

Downstream: Would the World Be Better Without Religion? w/ Aaron Bastani and Ash Sarkar
Jan 29, 2024
Aaron Bastani and Ash Sarkar discuss the influence of religion on values, politics, and personal beliefs. They explore Marx's critique of religion, the origins and messages of Jesus Christ, forgiveness in Christianity, status of women in Abrahamic religions, the impact of dating apps and shame on female sexuality, Greek history's influence on democracy and sexuality, same-sex marriage in the Catholic Church, and the role of religion and secular atheism in society.
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Bastani's Faith Journey
- Aaron Bastani discusses his renewed Catholic faith, initially driven by family values.
- He highlights the transformative power of forgiveness and repentance in his life.
The Roots of Values
- Secularism is relatively new, and even secular values often draw on religious traditions.
- Bastani predicts a resurgence of belief after a unique period of secularism.
Sarkar's Atheist Phase
- Ash Sarkar recounts her teenage new atheism phase, challenging her mother's beliefs.
- She later realized the inherent complexities and contradictions within belief systems.