#41 Justin Brierley - The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God
Sep 24, 2023
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Justin Brierley, Christian apologist and author, explores the surprising rebirth of belief in God and the impact of the new atheist movement. He discusses the decline of religious belief in the UK and shifting perspectives towards religion among prominent atheists. The chapter also delves into the rise of a social justice religion and shares a story about an atheist philosopher who participated in an audacious hoax.
Secular thinkers are considering Christianity again due to the decline of traditional religious practices and the perceived death of God.
Christianity has had a profound influence on shaping societal norms, including principles of equality, justice, and dignity.
In the absence of formal religion, substitute religions with quasi-religious characteristics arise, offering a sense of purpose and moral framework but also risking dogmatism and lack of open dialogue.
Deep dives
The Decline of New Atheism
The podcast episode features a conversation with Justin Briarley, the former host of the popular show 'Unbelievable' on premier Christian radio. They discuss the rise and decline of the new atheism movement, which was characterized by a dogmatic and confrontational approach towards religious beliefs. Briarley explains his decision to move on from hosting the show after 17 years and explores the reasons behind the decline of new atheism. He emphasizes that secular thinkers are now considering Christianity again and provides insights from his upcoming book on the surprising rebirth of belief in God. The conversation delves into the nuanced relationship between science and religion, the lack of evidence for God, and the socio-cultural impact of Christianity in the West.
The Rebirth of Belief in God
Briarley explains that the rebirth of belief in God is a response to the perceived death of God and the decline of traditional religious practices in the secular West. He highlights how the new atheism movement, which emerged in the early 2000s, contributed to the assumption that God is dead. However, Briarley argues that there is a renewed interest in belief in God, as societal values and perspectives continue to evolve. He suggests that the decline of traditional religious beliefs has led secular individuals to explore spirituality and reconsider the role of faith in their lives.
The Impact of Christianity on Values and Morality
The podcast explores the impact of Christianity on Western values and morality. Briarley argues that Christian principles, such as equality, justice, and dignity, have had a profound influence on shaping societal norms and the concept of human rights. He acknowledges that diverse interpretations and applications of these values exist, even within Christianity itself. The conversation reflects on the complex relationship between religious beliefs and moral frameworks, with Briarley asserting that Christianity has contributed to the development of a culture that values compassion, equality, and the intrinsic worth of every individual.
The Rise of Substitute Religions
Briarley and the podcast host discuss the notion that in the absence of formal religion, substitute religions arise to fill the void. They observe that various ideological movements, such as social justice, nationalistic fervor, and identity-based activism, often exhibit quasi-religious characteristics. Briarley notes that these substitute religions can offer a sense of purpose, belonging, and moral framework in a society that has moved away from traditional religious beliefs. However, he also highlights the potential dangers of dogmatism and lack of open dialogue within these substitute religions, pointing out the need for critical thinking and respectful engagement.
Recognition of the value of religious belief
There is a growing recognition of the value of religious belief, particularly in relation to Judeo-Christian values. Douglas Murray and other intellectuals acknowledge the failure of atheism to account for moral instincts and emphasize the importance of these values in shaping society.
The changing conversation and possible conversions
The conversation around religion and belief is changing, with some intellectuals and authors contemplating a new appreciation for God and Christianity. Figures like Tom Holland and Jordan Peterson demonstrate a shift in their thinking, acknowledging the impact of Christianity on their moral instincts and recognizing the limitations of atheism. While the process varies for each individual, there is a trend towards a more open perspective on religion and a consideration of supernatural or non-material explanations for the universe.
Justin Brierley was, for 17 years, the host of "Unbelievable?" on Premier Christian Radio. He is a broadcaster, author, and Christian apologist whose latest book is "The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God: Why new atheism grew old and secular thinkers are considering Christianity again".