In this Mike Drop episode, Mike Smithgall explores Penn Jillette’s sharp observation that courts recognize insanity as a defense, but never “God told me to do it.” Why? Because the law must rest on evidence, not revelation.
Mike unpacks the secular foundation of law, the distinction between mental capacity and religious belief, and the dangers of allowing divine authority into legal defenses. Drawing on history, cultural context, and real-world cases, this episode shows why secularism protects fairness and accountability for all.
💬 Viewer Question
Do you think the justice system handles religion fairly, or does it still give faith too much influence?
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📑 Relevant Topics or Chapter Headings
• Intro: Why “God Told Me To Do It” Isn’t in Courtrooms
• The Secular Bedrock of Law ⚖️
• Mental Capacity vs. Religious Conviction 🧠
• The Problem with Divine Authority ✝️
• Examples and Consequences 🔥
• Power, Control, and Responsibility ⚡
• What This Tells Us About Secularism 🌍
• Outro
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📚 Suggested Reading List
1. The Demon-Haunted World by Carl Sagan — https://amzn.to/3IL1QUt
A powerful defense of science and skepticism, showing why evidence must guide our beliefs instead of personal revelation.
2. Breaking the Spell by Daniel Dennett — https://amzn.to/45JWYZf
Explores religion from a scientific perspective, analyzing why humans believe and how belief systems shape society.
3. God Is Not Great by Christopher Hitchens — https://amzn.to/3ZVLSg9
A sharp critique of religion’s influence on law, politics, and morality, arguing for secularism as a safeguard of freedom.
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