Official Review: Why Mankind has needed religion whereas ...

[shannonkate8]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Why Mankind has needed religion whereas bees have not" by Peter Lachmann.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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Why Mankind Has Needed Religion Whereas Bees Have Not by Peter Lachmann caught my attention when I read the title. Why do humans need religion? What is the difference?

Peter Lachmann asserts that humans need religion as it helps set moral and ethical boundaries to govern society. We need to know what is right and what is wrong in order to function cohesively. In order to support his ideas, Lachmann explains evolution, religion, and supports these beliefs with history and data.

As you may have already guessed, other animals don't have a religion or follow what we consider to be morals. For instance, they kill because they need to eat. In regard to bees, their behavior is determined by genetics. Lachmann shows readers this when he explains the process of re-queening. This is when a new queen bee is introduced to a colony. The bees she produces will follow her genetics instead of following the behavior of the bees already in the colony.

Most of this book discusses evolution and religion. There were less than ten pages discussing bees. If you were here to hear about bees, I recommend looking elsewhere. However, if you would like to get into a philosophical and sociological discussion of evolution, religion, and the evolution of religion, then this book is perfect. I would highly recommend it to individuals interested in research and philosophy.

That said, the book reads more of a persuasive, scholarly essay than a book. This didn't turn me away given my research background. However, I had difficulty following along. The author used many complex sentences and technical words. I had difficulty getting through the book even though I am familiar with academic papers. This would be what I liked least about the book.

I found much to like though. I quite liked the academic approach to the topic. The author broke down different concepts, such as the perfection of the human body, explained the idea with religion and science, and supported their information with outside data. It was well done.

My favorite part was probably that the author acknowledges that religion and ethics also evolve. For example, Hammurabi's Code, the 'eye for an eye' concept, was once accepted. Now, that is considered cruel and unusual punishment. The idea of right and wrong are based on what is supported at the time.

Overall, I have to give this book 3 out of 4 stars. The copy I received was clearly a review copy, so I cannot comment on formatting errors. However, my rating is influenced by the above and the grammatical errors I found.

Those who pick up this book should also be aware that it questions religion and offers differing ideas. Those who are unwilling to have their beliefs questioned should not pick up this book.

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Why Mankind has needed religion whereas bees have not
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[rahilshajahan]

Finally an open minded book discussing religion evolving through time! Thanks for an insightful review!

[TCG]

Religion and evolution are one of the most disputed issues in society. Great book to read.

[Hazel Arnaiz]

Why bees and not other insects or animals? I better add this to my reading list to find out. Thank you for the review.

[Drado_27]

I was tempted by the title, but as I read the review I don't think that this book would suit me. Complicated sentences drive me crazy! Thank you for your honest review!