I am a new subscriber & have generally enjoyed your publication. I found your article “The New Atheism: No Heaven, No Hell, Just Science”, disturbing and feel compelled to speak out on the matter.
First, and most obvious is the author’s lack of any reference to the fact that the 20th century saw the nature of atheistic societies with the creation of the Soviet Union and Communist China. Are these models anyone living in a democracy would accept? What government founded on atheism that has not exhibited extreme brutality on its citizens and suppression of speech? While those interviewed in the article do not appear to be of a brutal nature, they have no power. Who can say what power would do to these proponents of a Godless world-view? I can well imagine, and recent history gives me good reason to imagine the worst.
Next, what are the consequences of having a scientific community that scorns persons of faith within its ranks? Who is comfortable living with a scientific and medical community that has made it impossible for people of faith to advance through our universities with their religion intact? I understand the dangers of trying to use religion to explain science. However, there is also a great danger to society in allowing centers of scientific research to bully people of faith out of their ranks.
Finally, what means will not be justified by scientific advancement if all scientists are required to abandon their religious teachings to remain scientists? We saw what the Nazis did in their concentration camps and are now seeing some very disturbing trends in China. I embrace the good that scientific advancement can do but there is also great potential for abuse. Science needs a moral compass and recent history has shown us that we should not trust atheists to have such a compass. God help us if we do.
Sam McDonaldBlowing Rock, NC
