What do Atheists Think of The Da Vinci Code?

When discussing the opinions of atheists towards Dan Brown's novel, The Da Vinci Code, it is important to note that the views are not uniform across all atheists. While some may find the book intriguing and thought-provoking, others consider it poorly researched and fiction.

General Reactions and Scholarly Critique

From the perspective of many atheists, especially those who prioritize evidence-based reasoning, The Da Vinci Code is generally seen as a novel with little merit. Critics argue that the book's historical and religious claims are not well-founded and often verging on conspiracy theory. The novel is frequently labeled as a poorly researched work that does not adhere to historical facts and scientific scrutiny.

Reviews often highlight the book's lack of depth and the overtly fictional elements. One critic remarks, 'Started well, finished badly,' indicating an initial engagement that dissolves into disappointment. The inspiration for many of the ideas presented in the novel appears to have roots in earlier works, suggesting a lack of novel contributions, a claim that has been contested in legal settings related to plagiarism.

Despite critical reception, some find the book entertaining. One reviewer, for instance, mentions a preference for more substantive works of fiction, naming 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' trilogy as a favorite. Another review suggests that while The Da Vinci Code is an engaging read, it ultimately falls short in addressing complex real-world issues such as historical conspiracies that the author attempts to explore.

Impact on a Specific Community

One unique aspect of the impact of The Da Vinci Code is its effect on a small community in Roslin, Scotland. The novel features a chapel in Roslin, and following the release of the film adaptation, the chapel experienced a surge in visitors. This increase in foot traffic brought about significant financial benefits. The revenue generated helped fund much-needed conservation efforts for the chapel, and also boosted earnings at a local inn.

The influx of visitors was not entirely positive; some local children took to selling 'Da Vinci Bullshit' jam-jars filled with manure, which became a small but effective business venture during the period when the book and film were extremely popular. This anecdote adds a humorous and locally relevant dimension to the discussion of the book's impact on the community beyond a purely religious or scholarly perspective.

Religious Criticism and Enlightenment

For some readers, the book is not just entertainment but a means to question established religious beliefs. Like another reviewer who found the book interesting and revealing, many engage with the novel as a form of enlightenment, pondering the historical and religious questions it raises. The idea that the Church has been corrupted and that biblical accounts might be flawed or manipulated has sparked much debate among readers.

One of the most compelling arguments for the controversial aspects of the book comes from those who believe it is based on the work of other researchers. The hypothesis that Jesus may have been married and had children adds a layer of complexity to the familiar Christian narrative. However, even if evidence were to come to light supporting such claims, the Christian Church's established doctrines would likely reject it.

Both the book's entertainment value and the discussions it generates serve as a reminder that The Da Vinci Code has not only been a successful piece of popular fiction but also a catalyst for deeper philosophical and theological discussions. For many atheists, the true value lies in the critical reading and debate it encourages, rather than in the work itself.