In 'Living with the Gods', Neil MacGregor invites readers on a captivating journey through the world's diverse religious practices and beliefs. He explores how various cultures express their spirituality and the profound impact these beliefs have on their identities. Through a rich tapestry of artifacts, stories, and historical context, MacGregor unveils the common threads that bind humanity in its quest for meaning. This thought-provoking narrative challenges readers to consider their own beliefs and the role of religion in today's global society. Join MacGregor as he delves into the essence of what it means to live with the gods.
By Neil MacGregor
Published: 2019
"Our beliefs shape our worlds, weaving the fabric of community and understanding, reminding us that to live with the gods is to live with each other."
In the same format as his best-selling books A History of the World in 100 Objects and Germany: Memories of a Nation—the acclaimed art historian now gives us a magnificent new book that explores the relationship between faith and society. Until fairly recently, religion as a major influence on the nature of individual societies around the world seemed to be on the wane. Now, far from being marginalized, the relationship between faith and society has moved to the center of politics and global conversation. Neil MacGregor's new book traces the ways in which different societies have understood and articulated their places in the cosmic scheme. It examines mankind's beliefs not from the perspective of institutional religions but according to how shared narratives have shaped societies—and what happens when different narratives run up against each other. As he did in A History of the World in 100 Objects and Germany: Memories of a Nation, MacGregor brilliantly combines objects, places, and ideas to examine and, ultimately, illuminate these pressing contemporary concerns.
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
Allen Gannett is an acclaimed author and entrepreneur, best known for his influential book, "The Creative Curve," which explores the science behind creativity and innovation. As the founder of TrackMaven, a marketing analytics company, Gannett has significantly impacted the fields of data-driven marketing and business intelligence. His insights on creativity have been featured in major publications like Forbes and Fast Company. Gannett is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at conferences worldwide. With his work, he bridges the gap between creativity and data, offering valuable guidance for both individuals and organizations.
Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
Brian Greene is an American theoretical physicist and author, best known for his work on string theory and popularizing science through his books and media appearances. Greene’s books, including The Elegant Universe and The Fabric of the Cosmos, have helped bring complex concepts in physics to a general audience. He is also the co-founder of the World Science Festival, which promotes public engagement with scientific topics. Greene’s research and ability to communicate scientific ideas have made him one of the most influential figures in theoretical physics. His work continues to inspire curiosity about the universe and our understanding of it.
Matt Mullenweg is an influential American entrepreneur and web developer, best known for co-founding WordPress, the open-source software that powers over 40% of the web. Born in 1984 in Houston, Texas, Mullenweg's work has revolutionized digital publishing and democratized web content creation. As the CEO of Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, he has expanded the platform's reach and capabilities, fostering a vibrant community of developers and users. Mullenweg is also an advocate for open-source software and has contributed significantly to its proliferation and adoption. His impact on digital literature and publishing is profound, enabling countless individuals and organizations to share their voices online.
Stewart Brand is an influential American writer, best known for founding the Whole Earth Catalog, a publication that became a cornerstone of the counter-culture movement in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His pioneering work in promoting environmental sustainability and self-sufficiency has had a lasting impact on both literature and society. Brand is also a co-founder of The WELL, an early online community that predated the widespread use of the internet and helped shape the development of digital culture. He has authored several significant books, including "The Media Lab" and "Whole Earth Discipline," which explore technology's role in environmental and societal issues. Brand's contributions continue to influence contemporary discussions on ecology, technology, and community building.
Douglas Murray is a renowned British author, journalist, and political commentator known for his incisive works on contemporary political and social issues. He gained significant acclaim with his book "The Strange Death of Europe: Immigration, Identity, Islam," which critically examines the impact of mass migration and cultural change in Europe. Murray is also the author of "The Madness of Crowds: Gender, Race and Identity," where he explores the complexities and consequences of identity politics. As an associate editor at The Spectator, he regularly contributes thought-provoking articles on global affairs and cultural debates. His eloquent and often controversial perspectives have made him a prominent voice in modern discourse.
