Dan Barker

Dan Barker, a former evangelical preacher turned prominent atheist and co-president of the Freedom From Religion Foundation, delves into the intricate issues of church-state separation. He discusses the influence of Catholicism on Supreme Court rulings, legal challenges in public education, and the rise of Christian nationalism. Barker introduces his philosophical concept of 'Contraduction,' exploring how beliefs can reverse in meaning. The conversation also touches on morality, free will, and the complexities surrounding the existence of God.

In a thought-provoking conversation, Harold Koenig, Director at Duke University’s Center for Spirituality, explores how religion may provide social support to combat loneliness. Senator Chris Murphy highlights the global loneliness crisis, advocating for community solutions. In contrast, Ruth Whippman argues for secular approaches as more inclusive, while Dan Barker critiques the potential alienation caused by organized religion. Together, they tackle the complex interplay between faith, community, and mental health in today's society.

In this thought-provoking discussion, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy highlights the role of religious communities in fostering social connections. Harold Koenig shares research tying religion to mental health benefits. On the other hand, author Ruth Whippman argues that secular alternatives are more effective in addressing loneliness. Dan Barker offers a secular viewpoint, stating that loneliness stems from broader health issues rather than spirituality. The debate reveals the complexities of loneliness, challenging whether faith or inclusive communities better combat this modern epidemic.

Dan Barker, a skeptic and author, joins potently critical voices like Matt Dillahunty, a renowned atheist activist, and Bart Ehrman, a biblical scholar, to dissect claims regarding the resurrection of Jesus. They challenge the evidential arguments, arguing that critiques often dismiss the miracle without providing credible alternatives. Sam Harris and Richard Carrier add their unique perspectives, further probing the historical context and scholarly interpretations surrounding the resurrection narrative. This conversation dives deep into the clash between faith and skepticism.

SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR:  http://www.naturebox.com/thinkingatheistDan Barker's new book (titled after the famous Richard Dawkins quote) doesn't exactly cast a flattering eye at the biblical god.  Truth be told, the Bible itself doesn't flatter God, either.  Not-so-hidden inside the pages of scripture is the profile of a deity so ugly, brutish, bloodthirsty and petty, he would be condemned by the faithful as a monster in another context.Join us, as we speak with Dan Barker about his own personal story, and we examine The Most Unpleasant Character in All Fiction.VIDEO VERSION:  https://youtu.be/comqy3lQNVMDan's book on Barnes & Noble:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/god-daniel-barker/1122409434On Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/God-Most-Unpleasant-Character-Fiction/dp/1454918322/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1455027296&sr=8-1&keywords=the+most+unpleasant+character+in+all+fictionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.