What amazes me; is the quality of judgments that come from Christians who by turn; would be the first to say - quote - 'Judge Not'. . .
There is a difference between an opinion; a criticism; and what appears; as 'final judgment'; offered by those who simply cannot be the 'final arbiter' of another man's life. A little humility would help, and have to say 'little' humility observable.
Think Ransom's conclusions about Hitchens' life; is at least, unfortunate. Perhaps; had he just 'couched' an adjective or two. . .or had 'any' appreciation. (He could thank Hitchens for inspiring him to clarify the importance of Faith; by which Ransom, may touch someone elses life; who is not yet clear. . .)
Ah. The title is simply a reference to Hitchens’ book, God Is Not Great: http://www.amazon.com/God-Not-Great-Religion-Everything/dp/0446579807
What’s more “damning” — saying The Author isn’t great, or saying the author isn’t great?
The headline writer is simply being ironic.
I conclude with a relevant passage of Scripture: “What do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?”
The man who loses his soul is not great, but a failure, having lost everything of value. Sad, tragic.