Would we be better off without religion 🛐? - UpFront

Is religion a force for good or evil? A controversial question at times, but one that can't be avoided in the modern world. From violence and terror, to gender equality, to science, reason, and education, the faithful and the faithless tend to repeatedly clash over whether religion is a net positive or negative, whether it helps humanity more than it hurts it.
“Religion is both a force of good and evil because religion is a manmade institution, and human beings are both good and evil,” says Reza Aslan, a scholar of religion and best-selling author. “I don't know why it would come as a surprise to learn that the religious institutions that we create can also be responsible for profound acts of good and compassion and positivity, and for equally profound acts of violence and bigotry and hatred.”
Lawrence Krauss, a theoretical physicist and atheist, says religious institutions tend to be harmful to people.
“Religious institutions have not only usurped the notion of morality, but on the whole promulgate ideas that are not useful, and often harmful for people, and take many people, many, many, many people, who simply want to ask questions about the universe and make them feel bad,” says Krauss.
When asked whether people will outgrow religion, Aslan, who just released his latest book God: A Human History, says we are not going to outgrow faith.
“The fact of the matter is that religion has always been in a state of evolution,” says Aslan. “Scientific knowledge is going to change religion. It's going to alter religious people, but it won't make it go away.”
Krauss, who is also a best-selling author of numerous books on science, including his latest, The Greatest Story Ever Told - So Far, doesn’t believe religion will disappear, but says more will turn to science.
“When I was a young person, I thought by now we would have outgrown religion because, let's face it, the evidence of science is that there's no evidence for anything, for any purpose to the universe, any divine inspiration,” says Krauss. “The more scientific literacy there is, the less of the intellectual basis will be there to support religion and we'll see more and more people finding other ways to add meaning and purpose to their lives.”
In this week’s UpFront special, Reza Aslan and Lawrence Krauss debate religion’s place in society, whether religion is inherently violent, and if religion will continue to exist in years to come.
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Website - aljazeera.com/upfront

[@farazshaikh631]

Best part about the debate is lack of personal attacks.

[@mansoorahmad6756]

Strongly agreed

[@kosalbai]

I love the Qataris for standing up for openness

[@kamranahmad7008]

@@mansoorahmad6756 a

[@mansoorahmad6756]

@@kamranahmad7008 yes

[@mansoorahmad6756]

@@kosalbai yes Qataris progressive people and are very better in Middle East.

[@niboushama]

Intellectual grown ups discussing credible facts rationally and a journalist who knows how to direct it Thank you for this

[@vladhardware5642]

How is it rational when Reza Islam compares reading scriptures to looking at stars. Reza is a moron in the garb of an intellectual. By the way, he has been caught red handed lying on live tv before.

[@OakleyANDSittingBull]

Mehdi Raza Hasan is behaving differently here, more maturely, thankfully. I have screened interviews that he has conducted where he has been combative, impatient, loudly overbearing, and arrogantly domineering.

[@GOD-zt6sf]

@@vladhardware5642 when he lied ?? just curious ...

[@willcollier6623]

@@GOD-zt6sf do you mean , when DID he lie ? He opened his mouth ...therefore he uttered lies.

[@ALMM10]

@@willcollier6623 what a nonsense.

[@Khalyd707]

Imagine if the debate was on an Indian tv show! I have so much respect for Al Jazeera.

[@AbhishekSingh-hy4dm]

As an Indian I can verify that It won't ..because there's nothing political about it and that's what Indian media revolves around.... There's not enough hatred in the discussion here to make it to Indian News channels..

[@usmankhair9216]

@@AbhishekSingh-hy4dm idk how do u guys watch people screaming continuously lol No offense

[@fayaqun0]

@@usmankhair9216 It's horrible. It's an unbearable torture on us. We don't watch Indian news channels for news any more. We watch it for entertainment and we watch comedians for news. 🤔😵

[@usmankhair9216]

@@fayaqun0 that happens when u elect a pm who does not support free speech, who even hasnt held a press conference in his own nation in his full tenure

[@usmankhair9216]

@@fayaqun0 hope the next elections bring positive impact on and to your country and ours.

[@michaeldaniel4464]

This is one of the best moderators in the world. He doesn't get emotionally/politically involved, maintains the focus on the question asked, and asks the touch questions with follow-up. Wish we had someone like him

[@katerynaazarova6012]

Your comment shows clearly that you didn't see other videos with him. This video is where he behaves the best, some others are just impossible to watch because of how he emotionally interrupts his guests.

[@michaeldaniel4464]

@@katerynaazarova6012, his forceful nature and direct questions, with follow-up, does not mean he is emotionally invested. He has a dogged approach in which he doesn't allow an interviewee to give a "canned" answer. This may seem aggressive to you, but to me, I would say this is what truly journalism looks like.

[@katerynaazarova6012]

@@michaeldaniel4464 Well, he might be what you described but there is one thing the well-mannered person wouldn't do - to interrupt the speaker in the middle of his/her reply. He might be smart and educated but this way of handling of speakers for me - it's disrespectful. There are plenty of journalists in the world who can get their points through in a courteous manner.

[@michaeldaniel4464]

@@katerynaazarova6012, what I have learned about those that wish to obfuscate. They will start to soliloquize while avoiding to answer the question. He does not allow them to do this. When the interviewee goes onto his program they realize that he will not allow them to "wax-poetically" while avoiding the question or allow them to twist the question into something that makes "them" feel comfortable. Politicians have gotten away with this for years. That's why, in the United States at least, many have lost respect for our journalist who continually give softball questions, do very little follow-up, and never hold our public officials to account.

