#1366 - Richard Dawkins

In 'The God Delusion', Richard Dawkins argues that the belief in a supernatural creator, God, is almost certainly false and qualifies as a delusion. He examines God in various forms, from the Old Testament to the Celestial Watchmaker, and critiques the major arguments for religion. Dawkins discusses how religion fuels war, fosters bigotry, and abuses children, and he advocates for atheism as a morally and intellectually fulfilling worldview. The book also explores the relationship between religion and morality, suggesting that morality can exist independently of religion, and argues against the teaching of religion in schools as a form of indoctrination.

In 'Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief,' Lawrence Wright delves into the inner workings of the Church of Scientology. The book provides a comprehensive history of the church, from its founding by L. Ron Hubbard to its current status as a global organization. Wright examines the church's practices, its treatment of members, and its significant influence on Hollywood through high-profile adherents like Tom Cruise and John Travolta. The book is based on extensive research and interviews with former Scientologists, offering a critical look at the church's beliefs and operations.

The Book of Mormon is a scripture that tells the story of a group of Hebrews who migrated from Jerusalem to the Americas around 600 BCE. It describes their history, including their division into two main groups: the Nephites and the Lamanites. The book emphasizes the appearance of Jesus Christ to these people after his resurrection, where he teaches them and establishes his church. It also discusses various doctrinal topics such as the fall of Adam and Eve, the nature of God, baptism, and the importance of faith and repentance. The book ends with Moroni's testimony and an invitation to readers to come unto Christ and be perfected in him.

This book, written by John M. Allegro, argues that Christianity originated from an Essene clandestine cult centered around the use of psychedelic mushrooms. Allegro suggests that the stories of early Christianity and the New Testament are coded records of this shamanistic cult, and that the authors of the Christian gospels misunderstood the Essene thought. The book explores the role of ancient fertility cults, cultic rites and symbols, and the sacred mushroom as an emblem of divinity. The 40th anniversary edition includes a 30-page addendum by Carl Ruck.

The Book of Abraham is a scripture of the Latter Day Saint movement, first published in 1842 by Joseph Smith. It recounts Abraham's early life, his travels to Canaan and Egypt, and his visions concerning the universe, pre-mortal existence, and the creation of the world. The book clarifies several teachings found in the Bible, including the pre-mortal existence of spirits, the creation of the earth from preexisting matter, and the importance of mortal life in God's plan of happiness. It also introduces unique doctrines such as the star Kolob and the hierarchy of celestial bodies. The text is part of the Pearl of Great Price, one of the standard works of the LDS Church.

The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul is a 1988 humorous fantasy detective novel by Douglas Adams. It follows the misadventures of Dirk Gently, a holistic detective, as he unravels a mystery involving Norse gods and modern society. The novel blends absurd humor with philosophical insights, critiquing societal norms and the decline of divine power in the modern world.