Writer plans London temple to atheism
February 03, 2012
A Swiss writer and philosopher has announced plans to build a £1M ($1.58 million) temple to atheism in London.
“Normally a temple is to Jesus, Mary, or Buddha, but you can build a temple to anything that's positive and good,” said Alain de Botton. “That could mean a temple to love, friendship, calm, or perspective. Because of Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens atheism has become known as a destructive force. But there are lots of people who don't believe but aren’t aggressive towards religions.”
“Atheists don’t need temples,” countered Dawkins. “I think there are better things to spend this kind of money on. If you are going to spend money on atheism you could improve secular education and build non-religious schools which teach rational, skeptical critical thinking.”
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Further information:
- Alain de Botton reveals plans for 'temple to atheism' in heart of London (The Guardian)
- Why a temple for atheists? (Vatican Radio)
- Alain de Botton (Wikipedia)
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Posted by: -
Feb. 05, 2012 5:00 AM ET USA
Could someone please enlighten me as to when the services are.
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Posted by: Gil125 -
Feb. 03, 2012 3:42 PM ET USA
Mildly funny. But at a million pounds in London, it's going to be a pretty small temple.
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Posted by: AgnesDay -
Feb. 03, 2012 2:06 PM ET USA
I've just got to see how this one works out.
