We have a choice. We have two options as human beings. We have a choice between conversation and war. That's it. Conversation and violence. And faith is a conversation stopper.
Sam HarrisOne could surely argue that the Buddhist tradition, taken as a whole, represents the richest source of contemplative wisdom that any civilization has produced.
Sam HarrisIf someone doesnโt value evidence, what evidence are you going to provide that proves they should value evidence. If someone doesnโt value logic, what logical argument would you invoke to prove they should value logic?
Sam HarrisAs an atheist, I am angry that we live in a society in which the plain truth cannot be spoken without offending 90% of the population.
Sam HarrisWe have Christians against Muslims against Jews. They're making incompatible claims on real estate in the Middle East as though God were some kind of omniscient real estate broker parsing out parcels of land to his chosen flock. People are literally dying over ancient literature.
Sam HarrisReligion provides the only story that is fundamentally consoling in the face of the worst possible experiences - the death of a parent, for instance. In fact, many religions take away the problem entirely, because their adherents ostensibly believe that they're going to be reunited with everyone they love, and death is an illusion.
Sam Harris