This is really a book about science and philosophy, not faith. In it, author Charles Siegel begins by identifying himself as a skeptic. He then compares materialism -- the belief that only matter exists, and the conscious mind is just a byproduct of the brain, to dualism -- the belief that mind and body are separate. To do this he examines and criticizes a number of the "new atheists", including Steven Hitchens, Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett and others. He also includes a chapter about near-death experiences. His conclusion is that dualism is more plausible, and that it is possible to accept dualism and also be religious.
He points out that many proponents of atheistic philosophies are just as dogmatic as religious fundamentalists. They also start with certain tenets that they believe without questioning. I can certainly agree on these points. However, Mr. Siegel seems blind to his own set of doctrines -- evolution and natural selection. He seems blind to anything that contradicts these theories.
I found much of his reasoning tedious, circular and repetitive. There was no clear summary, and no statement of what Mr. Siegel believes. He simply says he is a person who cannot believe something without some reason to think that it is true. What would that reason be? I still don't know.
VERDICT: 1 STAR. Not an easy read. If you are interested in the philosophical viewpoints of the new atheists, you may get something out of it.
I received a free e-copy of this book in return for a fair and honest review.
For more book reviews see these posts:
The Complete Works of John Owen, Vol 8, The Trinity — Book Review
awakening the quieter virtues by Gregory Spencer — Book Review
Tell Me the Dream Again by Tasha Jun — Book Review
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