Richard Dawkins, a leading evolutionary biologist and author of many now-classic works of science and philosophy, has always unequivocally stated that belief in God is a madness that has caused numerous social ills.

In this book, he fiercely critiques the idea of God in all its forms, from the sex-obsessed, unfeeling tyrant of the Old Testament to the gentler, yet still irrational, Heavenly Watchmaker favored by some Enlightenment thinkers.

He demolishes the main arguments in favor of religion and demonstrates that the existence of a superior being is an utterly unlikely possibility. He describes how religion fuels war, fosters intolerance, and abuses the mind and soul of children.

The God Delusion is a fascinating polemic with dazzling arguments, an essential read for anyone interested in this emotionally charged and very important issue.