9th - 16th Dec 2007

In his book 'The God Delusion', atheist Richard Dawkins gives the impression that all religious people think that an unquestioning faith is a virtue. This may be a "pernicious delusion" (a phrase Dawkins uses for those who believe in God) which Dawkins himself is trying to spread. My own faith tradition regards questioning as an essential element for a growing faith to be relevant in every generation (see Additional Thoughts below). Perhaps Dawkins is confusing an unquestioning faith with trust - it is an unwavering trust which is a virtue. As a 'religious scientist', I agree fully with Albert Einstein that:

"The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvellous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity."

Albert Einstein (1879-1955, Physicist and Nobel Laureate; from the magazine 'Life', May 2, 1955).

Additional Thoughts

Some thoughts about questioning from theologians:

"To ask questions is ultimately to be enriched."

Frances Young (Cadbury Professor of Theology, Birmingham University; from "Can these Dry Bones Live?" SCM Press, 1982, p19).

"Exploring and questions are essentials to the dynamic of living faith."

David Jenkins (former Bishop of Durham; from "The Calling of a Cuckoo: Not Quite an Autobiography" Continuum, New York / London, 2003, p66).