Classic: Steven Pinker: 'Belief in God Is a Hindrance to Progress' vs Nick Spencer

00:00
00:00

Humanism vs Christianity: Who Really Shaped the Modern World? In this gripping episode of The Big Conversation for Unbelievable? Harvard psychologist Steven Pinker and bestselling author debates Christian thinker Nick Spencer on whether the Enlightenment values of science, reason, and humanism have made religious belief redundant. Pinker defends the legacy of secular progress, arguing that human flourishing owes more to data and rationalism than divine revelation. Spencer acknowledges the progress but challenges Pinker’s foundations—arguing that modern values like equality and human dignity have deep Christian roots. From the abolition of slavery to the origins of science, this is a searching conversation about what truly underpins human progress.

• Subscribe to the Unbelievable? podcast: https://pod.link/267142101
• More shows, free eBook & newsletter: https://premierunbelievable.com
• For live events: http://www.unbelievable.live
• For online learning: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training
• Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow
• Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate

Released on 19 Aug 2025

Share this page...

Did you know Premier is listener-funded?

What we do wouldn't be possible without the support of our generous listeners.

Every day, we hear stories of how lives are transformed through God's word on the radio - whether encouraging and offering hope during a dark time in their life or bringing a non-believer into the light. By joining your fellow listeners, you can make this impact too.

 

Please consider making your best gift

Premier Gospel Awards

THE ULTIMATE GOSPEL EXPERIENCE

A spectacular experience awaits you, with unmissable performances that fuse entertainment, encounter, and storytelling. Find out more

FIND OUT MORE