Review of Religulous (2008) by Chris D — 26 Jun 2010

A very funny critique on religion, although I think Maher too often (especially at the end) likes to focus on the destructive element of religion. I've always preferred to approach it from a reasoning standpoint: any time you mention the harm that religion causes people will just come back with all the good it has done. Maher isn't overly-abrasive in his interviews, although he just get some great jibes in. Most of his interviewees seem to ignore them, but they're fun to watch.

This is a topic that is difficult to be even-handed about: if you don't believe in God, Zeus, The Celestial Teapot, then how can you argue for its existence? Nevertheless, I felt Maher was respectful enough as he travels the world meeting with the faithful and non-religious a like. The gay muslim bar seemed gratuitous (no real substantive discussion), but it was still pretty hilarious. I would hope religion people who watch this will keep an open mind and consider this important note: there are so many different religions out there that claim to be "the one". So by choosing to worship in one, aren't you just playing a very high-stakes lottery? Also, who's to say that if there is a God, he might reward even more those who live their life for making the world a better place to live, then those who remain dedicated to a particular religious dogma?