Not a Christian? You're not Alone.

A Mirror for the Unchristian Seeker

If you're not a Christian, you ought to have your own set of reasons. Chances are that you're an independent, critical thinker. Still, it's reassuring sometimes to receive confirmation of one's feelings from a witty, intelligent and highly respected comrade in heresy. Why I Am Not A Christian by Bertrand Russell provides just this sort of confirmation.

Convincing without imposing on the reader, Why I Am Not A Christian is a classic of freethought (Freethinkers believe that people should make up their own minds on matters of belief instead of relying on the authority of texts or other people). The book is a series of Russell's essays on "religion and related subjects", all of which are quite enjoyable to read. Russell must be counted as one of the finest writers of the 20th century.

A Find for All Good Minds

For those in doubt of your beliefs, convinced atheists and even the open-mindedly religious, Russell's ideas on the role of religion in Western society are sure to prove thought-provoking. He clearly and calmly describes the reasons for his ideas in a way that is rare in religious literature. Russell challenges readers to think for themselves, showing how history and the current events of his time contradict the fundamental assumption of the majority that religion is a positive social force.

If you're the sort to turn to the Bible in times of uncertainty, this is not the book for you, for Russell asks that you allow yourself to trust your own mind. Why I Am Not A Christian is certainly not an Atheist Bible. Surely, the strongest atheists are those who, like Russell, read and listen to the thoughts of others but follow a path which is truly their own.