Over at Beliefnet.com noted conservative political blogger Andrew Sullivan and committed Athiest Sam Harris are engaging in an interesting blogalogue dealing with God, faith, and fundamentalism. Harris is the author of The End of Faith and believes that all religion, not just its fundamentalist fringe, ultimately leads to violence and destruction. Sullivan, as a mainstream Roman Catholic, provides a counter-argument suggesting that despite its radical fringe, religious belief actually is more helpful and hopeful for the human condition than lack of belief. I've definitely over simplified the context and content, but the extensive blogalogue itself is most illuminating, regardless of one's own beliefs on the matter. Both get rather technical in their defenses, and their is a sense that since both already have a pretty firm pre-supposition regarding their viewpoint, any attempt at persuasion is futile. However, for those curious regarding two distinct worldviews examining each other in a less hostile environment, I encourage taking the time to take a look. I, of course, agree with most of what Sullivan says, especially the linking of faith and reason as wholly compatible, which Harris has a tendency to dismiss. However, Harris does bring up some compelling and important issues, especially regarding the role of fundamentalism in any religion that should not be ignored. Again, click here to read through the debate.
Enjoy!
MM
No comments:
Post a Comment