[@katerynaazarova6012]

@@michaeldaniel4464 Anyway, obviously we will not agree on his figure. As I mentioned - I can't personally perceive this style of interviews. In my home country debates and interviews are conducted in the similar way and never ever brought it any good just the aggression and agiotage amongst people. With calm and persistent manner one can get right answers. I've seen many great examples recently. And I wish there would be more those kind of journalists. Regars,

[@alirazi9198]

Its odd to see people having rational conversations

[@kitemanmusic]

They are not getting down to the real nitty gritty. At last @14:00 The problem with Islam. Oh, no. Neatly avoided.

[@muhammadsyaiful8442]

@@kitemanmusic ??

[@hamzaarshad2953]

@@kitemanmusic what?

[@BhutanBluePoppy]

Indeed.

[@reda29100]

@@kitemanmusic I guess he did, if you listen carefully

[@Aymericope1308]

I have a simple mind I watch an intelligent and respectful debate And I smile

[@samahamara8543]

Exactly

[@vladhardware5642]

How is it rational when Reza Islam compares reading scriptures to looking at stars. Reza is a moron in the garb of an intellectual. By the way, he has been caught red handed lying on live tv before.

[@husamabed6527]

same i do

[@AJ-pl5ub]

I dont think removing religion gonna change something.because we humans will find something to fight.whether its land,wealth,country,ethnicity, colour

[@Jared__Bowden]

If all humans gave up religion tomorrow, there would still be problems. But religion would be a significant lacking contributing factor. Humankind would then be left the mental space and time to focus more on solutions that help all of humanity, rather than wasting it on studying manmade scriptures, building churches and temples. We’d actually be more driven to solve the problems of today together because we’d all realize that now is all we will ever have and that eternity is a myth. Without the comfort blanket of eternity to give people something to look forward to after death that isn’t even there, people would shift their priorities to serve their fellow man rather than serving a god.

[@SaiKrishna-vr4tz]

If all humans believe there is no God, then violence in the world increase and world will destruct

[@ivanleon6164]

well at least the manipulative ways will be clear and debatable, not faith-based.

[@benmonfared]

without religion, at least people do not legitimize their action by saying "I am doing what god says" and they don't use religion as a justification for their horrible actions.

[@RKnight4]

@@benmonfared Thing is the claim they do what their holy book says or what God says but neither God or their holy book command them to do the things they claim God said to do.

[@hinduskigaandchodo336]

"We are Fighting over resources not religions" - Ice Cube

[@mhummadswingedhorseallahha1157]

ye ice cube is such a credible source for geopolitical matters.

[@nocind6752]

"We are Fighting over resources and religions too" - Myself

[@Celevie]

Basic problem is scientist have limited knowledge like other human beings and they want u accept that whatever the scientist says is truth and whatever their understanding is not limited. If they don't understand it does mean that something is not understandable.. Western world was in dark ages always..

[@gokusupersayiandbgt]

Not true, religions one of the main reasons.

[@showmercytoothers4059]

@@gokusupersayiandbgt only the religions om top resources thou.

[@RadinHKamal]

This is a good discussion in my opinion. I would say, these two academics really show how civilized people should discuss or even debate. Education, self evaluation and the power of listening is paramount to a more enlightened society. Bravo to this episode.

[@carlosbarbosa9062]

Radin H. Kamal it help they have a more enlightened and educated religious. Sasly is not always like that, if they have William Lane Craigh nonsenses start to happen because the sophismas. Try the debate between Lawrence Krauss and William Lane Craig.

[@iEMoT1ONs]

Ehhhh...Not really. The atheist scientist was very arrogant and displayed insolent behavior. But, the religious guy was very firm and did not display any sort of behavior that showed he thought he was intellectually superior.

[@BhutanBluePoppy]

@@iEMoT1ONs Well, that's what happens to most people when they subscribe totally to orthodoxy.

[@BhutanBluePoppy]

@Pieter Maas troll

[@hamrunizspar1]

Radin H. Kamal Debates are interesting. Especially when looking out for the power of manipulation. Anything less and one may as well watch a Soap Opera on TV.

[@celestialknight2339]

Religion and science, in principle, are not mutually exclusive. Religion seeks to answer the question *”Why?”* while science seeks to answer the question *”How?”* So on the foundational level, science & religion are attempting to answer 2 completely different questions. Because I can believe everything that modern cosmology says about *HOW* the universe works, but it will never be able to tell me *WHY* it ultimately happens that way; and that is where religion comes in. It is only when the two are mixed together that you start having most theist/atheist debates, driven deeply by misunderstanding, lack of knowledge, and not defining terms (like Reza said). This is why I find it amusing that Lawrence Krauss said that there is “no evidence” that the universe has a “purpose.” He doesn’t realize that it has nothing to do with scientific evidence. “Purpose” is asking the “Why” question as I said before, while the scientific study of our universe is concerned solely with the “how” question. You will *NEVER* be able to set up an experiment that tells you the “purpose” of the universe or of existence, and therefore this itself is the reason for why revelation is sent down in the first place. It gives us that knowledge which we could not have obtained by our own intellect, while perfectly confirming that which we can. So Dr. Krauss unfortunately failed to make that basic distinction between science & religion, and I see all too many atheists doing the same. Also, as an atheist, he cannot have a worldview that accounts for *objective* morality or truth, so it is quite meaningless in the first place for him to even use the words “good” or “bad” and especially “purpose” when the definition and criteria of those terms is potentially ever-changing and emotionally subjective in a truly atheistic worldview, and can never be applied to any situation universally and with 100% confidence. And even though the universe alone cannot tell you the purpose of life, it is nevertheless full of signs that points us toward the Creator, just as any magnificent product would point you toward the reality of its maker. The study of the universe should therefore not push us away, but rather bring us closer toward the One & Only Creator. As the Creator says in the Recitation (Quran): *Indeed, within the universe are signs for those who believe. And in the creation of yourselves and what He disperses of moving creatures are signs for people who are certain.” (Quran 45:3-4)* *”And of His signs is the creation of the universes and what He has dispersed throughout them of creatures. And He is able to gather them together when He wills.” (Quran **42:29**)* And the Creator warns the atheists and other such people who deny, while showing them the irrational absurdity of their atheism. As He says: *”And We did not create the universe without purpose. That is the assumption of those who disbelieve, so woe to those who disbelieve from the Fire.” (Quran **38:27**)* *”Or were they created from nothing? Or were they their own creators? Or did they create the universe? Rather, they are certain of nothing!” (Quran **52:35**-36)*

