Playback speed
In this classic edition of Unbelievable? - The Big Conversation we ask: do we need God to make sense of life? In a 2018 debate, Jordan Peterson and Susan Blackmore explore the psychology of belief through the lenses of memes and archetypes. Peterson argues that religious structures underpin even secular life, while Blackmore sees religion as a cultural virus—sometimes beneficial, often dangerous. Though deeply influenced by the Judeo-Christian tradition, Peterson refuses to be drawn on the divinity of Jesus, framing belief in terms of psychological necessity rather than doctrinal commitment. Blackmore, a committed atheist, champions naturalism and memes as the primary drivers of human culture. Together with host Justin Brierley, they wrestle with whether meaning, gratitude, and moral action require a divine foundation, or whether human constructs alone are sufficient.
More from The Big Conversation.show
Buy Jordan Peterson's new book We Who Wrestle With God and the best-selling 12 Rules for Life
🎙️ Subscribe & Share → Don’t miss more thought-provoking debates!
📌 Stay Connected & Join the Conversation
📍 Twitter (X):@UnbelievableFE
📍 Facebook:@PremierUnbelievable
📍 Instagram:@Premier.Unbelievable
📍 TikTok:@PremierUnbelievable
Released on 29 Apr 2025
Why does a good God allow violence and suffering — even in the Bible? In this episode of Premier Unbelievable?, Andy Kind hosts a thought-provoking debate between humanist philosopher Richard Norman and Christian thinker Sara Stevenson. Together, th...
Back in October 2016, renowned historian Tom Holland penned an article for The New Statesman on why he changed his mind about Christianity. Holland is the author of popular books on ancient empires and says his research made him realise how unique Ch...
Is our obsession with personal autonomy leading to fulfilment—or fracture? Max Jeganathan (author of The Freedom Trap) and Andrew Copson (CEO of Humanists UK) explore the purpose, power, and pitfalls of freedom. While Max argues that unexamined indi...
You’re almost there! To access this content
A world of great Christian audio is just around the corner
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to celebrate your love for worship music and tell us what you want to hear more! Vote for your favourite worship songs today