atheism

The Blind Watchmaker is one of the most important books arguing against creationism. Richard Dawkins second book, written in 1986, is still a powerful introduction to the theory of evolution, written in an accessible manner. Aimed at non scientists, this work is an inspiring and accessible introduction to one of the most important scientific discoveries of all time.

The Blind Watchmaker refers to the Rev. William Paley's 1802 work, Natural Theology, where he argues that finding a watch, leads you conclude there must be a watchmaker. Therefore with life in its variety and complexity, there must be a God. Dawkins, writes in an entertaining manner, showing that this is not so, life can be explained with the laws of nature.

This is perhaps one of the most controversial books written by Dr Richard Dawkins. In The God Delusion he puts forward the argument that religion and a God are only required by our psychological needs, rather than reality. Darwin's theory of evolution is sufficient to explain why we are all here.

Dawkins writes is a very clear and challenging manner, making well researched arguments. Of course such a book is a god-send (no pun intended) to atheists, but it is also worth a read by those with a religious faith as well (it is possible to be a scientist and religious). However, those with a deep unquestioning faith may find this book to be more a case of axe grinding than argument. But that should not put you off, this is a mind opening work that deserves to be read by all those who wish to argue for or against a god.