[@user-ym1qb2dj6g]

look at all the atheism fans in the comment ..so sad .. atheists are not critical thinkers they are just materialistic box answer .. there is no "purpose" in that box

[@Ahsankhan-vb4on]

Great reply bro

[@ellengran6814]

The producer wants to know HOW, and focus on the physical details. The story-teller wants to know WHY, and focus on the entirety and the mentally/emotional condition. The consumer wants to know WHERE, always looking for a better place. The one who judges wants to know WHO, always looking for someone to blame.

[@user-ym1qb2dj6g]

@@ellengran6814 copy and paste ?

[@ellengran6814]

@@user-ym1qb2dj6g Copy and paste???? I am sorry, but I dont know what you mean.

[@ZaidKalantar]

My question is Are we judged by what we believe or by our actions?

[@fareedahmadsiddiqui8268]

In the after life? I believe your judgement depends upon the extent of knowledge and/or awareness that had been brought to you in your life. For example, some random farmer in Sri Lanka never received any message about any religion at all, then he'd be judged on acting upon his basic inherent instincts about right/wrong (for example, if he used to hurt cats while knowing inherently that it's wrong to do so, then that'd work against him on the day of judgement). If he helped a poor person just by inherent natural compassion, that'll help him on the day of judgement, and his judgement criteria would be based on those things, because no knowledge about religion or Islam had been revealed to him. Similarly, a scholar like Reza Aslan would be judged on both the factors, belief and actions, since he has been fortunate enough to read and understand and study the Qur'an (which we believe to be the final word of Allah). Please feel free to respond if you have a difference in opinion. Allah knows best.

[@ayzn3154]

In the life , by our actions by humans In after life , by both by Allah (If you are Muslim I mean)

[@BhutanBluePoppy]

I believe we judge ourselves by our actions, in some cases too harshly. Our beliefs can bring us some mitigating comfort.

[@truenorth5787]

@@fareedahmadsiddiqui8268 and how do you know all this may I ask?

[@carzeWalker]

@@truenorth5787 i believe he derived it from a hadeeth.. There is a hadeeth that was reported by Imaam Ahmad and Ibn Hibbaan, and deemed saheeh by al-Albaani, Saheeh al-Jaami, 881 regarding something similar, you may look it up. Wallahua'lam..

[@BhutanBluePoppy]

I like this interviewer; he pays attention to what each person says, and follows up later if the opponent talks over or ignores the point or question

[@charleskesner1302]

Thanks for this. We never see enough of these discussions.

[@Michael-cl9mb]

Charles Kesner of course scientists always deny any responsibility creating atomic bombs or agent orange. Even the kindest intentions from science has created the internal combustion engine which has entirely corrupted the atmosphere of the whole planet.

[@mkrulic517439]

michael, and your point? "good people do good things, bad people do bad things, but when a good person does something bad, that requires religion."

[@am.b5688]

I understand the Atheist guy, he doesnt believe in God, but Reza Aslan claims that he is a Muslim and yet he is an Atheist! Why the confusion? Islam is clear in that. If you dont believe in God you are an Atheist, period. Islam is not a tribal group like the Jews, Athiest + Jewish is normal in Jewish societies, Islam is clear like day and night; Reza! this is not Christianity either, sorry.

[@faktafakta316]

he did a good job tho

[@HamzaAli-pl6os]

Love the way this debate took place! That's what makes us human,we talk to each other on any matter we differ with. ❤❤

[@MrJaiboi90]

This was awesome and kept my attention. To see three grown men sit around have an OPEN minded conversation about religion....gold!!!

[@walidsarwary]

It was my dream to see Reza and Mehdi Hassan sharing the same platform.

[@sofeabian1372]

Me too, both are brilliant

[@RichardEnglander]

What? Two regressive Leftists? You take people who believe in flying horses seriously? 🤣🤣🤣

[@vladhardware5642]

You might as well include Satan and Muhammed in that list.

[@adrijan6510]

@@vladhardware5642 you mean Jesus and Marx?

[@Tokengesture]

Reza? An egomaniac who regularly lies about his qualifications??

[@newharmonynaptown4868]

I'm an atheist-agnostic, but I have always enjoyed Reza's talks, debates and writings.

[@leftright8826]

Search for "Reza Aslan cannot be trusted"

[@newharmonynaptown4868]

I've seen it, and it is overblown in a lot of ways. And, yes, I'm a huge David Pakman fan. He's one of the better KZbin progressives, in my opinion. I've done my own research into the issue, and I think Pakman is a bit biased there. Some of his research in the extended videos is a bit superficial. His socialism video isn't that great, and I'm a socialist. I expected more. I've read Aslan's articles, and they're interesting. I read Zealot, and loved it. They are interesting works, that even non-believers like myself can enjoy. I don't think he tried to present Jesus as a divine figure in that book, but rather a spiritual man who had real political interests and goals. As for the whole FGM argument, yeah I think Pakman won that one. Clearly. But I also think he didn't really admit (in a debate with a woman from Vice) or talk about where his side had some weak points.

