The Devil's Chaplain

[Jas]

Has anyone read this yet? Being a Dawkins fan (I also like Gould, oddly enough), I bought it earlier this month, but seeing as I have it sitting under about 10 other books I have yet to read (not to mention schoolwork), I haven't had a chance to read it yet. Is it as good as his other stuff? Any reviews or comments anyone would like to share?

[HarryKeogh]

I read it about 5 or 6 weeks ago and enjoyed it. I skipped over the reprints of his reviews of several of Gould's books. Pretty dry and i'm tired of the debate over punctuated equilibrium though i enjoyed the unfinished correspondence between them. Just wish they could have finished what they wanted to accomplish (in terms of dealing with creationists) before Gould died.

The rest of the chapters i enjoyed immensely and i agree that religious leaders have to show they are worthy of respect before we give it to them. Quite a few references to 9/11 and it was interesting to hear his view on the matter.

It's a very quick read also.

[Deimos]

I just finished it today and really enjoyed it as well. I also skipped the Gould review section because it failed to hold my attention.
I enjoyed the first three sections of essays the most. I was suprised at some of the subjects, pleasantly surprised that is. I really enjoyed his essay on trial by jury, as well as his essay on crystals and other con tricks. The one part I liked the most was his section on religions and religious leaders, probably because I find religion extremely irritating and always have.

[Jas]

Thatnks guys! I really have to read it...I just have a million other things to read first, so was making sure it was worth the wait:)