1. The God of the Bible is No Delusion!

Comment #55375 by dkreller on July 10, 2007 at 9:56 pm

I have the feeling that the issue that underlies your first question, i.e. about something coming from nothing, is about the improbability of the universe. I totally agree with you that it is very hard for us to understand where the universe may have come from. However, if we want an answer to the meaning of the universe that satisfies our apparent need for probability, do you really think the best answer is by imagining that some great omni-powerful being must be behind it? That is making the matter even worse. A great omni-potent being is infinitely improbable. And if there is one, well, there's no way it will (or could) let itself be known to us, and it does not affect anything in the realm of the tangible and empirical, i.e. measurable.

Similarly, if someone asserts that everything has to be designed, then the question has to be addressed 'who designed the designer?'. It is a great circular argument, like being on a circle, that of course has no beginning and no end.

You should simply read the God Delusion. Keep it hidden from your friends if you don't want anyone to know about your possession of the book. It really is very clearly written and addresses all of your questions. If you read it and don't find any redeeming value in it, or don't find that it makes any of these great issues any more clear, I will buy it from you myself.

2. Reading of The God Delusion in Lynchburg, VA

Comment #15780 by dkreller on January 3, 2007 at 12:04 am

Dear Professor Dawkins,

I am very grateful to C-SPAN (in the USA) for the broadcast of your recent lecture in VA. This was a brilliant talk, and it was THE MOST useful lecture that I have ever heard.

As a boy I was mildly indoctrinated into a Lutheran church. It wasn't terrible for me, but looking back it did contribute to the many wastes of my time as a youth. At this time I am a Ph.D. chemist serving as a visiting professor at a Catholic institution. The whole Christian thing and the recent resurgance (insurgance?) of the creationists had muddied the waters for me. However, you have served as a beacon and helped me not only see through it all very clearly but also feel good about my work in science and awe of nature. I can't express how much guidance I received from your lecture and then 'The God Delusion'. I am deeply indebted to you.

I really hope that some of us can intellectually stimulate and guide you even a small fraction of the way that you have done this for us.