Seminar

Time: 24 November, 10.15-12.00

Place: J317

Zoom: https://gu-se.zoom.us/j/6459240329

Richard Dawkins is one among the most well known and vocal proponents of New Atheism in contemporary times. During this seminar we will discuss Dawkins' ideas as presented in The God Delusion.

Assignment

Read Dawkins' The God Delusion, and watch the video (below) where Dawkins is interviewed at the talkshow Skavlan.

Be prepared to discuss the following questions at the seminar:

What, in terms of religion, is Dawkins critical about? What definition(s) of religion does he offer?
What are the main arguments of the book, and how are they argued for?
How would you describe the epistemological underpinnings of Dawkins' argumentation?
How is the relation between science and religion described?
From the perspective of religious studies, does Dawkins' presentation of religion seem academically sound?
After having watched the interview with Dawkins on Skavlan, what type of reactions does Dawkins' message appear to provoke?
You should also formulate one question of your own on the basis of the literature that you would like to bring up for discussion during the seminar.

You can also (non-mandatory) make use of the discussion forum on Canvas for discussing the literature and related questions before and after the seminar.

Reading list

Dawkins The God Delusion, whole book