion and politics. This undermines McGrath’s argument somewhat at this point.
Apart from this one point I found Why God Won’t Go Away a helpful and enjoyable read and recommend to anyone engaging with the New Atheism, or studying the influence on the Internet on religious thought.
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Review 12 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
A timely, intelligent, & valuable tool for ...
Date:August 9, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
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Value:
5
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Meets Expectations:
5
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Probably every Christian has heard of atheism and likely has some basic idea of what it is.
But are you familiar with the New Atheism?
Are you aware this newer strain of atheism is so strident in its message one of its leading proponents teaches that some ideas are so evil those who hold them should be put to death simply for thinking them? And the evil ideas this person is referring to is belief in God?
In "Why God Won't Go Away" (published by Thomas Nelson) Christian apologist, theologian, and scholar Alister McGrath does a brilliant job of equipping his readers with a thorough understanding of New Atheism.
As classic atheism found itself tired and losing traction, leading atheist thinkers used the tragedy of 9/11 and the plight of terrorism to launch a new barrage of arguments about the evils of religion.
McGrath does a masterful job of explaining how four "celebrity" atheists were primarily responsible for giving birth to this new movement, thoroughly examines its three core themes, highlights its sharper irrational fundamentalism as compared to classic atheism, and brings us to the present position New Atheism now faces.
Although the author takes his readers into the intellectual and philosophical arguments used by the world's greatest New Atheism thinkers, McGrath writes in an easy-to-follow style that is understandable even for those whose eyes tend to glaze over when confronted with the maze of philosophical debate.
Finally, McGrath reveals the frustration these New Atheism leaders face when, in spite of their best efforts, God simply won't go away. McGrath writes, "God can no more be eliminated from human life than our yearning for justice or our deep desire to make this world a better place." But if these New Atheism leaders could have their way, both God and those who believe in Him, would be eliminated.
"Why God Won't Go Away" is a timely, intelligent, and valuable tool for equipping Christians that every believer would benefit from reading and having on a shelf as a resource.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Review 13 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
An excellent counter to New Atheism
Date:July 31, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
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Meets Expectations:
5
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In "Why God Won’t Go Away", historian, theologian, and scholar Alister McGrath confronts the New atheism movement. Displaying a broad knowledge of the topic, he shows how the movement started, what the beliefs of New Atheism involve, and where the movement is now. Beginning with an introduction to the “heroes” of New Atheism, McGrath discusses the important works of the men who have been dubbed “The Four Horsemen”: Sam Harris, Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett, and Christopher Hitchens. From there we see that New Atheism is more Anti-theism than atheism. Where most atheists simply don’t think about God or religion and are indifferent to it, the New Atheists hold a strong hatred for God, religion, and all believers. Religion should be eradicated and believers are superstitious idiots.
McGrath takes us through the movement’s highs and lows and concludes with a few thoughts on the future of the movement. It’s clear that McGrath has more than done his homework on this topic, reading and even debating the works of those mentioned above. As a former atheist himself, he can look at the New Atheist movement from that perspective as well as the Christian perspective. He highlights the problems with the logic of the movement, especially regarding the notion that all religion is the cause of all violence, pointing out that in many arguments, these New Atheists only stick to one side of the story, never pointing out the good that has come from religion or the violence that occurs outside of religion. The most compelling criticism comes from the atheist sector. These “indifferent” Atheists feel that this New Atheism will give all atheists a bad name and believe that these New Atheists are conceited and do not hold to facts. As quoted in the book, one New Atheist wrote about Christians after the Richard Dawkins – John Lennox debate: “I’m beginning to believe the best we can do is to just shout at them, ‘You’re stupid, you’re idiots, you’re morons!!’ It is probably as effective as using reason and logic.” The reason for this response? It was clear to most, including many New Atheists, that Dawkins had lost the debate… and Lennox had used reason and logic to defend Christianity.
