The Art Of Deception: And Introduction To Critical Thinking, Nicholas Capaldi, New York: Prometheus Books, 1987, Revised Edition, 222P
You Can Order The Book From Prometheus Books∞
You Can Order The Book From Prometheus Books∞
Many of my students ask me if Christians learn anything from non Christians and from people who are opposed to their faith? Prima facie it looks like an intelligent (and even pious) question, but it is neither. First, blind condemnation of others is not piety. Second, the bulk of the useful information that all Christians receive, accept, and internalize in their active lifetime comes from non Christian sources of information such as textbooks, reference books, newspapers, TV, the Internet, or any number of sources of information that are available. Thus not only is the question foolish, it can also lead to blackout of mental faculties if one entertains it too much without a logical analysis.
Prometheus Books is the largest publisher of free-thought and rationalist books. They have numerous titles that attack all the aspects of the Christian faith. This publisher came to my attention about a decade ago, and since then I have reviewed many of their books, and have read many more. While I have my differences, I must admit that many of their books can educate the Christian thinker, specially the narrow-minded ones if they are willing to take a second look. However, it is the thinking Christian, who wishes to offer a reason for faith, would be benefited most by reading a selection of their books. This is one book that is highly recommended.
The title, The Art of Deception, might confuse some potential readers into thinking the book really deals with deception, but that is not the purpose. The book, in a simple language and style, explains (as the subtitle rightly says) the art and science of Critical Thinking. Apologetics students, Christian communicators, and even counselors will find the book useful. When someone makes a false statement, or presents a false deduction, often one knows the answer, but is not able to point to the precise reason why it is false. This book will help them to discover the why of it.
Three chapters, Presenting Your Case, Attacking An Argument, Defending Your Case, cover most of the book. Some of the suggestions given are disputable but most are very useful. The chapter on Identifying Arguments can be absorbed as it is, because it discusses technical points and there was little scope for the biases of the author to creep in. There is an extended Appendix, and severs a good purpose unlike the more dry appendices.
An essential book in the library of the discerning apologist, communicator, and counselor.
Reviewed By: Dr. Johnson C. Philip
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