I WAS sad to see yet another letter blaming, among others, atheists and scientists, for the recent riots. (Brian Hammond – Let’s go back to Christian basics – Echo 17 Aug).

This is unfair and inaccurate since scientists and atheists, who are often also humanists, have reached their views only after much research and careful thought. They have found themselves unable to have blind faith in any God but, in the main, care deeply about humanity.

They recognise the need for people to behave in peaceful and co-operative ways and campaign for fairness and peace in society.

They approach life using reason, evidence (often scientific – such as that for evolution) and common humanity.

I suggest that we should be more concerned with religious extremists, those who live only to feed their materialistic self-interest and those unfortunate young people we have caused to become unable to feel a part of our society.

RICHARD SCUTT, Wallace Road, Broadstone