The Australian Book of Atheism
Edited by Warren Bonett
‘An exceptional book [containing] exemplary examples of the essay’s stylistic diversity, in tones variably comedic, sincere, enlightened and journalistic … With its broad appeal (just where will this magnificent volume live in the bookstore — essays, current affairs, cultural studies, Australian politics, religion, philosophy, science?), this book promises to have a long shelf life.’ FIVE STARS
Michael Kitson, Bookseller & Publisher
Does the Anzac ethos have roots in atheism? Does prayer have a place in Parliament? Should ‘creation science’ be taught in Australian schools? Is atheism maligned in political debate? Will Australia’s future be godless?
While prominent international thinkers have made significant contributions to the general conversation on belief and religion, Australians have been less heard.
The Australian Book of Atheism is the first collection to explore atheism from an Australian viewpoint. Bringing together essays from 33 of the nation’s pre-eminent atheist, rationalist, humanist, and sceptical thinkers, it canvasses a range of opinions on religion and secularism in Australia.
Including contributions from Michael Bachelard, Dr Leslie Cannold, Robyn Williams, Lyn Allison, Tim Minchin, and Dr Philip Nitschke, this is a diverse and entertaining collection of thoughts on a world without God.
Reviews
‘Is intelligent design credible? Should we have prayers in Parliament, and can atheism ever be a meaningful belief system, or is it just the absence of such belief? These are weighty issues, and they are commendably addressed in this authoritative collection.’
Courier Mail
‘I approached this book with some trepidation, but I was pleasantly surprised. It is very readable and, for the most part, reasonable in tone. And it’s enlightening both in the content of individual essays and in the wide range of voices and points of view expressed.’
Peter Kirkwood, Weekend Australian
