Alain de Botton recently gave this TED talk called Atheism 2.0
His lecture was intriguing to say the least. He presents a 'new' postmodern twist to atheism incorporating the 'best parts' of religion.
We have to admit that there are consequences of our orientation toward data and technique rather than toward emotional processes of our human nature. Botton recognizes this and seeks to address the problem by meshing culture with the ritualistic practices of religion to reinforce positive character traits. He focuses on creating 'spiritual' experiences that address our higher level needs such as guidance, morality, and consolation.
Certainly there are positive aspects of religion that should be incorporated by culture such as community, meditation, and reflection. But my problem with his theory lies in his assumption that religious rituals will work as a means to an end. He operates as if there is some equation to a satisfying life.
Here I think we definitely see a heart longing for something more. My worry is that someone with this mindset will eventually find themselves even more empty after the trapping of ritual practices.
Botton's talk made me reflect upon the motives of my own practices. Do they serve as a means to an end? Or are they designed to connect me to something beyond?
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