Topic > Differences between Dershowitz and Keyes - 1727

Dershowitz argued that people without a religion may simply be more moral than those who have one: "Indeed, it is my thesis that a truly moral person, who acts morally, does not for fear of damnation or for the promise of reward, but because it is the right thing – if anything, it is more moral than the atheist or agnostic who throws himself in front of an oncoming bus to save a child there is no eternal promise, that there is nothing but the grave that awaits him, is more moral than Sir Thomas More who did a cost/benefit analysis of whether or not to face eternal damnation by disobeying the pope or face instant death by disobeying the king.". Here Dershowitz is able to provide concrete evidence that people who do not have a religion can actually be more moral than those who do have one. Dershowitz is also able to demonstrate that the Bible may not be up to date by reading a letter to Dr. Laura, part of it here: "I have a neighbor who insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus 35:2 clearly states that he should be put to death. I am morally obligated to kill him myself, or I can hire a hitman. I know you have studied these things thoroughly, and therefore I am confident that you can help me. Thank you again for reminding us that God's word is eternal immutable." Here Dershowitz is able to highlight some of the evil in the Bible, proving once again that religion is not related to mortality. Throughout the speech Dershowitz continues to provide facts and examples; allowing him to be able to get the point and be able to back it up