Books: Philosophy
The Atheist Afterlife describes an afterlife that requires nothing more than physics, and supports the probability of an afterlife with an original and testable support for dualism - the proposition that our mind and body are separate. 'The odds of an afterlife: Reasonable. The odds of meeting God there: Nil.'
Billed as an 'Essential Study Guide' - and it is. This book should be a mandatory text for all philosophy students, because without it, many students - especially external students - would not fully appreciate what is required of them. Warburton describes how best to read, listen to, discuss and write philosophy.
One of the best short introductions to the subjects and activities of philosophy. A clear exposition of the basics, covering a wide range of subject matter with the exception of logic. Warburton is not only a clear thinker, he's a good writer, making this one of the most accessible and enjoyable texts around.
Stephen Law presents twenty-five 'adventures in thinking' based on philosophy's major areas of thought and consternation. Presented in a variety of ways that engage and help understanding, but often consisting of a dialogue between opposing views. You may still have to read the dry texts but this is philosophy as it should be.
Books: Thinking
Subtitled 'A Guide to Clear Thinking', this easy to read, insightful and humorous book provides the tools needed to spot bogus reasoning. There are many books on sound argument, but none are as accessible, practical or valuable as this. Highly recommended. Who says philosophy can't be entertaining?
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Books: Logic
As readable as 'Bad Thoughts' but more focused on the mechanics of logic. Logic can be a very difficult subject, but not on the hands of McInnerny. This superb introduction to the topic should be a mandatory text. Of great benefit to students, journalists, writers, debaters and public speakers.
Books: Atheism
A penetrating, comprehensive, and thought-provoking case for atheism. Dawkins states the case for non-belief with authority, exploring why belief in God is a delusion and why this delusion has taken hold. Dawkins has the wonderful combination of a fine mind and a warm personality. A wake-up call and a delight.
Many atheists dismiss the concept of an afterlife as a religious notion, but the concept should be examined on its own merit. A philosopher and secular humanist describes a non-religious afterlife that requires only physics. The argument is supported by an original and testable support for mind-body dualism. 'The God of the Gaps' just disappeared completely!
Few can argue the atheist case like Harris. The clarity of observations such as 'Religious moderation is the product of secular knowledge and scriptural ignorance' make this work an important part of any freethinking library. Harris also argues for the rational exploration - rather than dismissal - of altered or 'spiritual' states of consciousness.
Books: Science
One of the reasons that theism flourishes is because life on earth seems so improbable. A clear understanding of evolution is invaluable, perhaps necessary, to understanding the atheist perspective. Climbing Mount Improbable delivers the essence of evolution to the general reader. Wonderful.
The science of the sun elegantly explained by an expert in solar physics. Beginning with an overview of the sun's structure and a history of how we know what we know about the sun, Zirker proceeds to describe the truly astonishing processes at work at the core of our solar system.
Books: Religion
The dark side of Christianity is about as dark as you can get. The Crusades, the Inquisition, the Witch Trials; the Church has a diabolical history that we should all be aware of. Ellerbe keeps her emotions in check to deliver a well researched, fascinating and shocking book that is hard to put down.
Books: Humanism
Paul Kurtz, founder and chairman of the Center for Inquiry, explains and analyses secular humanism. A great exposition of the Humanist point of view. Kurtz argues that secular humanists are in the best position to make the decisions to advance humanity and make the world a better place.
Podcasts
Philosophy Bites presents interviews with top philosophers about a wide range of philosophical issues. Hosted by David Edmonds and Nigel Warburton. Wonderful food for the mind. Subscribe to this excellent podcast.
The Philosopher's Zone is a weekly podcast hosted by Alan Saunders from Radio National for the Australian Broadcasting Commission. As well as looking at the world of philosophy, The Philosopher's Zone looks at the world through philosophy. A high quality resource.
Point of Inquiry is the premiere podcast of the Center for Inquiry, drawing on CFI's relationship with the leading minds of the day. Each episode combines interviews, features and commentary focusing on CFI’s issues: religion, human values, and the borderlands of science.