Syllabus Entry 16

Sense and Goodness Without God

Sense and Goodness Without God addresses one of the most persistent misconceptions about atheism—that rejecting belief in God leaves life devoid of meaning, morality, or purpose. Philosopher and historian Richard Carrier argues that a naturalistic worldview can provide a coherent foundation for ethics, happiness, reason, beauty, and human flourishing without appealing to the supernatural. Blending philosophy, science, psychology, and practical advice, Carrier constructs a positive vision of secular living that goes well beyond simply criticizing religion. Rather than asking only why belief in God is unwarranted, he explores how people can build fulfilling, morally rich lives grounded in evidence, compassion, and intellectual honesty. For its comprehensive defense of secular humanism and its thoughtful exploration of life after faith, Sense and Goodness Without God deserves its place as the number sixteen atheist book.