Be it Resolved: Religion is a Force for Good in the World
Mar 27, 2025
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Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, a convert to Catholicism, squares off against the late Christopher Hitchens, a renowned atheist and author. They delve into whether religion is inherently good, tackling its dual role in society—spurring charitable actions while facing criticism for its historical drawbacks. The discussion navigates the complexity of interpreting religious texts and highlights the essence of faith beyond mere doctrine. Ultimately, they explore the necessity of dialogue between believers and non-believers for moral progress.
Christopher Hitchens argues that religion fosters negative attitudes and can manipulate individuals through guilt and fear, hindering critical thought.
Tony Blair asserts that, despite its flaws, religion inspires charitable work and moral responsibility, contributing positively to society's well-being.
Deep dives
The Debate on Religion's Impact
The podcast features a classic debate centered on the motion that religion is a force for good in the world. Christopher Hitchens argues against this motion, asserting that organized religion often leads to individuals committing unkind acts and espousing illogical beliefs. He presents several critical views, including that religion can cultivate guilt and shame and perpetuate negative attitudes toward women and sexual health. In contrast, Tony Blair contends that while religion can lead to evil acts, it also inspires a significant amount of charitable work and compassion, demonstrating that the essence of faith can drive people to do great good.
Contrasting Perspectives: Hitchens vs. Blair
Christopher Hitchens emphasizes the destructive aspects of religion, arguing that it often enforces a celestial dictatorship that manipulates human behavior through fear and inaccuracies about existence. He cites examples where religion has obstructed critical thinking, such as the teaching of abstaining from condoms in Africa amid the AIDS crisis. On the other hand, Tony Blair addresses the positive contributions of faith-based organizations, noting their role in providing healthcare in Africa and their support for disadvantaged populations, thereby arguing that the moral framework provided by faith can lead society to greater compassion.
The Role of Charity and Faith
Hitchens argues that charitable acts performed by religious organizations often serve ulterior motives such as proselytization, degrading the true essence of altruism. He advocates for secular organizations that provide aid solely for the benefit of others, devoid of religious undertones. In response, Blair points out that many individuals acting from their religious beliefs have played crucial roles in combating poverty and disease, suggesting that faith can be a powerful motivator for good. He highlights examples such as the cancellation of debt campaigns that benefitted educational initiatives for young girls, illustrating how positive change can emerge from religious engagement.
Contemplating the Future of Faith
The concluding arguments reveal a striking contrast in the views of both debaters regarding the future role of religion in society. Hitchens argues for a greater embrace of secularism, asserting that reliance on divine claims limits intellectual freedom and moral reasoning. Conversely, Blair acknowledges the imperfections within religious institutions but posits that faith continues to provide a necessary spiritual and moral framework in an often chaotic world. Both debaters agree on the need for open dialogue between the faithful and the secular, highlighting that the moral actions stemming from faith can promote coexistence despite the historical challenges posed by religious conflict.
This week we are airing a special edition of the Munk Debates Podcast—a rebroadcast of a classic debate that launched our series on the world stage. Former Prime Minister Tony Blair and the late Christopher Hitchens - an avowed atheist - debating the motion Be it resolved, religion is a force for good in the world.
To support civil and substantive debate on the big questions of the day, consider becoming a Munk Member at https://munkdebates.com/membership
Members receive access to our 15+ year library of great debates in HD video, a free Munk Debates book, and ticketing privileges at our live events.
This podcast is a project of the Munk Debates, a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to fostering civil and substantive public dialogue - https://munkdebates.com/
Senior Producer: Ricki Gurwitz
Editor: Kieran Lynch
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