Is Religion Dangerous?

by Keith Ward

Overview

Holy wars, crusades, discrimination, hate these by-products of religion are all many contemporary commentators can see. But is religion dangerous? Is it a force for evil, something to oppose as a corrupt system that leads to terrorism and violence? Is it something to disdain as irrational and out of step with modern society? Keith Ward here addresses these concerns intelligently and insightfully. Looking at the evidence from history, philosophy, sociology, and psychology, he focuses on the main question at issue: does religion do more harm than good? He begins with a clear definition of what religion actually is, examining the key area of religion and violence. Ward goes on to assess the allegations of irrationality and immorality before finally exploring the good religion has engendered over the centuries. Without religion, the human race would be considerably worse off with little hope for the future. In fact, he argues, religion is the best rational basis for morality. Thought-provoking and powerful, Is Religion Dangerous? is essential reading for anyone interested in the confluence of truth, freedom, and justice.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780802845085
Publisher:	Eerdmans, William B. Publishing Company
Publication date:	03/28/2007
Pages:	206
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

Keith Ward is a fellow of the British Academy and Professional ResearchFellow at Heythrop College, London. He was formerly Professor of Religion at King's College, London, Regius Professor of Divinity at Oxford, and a member of the Council of the Royal Institute of Philosophy. He is also a well-known broadcaster and author of over twenty books, including More than Matter? and Is Religion Irrational?

Table of Contents

Contents
Introduction: What is religion? 6
Part One: Religion and violence 23
1. The causes of violence 25
2. The corruptibility of all things human 43
3. Religion and war 58
Part Two: Are religious beliefs irrational? 89
4. Faith and reason 91
5. Religion explained away 106
6. Life after death 122
Part Three: Are religious beliefs immoral? 131
7. Morality and the Bible 133
8. Morality and faith 153
9. The Enlightenment, liberal thought and religion 166
Part Four: Does religion do more harm than good? 181
10. Does religion do more harm than good in personal life? 183
11. What good has religion done? 210
Notes 234
Index 236
Introduction: