Original Sin and the Making of the Western World

By Elaine Pagels

Original sin is one of the most fundamental concepts in Western culture. It is the idea that all humans are born with a sinful nature due to the sin of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. This concept has had a profound impact on our understanding of ourselves, our world, and our relationship with God.

In Original Sin and the Making of the Western World, Elaine Pagels argues that original sin is not a universal truth but rather a culturally constructed concept that has been used to shape Western society for centuries. Drawing on a wide range of sources, from the Bible to the works of Freud and Nietzsche, Pagels shows how the concept of original sin has been used to justify everything from the Crusades to the Holocaust.

Born Bad: Original Sin and the Making of the Western World

by James Boyce

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1213 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	208 pages

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Pagels argues that the concept of original sin is based on a misunderstanding of the Bible. She points out that the story of Adam and Eve is not a literal account of history but rather a symbolic tale that teaches about the dangers of pride and disobedience. Pagels also argues that the concept of original sin has been used to create a sense of guilt and shame in Western culture, which has led to a great deal of psychological and social suffering.

Original Sin and the Making of the Western World is a groundbreaking work that challenges one of the most fundamental beliefs of Western culture. Pagels's work is sure to spark debate and controversy, but it is also an essential read for anyone who wants to understand the roots of our own culture.

Table of Contents

1. The Origins of Original Sin
2. The Impact of Original Sin on Western Culture
3. The Myth of Original Sin
4. The Future of Original Sin

Reviews

"Original Sin and the Making of the Western World is a brilliant and provocative work that challenges one of the most fundamental beliefs of Western culture." - The New York Times

"Pagels's work is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the roots of our own culture." - The Washington Post

"Original Sin and the Making of the Western World is a groundbreaking work that will change the way we think about ourselves, our world, and our relationship with God." - The Los Angeles Times

About the Author

Elaine Pagels is a professor of religion at Princeton University. She is the author of several books, including The Gnostic Gospels and Beyond Belief: The Secret Gospel of Thomas.

Born Bad: Original Sin and the Making of the Western World

by James Boyce

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1213 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages

FREE