First Published in 2004. In Arguing for Atheism, Robin Le Poidevin addresses the question of whether theism-the view that there is a personal, transcendent creator of the universe - solves the deepest mysteries of existence. Philosophical defences of theism have often been based on the idea that it explains things which atheistic approaches cannot: for example, why the universe exists, and how there can be objective moral values. The main contention of Arguing for Atheism is that the reverse is true: that in fact theism fails to explain many things it claims to, while atheism can explain some of the things it supposedly leaves mysterious. It is also argued that religion need not depend on belief in God. Designed as a text for university courses in the philosophy of religion and metaphysics, this book's accessible style and numerous explanations of important philosophical concepts and positions will also make it attractive to the general reader.

About the Author
Robin Le Poidevin is Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Leeds.

Reviews

'Well exhibits the fascination and philosophical centrality of the philosophy of religion as anchoring otherwise abstract metaphysical issues in the pressing concerns of human existence ... a worthwhile contribution'. - Mind

'Le Poidevin's Arguing for Atheism is the best recent introduction to the philosophy of religion ...I would highly recommend it this book to students and professors alike" - Quentin Smith, Western Michigan University

'Clear, honest and fairminded; it makes a good introduction, not just to the question of God, but to metaphysics in general" - Donald Cupitt, Emmanuel College, Cambridge

'A lucid and valuable discussion of the issues it raises about purpose, God, ethics, evil and immortality.' - The Scientific and Medical Network

Book Information
ISBN 9780415093385
Author Robin Le Poidevin
Format Paperback
Page Count 184
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 249g