Philosophy And Religion
"Atheism: the Case Against God": A Retrospective
by George H. Smith
GHS2 120min/2 cassettes $12.00
Atheism: The Case Against God has become one of the most widely read and
discussed books on atheism in recent decades. Now, over two decades after its
publication, author George H. Smith offers critical reflections on his own
book. He explains why he wrote the book, some difficulties he encountered, and
who influenced his thinking. He also explains what changes he would make if he
were writing the book today, and criticizes some parts that he no longer
agrees with.
The Rigid Response: Fundamentalism's Answer to a Complicated World.
by Wilma Friesema
WF1 120 min./ 2 Cassettes $12.00
Exploring the world of Christian fundamentalism through a psychological lens, Friesema probes beneath the surface to more fully understand such issues as what motivates people to join fundamentalist groups, why fundamentalism is currently gaining in popularity, what dynamics within it perpetuate and strengthen such belief system, and what might be some of the emotional influences fueling the political agenda of the Religious Right.
The Morals Wars & Human Survival
Joel Kramer
GPA1 Audio tape, 90 min. $10.00
In a seminar for RIT, Kramer examines the issue of who has the right to establish what's right (and what gives anyone the right to do so), a question he sees as central to the basic struggles on the planet today. When traditional morality becomes dysfunctional, "morals wars" between the old and new ensue. Kramer argues that any morality that polarizes altruism and egoism, cooperation and competition is not only authoritarian but tat the core of the problems threatening democracy and even human survival.
Decoding Social & Spiritual Control
Diana Alstad with Joel Kramer
GPA2 Audio tape 90 min. $10.00
GPV2 Video tape 90 min. $20.00
Extending the ideas of The Guru Papers, Alstad unmasks the covert control and manipulation within our culture and our highest ideals. This hidden authoritarianism, she asserts, is a major cause of worldwide moral dysfunctionality, including problems with addiction and intimacy as well as religion. Alstad argues that any viable concept of spirituality must divorce itself from traditional authoritarian concepts of the "sacred."