Living with the Gods : On Beliefs and Peoples

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Following the award-winning BBC Radio 4 series, this work offers a panoramic exploration of peoples, objects, and beliefs from the acclaimed author of A History of the World in 100 Objects. It tells the sweeping story of religious belief in its inventive variety, emphasizing shared spiritual yearnings rather than differences. Central to human existence is the fact that every society possesses a set of beliefs—be it faith, ideology, or religion—that transcends individual lives and forms a shared identity. These beliefs hold unique power to define and divide us, influencing global politics today. This book is not merely a history of religion or an argument for faith; rather, it delves into the narratives that shape our lives and how societies envision their place in the world. By examining objects, places, and human activities throughout history and across the globe, it seeks to understand the implications of shared beliefs in public life, their impact on the individual-state relationship, and their role in shaping our identities. Ultimately, in determining how we coexist with our gods, we also navigate how to coexist with one another.