Here’s another religion/journalism event worth checking out, on Nov. 15, live in New York or via webcast:

Does religion breed intolerance and violence?  Or has it primarily been a source for good, imbuing followers with purpose and encouraging moral behavior? Two atheists and two believers will wrestle over the controversial motion, “The World Would Be Better Off Without Religion,” in an Oxford-style live debate at NYU’s Skirball Center. Philosopher and Professor A.C. Grayling will team up with Matthew Chapman, the great-great-grandson of Charles Darwin, to argue for the motion and against religion. Rabbi David Wolpe (named #1 Pulpit Rabbi in America by Newsweek) and King’s College President Dinesh D’Souza (author of “What’s So Great About Christianity?”) will fight against the motion. 

(I took this photo at a punny gas station in Seattle’s Wallingford neighborhood a few months ago.)

Moderated by ABC News Nightline’s John Donvan, Intelligence Squared U.S.’s fall season, presented in partnership with Slate, will air on WNET and more than 220 NPR stations nationwide. Audience members will vote to decide the winning team of this significant debate. Tickets: $40 ($12 for students w/ID) To purchase, visit www.iq2us.org.

WHAT: Intelligence Squared U.S. Debates: “The World Would Be Better Off Without Religion”
WHEN: Tuesday, November 15 / Reception 5:45-6:30 / Debate 6:45-8:30 PM
WHERE: NYU’s Skirball Center / 566 Laguardia Place, New York, NY 10012

P.S. Remember to save another date — Dec. 14, 6-8 p.m., RNA/RCC networking event at The Huffington Post in downtown NYC.

What do you think? Share your thoughts in the Comments section below.