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Review 14 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
The New Atheism Delusion
Date:July 31, 2011
John Brand
Location:Lanark, Scotland
Age:55-65
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
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Meets Expectations:
5
out of
5
What I like about Alister McGrath is that while he has a brain the size of the proverbial planet he still speaks English and has an ability to communicate and explain the most complex ideas in language that is understood by those of us with smaller brains. Mere mortals like me would feel completely out of our depth engaging intellectually with the likes of Richard Dawkins, even when every instinct persuades us that he’s wrong, so it’s good that we have someone like McGrath who can take them on as intellectual equals and has frequently done so in public debate.
In Why God Won’t Go Away McGrath provides a very accessible introduction to the New Atheists and exposes the intellectual and moral bankruptcy of their position. In his opening two chapters he introduces us to this latest manifestation of atheism and its main protagonists, namely Sam Harris, Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett and Christopher Hitchens, aka ‘The Four Horsemen’. McGrath shows that New Atheism is actually defined by what it’s against rather than what it’s for, quoting from their writings, including the most “entertaining” of them, Hitchens, who sums his position as “I am not even an atheist so much as I am an antitheist.” McGrath exposes New Atheism as being characterised by its vitriolic attacks on religion and faith while ignoring research and evidence that doesn’t comfortably fit with its own beliefs. He depicts them, without being vitriolic himself, as arrogant and prejudiced rather than rational and respectful of other views. He is also careful to make a distinction between reputable, scholarly and thoughtful atheists who respect other views while differing from them, and are themselves very critical of the tenets professed by Dawkins and the other ‘horsemen’.
In each of the next three chapters, McGrath examines three core themes of New Atheism and undermines the foundations on which they are founded. The first of these is violence. New Atheism views religious belief as inherently evil which poisons societies, causing war and violence. However, as McGrath points out, they conveniently ignore that more wars have been started and more lives lost in the cause of ideology and politics than in the name of any religion. Admitting that “bad religion” has often been at heart of troubles, he reasons that “any worldview based on an exclusivist metanarrative (a controlling story) has the potential to provoke hostility.”
The second core theme is reason, and yet McGrath competently shows how irrational and devoid of reason many of the New Atheist’s arguments are. Irrationally they fail to accept the limitations of reason and the fact that most things in the world cannot be proved by reason or science. New Atheists seek to blame God as the “hidden force” for atrocities like Auschwitz and 9/11 while maintaining that God does not actually exist and is a delusion.
The third core theme is science and here the New Atheists’ problem becomes acute because they dismiss any expression of faith as an avoidance of facts and claim that science has all the answers and can prove anything that needs proving, thereby flying in the face of all the evidence and history of scientific research which openly admits its limitations and accepts that there are many things that science cannot explain and questions for which it has no answers.
McGrath is never offensive or objectionable as he shows the emptiness and of those whose false views he wants to expose, showing a grace largely absent from their writings and voices. If like me, these names and views were ‘out there’ and you were aware of them but not sure how to make sense of them, let McGrath be your reliable and very readable guide and you will soon discover that in reality there is nothing here that is a serious threat to the revealed truth of the Christian faith.
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Review 15 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Well-Argued, Cleverly Written
Date:July 30, 2011
GrowinginHisGlory
Location:Murfreesboro, TN
Age:25-34
Gender:female
Quality:
5
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Value:
5
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Meets Expectations:
5
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Alister McGrath’s latest book Why God Won't Go Away provides a brief but comprehensive look at the movement known as New Atheism and its leading figures: Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, Daniel Dennett, and Sam Harris. According to McGrath, not only does New Atheism assert that there is no God, but it blames religion for the violence, oppression, and social divisions in the world, claiming that religion is at fault for events like 9/11. Those who profess a belief in God are looked upon as “ignorant” and “lacking reason” and are “worthy of contempt.” Rationality and science are the authorities New Atheism relies upon to support and justify these claims, but, as McGrath points out, there are limitations to both that New Atheism fails to acknowledge or address. Ironically, in their zeal to eliminate religion, this contemporary movement has metamorphosed into a fundamentalist group not so unlike those it has set out to destroy. After delineating and debunking each of New Atheism’s tenets and revealing serious flaws in its logic, McGrath asserts that the movement’s future is fading fast as God simply won’t go.
