You'll Believe When Desperate for God's Help (Atheist Book Response, Part 18)

Think Well

Have you heard either of these claims? "There are no atheists in foxholes," and "Only an atheist until the plane starts to fall." These claims are often given to show that atheists frequently find themselves pulled toward God during times of stress. Is this true? Can it be used as an argument for God? Atheist Armin Navabi addresses this argument in chapter 18 of his book, "Why There Is No God." He writes, "The existence of 'deathbed conversions' and similar experiences does not prove the existence of God... The idea that fear could drive you toward the belief in God only goes to suggest that religious claims are commonly fear-based and not rooted in actual logic or evidence. Unintentionally, theists are essentially acknowledging that their claims are irrational." Join the show as we walk through Armin's chapter and look at how to think about belief in times of desperation. I'll be taking your calls and responding to your questions as well!