An intelligent, witty, and refreshingly approachable guide to the ultimate question, written by leading critic Terry Eagleton

This book illuminates the evolutionary, neurological, developmental, psychological, social, cultural, and religious aspects of altruistic behavior. It is a collaborative examination of one of humanity's essential and defining characteristics by renowned researchers from various disciplines.

A controversial look at how cultural values make some countries democratic and rich and others authoritarian and poor--and how societies can change for the better

A brief and accessible introduction to religion. Drawing material from a diverse range of religions -- including Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and primal religions -- author Will Deming walks readers through thirty examples of how religions "work," exploring the significance of religious events and pronouncements.

Revised and updated in its second edition, this volume takes an illuminating look at how eight of the most important thinkers of the modern era have interpreted religion