In Praise of Polytheism

Ancient polytheistic religions can teach us about building inclusive and equitable futures by highlighting their emphasis on pluralism and diversity. Maurizio Bettini's book shows how these religions produce results aligned with contemporary progressive values.

Format: Hardback
Length: 164 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

At the core of this thought-provoking book lies a straightforward comparison: monotheistic religions tend to be exclusive, whereas ancient polytheistic religions embrace inclusivity. In this enlightening work, Maurizio Bettini, a renowned classicist of our time, utilizes the rich diversity of ancient polytheism to shed light on a less favorable aspect of our modern world.

It may be tempting to view ancient religions as inferior, less liberated, and distant from shared aspirations for an inclusive world. However, as Bettini skillfully demonstrates, numerous ancient practices tended to yield outcomes that align with contemporary progressive values, such as pluralism and diversity.

In Praise of Polytheism does not condemn the modern world or blame monotheism for our challenges but rather presents in clear and concise prose how much we can learn from ancient religions, highlighting the limitations of our current worldview and self-perception.

Weight: 310g
Dimension: 218 x 147 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520342248