Defending atheism, Martin (philosophy, Boston University, emeritus) casts supernatural disbelief as the foundation for a system of value, meaning, and morality. He argues that the belief in God is superfluous, and perhaps even a hindrance, to leading a moral and purposeful life. Traditional objections to atheism are countered, Christian ethics critiqued, and an atheistic meta-ethics developed. Special scrutiny is given to the Christian doctrines of atonement, salvation, and resurrection. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)