In This Essay Russell Argues Against the Idea That Adherence

In this essay Russell argues against the idea that adherence to religious dogma is humankind's best hope for alleviating the world's evils. Uncritical acceptance of faith-based morality is dangerous and noxious because it leads to coercion by authorities who wish to preserve orthodoxy, to intolerance of opposing views, and to discouragement of honest inquiry. Contrary to general opinion, he says, Christianity has historically not embodied better morality than rival worldviews have: "Christianity has been distinguished from other religions by its greater readiness to persecution." To those who believe that intelligence has caused our troubles, he says, "It is not unintelligence that will cure them. Only more and wiser intelligence can make a happier world."
-Russell believes that what the world needs is reasonableness, tolerance, and realization of the interdependence of humanity.