Faith in Faithlessness: An Anthology of Atheism.

Dimitrios Roussopoulos’s main motive in putting together this anthology was to “give rational tools to those who seek to counter […] those religionists who dominate too many important institutions of power in our society.” While acknowledging that atheism has gained attention recently through the popularity of such writers as Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, and Sam Harris, Roussopoulos is careful to caution that atheism is not a fad. This anthology assembles works from Spinoza to Vonnegut in an attempt to give a comprehensive overview of the most convincing pieces of atheist literature.

This book contains a well-balanced mix of deeply philosophical musings, such as Nietszche’s condemnation of Christianity, to more accessible writings, like Louise M. Anthony’s “For the Love of Reason.” There are also pithy quotes from famous actors and other popular figures. Roussopoulos’s introduction couches this anthology firmly in the realm of politics and contemporary issues, namely the ecological crisis we are currently facing. While making no bones about his far-left political leanings, Roussopoulos’s views are given credence and gravity by his clever choice of contributors.

Considering Quebec’s Révolution tranquille and, more recently, Alberta’s Bill 44, questions of religion are integral to Canadian society. Unfortunately, Faith in Faithlessness contains very little Canadian content. Any mention of Canada seems cursory, and the appended resource guide is comprised almost entirely of American associations. Nevertheless, Roussopoulos poses some interesting questions concerning the insecurity, fear, and ignorance he purports are at the root of our need for religion, making this a relevant and useful anthology for any reader interested in atheism.