Giving the Devil his Due

In this book, Michael Shermer presents a full-throated defense of free speech and open inquiry, tackling themes such as free thought and free speech, politics and society, scientific humanism, religion, and the ideas of controversial intellectuals.

Shermer argues that the freedom to express dissenting views is crucial for democracy and knowledge, emphasizing that the right to speak is inextricably tied to one's own safety and freedom.

The book includes essays on various topics, including the importance of listening to opposing viewpoints, the dangers of censorship, and the role of free speech in testing ideas and promoting better science and reasoning.