The Christ Conspiracy: The Greatest Story Ever Sold [Paperback]

I am an atheist, and thought that (among other readings) this book, given the title, would provide extra evidence of my world view. Which in many ways it has.

My main problem with this book is not the content, or the beliefs it argues against, but the poor writing style and the lack of original, cohesive arguement.

Much of the book, mainly culled from more learned sources, is very informative. However, that is the main problem. Acharya S presents her case as if it were a scientific one, and that religions are only based on "belief", rather than proven fact. While this view of religion may largely be true, her own arguements stand-up to no great scrutiny. Her whole case appears to be built upon the views of other authors she has read (and VERY, VERY extensively quoted). If Acharya truly wants to convert people from a belief system, to one based on scientifically proven fact, she needs to work much harder on the proof aspects, and spend less time quoting other authors.

A good premise for a book, and decent attempt for presenting a certain view, but "minus several million for good (original?) thinking" (thanks Douglas Adams!) - oh yeah, good idea, read "Last Salmon of Doubt", and then some of the referenced books; if you want some good, thought provoking reading.

So long, and thanks for all the fish!!!

Peter Mackley

Acharya takes on what I consider the world's most dangerous establishment (and if you don't believe me, just look at the violent history of the church and so-called 'Christian nations'), and with flair, points out the many inconsistencies, contradictions, and the myths that have come to be interpreted as literal people and real events. Like forward-thinking people before her, she wades through false information, debunking the spiritual darkness that has been foisted upon hapless humanity for the past 2000 years.

This is not to say that all teachings in the many versions of the Christian bible are odious. Some are wonderful guidelines for good living such as 'Love your neighbour as yourself.' Others sound like the decrees of blood-thirsty tyrants: 'Bring my enemies here and slaughter them in front of me.' The contradictory statements contained in the bible have caused schisms in many a mind and the deaths of millions, such as the Spanish Inquisition as one of many examples. And nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition!

Hip, scholarly and with keen insight, Acharya demolishes Christianity's most sacred concept (the Immaculate Misconception): that Jesus actually existed. Brimming with evidence supporting her theory, her book (and her web site) eruditely demonstrates that Christians are addicted to their belief system, even when their belief system is tenuous at best.

Acharya's work gives me hope that there are people who are thinking for themselves, questioning the status quo, examining and disproving many long-held cherished convictions of the deluded. If you're serious about freeing your mind (and your body) from the shackles of blind faith, this book provides a resplendent road map to freedom to think for yourself. I give her book 5 stars, 4 planets, 3 comets, 2 asteroids and a partridge in a pear tree. 'Always look on the bright side of life!'