[@newharmonynaptown4868]

Whose arguments?

[@genisug22]

thanks for that

[@newharmonynaptown4868]

Oh, sweet. You seem cool. Are you saying you read the new one?

[@jmbartolome9176]

thats why talking about religion in my previous workplace is not allowed because its endless conversation

[@josegeorgem2966]

That was one of the most rational debates on religion. Both showing respect for each other.

[@sobiaakbar]

The environment was quite pleasant and respectful despite such a controversial topic being discussed. Especially the way Raza Aslan laughs is so natural and releases the tension away.

[@freedomthemorrison2358]

This dialogue in CNN office = Error 404

[@jaffarnasir8472]

Mehdi Hassan is by far the most knowledgeable journalist to moderate a discussion as complex as religion. He facilitates and directs these difficult questions so well, I get glued to the screen till the end!!

[@madlife7274]

you are saying tht because you are a muslim.. lol..

[@muhamedfaour3710]

Agree

[@friendlycreature6375]

@DJRICKYDEEUK You can't think of Miracles scientifically.

[@kamaraolain6362]

@DJRICKYDEEUK Prophets have miracles and miracles cannot be scientifically proven, in the bible it states that Moses Moses held out his staff, and the Red Sea was parted by God and The Israelites walked on the exposed dry ground and crossed the sea, followed by the Egyptian army and Moses again moved his staff once the Israelites had crossed, and the sea closed again, drowning the entire Egyptian army. Do you believe this? Its not possible even nowadays. Well I as a muslim do believe it, its mentioned also in Quran. And if that was possible, then in our modern day you can fly with an aeroplane from mecca to Aqsa in one hour its not something difficult to imagine.

[@kardoameen3864]

very impartial judgement lol

[@philipvanderlin7631]

Two people, Aslan and Lawrence, worth reading and listening to! They help us all to experience our own spiritual experience. Philip Vanderlin

[@BunkerMountain]

Good debate. Not too much interrupting going on and both seemed very respectable towards each other.

[@2008koss]

good show, I think moderator did a very good job !

[@MasterSandman]

I personally think the answer to the question, "Would the world be better off without 'religion'?", is "yes". I'm *not* talking about *faith* or *belief*, but the structured, religious institutions and the power they wield over people and governments all over our planet! Both faith and belief are (as they should be) personal. Everyone should be free to believe (or *not* believe) whatever they choose, in a spiritual sence. The way that religion tends to state their beliefs as fact and also tends to stimulate people to raise their children religious (instead of leaving them a choice), is where I think things go pearshaped. When religion tries to determine what you *should* think, say or do, it totally misses the point. Not just adults, but especially children should always be given a choice! There is nothing wrong with telling them about your beliefs and what it has done for you, or showing them what alse there is to discover. My parents were raised religious, but decided not to do this with my sister and me. They just showed us our bookcase,(where the bible, books by Erich von Däniken, Charles Darwin and Arthur C. Clarke stood side by side amicably) and told us to read and investigate everything. To keep what felt right to us and leave the rest without judgement! This has tought me to treat everyone (and their beliefs) with respect and not judge what they think. Not criticizing their beliefs, only their (destructive) actions. I think that religion too often limits people to bridge the gaps that exist between us because of cultural, racial and spiritual differences. Instead of looking at where we are alike, it too often focusses on where we differ. It doesn't really matter who's right or wrong, in fact, there is no right or wrong. Only what works and that which doesn't! Religion has worked well for humanity in many occasions through the ages, but I think it no longer does! We've outgrown the concept and we should let it go and move on in a direction that does work.

[@cameronianwells1839]

Well said and explained 😀

[@aloevera7835]

Meh. Poorly judged.

[@majmage]

1. Right and wrong _do_ exist. There's actually one right answer to "does a god exist?". 2. Evidence is our only reliable path to truth. If we have evidence, we know something. Otherwise we don't. 3. If we're rational, we match our belief level to the evidence level. On every topic. 4. We currently don't have evidence of any god(s). Therefore it's NOT rational to believe they exist. 5. Note that the truth of an idea is independent from effects of that idea. For example a government could lie to its soldiers that their families will receive a million dollars if they die, and even though the idea itself is false, it can successfully achieve the goal of convincing those soldiers to fight. The idea is wrong. We shouldn't be confused and call it right just because it served a purpose. Personally I greatly appreciated when my friend asked me for evidence of god, as it let me disconnect from an unjustified belief. So I pay that forward to others by having conversations with theists; first I give them an opportunity to educate me by providing evidence god exists (maybe they're the first theist in 200+ to do so; they deserve the chance); then if they can't provide evidence I describe why that means they have no good reason to believe the idea is true (because again: evidence is our only reliable path to truth). I do think Dan Dennett makes good points regarding the need to replace some of the functions religion provides (community, etc) with secular organizations as religion fades from our culture. But notably there isn't actually anything religion does that _can't_ be accomplished by some secular mechanism; we don't have to believe in a god just to be good people or be part of a community.

[@brokenbadge4273]

And I think reza just kind of sidestepped that question here. He frequently conflated the roles of faith and religion as a means to confuse the audience. He is certainly intelligent enough to deflect and avoid, but when he said something as stupid as "You are not a theologian but you read the scriptures, and I am not a cosmologist but I look at the stars", it really revealed he's got an agenda here.

[@katsura2605]

Im not reading all of that but from a glance I just want to ask you 1 thing..what about unity..religion and faith is like a both side of a coin..and without religion..your faith can change as the wind blows..from god is one in the morning to luffy is a god in the noon to I think some of us can relate to satan come evening.. Thats just an example

[@SyedAhmadFathi]

I loved this one, watched it many times, never get old.

