The Last Superstition: A Refutation of the New Atheism

The Last Superstition: A Refutation of the New Atheism presents philosopher Edward Feser's response to prominent atheist writers like Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, and Daniel Dennett. Feser examines the philosophical foundations that underpin both theistic and atheistic worldviews. The book traces the development of classical philosophy from ancient Greece through medieval Christian thought, focusing on the metaphysical arguments of Aristotle and Thomas Aquinas. Feser contrasts these classical approaches with modern philosophical movements and scientific materialism. Through systematic analysis, the text addresses key debates about God's existence, the relationship between faith and reason, and the nature of reality itself. The arguments build on each other to construct a defense of traditional religious and philosophical positions. The work stands as a challenge to contemporary secular assumptions, suggesting that classical metaphysics remains relevant to modern discussions about meaning, morality, and the fundamental nature of existence.

Readers note Feser's strong philosophical arguments against atheism, particularly in explaining Aristotelian-Thomistic metaphysics. Many appreciate his clear breakdown of complex philosophical concepts and systematic dismantling of arguments from Dawkins, Dennett, and Harris. Positives: - Clear explanations of classical philosophy - Thorough rebuttals to modern atheist positions - Logical structure and reasoning - Historical context for philosophical debates Negatives: - Aggressive, combative tone - Frequent ad hominem attacks on atheist writers - Can be difficult for philosophy newcomers - Some find it too dismissive of opposing views Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (776 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (456 ratings) Sample review: "Feser expertly presents classical arguments, but his hostile tone undermines his points" - Goodreads reviewer Another reader notes: "The philosophical content is excellent, though the polemic style may turn away the very readers who would benefit most from the arguments" - Amazon reviewer

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🔹 The book directly challenges prominent New Atheist figures like Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, and Daniel Dennett, specifically targeting what Feser calls their misunderstanding of classical philosophy. 🔹 Edward Feser was himself a former atheist who converted to Catholicism after studying the philosophical arguments of Thomas Aquinas while working on his Ph.D. in philosophy. 🔹 The book revives and defends Aristotelian-Thomistic philosophy, arguing that modern science actually depends on these classical metaphysical foundations rather than contradicting them. 🔹 Unlike many other religious apologetics works, this book focuses primarily on philosophical arguments rather than biblical or historical evidence, emphasizing reason over faith-based approaches. 🔹 The title "The Last Superstition" is an ironic reference to Richard Dawkins's characterization of religion as humanity's "last superstition," with Feser arguing that atheistic materialism is itself the real superstition.