The Little Book of Atheist Spirituality

Starred review from October 15, 2007
At first blush “atheist spirituality” may sound like a contradiction in terms, but French philosopher Comte-Sponville makes a compelling argument for a profound dimension of experience that is god-free. His idea of spirituality also bears no small resemblance to Eastern spirituality, and the philosopher-author does not hesitate to cite great Eastern thinkers in this catalogue of references to great minds grappling with important questions. We can do without religion and without God, the author argues, but we can’t do without fidelity and community. Comte-Sponville’s humanism is deeply traditional, but the red flag “atheist” will undoubtedly affront religious traditionalists. That’s unfortunate, because the author’s style of arguing is civil and witty, unlike a lot of public discourse on this subject. He draws deeply on the history of philosophers who have pronounced on the subject of God’s existence, disposing of the everything-is-permitted nihilism often associated with atheism. Nor does he argue that religion is dangerous, a stance in vogue among today’s bestselling atheists. God just isn’t logically necessary, but we can still have love, ethical behavior and even the experience of eternity. Formerly a Sorbonne professor, Comte-Sponville presents big ideas with masterful and witty clarity. For those who prefer Kant to cant, this refreshing little book is perfect.

December 15, 2007
Raised Christian but atheist since he lost his faith at 18, philosopher Comte-Sponville holds that while no one can prove the existence of God, the existence of religions is indisputable, part and parcel of human history and culture. But can we live without religion? As an atheist, he says yes but readily admits that most of the world doesnt agree. He clarifies that he doesnt intend to convert people to atheism, and he doesnt hate religion. Yet, motivated more by love of philosophy than any malice toward religion, he sometimes describes himself as a faithful atheist. By faithful, he means that he acknowledges his place within the Greco-Judeo-Christian value system of the West. And he firmly believes in an atheist spirituality. Though I am an atheist, that by no mean implies I should castrate my soul! In this small volume, he makes reasonable and measured arguments for this atheist spirituality that, he believes, is rooted in both Eastern and Western philosophical traditions.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2007, American Library Association.)