[@desmocool]

My question is , how is that table balanced

[@knuckleheadufc9296]

Lol👏👏👏👏

[@jonathantrego]

God

[@vladhardware5642]

Gravity doesn't work in Al Jazeera.

[@delabbadi]

Religion played a part in the world war especially ww2 as a Russian Catholic priest had no issue with the killings of jews

[@idaquesada9281]

Why did the Russian Catholic Priest have a problem with Jews? What we're Jews doing that he would not support them in what they were doing. Maybe because they were killing millions of the Russian people?

[@shahabdurrasheed762]

They keep interrupting Reza when he is trying to make a point.

[@TheAdventuretrainerRuby]

its more the opposite to be honest

[@AmeliaOdetteQ]

Awesome debate! Thank you for posting it, we need more debates like this

[@aidandean2033]

what an amazingly unbiased civil respectful intellectual discussion. good job aljazeera👍

[@Pepedeutschland]

Have you seen the same guy defending Islam? pfff... the reason that as you say amazing unbiased civil respectful intellectual discussion took place successfully is because it did not mention Islam at all... hahahaha funny, right?

[@clydeb8221]

@@Pepedeutschland It did mention Islam. Multiple times. Some of us have actually watched the video.

[@asad0810]

I must say this was a really good debate and I really liked how both of them had the ability to understand and listen to the other person.

[@sfisoduma9379]

This was by far an AWESOME discussion!!! LOVED EVERY BIT OF IT

[@MrMillo-ng9ht]

it's always to see how intellect people can talk with eachother without getting angry. respect for them all.

[@stevenspears2890]

The fact, this question needs to be asked, tells you everything.

[@Jared__Bowden]

AL CAMUS - does it?

[@avarmauk]

This is the quality of discussion you get from academics and not religious loonies. I’m an atheist, but I do often think what if one could compartmentalise the rational study of science and the “irrational” belief in god. Is there a net benefit to that individual? Reza gave what I can describe as the most credible argument for faith.

[@ahmadbilal1626]

Into changes of night to the day and changes of day to the night these are signs of god for those who thinks about there lord ..Quran

[@tanzidalnoman3860]

This is a brilliant discussion...Reza Aslan always gives voice to the matters in regards to religion and the pragmatic world with eloquence and accuracy. Loved the way they established the distinction between "faith" and "religion".

[@sunshine7453]

This is a beautiful and intellectual debate of a difficult subject without killing each other!

[@showmercytoothers4059]

That table is awesome

[@reneakan]

Mehdi is really turning into the most compelling interviewer.

[@m00nBB]

because hes the goat

[@buttofthejoke]

True... some of his earlier moderation was very biased, but I couldn't believe he actually was neutral in this interview

[@mohsinakhtar7876]

Matthayi Naalaaman Because he knows nothing is impossible except for GOD having a partner

[@OakleyANDSittingBull]

@rene akan, Mehdi Raza Hasan is behaving differently here, more maturely, thankfully. I have screened interviews that he has conducted where he has been combative, impatient, loudly overbearing, and arrogantly domineering.

[@jamaicanification]

To answer. No. And we have evidence for that. The encyclopedia of wars did a study that shows that out of all the wars in human history only 6% are due to religion. In addition the Soviet Union, China, Cambodia, etc tried to construct societies were religion had not role to play and they weren't any better off in the modern world.

[@stormkang]

JANHOI MCCALLUM religion made wars alot more popular for a long time (to this day in some places) because it promised eternal rewards for martyrdom.. so even if the war was started for political reasons, people would happily give up their life due to their erroneous beliefs.

[@lastword8783]

what your saying is greatly exaggerated. People sought martyrdom for secular reasons as well. Dying for one's Tribe/country/king has been far more popular than dying for God. People like to exaggerate the role of religion in wars but no one seems to for example equate the terrors of the French revolution with secularism. This is predominantly a modern issue in the post 9/11 world.

[@DemonTaki]

beliefs and religion are not synonyms. Everybody with a slight character would die defending his beliefs and beliefs can be manipulated and erroneous without religion.

[@arthurralstonwakeupblackpe5940]

JANHOI MCCALLUM America is supposed to be a Christian nation and has been at war ever since its beginning...

[@AA123TD]

@@stormkang people would give up their lives without religion involved. They wanted to be remembered as a hero and not a coward. Religion is not the only reason people willingly go to battle.

[@lumlumhamilton77]

I applaud the effort to debate this topic! Well done to both guests.

[@reddd4164]

Would’ve been very interesting to see Nouman Ali Khan on this debate

[@Remake5182]

Bias much

[@oldlahore1857]

Sheikh Omer Suleiman too :)

[@user-yi1dh6dh8p]

Reddd Mohammad Hijab would’ve also had an interesting take on this

[@oldlahore1857]

@@user-yi1dh6dh8p oh yeah all of them. Muhammad Hijab, Abdullah Andalusi, Hamza Tzortzis.

[@Healing_yourself]

Agreed

[@NangialayKhan]

Allah has created Reza Aslan beautiful and full of knowledge, Mashaallah... hats off!

[@stjigpaf]

That is what science is about, we question everything. We don't wear robes and agree with each other.

[@DavinderSingh-kt1sl]

sir it was good conversation about good subject . i think u should poduce more episode on this subject thanks

[@bestrafung2754]

I wish more debates were like this one where both are clearly mature, educated, respectful and know what they're talking about.

[@iconcarifur]

Religion is personal. People should not be attack for their beliefs.

[@_Alshehri.]

I'm only 21 and I've always thought my English is quite good till I opened this video..

