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A History of Creation Myths from Gilgamesh to the God Particle

Classic science fiction Religion: general Nature and existence of God and of the Divine Folklore studies / Study of myth (mythology) Philosophy of science History of science Cosmology and the universe

Author: G.R. Evans

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Language: English

Published by: I.B. Tauris

Published on: 19th November 2013

Format: LCP-protected ePub

Size: 320 pages

ISBN: 9780857734983


Introduction

Did the universe start with a bang, or has it existed always? Was there a supernatural being behind it all, or just mindless forces? The beginning of things has forever tested the limits of curiosity, and such questions have both challenged atheists and inspired believers.

Ancient cultures resorted to myth and symbolism to tell vibrant stories about human origins. Later civilizations added philosophical and scientific explanations: but these are not definitive. The nature and meaning of existence - the why as much as the how questions - are in the end mysterious.

The Book's Content

In this lively and wide-ranging book, G R Evans explores the world's myriad creation stories against the background of the biggest question there is: what are we doing here? Discussing Swahili legends that resemble the Book of Genesis, Greek tales about the Titans, Native American, Inca and Mesopotamian mythologies, and Vedic creation cycles that begin with a cosmic egg or seed, the author surveys polytheist, monotheist and dualist ideas about supernatural power.

Target Audience

Tracing the history of humanity as it has struggled, over many millennia, to make sense of itself, The Creation Myth will attract students of religion, history and philosophy and general readers alike.

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