Journal Entry 1 by flambard from Horsham, West Sussex United Kingdom on Saturday, March 29, 2008

One of the most thought-provoking and provocative books that one is likely to read - it is an attack on the fundamental principles held by many. It is impeccably argued, and a wake-up call to the idea that private beliefs are just that and best to be left as such.

Harris's key arguement is that the best way to stop fundamentalists is to undermine all religion, not just that of the fundamentalists. He shows how the liberal concensus of "religious tolerance" allows fundamentalism to flourish because it creates a climate where even abhorrent beliefs go unchallenged. Harris argues that it is not the political causes of terrorism we should fight, but rather the absurdity of faith that makes acts like suicide bombing possible.

Harris doesn't mince his words. The book is filled with memorable prose , which depending on your point of view you'll either find inspiring or apalling. As rants go this is certainly highly articulate and very well-argued, even though at times sledge-hammers and nuts came to mind. But what a hard nut to crack!

Harris pours scorn equally on Islam and Christianity, listing some of the ridiculous "beliefs" to be found in their "holy" books. Judaism gets off more lightly, a bit of a fault with the book admittedly, and he clearly has more sympathy for Israel than its neighbours. Eastern religions such as Buddhism excape virually unscathed (which they shouldn't have done).

There are obviously flaws in the book, but these do not detract from the main message, and to be honest his Letter To A Christian Nation is better. 

Journal Entry 2 by flambard at Horsham, West Sussex United Kingdom on Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Released 3 yrs ago (10/14/2008 UTC) at Horsham, West Sussex United Kingdom

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Book swap! 

Journal Entry 3 by cats-eye from Bishop Auckland, County Durham United Kingdom on Thursday, October 23, 2008

Arrived safely several days ago and I thought I'd logged it - sorry! I'm looking forward to finding the time to enjoy this one. I read Letters to a Christian Nation and found it very provocative and inspiring, so am keen to see what else Mr Harris has in store! Flambard, thank you for this wish-list book (plus the bonus Dawkins!) and Edgar Mint will be in the post on Saturday morning to you - he was buried under Mt TBR and will be very relieved to have a chance to be read :-)