[@sheesmustafa9522]

Looks like you haven't seen jordan peterson and Sam harris

[@shaminasfaq7203]

I'm 27, took the IELTS with 7.5 recently and I'm feeling the same as you, LOL.

[@swagsik390]

@@shaminasfaq7203 are you sure? you just gave me confident I hardly had any moment in understanding here this made me more confident

[@sajidhasnat4457]

@@sheesmustafa9522 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@sheesmustafa9522]

@@sajidhasnat4457 😁😁😁

[@dannycoady8430]

What a great interview. Thank you for this.

[@dinaebrahim3333]

What a nice intellectual conversation.

[@tamjidhassan3159]

We need pure science. including spirituality. Because it has nothing to do with religion. As Tesla said, ''think in terms of frequency, energy and vibration.(secret of universe)." It is spirituality = pure science. And LOVE♥️ is(was & will be) one and only true God.

[@moimeself1088]

What a great debate! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@erfanm1051]

Thank you Aljazieera for ruing an interesting debate with so many ads.

[@gonzoartemis2503]

Internet 101 - it's KZbin not Al Jazeera

[@entervalhalla8484]

Brave Browser.

[@mansour2394]

KZbin vanced

[@cjalisyas]

“Do not believe in anything simply because you have heard it. Do not believe in anything simply because it is spoken and rumored by many. Do not believe in anything simply because it is found written in your religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teachers and elders. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations. But after observation and analysis, when you find that anything agrees with reason and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all, then accept it and live up to it.” Buddha quotes (Hindu Prince Gautama Siddharta, the founder of Buddhism, 563-483 B.C.)

[@kenjiknows7413]

Mashallah what a powerful minded man we are truly blessed to have mehdi Hassan in our time alive.

[@randomeststranger]

Lawrence Krauss felt excluded of the conversation when the others started talking about fundamentalism and at 7:53 he was like whatever, funny reaction lol

[@samuelvimes7686]

“Religion is an insult to human dignity. Without it you would have good people doing good things and evil people doing evil things. But for good people to do evil things, that takes religion.” Sums it all up

[@reveiltoi6579]

Right on spot ;)

[@samuelvimes7686]

@tippy114 That religion always has been a good catalyst to justify evil acts. History is full of warlords and politicians that used religion to justify war, atricities and crimes against humanity. In some religions, they're even called prophets

[@hanifahad803]

@Olga Martin hahahahahaahahaha christianity the religion of destruction

[@johnemorrison-kj3ox]

AGREED WHOLEHEARTEDLY

[@nathanj3528]

Just because something sounds good, you tell it's right? There is no truly good people and truly bad. We are all born with a mixed mindset. So you can't blame religion for people doing bad things

[@maureenentwistle6421]

Wow I like this show. Thanks for the great questioning.

[@iainrae6159]

Don't care what anyone believes , as long as they keep it to themselves, treat others well, and don't force their beliefs on others, claim the moral high ground, or teach superstitious nonsense in the science class.

[@bharatpenumutchu6487]

Actually it is not "The Faithful and the Faithless that clash..." it is the "Faithful and Faithful" that do... thereby causing not all but major problem in the world right now...

[@earnestrobinson7564]

Reza Aslan is on another level of elevation to such a great extent that his opponents get irritated!

[@simtrate3959]

@jimbojim Who needs to boast about his credentials constantly. This time the moderator did it for him. What does such a man add to humanity's understanding? He has a slightly different take on theology than the next one. Marduk be praised.

[@spreadtheword2066]

This is pathetic. They had a good conversation and you guys are here debating on who was better.

[@alibawazir8056]

Aslan has the upper hand because he knows a lot about other religions unlike his opponents who come unprepared and their knowledge on the subject is questionable. I hope he is not barred in future just like Semenya for having an advantage over his opponents. In this case, it will not be about the level of testosterone but, let us say extensive insight from his side gives him an unfair advantage over the others. I am sure someone somewhere is gnawing on their knuckles thinking these thoughts or something not far from it.

[@simtrate3959]

@@alibawazir8056 It's not a boxing or soccer match. Your boy isn't winning anything for you. Metaphysics and theology can be debated endlessly without hope of resolution. Messianic faiths will demonstrate truth when they do. Until then, the sciences go about their often tedious courses attempting to understand the smaller questions. Generations pass and religions and sects come and go. But see how tenacious are the faithful. Strange how many cling to the faith of their birth. Better evidence suggests furture erosion of traditional cultures. This contest between the Abrahamic faiths would not be missed by me.

[@sh.a.3333]

Lawrence didn't get irritated at all! They both were very rational but Lawrence had a better argument in my view

[@stanhickerson5768]

Like dear ole dad use to say, "when I meet a talking snake, I'll consider church".

[@saadiamaalimhyhg3690]

Without religion there is no life bcz the creator Himself knew that religion is the only way to govern humanity.

[@Emanon...]

What if politicians could debate honestly and respectfully like this...

[@jentittle9450]

I didn't think the scientist was respectful at all

[@jzach9617]

They lack intellect

[@Amadeus-ms9lt]

Before watching the video, this is a loaded question. One of the most heavily loaded questions ever.

[@_Sam_-zh7sw]

Never saw Mehdi like this. THis is awesome

[@ahmadsiarnoorbakhsh1101]

IF you say there is no God, what is your evidence that there is no God.

[@thatblueeyedindian9713]

Why do you claim there's a God? We reject it, you claim it so you need your evidence.

