Wendy Kaminer

Wendy Kaminer, a lawyer and social critic, is a fellow at Radcliffe College and the author of several books, including True Love Waits: Essays and Criticism. In the following viewpoint, she argues that although many people believe that religion can be uniquely effective in dealing with crime, drug abuse and other social problems, there is little evidence that organized religion has positive social benefits or moralizing effects. Religious belief can result in cruelty and bigotry. Kaminer defends atheism from charges that it leads to immorality and asserts that atheists can be as virtuous and socially responsible as religious people.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. Why is it difficult to make generalizations about religious belief as a predictor of good or bad behavior, according to Kaminer?
2. What advantages do...