Gunning for God: Why the New Atheists Are Missing the Target

John Lennox's "Gunning for God" presents a systematic critique of the New Atheist movement, particularly targeting the arguments of Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris, and Daniel Dennett. A mathematician and philosopher of science at Oxford University, Lennox brings his scientific credentials to bear on what he perceives as the intellectual shortcomings of contemporary atheist polemics.

The work operates as a point-by-point rebuttal of key New Atheist claims. Lennox challenges the assertion that science and faith are incompatible, drawing on the historical contributions of theistic scientists and arguing that the scientific enterprise itself rests on metaphysical assumptions that naturalism cannot adequately ground. He contests the characterization of faith as belief without evidence, proposing instead that Christian faith involves trust based on evidence, paralleling the evidential basis of scientific theories.

Central to Lennox's argument is his treatment of morality and meaning. He maintains that atheistic materialism cannot provide objective moral values or ultimate purpose, whereas theism offers a coherent foundation for both. The author engages extensively with the problem of evil, acknowledging its force while arguing that atheism faces equal difficulties in explaining the existence of good and the human recognition of evil as evil.

The monograph addresses specific New Atheist contentions about biblical interpretation, the historical Jesus, and the resurrection. Lennox argues that his opponents often attack caricatures of Christian theology rather than engaging with sophisticated theological positions. He presents the resurrection as a historical claim open to evidential investigation rather than mere religious dogma.

Methodologically, Lennox employs philosophical analysis combined with appeals to scientific and historical evidence. His approach reflects the influence of C.S. Lewis and Alvin Plantinga, situating his work within the tradition of rational Christian apologetics. The text functions as both a defensive and offensive maneuver, seeking to undermine atheist certainties while advancing positive arguments for theism.

The significance of "Gunning for God" lies in its direct engagement with the cultural phenomenon of New Atheism at its height. By challenging the intellectual superiority claimed by prominent atheists, Lennox aims to demonstrate that theism remains a rationally defensible position in contemporary discourse. The work contributes to ongoing debates about the relationship between science and religion, the foundations of morality, and the standards of rational belief.