An audience with the Pope – What would you say?

The latest edition of the UK’s “New Humanist” has asked a few famous folks what they would say to the pope if they were granted an audience with him. Here are a few of my favorites … Richard Dawkins: “Mr Ratzinger, as head of the world’s second most evil religion you are not welcome. True, … Read more

Christopher Hitchens: “Freedom of Religion – No Thanks”

There is a thought provoking article by Christopher Hitchens that was published in Slate on 6th Sept (Yes, OK, I’m a slow reader, even if it is 2 days later, I get there eventually). Do you truly believe in “Freedom of Religion? Without giving it too much thought, the immediate off the cuff remark might … Read more

Canon law has allowed Catholic abuse priests to escape punishment

There is an interesting article in today’s UK Guardian that states the position now being taken by Geoffrey Robertson QC, the lawyer engaged to seriously consider a legal challenge against the pope. His book, “The Case of the Pope”, is published tomorrow, so unless you have been living on MARS for the past five years, … Read more

PZ’s hilariously funny breakdown of a believers email

We all get them, “fan” mail from true believers out to convert you, or just to have a go and vent a bit. Some of us politely engage and debate, others just ignore. However, the true master of the witty reply or takedown has just got to be PZ. On his blog he has published … Read more

Islam and Democracy – Incompatable?

The following news article has surfaced … The Taliban on Sunday announced plans to disrupt Afghanistan’s parliamentary elections, scheduled for September 18. A Taliban spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, told reporters that the balloting is just for the benefit of the foreigners who he says are occupying the country. And he urged the Afghan people to boycott … Read more