Before reading this book, I had never heard of New Atheism or any of its figureheads, and my knowledge of atheism itself was very limited. That is part of the reason I chose to read this book. As a Christian parent, I believe I have a responsibility to stay informed about any potential threats to my faith in order to defend it at all costs. McGrath’s book provides a wealth of information that will help the Christian defend his or her faith against atheists, “New” and old. As a former atheist-turned-Christian, McGrath himself knows the arguments on both sides of the table and presents his thoroughly researched evidence in a clear, concise manner with a witty writing style that renders the somewhat dry subject matter more palatable. Why God Won’t Go Away is a must-read for all Christians who intend to defend their faith in God to those who refuse to see Him.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
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Review 16 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Why He Won't Go Away
Date:July 26, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
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Meets Expectations:
5
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"New Atheism" was a foreign term to me. This term refers to those who advocate atheism and condemn religious beliefs and cultural respect for religion. (pg. 4) Former atheist, Alister McGrath traces the trajectory of New Atheism in this his latest work, Why God Won't Go Away: Is the New Atheism Running on Empty?
The book is divided into three sections. In the first section, Alister outlines the perspectives the four "representatives" of New Atheism offer in the books they published in recent years: Sam Harris with The End of Faith (2004), Richard Dawkins with The God Delusion (2006), Daniel Dennett with Breaking the Spell (2006) and Christopher Hitchens with God is Not Great (2007). As I have no desire to read books produced by atheists, I found this book quite insightful. McGrath explains how the blogosphere has been a huge factor in perpetuating the spread of New Atheistic ideas. Blogs and forums provide some semblance of anonymity therefore the vitriol, prejudice and hate can be rampant. This is precisely what the New Atheists claim to hate in those who cling to religion.
In part two, Alister focuses on the three core themes of violence, reason and science. He reveals the myriad of flaws found in the New Atheistic position. "The New Atheism, in scapegoating God for the rational and moral failings of human beings, is hoping that nobody will notice the blatant incoherence in its own worldview. Everything that's wrong with the world, it assures us, can be blamed on God. But if God is an invention, a fictional character, then the blame has to be laid firmly and squarely at the door of God's human creators." (pg. 91-92) For the atheists, science and reason becomes their god. Who needs God or religion, they argue. McGrath notes efforts to quell religion have failed miserably. Where true Christians have been persecuted, even martyred, faith as blossomed. How can this be?
In part three, McGrath asks "Where does the New Atheism go from here?" He notes the downward spiral of the New Atheism. "Atheist blogs now regularly feature agonized reflections on the failure of the movement to gain the intellectual high ground." (pg. 136) September 30, 2009 was declared to the the first ever "Blasphemy Day" by the Center for Inquiry This was a day set aside to "insult religions and religious people." (pg. 138) It sounds like a day to insult God. The question these atheists need to ponder is not "What do you think of God?" but rather "What does God think of you?"
Toward the end of the book, McGrath notes how "God can no more be eliminated from human life than our yearning for justice or our deep desire to makes this world a better place." Well, I'm afraid making the world a better place is not on the forefront of everyone's mind. He goes on to share an excellent quote by Augustine: "You have made us for yourself, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in you." (pg. 145)
Disclaimer: Thomas Nelson Publishers provided a complimentary copy of this book to me. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
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Review 17 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
He who speaks the loudest...
Date:July 19, 2011
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
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Meets Expectations:
5
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Saying something loud or online or smugly or even in an eloquent way doesn’t make it true. Thank goodness, or the New Atheists would be right! This militant brand of atheist, evangelizing against God on the basis of some specious research, spends a lot of time hating on Christians, but they don’t really offer an alternate view that is entirely plausible. In this book, Alister McGrath examines, point by point how the New Atheists religion got started, what its key beliefs are, and why their positions are unsustainable.
In an era where cyber bullying is out of vogue, it would seem that New Atheists haven’t gotten the message. If you ever read a Christian article from USA Today, for example, there will inevitably be a myriad of anti-Christian rhetoric posted as comments from these self-titled ‘Brights’. I have actually made it a point not to read the comments for any article that mentions Christians in a positive way, since the vitriol and vulgarity in many of these posts makes me sick to my stomach.