[@GopalSharma-zw7hh]

How you read a scripture is everything to do with who you are, Very little to do with scripture....🙌 That line is exactly true more than 99percent👌👌

[@muhamedfaour3710]

I am not an atheist, I am Muslim ,I think religious people or people who believe in religion in general lack education and lack insight, Need to educate people about religion and believes more than teaching them religion itself

[@OmarMohamed-qx1vq]

that doesn't make sense. You just say that religious people need to be educated on religion even thought they know it.

[@sorayavanderschyff937]

A really refreshing discussion. Which also goes to show that different people with different beliefs can communicate and debate in an amicable way and agree to disagree. In a non violent manner There is no compulsion in Islam, hidiaayah and faith comes from Allah swt! If all of us can simply accept each other for their beliefs and live together in harmony and respect! No one person knows whether their belief is the right one, however there is a commonality in all religious even atheism! It is that people live together in harmony and not disturbance of others and Their beliefs! Also to treat each other humanely and decently. And respect each other and be kind to each other.

[@culture88]

heck no. Your Abrahamic faith does not allow LGBTQIA+ to live in peace, does not allow them be married, and considers them as sinful beings. I hope for a just and healthy secular society, where one's religious belief takes no role in legislative, judicial, or executive matters.

[@rebelracoon8126]

Religion is what causes the world to be divided, it's what controls the limitations of each human beings in their own capabilities, knowledge and understanding. You see religion can cause arguments some would say their religion and their god is the real one and it would eventually lead into an argument.

[@ibrahimkalmati9379]

What about nationalism racism and political ideology? They did more harm in the century than what so call religion did last 1000 years Even when religion use it was politics which was main reason

[@markfs]

One religion is growing in the world - consumerism. I pray to steve jobs every night

[@fullmetalprism5249]

Mark Sims 😆😂🤣

[@commie563]

My man

[@nashcomp]

Hey there are hadist about konsumerism

[@vonjuez654]

I’m sure you get the same result if you pray to a god

[@tosan1]

Spot on Mark. I think many of such endless debates about religion is simply using traditional religions as escape goats while advertising for the neoliberal capitalistic religion that has killed and destroyed far greater than all religions combined in human history.

[@txlee5513]

They do not let Reza finish a single point. It's disappointing because I'd be really interested in understanding his view.

[@jentittle9450]

yeah this really bothered me, I wanted to hear what he had to say because I felt like a lot of what the other guy was saying didn't seem right and he just kept talking over Reza when he tried to counter it, seems intentional

[@hasanm843]

Aljazeera, I hate you put so many ads. How can I follow the debate?

[@MateenAwan]

Hi Lawrence Krauss ! you have quoted your favourite line that, "there are good people and there are bad people, good people do good things and bad people do bad things, when good people do bad things its religion", add one sentence more, "when bad people do good things its also religion".

[@TinyStixMusicChannel]

You are missing the point. The quote I believe is actually: “With or without religion there will be good people doing good things and bad people doing bad things. But to make a good person do a bad thing; that takes religion”. The point is that bad acts and good acts are committed regardless. However to make a good person do something bad it takes believing god wants them to do so. If you remove religion, those who were doing good originally will not cease to do so due to the absence of religion. Neither will the bad people who were originally doing bad things. The point is that in the absence of religion those good people who were doing bad things will be able to reason as there is no layer of bias created by religion in their decision making and morals. What you are arguing is a false contention. By the way, you will most likely not receive a response from Lawrence Krauss by commenting on a video he features in. It’s more effective to e-mail him directly. And this isn’t even his quote.

[@TinyStixMusicChannel]

Impersonal Brahman ignore my old comments, I don’t argue religion anymore I was going through an Atheist phase at the time.

[@romehutch3179]

@@TinyStixMusicChannel you switch from atheist to Hinduism?

[@TinyStixMusicChannel]

Roman Hutchison no

[@E-D-U]

With all respect for Mehdi, but can you close your mouth and let Reza finish his sentence???! What’s wrong with you?

[@bosmith1820]

Reza is a liar and a fraud. Why does he deserve respect?

[@hassanaamer4160]

Bo Smith Every man deserves equality on the debate forum. It's called basic ethics

[@lambdadriver6792]

His job is to ask question and to REFOCUS the discussion...

[@sheidak.2347]

Exactly - I really wanted to hear Reza finish his sentences. He has the most profound and sophisticated understanding of this whole religion debate and should have more opportunities to clarify things that most people in these debate simply lack or miss.

[@vdobb99]

Mehdi don't want reza to tel the truth

[@elperroreggae]

14:50 love how he shuts up a screen lol

[@Gregoryismnz]

When did he shut up the screen?

[@joshuabigland249]

Hahahagahagaag

[@joshuabigland249]

Im laughing so much

[@joshuabigland249]

Also u dont care

[@ninkinankofangbondi3181]

Religion is not the problem but people are.

[@DukeSteele]

And muslim

[@ninkinankofangbondi3181]

Duke Steele Muslim is not a religion or a noun. “Muslim” is used as an adjective or verb to describe a person who practices the religion of Islam. Not all who claim to be Muslim are Muslim. When God talks in the Quran he doesn’t talk to non believers. He talks to believers. And there is no compulsion in religion. So those who are causing problems around the world in the name of religion are misguided fanatics with their personal agendas but they ain’t doing stuff cause of religion. The prophet lived peacefully with Jews and Christians and he ensured their safety and security. So if a so called “islamist” wants to harm people in the name of religion, he or she is misguided. People are the problem. Religion, guns, cars, knives and so on are all tools that problematic people can use to cause trouble but that doesn’t make those tools bad. You feel me. Someone can drink and drive and kill himself and others, will you say the car is the problem ? No the person is the problem. Likewise guns, likewise religion can serve both good and bad depending on the personalities behind it.

[@trinlegyamtso2159]

So nice both guests !

[@snigdhoahmed5278]

The moderator should not debate......

