

Why You Need Religion (with Ross Douthat)
Feb 3, 2025
In a thought-provoking discussion, Ross Douthat, a New York Times columnist and author of "Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious," dives into the resurgence of interest in religion amidst secularism. He explores how spiritual exploration is replacing traditional practices and addresses the 'intellectual anxiety' surrounding faith and science. Douthat argues for the moral imperative of belief and discusses the enduring appeal of Christianity, emphasizing its foundational narratives and the communal support found in established religions.
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Renewed Spiritual Interest
- Many young people today feel anxious and lost, prompting renewed spiritual interest.
- However, they lack basic religious understanding and find it intellectually challenging.
New Openness to Spirituality
- The decline of traditional religious institutions has created a new openness to spirituality.
- People now engage with religion outside inherited denominations, unlike in the past.
Culture War Hinders Dialogue
- Culture war issues hinder productive conversations between secular and religious individuals.
- Many secular people dismiss religious arguments due to political associations.