John, orlando, Well said Dr Lancaster, absolutely correct. Most of today’s modern biblical analysis is based on mistranslation and misunderstanding of the original texts. Why is the Jewish faith so well represented amongst the intelligensia over the ages. Because we study, discourse, argue and enjoy using our brains. We need no false intermediaries when we have discussions with the Almighty.

Pity others don’t go direct to the source!! Jay, London, If using reason based on evidence to arrive at conslusions is an idealogy then aethism (or just being realistic) is an ideology. Religeous faith on the other hand is pie in the sky wishful thinking. I would rather trust in the facts. Arnold Ward, Weybridge, Surrey, UK All religions promote division and actively discriminate against those who don t match up to their ideal. They should be attacked forcefully and consistently.

I don t want to live in a world where women and gays are slagged off as sinners. It s people who make the religion not the religion who makes the people. Susan, Barry, S Wales You hint that the spiritual dimension goes beyond mere awe at the sublime and I suppose that you are talking about supernatural. Why would any sentient atheist need to admit to this? It is a complete non-sequiter.

Futhermore claiming that atheism cannot claim to be scientific is a preposterous dig coming from any religious viewpoint. I’m weary of religious apologists attacking the mad, militant, dogamtic athiests as soulless robots. The religious moderate is forced to admit his religious tolerance only goes as far as those in the fatih community. In America agnostics and atheists are vilified and persecuted. That is why we welcome Richard Dawkins efforts.