Sam Harris' new book is small in size and an easy read. His style is interesting in that he writes much of it as a response to what religious Christians assert. He often starts a section with the two words "you believe," then after stating what they believe, he sets forth good arguments why many of these beliefs are not backed by any evidence, are illogical, sometimes disgusting, and often harmful to humanity.

This book contains more than just criticism of religion; it also has many cogent and useful passages like the following quotes.

• "The core of science is not controlled experiment or mathematical modeling; it is intellectual honesty. It is time we acknowledge a basic feature of human discourse: when considering the truth of a proposition, one is either engaged in an honest appraisal of the evidence and logical arguments, or one isn't. Religion is the one area of our lives where people imagine that some other standard of intellectual integrity applies."
• "We desperately need a public discourse that encourages critical thinking and intellectual honesty. Nothing stands in the way of this project more than the respect we accord religious faith."

Harris makes the point that we should be civil in or discourse and that religion brings much comfort to its adherents. But he also asserts that we should not be intimidated by criticism from fundamentalists or allow them to kill ethical discussions with claims of faith. I found this book a refreshing reply to many of the claims of fundamental Christians.

--Bob Lane