Wed. June 6

As you may have noticed, every presidential candidate lays a claim to some religion or another. Not to do would make him or her, well, unelectable. We're that kind of country. Whether we - individually or collectively - practice any of the tenets most religions teach, well, that's up for grabs. We do know that being in favor of God - whether you're a nation or a football team - doesn't mean much "God" ain't a fan of anything, 'cept maybe hurricanes. But if you're not a fan of God, you're a godless heathen or immoral or amoral or ... a naturalist. That's what Tom Clark is. He counded the Center for Naturalism (centerfornaturalism.com) and he's written a book, "Encountering Naturalism: A Worldview and Its Uses." Clark, the host of the monthly McIntyre & Moore "Philosohy Cafe" in Somerville, is talking there on Wednesday June 6 reading from his book. Clark's is a science-based worldview, in which he gives a context for life that helps shape our belief system. As with the late great scientist Carl Sagan, God isn't part of the mix. (Sagan, who wrote one of the most influential books I've read, "The Demon-Haunted World," was offered last rites on his hospital deathbed, y'know, just in case. He said no thanks, not being one to change a belief system on a dice-roll of religion.) The point, of course, is that morality need not be religion-based; one can do the right thing without God looking over your shoulder threatening damnation, or without the worry of eternal fire determining your every move. Growing up Catholic, we had these thoughts. They still probably lurk in the dark recesses. But that's why we like Clark and his ability to talk and write about our deepest concerns without invoking the Almighty. He will be reading at 7:30 p.m. It's free and if you buy his book - or any book - afterward you get 15 % off.

255 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville, 617-629-4840 mcintyreandmoore.com