Faith and reason are not antithetical; there are aspects of truth that go beyond reason and can be discovered through faith.
Morality can be determined by seeking to minimize harm in the real world, rather than relying on religious teachings.
C.S. Lewis's writing style, ability to tackle big questions, and inspire thought make him relevant.
Deep dives
Faith and Reason in Question
Lewis believed that his faith was based on reason, while Dan argues that faith is not reasonable. Dan believes that morality can be based on naturalistic philosophies without the need for a transcendent source, while Carolyn suggests that reason alone may not be sufficient to determine moral decisions.
Different Views on Joy and Morality
Dan challenges the idea that Christian joy is superior to the joy experienced by non-believers, arguing that joy is not the measure of truth. He believes that morality can be based on acting to minimize harm in the real world, rather than relying on religious teachings. Carolyn emphasizes the importance of love and the Christian command to love others as oneself, seeing it as a distinctive aspect of Christianity.
Faith, Reason, and the Natural Law
Dan questions Lewis's belief in the existence of a moral or natural law as a universal reference point for right and wrong. He argues that our moral actions are often guided by instinct and that morality can be determined by seeking to minimize harm in the real world. Carolyn believes that faith and reason are not antithetical, and that there are aspects of truth that go beyond reason and can be discovered through faith.
The Role of Story and Myth in Faith
Dan emphasizes the role of myths and stories, including religious texts, in pointing to truths within ourselves and our human experiences. He argues that the stories of religions can have literary and philosophical value, even if they are not historically or factually accurate. Carolyn shares her experience of finding coherence and compelling narratives in Christianity, including the concept of sin and the power of story in the Bible.
The Relevance of C.S. Lewis Today
C.S. Lewis is still considered relevant to Christians and beyond. His writing style is accessible and appealing to a wide audience. While some appreciate his moral arguments, others find them lacking in weight. His range of works, from science fiction to grief, and his ability to tackle big questions make him interesting and impactful. Lewis invites readers to ask questions and ponder their own beliefs. His writing encourages introspection and consideration of the questions posed by God. Overall, Lewis remains relevant due to his ability to inspire thought, challenge beliefs, and encourage a search for deeper understanding.
The Disagreement on C.S. Lewis' Claims
Opinions on the validity and relevance of C.S. Lewis vary. Some argue that the weight of evidence goes against Christianity, questioning the accuracy and truthfulness of biblical stories. The notion of faith is also scrutinized, as it is seen as a way to accept beliefs without sufficient evidence. Lewis's trilemma, presenting Jesus as either a liar, lunatic, or lord, is questioned, considering the possibility that Jesus could be a legendary figure. However, for many Christians and believers, Lewis's writings continue to hold significance. They argue that Lewis's works offer intellectual and philosophical support for the Christian faith, and his ability to make readers contemplate deep questions is valuable.
Ruth Jackson hosts a discussion about a 20th Century British writer and lay theologian who is arguably one of the most influential voices in modern Christianity. On November 22nd 1963, Clive Staples Lewis – Jack to his friends – died in Oxford, England. However, 60 years after his death, is CS Lewis still relevant?
We hear from former pastor-turned atheist, Dan Barker, who suggests that many of Lewis’ arguments are fundamentally flawed. Literature professor, Dr Carolyn Weber, highlights where she disagrees with Dan and shares some of her story about coming to faith at Oxford University, in part through CS Lewis. Looking at some of Lewis’ key works, Dan and Carolyn discuss whether faith and reason are antithetical, if Christianity is true and in what ways Lewis speaks to us today.
Dan Barker spent many years as a Christian pastor before becoming an atheist. He is co-president of the Freedom From Religion Foundation and co-founder of The Clergy Project. Dan is an accomplished musician and author of many books, including God: The Most Unpleasant Character in all Fiction.
Dr Carolyn Webber is an award-winning author, professor and international speaker. Carolyn’s first memoir, Surprised by Oxford, recently became a feature film. Both the book and film tell her story of coming to faith from scepticism – a journey that, in many ways, mirrors CS Lewis’ own.
For the CS Lewis podcast, including an episode with Dr Carolyn Weber sharing more of her story and numerous episodes with Dan Barker discussing Lewis’ apologetics alongside Michael Ward: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/shows/the-cs-lewis-podcast
For Dan Barker and Martin Kuhrt discussing whether the God of the Bible is a capriciously malevolent, misogynistic, sadomasochistic bully: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/unbelievable/unbelievable-is-the-god-of-the-bible-a-capriciously-malevolent-misogynistic-sadomasochistic-bully-dan-barker-vs-martin-kuhrt/11653.article
For Dr Carolyn Weber: https://www.carolynweber.com/about/
For Dan Barker: https://ffrf.org/about/staff-board/item/38960-dan-barker
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