The Works of Robert G. Ingersoll, Vol. 01 (of 12) Dresden Edition—Lectures

"The Works of Robert G. Ingersoll, Vol. 01 (of 12)" by Robert Green Ingersoll is a compilation of lectures from the late 1800s tackling religion, mythology, and the larger idea of gods in philosophical thought. Ingersoll uses a sharply critical voice to question old religious teachings, making a case for humanism and logical thinking. One of the main ideas of the book is that gods are made up by humans, and that they show the character, wants, and social ways of their own creators. Ingersoll points out how gods have been used over time to provide reasons for violence, unfairness, and a general lack of knowledge, focusing on harsh commands said to come from gods in religious writings. He wants people to leave behind these unfounded beliefs and instead embrace the ability to think freely and understand the world through reason, saying that real moral behavior and growth come from humanity itself, not from worshiping a god that cannot be seen.