Religion's Role in Violence

In this religious violence speech, Sam Harris discusses the role that religion often plays in serious conflicts. He says that despite the presence of scripture-inspired violence all over the world, newspapers and media figures tend to gloss over the connection.

Harris believes that being too respectful of people's religious beliefs can contribute to religious violence. He uses the Virginia Tech shooting as an example, discussing the fact that the shooter had been dragged to numerous exorcisms by his mother who believed there was something evil in him. This person was consistently told that they were evil by someone they loved, so it stands to reason that they would start to believe it.

Harris also discusses the tragedy that occurred in America on September 11, 2001. This was another instance where religious beliefs sparked serious violence.

Harris believes that religious violence needs to be publicly addressed.