Alister McGrath is involved in theological research and the professional development of clergy from a range of Christian denominations. He is presently researching the iconic role played by Charles Darwin in atheist apologetics, and the appeal to the controversial concept of the "meme" in recent atheist accounts of the origins of belief in God. In the last few years a number of well-known atheists have mounted vocal attacks on religious belief. Religion, they argue, is irrational, unscientific and baneful in its effects on individuals and on human society as a whole. Prof NcGrath will analyse some of the pronouncements of the 'New Atheism' (as it has come to be known), offer a critique and suggest an appropriate Christian response.