Jesus skeptic A journalist explores the credibility and impact of Christianity

Journalist and pastor Dickerson (I Am Strong) highlights only the best sides of Christianity in this disappointing polemic. By relying on what he calls "Primary Evidence" (his own judgment) rather than scholarship or the views of experts, he argues that Christianity is a "keystone" for nearly all social improvements, including the Scientific Revolution, the spread of education and literacy, the development of modern medicine, and even the abolition of slavery. Dickerson repeatedly claims to be a skeptic but completely ignores prominent counterexamples, such as Christians who defended slavery on biblical grounds or key movements inspired by non-Christian impulses, such as the Renaissance. The book's second half argues for the historical reality of Jesus and his lingering impact. Dickerson relies, however, on some silly comparisons to indicate the reach of Christianity--such as there being more churches nationwide than McDonald's locations. He closes with his own conversion story and a call for readers to decide on Christ's divinity for themselves. Although Dickerson provides plenty of examples of Christians making positive changes, his simplistic thesis will likely appeal only to the already converted. Readers looking for uncritical cheerleading for Christian supremacy will be gratified, but most will be frustrated by Dickerson's overblown confidence in his own arguments. (Oct.)