Should atheists be more religious? Alain de Botton & James Orr - Unbelievable?

Atheism 2.0 is the logical next step for non-believers according to cultural philosopher Alain de Botton. He outlines why atheists should borrow from the art, architecture, community, and contemplative traditions of religion without the supernatural beliefs. The book “Religion for atheists” drew criticism from Richard Dawkins and others after De Botton apparently suggested that there should be “temples for atheism”.

De Botton responds and also gives his opinion on AC Grayling’s “The Good Book” and Terry Eagleton’s unfavourable review in The Guardian. Recorded in De Botton’s home, he chats with James Orr, a Christian convert studying for a PhD in the History of Ideas at Cambridge University. They discuss whether the trappings of religion make sense without the kernel of faith