The premise is compelling: Stenger assert that because people are currently using science to argue in political and intellectual arenas for the existence of god, arguments against his existence should be considered as well. He then applies the scientific principles used to evaluate extraordinary claims to the hypothesis that god exists. A god that plays a central role in our world and universe should be detectable by scientific means, he asserts. Those who don't find this a reasonable assumption likely don't need to read the book--or even the rest of this review.
Stenger leads the reader through a series of discussions applying five key scientific principles to religious belief and the existence of god, also drawing upon philosophy, religious studies, and studies of the power of prayer done by reputable organizations. His conclusion, of course, if no surprise; it is, after all, stated as the title of the book. And I agree with him.
For me the failing of the book was not the ideas it presented, but its relative dryness and its overly-detailed description of scientific principles. My interest in science makes me generally familiar with many of the principles Stenger applies to his hypothesis, making the explanations a bit tedious to read. A person less versed in scientific principles--and less accepting of Stegner's conclusion--would likely find this book more to his/her liking. I'd recommend it to someone beginning to explore the possibilities of agnosticism/atheism and trying to develop a foundation to explain emerging beliefs.
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