Best Theist/Atheist Dialogue Books

If you want to get at the truth of some matter there is no better way than this: find (relevant) experts who disagree and see what comes out of their exchange. This is where dialogue books come in handy; they can help somebody evaluate opposing viewpoints, and tend to be far more substantive (and less contentious) than live debates, whose quality is often contingent upon what the contestants had for breakfast.

In this connection, what follows is a list, in no particular, of my favorite dialogue books between theists and atheists (or agnostics).

Theism and Atheism - Haldane and Smart

Both contributors are intelligent philosophical generalists who engage on issues related to ultimate explanations, human freedom, the problem of evil, and more. While I said this list was in no particular order this is probably my favorite of the lot.

Is God the Best Explanation of Things - Rasmussen and Leon

Rasmussen’s “argument from geometry” is worth the price of admission alone — very intriguing! Leon — an agnostic — is a powerful interlocutor, as well. This book shows promising points of convergence. Highly recommend.

Taking God Seriously - Davies and Ruse

I have always found Michael Ruse (an agnostic) to be charming, intelligent, and kind. His going up against Brian Davies — his friend, and powerhouse Thomist — makes for an exciting match up.

Four Views On Christianity and Philosophy - McGrew and Oppy

This book has other contributors but I believe the most productive exchanges are between McGrew and Oppy.

Three Views On Christianity and Science - Gordon and Ruse

Same comment as the above, switching McGrew and Oppy for Gordon and Ruse.