In '36 Arguments for the Existence of God', Rebecca Goldstein weaves a thought-provoking narrative that explores the complex interplay between faith and reason. Through the story of Cass Seltzer, a philosopher who finds himself unexpectedly famous for his book on religion, Goldstein examines the nature of belief and skepticism. Each argument reveals the intricacies of human thought and the depths of existential wonder. As Cass navigates personal and intellectual dilemmas, readers are invited to question their own beliefs about divinity. This novel challenges the boundaries of philosophy and storytelling, leaving you eager to contemplate the mysteries of existence.
By Rebecca Goldstein
Published: 2010
""The pursuit of understanding is a form of worship; knowledge itself becomes our sacred text.""
From the author of The Mind-Body Problem: a witty and intoxicating novel of ideas that plunges into the great debate between faith and reason. At the center is Cass Seltzer, a professor of psychology whose book, The Varieties of Religious Illusion, has become a surprise best seller. Dubbed “the atheist with a soul,” he wins over the stunning Lucinda Mandelbaum—“the goddess of game theory.” But he is haunted by reminders of two people who ignited his passion to understand religion: his teacher Jonas Elijah Klapper, a renowned literary scholar with a suspicious obsession with messianism, and an angelic six-year-old mathematical genius, heir to the leadership of an exotic Hasidic sect. Hilarious, heartbreaking, and intellectually captivating, 36 Arguments explores the rapture and torments of religious experience in all its variety.
Showing 8 of 30 similar books
Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.
Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.
Mark Manson is a best-selling author and personal development expert known for his candid and no-nonsense approach to self-help. His most notable work, "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," has sold millions of copies worldwide and has been translated into numerous languages, resonating with readers for its practical advice and irreverent tone. Manson followed up with another successful book, "Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope," which further cemented his reputation as a thought leader in modern existentialism. In addition to his books, he runs a popular blog that delves into topics ranging from happiness to personal growth. His work has not only transformed the self-help genre but also influenced a global audience seeking authentic and actionable guidance.
Steven Pinker is a Canadian-American cognitive psychologist, linguist, and author, best known for his work on language, the mind, and human nature. Pinker has written several best-selling books, including The Better Angels of Our Nature and Enlightenment Now, where he argues that human progress is real and measurable, often citing data to show that violence, poverty, and other negative trends have been declining over time. He is also a professor at Harvard University and a frequent public intellectual who speaks on topics related to science, reason, and progress. Pinker’s optimistic view of human development has made him a leading figure in modern intellectual discourse.
Tim Ferriss is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and podcast host, best known for his book The 4-Hour Workweek, which advocates for designing a lifestyle of financial and personal freedom through efficiency and outsourcing. He has written several other books, including Tools of Titans and Tribe of Mentors, compiling lessons from interviews with high achievers across industries. Ferriss’s podcast, The Tim Ferriss Show, is one of the most popular in the world, where he interviews leaders and influencers about their habits, strategies, and personal development. He is known for his emphasis on productivity, health, and optimizing performance.
Emma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.
Showing 8 of 11 related collections
“"The pursuit of understanding is a form of worship; knowledge itself becomes our sacred text."”
36 Arguments for the Existence of God
By Rebecca Goldstein
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Rebecca Goldstein is an acclaimed American author, philosopher, and novelist known for her thought-provoking exploration of science, philosophy, and the human condition. Her notable works include 'The Mind-Body Problem,' which won the National Book Award, and '36 Arguments for the Existence of God: A Work of Fiction,' which was a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award. Goldstein's writing often blends intellectual rigor with rich character development, embodying a style that is both philosophical and deeply personal. In addition to her fiction, she has written extensively on philosophical subjects, reflecting her academic background and engaging readers in complex ideas through accessible prose.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "Lives of the Stoics," Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman blend biography with philosophy, illuminating the lives of history's most influential Stoic thinkers. Each chapter reveals not just their teachings, but the trials, triumphs, and personal struggles that shaped their philosophies. Discover how figures like Seneca and Epictetus navigated adversity, power, and personal loss, offering timeless wisdom for modern dilemmas. The book invites readers to ponder how these ancient insights can be harnessed to cultivate resilience in today's chaotic world. Are you ready to explore the transformative power of Stoicism through the lives of its greatest practitioners?
In 'Introduction to Mathematical Philosophy,' Bertrand Russell takes readers on a fascinating journey through the foundations of mathematics and its philosophical implications. He explores concepts such as numbers, infinity, and the nature of mathematical truth, challenging conventional thinking. With his unique blend of clarity and insight, Russell demystifies complex ideas, revealing the profound connections between logic and mathematics. This thought-provoking work not only invites readers to rethink their understanding of numbers but also questions the very essence of reality itself. A must-read for anyone intrigued by the interplay of philosophy and mathematics, this book promises to expand your horizons.
No summary available
In 'Reinventing Comics', Scott McCloud challenges the traditional boundaries of the comic medium, exploring its potential for storytelling and expression. He proposes radical changes in how comics are perceived and utilized, urging creators to embrace innovation and creativity. McCloud's insights delve into the relationship between visual art and narrative, shedding light on the unique capabilities of comics. With thought-provoking theories and practical examples, he invites readers to rethink what comics can achieve in modern culture. This groundbreaking work is both a manifesto and a guide, enticing artists and enthusiasts alike to explore the uncharted territories of this vibrant art form.
In a dystopian future ravaged by climate change and societal collapse, Lauren Olamina possesses a unique gift: hyper-empathy, the ability to feel others' pain. When her walled community is destroyed, she embarks on a perilous journey toward safety, guided by her vision of a new belief system called Earthseed. Along the way, Lauren faces brutal realities of survival, meets diverse companions, and confronts the harshness of humanity. As she navigates this treacherous world, her resilience and ideals are put to the test. Will Lauren's revolutionary philosophy provide hope for a better future, or will it be lost in the chaos?
In 'The Philosophy of Andy Warhol,' the iconic artist unveils his unique perspective on art, love, and commerce in a world obsessed with superficiality. Through witty anecdotes and provocative musings, Warhol challenges traditional notions of creativity and success. He reflects on the intersection of fame and identity, revealing the complexities of his own celebrity status. This book invites readers to explore the boundaries of art and life, blurring the lines between the authentic and the artificial. Discover how Warhol's philosophy resonates in today's culture and what it means to be truly original.
In 'Ethics,' Benedict de Spinoza presents a revolutionary perspective on morality and the nature of existence, entwining philosophy with a divine view of the universe. He challenges the duality of good and evil, proposing that everything is interconnected through a single substance. Through his geometric method, Spinoza meticulously constructs his arguments, revealing profound insights into human emotions and the pursuit of joy. His ideas on freedom, power, and the divine invite readers to reconsider their place in the cosmos. This seminal work not only reshapes philosophical discourse but also poses timeless questions about the essence of reality and ethical living.
In 'Start Right Where You Are', Sam Bennett invites readers to embrace their current circumstances and transform their lives from that point forward. With a blend of practical advice and inspirational insight, she reassures us that it's never too late to pursue our dreams. Bennett encourages readers to let go of perfectionism and take action, no matter how small the step. By focusing on self-acceptance and the power of choice, she empowers us to ignite our creativity and passion. This book is a powerful reminder that the journey to fulfillment begins with a single step, right where we are.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
