Living with the Gods

This insightful exploration reveals how shared beliefs shape our identities and societies. Living with the Gods invites reflection on faith's influence in our lives.

In Living with the Gods, the celebrated author Neil MacGregor presents a panoramic exploration of the complex relationship between belief, identity, and society. Following the success of his award-winning BBC Radio 4 series, MacGregor delves into the shared beliefs that unite and divide us across cultures and history. He emphasizes the significance of faith, ideology, and religion as integral elements of human existence that shape not only individual lives but also the collective identity of societies around the world.

This book is not merely a history of religion or a defense of faith; rather, it focuses on the stories and narratives that give meaning to our lives. MacGregor examines a variety of objects, places, and human activities to uncover the ways in which shared beliefs influence public life, the individual-state relationship, and our understanding of self. By looking at these elements through a historical and global lens, the author invites readers to reflect on how belief systems have evolved and their profound impact on contemporary society.

Ultimately, Living with the Gods encourages us to consider how our decisions regarding the divine also inform our interactions with one another. As MacGregor weaves together diverse threads of faith and culture, he provides readers with a deeper understanding of the role that belief plays in shaping our world and our connections with others.