The Thinking Atheist Podcast

Romans 8:28 declares, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."Luke 12 says that the very hairs on our heads are numbered, and that even the sparrows are not forgotten by God.  To the believer, God says "Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."But are the faithful truly insulated from calamity, pain and death?In this podcast, we take a rational look at Divine Protection.Your calls and emails:  podcast@thethinkingatheist.com

Sponsored by Audible.  Get a free audiobook and 30-day trial at http://www.audibletrial.com/thethinkingatheistIs evolution a theory or fact?  Or both?  Is evolution "true?"Dr. Jerry Coyne has a Ph.D in evolutionary biology from Harvard, and he serves as professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolution at the University of Chicago.  He is a member of both the Committee on Genetics and the Committee of Evolutionary Biology, and he is author of the books:"Speciation"  http://www.amazon.com/Speciation-Jerry-A-Coyne/dp/0878930892"and"Why Evolution is True"  http://www.amazon.com/Why-Evolution-True-Jerry-Coyne/dp/0143116649/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1391013997&sr=1-1&keywords=why+evolution+is+true Podcast on Secular Parenting:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thethinkingatheist/2013/07/23/secular-parenting-with-dale-mcgowanMatt Dillahunty and Ray Comfort debate:  http://salem-kkmsam.media.streamtheworld.com/audio/on_the_way_102596481.mp3

As The Thinking Atheist radio podcast originates in the United States (and because its host often speaks to his former faith, Christianity), the show often focuses on American culture, American politics, and American issues regarding religion and atheism.This week, we travel beyond the borders of the 50 states to explore Atheism Around the World. 

Does religion cheat people out of contentment and comfort with their views, their self-worth, their sexuality, etc?Dr. Darrel Ray is author of the book, "The God Virus: How Religion Affects Our Lives and Culture," and "Sex & God: How Religion Distorts Sexuality."In his writings and presentations, Darrel reveals the subtle (and not so subtle) ways that religion uses shame as a weapon against those who might dare to fall outside its narrow boundaries.  Join us for a fascinating look at Religion & Shame.  

On February 4th, 2014, Bill Nye ("The Science Guy") has agreed to debate Ken Ham, president of Answers In Genesis and The Creation Museum.  The debate will take place on Ham's home turf, at The Creation Museum, and the 800 available tickets sold out almost immediately.This event raises the larger question:  Should scientists agree to these types of debates?Some (like Richard Dawkins) say "no," as it would be akin to an obstetrician debating a proponent of the "stork theory" of reproduction.  Others insist that the debate is not only appropriate, but necessary.Joining us in this discussion are Matt Dillahunty, Dr. Richard Carrier, Greta Christina, David Silverman, Ed Hensley and AronRa.  Articles:RDFRS:  Why Bill Nye Shouldn't Debate Ken Hamhttp://www.richarddawkins.net/foundation_articles/2014/1/16/why-bill-nye-shouldn-t-debate-ken-hamAHA:  WHY THE BILL NYE-KEN HAM DEBATE IS A GOOD THINGhttp://americanhumanist.org/HNN/details/2014-01-why-the-bill-nye-ken-ham-debate-is-a-good-thingAHA:  BILL NYE SHARING THE STAGE WITH KEN HAM IS A MISTAKEhttp://americanhumanist.org/HNN/details/2014-01-bill-nye-sharing-the-stage-with-ken-ham-is-a-mistake 

Sponsored by Audible.com.  Get your free audio book and a 30-day trial at www.audibletrial.com/thethinkingatheistSteve Wells spent years researching the Bible (as well as the Qur'an and the Book of Mormon) to produce a website and hardcover book called "The Skeptic's Annotated Bible."In this episode, we talk with Steve about his history, his research, and the sides of scripture that most haven't heard in Sunday morning sermons.Steve's book "Drunk With Blood:  God's Killings in the Bible:  http://www.amazon.com/Drunk-Blood-Gods-Killings-Bible/dp/0988245116/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389754059&sr=8-1&keywords=drunk+with+bloodDEVIL BABY VIDEO:  http://youtu.be/PUKMUZ4tlJg

Kindness, gentleness, empathy, compassion, love, goodness, morality.  These attributes are often called the property of religion, and beautiful acts of kindness between people actually reflect a moral code given to humanity by the Great Eye in the Sky.Of course, this is nonsense.We've covered the subject of "Morality" in a previous episode (http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thethinkingatheist/2013/04/09/morality).  But the source and nature of morality isn't what tonight's particular show is about.Tonight is merely a chance to share stories about helping others, with each example providing encouragement and a reminder that even the smallest gestures can transform someone's world.These gestures didn't come about because we were directed to by a "voice" or ancient holy book (in fact, we're glad our morality isn't derived from the bible, Qur'an, etc).  They happened because we sought to provide a human solution to a human problem, and in doing so, we felt the satisfaction and joy of knowing we made a difference.Tell us about your random act of kindness (and the reaction that followed).  Email: podcast@thethinkingatheist.com

In his 2007 book, "God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything," the late Christopher Hitchens asserted, without apology, that there is nothing that has been or can be improved by religion. In fact, religion is a toxin which damages or destroys everything it touches.Is this assertion accurate and fair? Is there nothing positive that religion has brought to humanity?We discuss the issue. Your calls and emails (send to podcast@thethinkingatheist.com)

LINK TO DONATE: https://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/25j3/ashleycampbell

In this end-of-year episode, we look back at religion, politics, science and pop culture to talk about the highlights (and lowlights): The Best And Worst of 2013.We'll look at the breakthroughs of science, the good work of humanitarians, the celebrities and public figures who helped the cause of secularism, and the facepalm-worthy words and actions of religion in this crazy world. (Yes, Sarah Palin is on the list.)If you have a person or story you'd like to nominate, send your email (and the reasons for your pick) to podcast@thethinkingatheist.com

Professor Lawrence Krauss is a theoretical physicist and cosmologist, Foundation Professor of the School of Earth and Space Exploration at Arizona State University, director of its Origins Project, bestselling author, and he shares the screen with Richard Dawkins in the new documentary, "The Unbelievers."Krauss' most recent book is called, "A Universe From Nothing: Why There Is Something Rather Than Nothing." In this podcast, Dr. Krauss joins Seth Andrews for a discussion about science, religion, apologists, and a universe from nothing.Opening speech at Brisbane event, "Has Science Buried God?": http://youtu.be/-b8t70_c8eE?t=24m

Santa's not the only one getting letters this holiday season. This podcast highlights letters you've sent into the show (and we'll take a few calls, too). Got something you'd like to ask or comment on? Email: podcast@thethinkingatheist.com

It's the holiday season, and once again we gather a few of our favorite infidels around the fireplace to talk about whatever comes to mind. Sure, we'll address atheism, activism and the usual stuff, but we'll also shift gears and enjoy a more personal side. So grab some hot cider and join Matt Dillahunty, Jamila Bey, AronRa and Seth Andrews for a fireside chat.Email the show: podcast@thethinkingatheist.com

In this impromptu podcast, we explore the phenomenon of Black Friday, and we chat about whatever comes to mind. No rules, just some relaxed, holiday conversation.

The day after Thanksgiving is known, for several reasons, as Black Friday. On this impromptu, post-holiday podcast, there's no set topic, no plan, no rules. Just some conversation among friends and a few thoughts about the season, life, family and the truly important moments in our lives.