-- Humanist Network News #35

[webmdave]

Summary: In this month's audio podcast we've got celebrities and the media on the brain this program. First we interview 60 Minutes Commentator Andy Rooney about his atheist beliefs, then we record a "Humanist StoryCorps" with the National Secular Society of U.K. about their work promoting secularism in the media.

Segment 1: Andy Rooney on Atheism

Andy Rooney is America's favorite curmudgeon, known for his commentaries on the CBS news program 60 Minutesand for his syndicated newspaper column. Most people know Rooney forhis lighthearted, somewhat perplexed observations about everydaythings. But in this short interview with HNN, Rooney gets serious abouthis atheism. He also shares his views on all the faith talk coming fromthe candidates in the presidential election.

End: 5:15

Segment 2: Spokesmen for Secularism in the U.K.

Terry Sanderson is the executive director of the London-based NationalSecular Society. Keith Porteous Wood is the president of the NationalSecular Society. In this segment, the two secular activists swaphumorous stories about appearing in the national media spotlight. Theyalso explain their recent victory in seeing the blasphemy laws repealedin Britain. As part of the celebration of the repeal of these laws,they convince a famous Shakespearean actor (who also appeared in theLord of The Rings) to read one of the blasphemous poems that had beensubject to prosecution under the blasphemy laws. Not the most dignifiedrole this famous actor has played, but one that he acceptedenthusiastically nonetheless.

End: 26:26

Links:

Andy Rooney's Wikipedia page | National Secular Society | Podcast Awards

Songs:

Curumin
"Compacto" (mp3)
from "JapanPopShow"
(Quannum Projects)

Buy at Pre-order from Insound
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Curumin
"Sambito (Totaru Shock)" (mp3)
from "JapanPopShow"
(Quannum Projects)

Buy at Pre-order from Insound
More On This Album



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