Religion for Atheists

This philosophical book Religion for Atheists by Alain de Botton was very interesting and thought-provoking.  The author's argument is that in their zeal to deny religion, atheists have failed to see the secular world has much to learn from religion without taking on board the religion itself.  De Botton focuses on Judaism, Christianity and Buddhism demonstrating the facets of these religions that atheists need to make their lives fulfilling.  For example, we all need places of contemplation.  For most religious people that can be in a church or temple.  It can also be anywhere, such as a beautiful place in a forest.  De Botton points out that many corporations have learned lessons from religion citing the example of the Catholic Church and its rituals which are little different from McDonalds as consistency across the Church and McDonalds is very important. He says art galleries and museums should be arranged in themes that fuel the soul rather than the period they represent.  Also universities should be teaching students how to live well rather than concentrating on unimportant facts.  This is a book for all religions as well as those who don't subscribe to a particular religion. 4/5