Rebecca Dare argues that the preference for reverent religious surrender over active problem-solving has hindered progress in Nigeria. To build a better future, Nigerians must reclaim their personal agency, embrace critical thinking and collective action, and place greater faith in themselves.

Armando Favazza, MD, surveys the complex relationship between alcohol and Christianity and explores the religious nature of Alcoholics Anonymous and the spirituality of spirits. As a psychiatrist, he questions the efficacy of strict demands for abstinence and concludes that there is room enough in the world for both Christ and claret.