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A Little History of Religion

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A Little History of Religion

By: Richard Holloway
Narrated by: James Bryce
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In an era of hardening religious attitudes and explosive religious violence, this book offers a welcome antidote. Richard Holloway retells the entire history of religion - from the dawn of religious belief to the 21st century - with deepest respect and a keen commitment to accuracy.

Writing for those with faith and those without, and especially for young listeners, he encourages curiosity and tolerance, accentuates nuance and mystery and calmly restores a sense of the value of faith.

Ranging far beyond the major world religions of Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism, Holloway also examines where religious belief comes from, the search for meaning throughout history, today's fascinations with Scientology and creationism, religiously motivated violence, hostilities between religious people and secularists and more.

Holloway proves an empathic yet discerning guide to the enduring significance of faith and its power from ancient times to our own.

©2016 Richard Holloway (P)2016 Audible, Ltd Christianity Philosophy Religious Studies Spirituality World Middle East Judaism Thought-Provoking Middle Ages Mormon
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Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

yes - fascinating details of known history from a different perspective

What was one of the most memorable moments of A Little History of Religion?

all of it

What about James Bryce’s performance did you like?

easily listenable

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

made me think

Any additional comments?

worth it.

The known from a different angle.

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In a rather short book, the author gives us a rational and factual history of the religions in the world, both in the past and the present. The author has done an exhaustive study and presents to us a rational and sensible account of human faith. it's very informative and insightful.

An excellent, unbiased study on religion.

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Excellent short book contemplating the nature and purpose of religion in human societies.

The book covers the history of major world religions but also offers, en passant, interesting insights into how and why particular religions operate in particular ways, how fear and other powerful forces were co-opted as the means to recruit or retain followers, and the role and purpose of religious leaders. Packed usefully with historical insights and interesting anecdotes it is surprisingly engaging and informative.

Nicely read and philosophical in its approach encouraging listeners to keep questioning their own beliefs and their origins and bases.

Philosophical and informative

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A thorough review of religion that carefully links in lessons from the past to present situations. James Bryce's sonorous voice gives such a weighty topic the requisite gravitas without becoming monotonous and dull.
Recommend highly.

Comphrensive take on religion

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I would recommend this excellent book on history of religion to those, who waved at religion so far, saying it’s not for me, I don’t believe in God. I would also recommend reading this balanced account to those who worship a certain religion without considering the bigger picture. I certainly learnt a lot about terms I have heard before but had very little idea what they meant, where they originated from. I perhaps even grew more respectful towards people believing in faith. I like that most major and minor religions are explained, terms are clearly defined, in an entertaining way, throughout 40 balanced, short chapters.

Great insight to humanity

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