[@MohammadAliKhalil]

Well, maybe..

[@iMaDeMoN2012]

He's more of a host. It is a media show after all.

[@alizzalovelysamonte1176]

His guest must debate with him as well, he is not a mindless mediator...

[@alizzalovelysamonte1176]

@Benjamin Park Maybe he is biased he has his own belief, understanding and agenda...if it's for good intention then it will benifit the viewers as well.

[@Reciter_AB]

Based on what law

[@nadiaal-kabani9827]

Reza Aslan I'm so glad we have a person like you who can put things into perspective

[@kayserimpa]

wish more debate in this quality, with respect to each other and with meaningful arguments

[@staffordgeduld7470]

Reza is perhaps one of the the most intelligent, sane , rational and logical believers out there in our world. That's why this conversation was so inspiring, uplifting and educational . The non believer ,true to form was always going to have a fun time. Always so good at looking after themselves ; super intelligent ,fast thinker and major credit also to go to a Mehdi Hassan - no slouch himself in the intelligence stakes. Allow me to pass judgement on our world , it's people , religion , faith , belief , knowledge and those that employ all of these to navigate through life . I choose to describe myself as a rational nonbeliever dot connector that use my innate extraordinary ability to find truths in and about life and living and spread my knowledge and experiences educationally as far and efficiently I can . Atheists and nonbelievers like me live mostly from within. It's very easy. Unlike how most believers do things ie to live constantly from outward motivation or inspiration....the Hollywood way. Perhaps not to be called living. More correctly called : " being manipulated and believed to be living". Living largely in a simulated reality and being too non conscious to know that because they're not dealing with knowledge and truth to be able to know and understand the world around them. Religion and similar manifestations have been used for a very long time to manipulate billions of people. Right now those bad manipulators are about to cash in on their investment in getting my fellow man so crazy as they have their realities inverted for them. To so allow brother to kill brother, Moslems to kill Moslems, Christians to legitimately kill Christians as are done in wars , to even protect your own slavemaster after killing your own. What a supervirus... religion is.

[@clydeb8221]

"There are some scientists who are republicans; people aren't always rational." - Lawrence Krauss

[@chuckfinley9352]

You're Jewish

[@dvdrtrgn]

@@chuckfinley9352 wtf are you here?

[@titochdry1150]

"When good people do bad things, it's Religion"....couldn't agree more.👍👌❤👏

[@Cricketers.United]

Tito Chdry I guess all atheists are just bad people to begin with then, cuz atheists have never done anything wrong have they?

[@montychoww7453]

bring Ben SHapiro and Reza ASlan together on a talk show. its gonna be a hit show and very interesting to watch since both of them are an expert in their designated fields and are very good at debating.

[@Robin-bk2lm]

This debate itself -rational, honest, fair-is the opposite of religion with its myths, emotions, and false hierarchy.

[@muciiiciciciciic]

Dam that muslim guy has cool grey hair.

[@redx11x]

Lol

[@rasul407]

Made in Iran 🇮🇷

[@mcchonky5709]

Now that i can agree

[@Jim73]

7 minutes in and their collective loudness is so unnecessary... Reminds me of my extended family get togethers.

[@OakleyANDSittingBull]

Indeed. If paired with more ego or combativeness it could have been trauma-inducing for those suffering CPTSD due to psychological abuse...

[@emilylemk2466]

For two people that disagree with each other, they say the other is right an awful lot

[@mrknowall2849]

See, this is what a debate should people have a chance to give their point of view you may not like it but you respect it. Medhi and Reza are 2, of my favorite people they are great at their respective professions and I am a big fan

[@basirgardezi]

Essentially the fighting is just a power struggle and in the current world power struggle is not between kings but communities. Now in the current world scenario the biggest communities are based on religion. As far as religion being the cause of the problems it is wrong, it is just the biggest and most powerful tool. If religion is removed a new demographic segregation would be developed. Humans in general are opinionated and they join with the group closest to their opinion and that collection of people try to combine and evolve as the dominating group.

[@justamuslimtotheone]

absolutely right !

[@faiz8569]

That table is actually sick

[@nickgeffen8316]

Thank goodness for Reza.

[@anasz7853]

Yeh... Just i wt was looking for , Raja aslan interviewed by you Mehdi ....

[@Sherlock_The_Corgi]

"Would we be better off without religion 🛐? " - topic. -We are not talking about religion, we are talking about faith. - Argument. Don't thank me for your saved time.

[@muhammadsyaiful8442]

youre lack of understanding dont you :)

[@hamrunizspar1]

Zdorovo, Nyos Religion is about faith. Faith is investment in something that cannot be seen never mind quantified. It is therefore a declaration of humility, a pre-requisite if one wants to go to heaven. Unfortunately, many religions people claim that god is real and will fight back to defend their stance. This has a terrible side-effect. Certainty is pride and humility goes out the window. And pride is a sin. This is why I believe that religion is best practised in private, and does not need to be worn on one's person. A truly religious person does not need to advertise it. It is like giving alms with the right hand AND MAKING SURE THAT THE LEFT HAND SEES IT.

[@staffordgeduld7470]

Faith bails out religion in constant crisis. Does faith deny that they are related by blood or has faith lost her integrity?

[@muhammadyasirjilani2912]

I hope someday science may come up with "covalent bonding" among humans😊

[@deantakecare1422]

Very good and respectful debate which we will never see on Fox Tv or CNN

[@rhbulbul]

And this type of discussion and debate should continue until the end of human civilization. The beneficial side is that it will make us more inclined to rationality, reasoning, and evidence and free us from bigotry. The wonder of the Universe/Multiverse will continue to enchant us with all the glories and mysteries.