Tonight’s program was inspired, in part, by Robert Wright’s recent book, The Evolution of God. Wright provides a sweeping historical analysis of the three Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) and argues two broad points:

1.    Religious doctrines evolve over time in response to the changing world (the economic, social, and political circumstances on the ground).
2.    Religions become more compassionate and peaceful over time.

However, in the wake of the Fort Hood shootings, some may question Wright’s arguments. There have been questions about the relationship between Maj. Nidal M. Hasan (the Fort Hood shooter) and cleric Anwar al-Awlaki (who supposedly knew at least one of the Sept. 11 hijackers). Some have alleged that the cleric ordered Maj. Hasan to carry out the Fort Hood shooting.

It should be noted that Maj. Hasan’s actions do not reflect the vast majority of religious people. Proof of that can be found in the 2007 Pew Centre study of Muslim Americans, which found them to be “largely assimilated, happy with their lives, and moderate.”

However, there does seem to be an increase in religious conflict around the world (or, at least, an increased awareness of religious conflict). This makes some, like Richard Dawkins, question if religion is a destructive force.

However, Wright has a fascinating rebuttal to new atheists (that you can watch in the clip below). Wright argues that the new atheists have yet to consider quantifying the lives saved by religious pacifism in comparison to the lives lost by religious intolerance (although he concedes that doing so would be impossible).

Considering the concern some have about religion, the ability of religious doctrines to change becomes an important topic.

Some past programs of The Agenda show there is at least debate about the meaning of religious teachings. For instance, there is the interview with Tarek Fatah where he argues for a liberal revolution in Islam. Also, below is a debate over what Jihad means.

Thus, since there is debate about the meaning of religious teachings, it seems wise to follow Wright’s suggestion in The Evolution of God to tackle the conditions that lead to militant religious belief. That way moderate religious belief can win the battle of ideas.

This is an important task, because as Wright argues many “are better people, and often happier people, thinking of a God who is aware of their daily struggle and offers solace or affirmation or reprimand....”