The Illusion of Certainty: How the Flawed Beliefs of Religion Harm Our Culture [Paperback]

An insightful, comprehensive treatise explaining the logical constructs underlying religious thought, the logical fallacies prevalent in theories defending religious ideas, and the resulting contradictions that arise when belief supersedes logic and data. Dr. Houks expertise and vast knowledge guide us through each facet of the religious experience. He provides thoughtful commentary as well as detailed evidence to support his arguments. This book is a great read that will serve as an outstanding reference for years to come!Benjamin Wolozin, MD, PhD, Professor of Pharmacology and Neurology, Boston University School of MedicineThe human brain is captivated by certainty and belief systems built on the illusion that its attainable. The Illusion of Certainty deconstructs this tendency and reveals the many shortcomings of belief systems that have motivated countless injustices and horrors in the name of being right. Its a welcomed addition that will open many eyes.?David DiSalvo, author of What Makes Your Brain Happy and Why You Should Do the OppositeThe Illusion of Certainty?dispels the darkness of fundamentalist absolutism in short order, holding up the light of humanism and making a sure case for science and reasonas well as mutual toleranceworldwide. A penetrating analysis.?Joe Nickell, Senior Research Fellow, Committee for Skeptical Inquiry and author of?The Science of MiraclesHouk pulls no punches in this provocative challenge to religious claims and their contributions to the polarizing cultural wars of postmodern society. The illusion of certainty that Houk unmasks describes not only the anti-intellectualism of contemporary religious fundamentalism in its various forms, but it also poses a challenge to the very survival of our species. Taking on issues from young-earth creationism to the classic problem of evil in monotheistic traditions, Houk argues that we dismiss such issues as matters of mere belief at our peril.?Rodger M. Payne, Chair,l³"