Christmas is a great paradox – we all pretty much know the meaning of Christmas and what we are supposed to be celebrating, but commercial interests have more or less hijacked the occasion and, if we are honest, most of us have to concede that we have more than been willing co-conspirators. After all, it’s a lot more fun this way?
The greatest irony of all is the number of self-proclaimed atheists who put their strongly held beliefs to one side in order to enjoy Christmas as much as the next man. Well this doesn’t have to mean that you have to be too judgemental about this – it’s all a bit of fun after all? So, suppose a member of your family or a friend is a devout atheist – what can you buy them as a Christmas gift that won’t offend their sensibilities? Here are a few ideas:
The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins – There can’t be many people who have not voiced an opinion about Dawkins’ views on religion – The God Delusion caused a great deal of controversy when it was first published and the book has been a constant best-seller ever since.
Dawkins takes the view that anyone who believes in religion is simply delusional and puts powerful arguments forward to support his case. Agree with the views expressed or not – you can not deny the impact this book has made upon the religious establishment and it’s a book that every self-respecting atheist should have in their collection.
- £5.00 from amazon.co.uk
The Greatest Show on Earth: The Evidence for Evolution by Richard Dawkins – In his latest book, Dawkins takes on the Creationists and followers of the Intelligent Design by examining Darwin’s Theory of Evolution and Natural Selection.
Throughout the book he [Dawkins] debunks the various alternative theories which have enjoyed something of resurgence of late and argues that evolution is indeed a fact and puts forward scientific evidence to support his views. At the same time Dawkins acknowledges the wonders of nature that make our world such a unique place and the book will be enjoyed by, not only, readers of his previous works, but anyone who is free-thinking and open minded enough to consider the substantial scientific evidence in favour of Darwin’s original theory.
- £9.97 from amazon
In God We Doubt: Confessions of a Failed Atheist by John Humphrys – A proud agnostic, John Humphreys was raised as a Christian but slowly came to realise that he had many doubts about his faith and in 2006 he challenged religious leaders to prove the existence of God. Not so much a work which promotes one view or the other, more a reasoned argument for the pro and cons of each side of the argument – which is something of a rarity when such strong opinions are held.
- £13.49 from amazon.co.uk
The Atheist’s Guide to Christmas – edited by Ariane Sherine – Humorous and irreverent tips on surviving the Christmas season from contributing atheists around the world including Richard Dawkins, Charlie Brooker , David Baddiel and Brian Cox.
Compiled by comedy writer and journalist Ariane Sherine who fronted the atheist bus campaign, earlier this year.
- £7.77 from amazon.co.uk
‘There’s Probably No God’ Coffee Mug and Mouse Mat – Featuring the iconic logo and typeface of the now infamous Atheist Bus Campaign this coffee mug and mouse mat make ideal budget gift ideas and are available in a range of designs as well as with a few alternative wordings.
‘There’s Probably No God’ T- Shirts – these T Shirts feature the Atheist Campaign slogan and are available in a range of sizes, colours and designs to suit both men and women.
- Atheist Bus Campaign T Shirts – from £10.95 at Zazzle
Jesus Action Figure – Put a smile on your atheist friends face with this Jesus action figure with moveable arms and a wheeled base.
- £5 from play.com
Jesus No 1 Mug – Your atheist friend will just love this coffee mug with a homage to Jesus printed on the side – sure to cause a stir at every coffee time!
- £3.99 from play.com