Religion for Atheists

A Non-Believer's Guide to the Uses of Religion

By: Alain de Botton

Narrated by: Kris Dyer

Length: 5 hrs and 2 mins

Publisher's summary

The boring debate between fundamentalist believers and non-believers is finally moved on by Alain de Botton's inspiring new book, which boldly argues that the supernatural claims of religion are of course entirely false - and yet that religions still have important things to teach the secular world. Rather than mocking religions, agnostics and atheists should instead steal from them - because they're packed with good ideas on how we live and arrange our societies.

Blending deep respect with total impiety, de Botton (a non-believer) proposes that we should look to religions for insights into how to build a sense of community, make our relationships last, get more out of art, overcome feelings of envy and inadequacy, and much more. For too long, non-believers have faced a stark choice between either swallowing peculiar doctrines or doing away with consoling and beautiful rituals and ideas. At last Alain de Botton has fashioned a far more interesting and truly helpful alternative.

©2012 Alain de Botton (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Highly original and thought-provoking book.... de Botton is a lively, engaging writer." ( Publishers Weekly)

"A new book by Alain de Botton is always a treat…. De Botton is literate, articulate, knowledgeable, funny and idiosyncratic." (Forbes.com)

"[T]his book will advance amicable discussion among both believers and disbelievers." ( Library Journal)

Perfect for feeling lost without religion.

I really enjoyed listening to this book! The author lays out a lot of terrific ideas for how we can meet the needs of our souls without having to believe in a lot of supernatural deities and stuff.

Profound Possibility

This connected feelings I've had for ages. Illuminates potential for society that secular culture abandons.

Deep thinking

It’s so hard to write positive critique, but here it is: fantastic thinking, deep insight, kind and gentle view about human need, desire and frailty. Between the horrid religionists who gatekeep God and the angry scientific atheist who want life to be devoid of all mystery, pleasure or wonder there’s a tiny space that still has flavor, savor and meaning, and this is that space that Monsieur de Bottom has written about. May we all eat in agape homes.

Adequate reading, by a man whose gentle voice well befits the author’s gentle voice, with the occasionally odd pronunciation, but I will not point out in which cases because received English is not, of course, my native dialect.

Decent read not captivating

Overall a decent book which read more like a thesis with points of evidence, proof, arguments. All leading to a general conclusion of other benefits of religion. Not a very engaging piece of writing.

A little thin

I was disappointed in this - de Botton's points about the non-theological comforts of religion were somewhat interesting, but it got bogged down in endless reporting on his specific experiences 'trying on' various religions.

I love this author...

... I’ve read most of his books, including this one. This was my first time listening to one of his books, and I didn’t care for the narrator. Not my cup of tea, but you may like it!

A valuable resource for believers

What made the experience of listening to Religion for Atheists the most enjoyable?

This book is a marvelous resource for believers into the value of their traditions, practices and values to the world in which none-of-the-above is the third largest "religion" in the world. It has helped me reclaim aspects of my faith that have been washed down the drain with the absurd belief systems that are so embarrassing. For the atheist and agnostics, this is freeing, because it allows appreciation of values, beauty, art, music, and community.

Must read over and over

I’m now 65 year young, raised “ Roman Catholic “
Was an alter boy and gave up church at age 12!
Naturally as I now understand after listening have intuitively set out to become a promoter of humanistic religion.
Brilliant!
Inviting all to check out “ the school of life”
Thank you Alain De Botton.

cringey impersonations, but great content

didn't love the narration but love Alain de Botton's eccentric observations and analysis. Eager to listen again despite not liking the vocal talent

Amazing book

This book was absolutely amazing. I'm not even an atheist (not religious either) and this book is perfection.

I work in the field of addiction, and many people won't do 12-step programs because of spirituality. I think this book is great for people to realize that you don't need to believe in anything, but we should all at least consider doing something to become better people.