Facing our demons
After almost two years and twenty–nine columns, Dave Belden is still exploring what it means for an agnostic to write about religion. But if the answers remain elusive, the need for dialogue across faith, unbelief and dogma has never been clearer.
Don't get <em>Left Behind</em>
The American left fears that government is in the hands of the religious right. The right fear that despite the best efforts of the conservative administration, they cannot reverse the tide of liberal social change. If they ever talked they would find that, unbeknownst to both sides, they are moving together not apart, says Dave Belden.
What does 'spiritual' mean?
There are a great many sceptics who will one day be grateful for the legacy of at least one evangelical Christian. Dave Belden continues his dialogue with readers on the value of religion.
New wine
Religion need not be the vehicle for a narrow, exclusive conformism. It can be the means for individuals to reconstitute themselves as whole human beings – and thus a route to social progress.
The left needs religion
Religion doesn’t have to mean repressive institutionalised mystification, it’s not even about God. It’s a way to organise a community around our core human values, and anyone interested in social change needs it.
Religion is good for this
Religion can bring hope, respect, salvation. Dave Belden, a non-believer, makes the case.
Thanks for the photos
Images like those of the abuse at Abu Ghraib can destroy our hope for a better future. But democracy only works when images are uncontrolled. Dave Belden sees a chance.
Three cheers for video games
Video games are violent, addictive and they stop us reading. But can they help us build a better future? Dave Belden explores the left and right sides of our brains.
When beliefs fail
From Iran to China, America to Rwanda, we are all looking for faith in something. But our beliefs can let us down. Disillusion requires reinvention not fanaticism or despair.
Do moderate dreams inspire you?
It may not sound like it, but the “End of History” is an abandonment of utopia. Market-based liberal democracy is about pragmatism and trade-offs. Dave Belden on whether this is enough to inspire us.
Gay in Smallville, USA
Across America, gay couples are declaring their vows in civil unions and marriage ceremonies. Dave Belden witnesses his friends’ marriage in his hometown and admires his nation’s never-ending adaptability.
Unbearable Passion
Mel Gibson’s controversial new film, “The Passion of Christ”, is violent, harrowing and almost impossible to watch. So don’t, recommends Dave Belden.
Humiliation: how to get over it
Arabs and people of the American South share a painful heritage that includes humiliation, religious fundamentalism and violence, says Dave Belden. Can they rewrite the historical narrative they inhabit - and become actors rather than victims?
Is George Bush honourable?
Even leaders of the most modern nations are subject to the codes of honour of older societies. But where does that leave George W. Bush?
Headscarves and freedom
Young women’s public display of Islamic belief exposes Europe’s fears about immigration. Dave Belden takes the long view.
This week's editor
Europe from the bottom up
European debate
Democratic Wealth
Nuclear non-proliferation
oDRussia at journalismfestival .com
Mali - the plot thickens
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Remote control war
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Conference coverage from 50.50
Articles exploring the themes of the fourth international Nobel Women's Initiative conference May 28-31. Jennifer Allsopp and Heather McRobie will be reporting for 5050
Articles exploring the themes of the fourth international Nobel Women's Initiative conference May 28-31. Jennifer Allsopp and Heather McRobie will be reporting for 5050
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Markha Valenta Inter Alia: religion, politics, culture
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Lis Howell On broadcasting
Dan Hancox Revel, Riot and Rebellion
Martin Rose Bliss Was It in that Dawn to Be Next Door
Vron Ware Up in Arms
Jim Gabour Sunday Comics
James Warner Standing Perpendicular, as books do
Markha Valenta Inter Alia: religion, politics, culture
Paul Rogers on Global security
Mary Kaldor on Human security
