Science Book Reviews

A Devil's Chaplain

If you like Richard Dawkins, you will like A Devil's Chaplain.

A Devil's Chaplain is an anthology of essays, many of which have been published previously, in seven sections. Along with book reviews and eulogies that speak more of Richard Dawkins the man than Richard Dawkins the scientist, the editor has included essays exploring the interrelationship between genetics, information technology and evolution. These essays consistently apply scientific theory to everyday social and political issues in a thought-provoking manner. Without mincing any words, we are told how our judicial system could be improved by a simple application of statistical theory; how genetics, ethics, and law are all too often twisted up together unscientifically, what makes a good teacher; how society would benefit from evidence-based decisions, and about the inspiration that is Africa.

Stylistically, A Devil's Chaplain is clean and methodical with a tone of philosophical debate in some essays and a note of enthusiasm for the world and its inhabitants in others. Nonetheless, many of the essays may be easier to follow by readers with some prior knowledge of technology than by those picking up a piece of science writing for the first time. Overall, this is a well-rounded collection that encourages its readers to think analytically and feel passionately about life. Be forewarned though: If you have any affection or even hands-off respect for religion, if you have even the slightest inkling that human logic cannot explain everything correctly at all times, prepare yourself to be offended. Sometimes merely derogatory, sometimes paternalistically condescending, Dawkins always preaches atheism, and the rejection of any systems of belief that do not found themselves on his own, with an evangelical zeal. If the reader can surmount this, there lies before them a book that is filled with intelligent commentary by an exceedingly intelligent man.