Until I read McGrath’s book, though, I would have thought that the views espoused by these were common to all atheists. Ironic, isn’t it that fundamentalist atheist are giving moderate atheists a bad name? In fact, many atheists are distancing themselves from the vocal and brash atheism that is quick to lash out at anyone that disagrees with them.
McGrath does a great job of identifying the New Atheist doctrine, and putting its claims in perspective one by one. Sometimes, today, it feels as though the New Atheists are taking over. They aren’t – they are just louder. I heard somewhere recently that “Satan shouts, God whispers.” In the case of the New Atheists, there is no doubt that is the case.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
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Review 18 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Very interesting book
Date:July 19, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
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Meets Expectations:
5
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I wanted to read “Why God Won’t Go Away” by Alister McGrath because I have a strong interest in Christian apologetics, and I found the book to be very interesting. McGrath is a very intelligent, well-informed writer and is certainly a Christian expert on the atheist movements.
The title of this book is a little misleading. McGrath spends much of the book summarizing the New Atheist movement and clarifying how it differs from more moderate thinking atheism. He details the ideas of 4 prominent proponents of New Atheism (Dawkins, Dennett, Harris, and Hitchens), giving good examples and evidence of the problems in their arguments.
McGrath’s strongest point, I believe, is that the New Atheists see religion as evil and something that needs to be eradicated, spending a large amount of their time, energy, and writings on what they are AGAINST (religion) instead of what they are FOR.
McGrath does a great job of using intellect and reason to refute a movement that claims to be based on intellect and reason. There were certainly times that my brain hurt while reading, but it was a very interesting book. I would recommend it to anyone with an interest in apologetics or how the atheist culture treats religion.
This book was provided for free to me by BookSneeze.com in exchange for this objective book review.
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Review 19 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Interesting
Date:July 19, 2011
Quality:
4
out of
5
Value:
4
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Meets Expectations:
4
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Alister McGrath sets out to critique the New Atheist movement as presented by the "Four Horsemen", the authors that have set the movement going: Sam Harris, Daniel C. Dennett, Richard Dawkins, and Christopher Hitchens. McGrath first assesses each author and their primary works then turns his attention the the movement as a whole addressing it's foundations with gusto.
While I confess I have not been previously acquainted with New Atheism so I cannot vouch for the accuracy in all of McGrath's argument he makes a show that the movement is dying something of an apathetic death. He makes a very good job out of turning their own arguments against themselves. It's full of lots of interesting discussion that looks well researched. All in all. I feel enlightened to the movement but I wonder if it is as relevant as it has been in the past.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Review 20 for Why God Won't Go Away
Overall Rating:
Great Overview of New Atheism
Date:July 16, 2011
IntelMin
Location:Belleville, IL
Age:35-44
Gender:male
Quality:
5
out of
5
Value:
5
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Meets Expectations:
4
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5
Alister McGrath provides a brief yet well researched overview of New Atheism. McGrath divides his text into three main sections where he discusses the development of the New Atheistic ideal, how to effectively engage those who adhere to such a belief, and where McGrath believes the agenda of New Atheism is headed. I must note this book is not an apologetic for Christianity; conversely, it is a discussion of New Atheism, its agenda, and how to address this movement. With that said, McGrath nevertheless uses biblical truth as his foundational premise for interacting with the dangerous New Atheistic viewpoint.
McGrath has extensively debated supporters of New Atheism such as Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens and his experience dealing with New Atheism can clearly be observed throughout the text. This book is well written providing the reader with a understandable summary that should prove enlightening to both scholar and layman alike. Moreover, McGrath’s engaging writing style is scholarly yet approachable, a quality often missing from works on this topic. This book is replete with valuable information yet does not get bogged down with over argumentation or extensive interludes into philosophical discussions.
While arguably not as an extensive work on the subject as provided by others such as Ravi Zacharias or William Lane Craig, McGrath nevertheless extensively engages the subject matter with a deft, logical, reasoned approach thoroughly demolishing the arguments against biblical truth by those who seek to push New Atheism. Ultimately, McGrath proves quite clearly that despite repeated attempts throughout history to shut God out of society, God Won’t Go Away! I highly recommend this book as it provided me with a number of solid arguments to utilize in further discussions with those who have been duped into believing Biblical faith is irrational.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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