Good without God is a helpful book for religious and nonreligious people who would like to understand, and learn about Humanism.
Introduction - "Can Someone Be Good without God?"
Can someone be good without God? Greg Epstein answers this age old question in the introduction of his book Good without God. Epstein feels that it is possible to be good without God, just as it is possible to be a good person if you believe in God. Epstein uses the introduction to logically address the purpose and relevancy of his book. Epstein also introduces and defines Humanism “as good without God”.
Chapter 1: "Can We Be Good without God."
Epstein opens chapter 1 with a question concerning how a person should deal with someone insulting their entire way of life. Epstein describes real situations of atheists who have been persecuted for their beliefs. He creates a relationship with the reader, explaining that the author does not have all the answers, can not disprove religion, and that instead of focusing on a persons beliefs, humanists should focus on “what evidence ones beliefs are based on.”
While Epstein does write a few examples to support his beliefs on the validity of certain religions, he does not maliciously condemn anyone, but instead promotes educating oneself about other religions to gain perspective. He also states that this is not a book meant to sway a persons religious beliefs.
Chapter 2: "A Brief History of Goodness without God"
Epstein demonstrates a great wealth of knowledge about religious and nonreligious philosophy in this chapter also titled ‘A Brief Tour of the University of Humanism’. This chapter educates readers about historically important Humanists, beginning at atheist writings written around the time of the Bible. Epstein also credits many philosophers such as Karl Marx and cites their work, explaining how it applies to humanists today.
Chapter 3: "Why Be Good without God? Purpose and the Plague"
Albert Camus’ novel,The Plague is the focus of the first section of chapter 3. Epstein uses the novel main character to provide an example of an atheist who is dedicated to helping humanity even though he knows the outcome is hopeless. He uses personal and sourced information to outline the ‘purpose’ of being a good person. Epstein focuses on happiness and dignity as words to describe purposeful pursuits in the Humanistic philosophy. The meaning of both words is explained meticulously in order to prevent any misconceptions of his message.
Chapter 4:"Good without God: A How-To Guide to the Ethics of Humanism"
The beginning of this chapter is the author’s opinions and observations of why many people, religious or not, are unhappy today. Epstein suggests that some people are bored or do not have enough real conflict to appreciate the good times. A general description of Buddhism is used to illustrate the author’s point of view. Epstein explains the importance of the golden rule and the Ten Commandments, noting that they have appeared in different forms in almost every major religion. Epstein realizes the importance of religious texts noting that they are good lessons for Humanists despite their history. A list of commandments is given with an explanation of how they apply to Humanists next to each one.
Chapter 5: "Pluralism: Can You Be Good with God?"
In the beginning of this chapter the author comments on the recent success of atheist writers such as Richard Dawkins. Epstein writes that why he believes Humanists should let their voice be heard, they should also work together with religious organizations to benefit the world. The latter portion of this chapter seems to be targeted at religious leaders. Epstein encourages religious leaders to embrace Humanism. He proposes the idea that if Humanist and religious groups could work together, they might realize that they share a common goal.
Chapter 6: "Good without God in Community: The Heart of Humanism"
This chapter focuses on the Humanist movement. Epstein provides a large amount of information on Humanist organizations, ceremonies, and community. He provides an overview of Humanist African-American, Jewish and other cultures. Epstein closes the book with a conclusion that he introduces as a “call to action” for Humanists to “go out and make a difference now”.
Postscript and Appendix
Epstein’s postscript is part of the humanist manifesto, The American Humanist Associations statement entitled “Humanism and Its Aspirations”, which guidelines some important Humanistic beliefs. The appendix is a list of Humanist organizations and their contact information.
Good without God: What a Billion Nonreligious People Do Believe
Source:
Good without God: What a Billion Nonreligious People Do Believe, Epstein, Dr. Greg M, Harper Collins, New York, 2009
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