Showing 8 of 11 related collections
“Our beliefs shape our worlds, weaving the fabric of community and understanding, reminding us that to live with the gods is to live with each other.”
Living with the Gods
By Neil MacGregor
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Neil MacGregor is a renowned British museum director, historian, and author, celebrated for his engaging exploration of art and culture. He served as the director of the British Museum from 2002 to 2015, where he established a reputation for making history accessible to a wider audience. His notable works include 'A History of the World in 100 Objects,' a groundbreaking book that combines storytelling and artifacts to illuminate the human experience, and 'Living with the Gods,' which examines the role of beliefs in shaping cultures. MacGregor's writing style is characterized by its clarity, depth, and ability to weave together narratives from diverse historical contexts, making complex ideas relatable to readers.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
No summary available
In 'Create Your Own Religion,' Daniele Bolelli invites readers to embark on an exhilarating journey of self-discovery and belief formation. With a mix of philosophy, personal anecdotes, and practical exercises, he challenges the conventional religious paradigms and empowers individuals to craft a spiritual framework that resonates with their unique experiences. This book blends humor and intellect, prompting readers to question societal norms and explore their own existential questions. Bolelli’s charismatic voice and thought-provoking insights make this exploration of spirituality both engaging and liberating. Are you ready to break free from tradition and design your own path to meaning?
No summary available
In 'The Shack', William P. Young invites readers into a profound journey of faith, healing, and transformation. After suffering a devastating loss, Mackenzie Allen Phillips encounters a mysterious invitation to a remote shack, where he meets personifications of God that challenge his understanding of love and mercy. The narrative beautifully intertwines deep theological questions with a gripping story of grief and redemption. As Mack uncovers the truth of his pain, readers are compelled to reflect on their own beliefs and relationships with the divine. Will Mack find the answers he seeks, or will he emerge with even more questions about faith, hope, and the nature of God?
Dive into 'The Vimalakirti Sutra', a captivating Buddhist text that challenges the boundaries of conventional wisdom. Through the witty dialogue of the bodhisattva Vimalakirti, readers explore profound philosophical questions about emptiness and reality. This sutra elegantly weaves together humor, paradox, and spirituality, inviting both novices and seasoned practitioners to ponder life's deeper meanings. As Vimalakirti engages with various spiritual beings, he unveils the true essence of compassion and understanding in a complex world. Are you ready to embark on a journey that transcends language and thought?
In 'Awareness', Anthony De Mello invites readers on a transformative journey toward self-discovery and enlightenment. Through a blend of storytelling and profound insights, he challenges conventional beliefs about happiness and fulfillment. De Mello emphasizes the power of being present and embracing reality, urging us to shed our illusions. With thought-provoking anecdotes, he reveals how true awareness can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Prepare to awaken your mind and soul as you explore the essence of what it means to truly live.
In 'The Power of Myth,' Joseph Campbell explores the universal themes and archetypes found in myths across cultures and time. He discusses how these stories shape our understanding of life, death, and identity. Through captivating dialogues with Bill Moyers, Campbell reveals the relevance of these ancient narratives to contemporary society. This book invites readers to reflect on their personal journeys while uncovering the profound connections that bind humanity together. Discover how embracing myths can empower and inspire your own life story.
In 'The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross,' John Marco Allegro proposes a groundbreaking theory that Christian symbols and beliefs are rooted in ancient mushroom cults. Allegro, a philologist and one of the original Dead Sea Scrolls scholars, challenges conventional religious narratives, suggesting that the story of Christ may be deeply intertwined with psychedelic experiences. His provocative insights invite readers to reconsider the origins of spirituality and the nature of consciousness. As he delves into linguistics, archaeology, and anthropology, Allegro presents a compelling case that could shake the foundations of traditional faith. This book is a thought-provoking exploration that blurs the lines between religion, mythology, and the quest for enlightenment.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
