Topic > Criticism of Is There a God? by Bertrand Russell

The article “Is there a God?” it was written by Russell in 1952 at the request of a London magazine; however it was not published (547-548). Russell, a champion of science, was known for his unconventional views and social criticism ("Irvine"). This article came at a time when science was finally establishing significant ground. 20th century discoveries, such as the theory of relativity, evolution, and quantum mechanics, meant that people finally turned to scientists for answers (Polanyi). People in Western society easily deferred to the authority of science since empirical evidence, unlike religious claims, cannot be refuted (Polanyi). Russell was an analytical philosopher and therefore placed greater emphasis on logic and empirical evidence (Irvine). Russell, also being a mathematician, incorporates more logic than conventional philosophers (Irvine). This article is a profound example of how Russell approaches conventional topics. The ostensible purpose of this article may be to discuss the existence of God; however, Russell's purpose is polemical. Russell analyzes various perspectives on the existence of a deity in the context of the 20th century. This article explores the historical origins of monotheism as it is the most widespread of all forms of deity worship. Next the various arguments of theologians for the existence of a God are considered. Russell recounts the history of philosophy relating to the existence of a God. The question of existence and its various implications are tested against claims and evidence scientific. Finally, the moral arguments in favor of deistic worship are considered. The analytical tone is evident from the beginning, particularly where the history of monotheism is discussed... middle of paper... am, Marcus. “Millennials Lose Faith in God: Survey.” The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, June 5, 2012. .Irvine, Andrew David. "Bertrand Russel." Stanford University. Stanford University, 7 December 1995. Web. 06 April 2014. .Nietzsche, Friedrich Wilhelm and RJ Hollingdale. Thus Spoke Zarathustra: A Book for All and No One. Harmondsworth, England: Penguin, 1969. Print.Russell, Bertrand. “Is there a God? [1952]”. The Collected Papers of Bertrand Russell, Vol 11: Last Philosophical Testament, 1943-1968. Routledge. pp. 547-548Polanyi, Michael. "The growth of science in society". Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut. October 28, 1965. Web. .