Title
Marketplace of the Gods: How Economics Explains Religion,Used
Processing time: 1-3 days
US Orders Ships in: 3-5 days
International Orders Ships in: 8-12 days
Return Policy: 15-days return on defective items
Payment Option
Two centuries after Adam Smith illuminated the workings of the marketplace, a new movement among economists and social scientists is expanding his insights into a groundbreaking 'economics of religion.' Using cutting edge ideas from the behavioral sciences, and a deep knowledge of religious history, this new approach is making sense not only of past beliefs, but of religion today.In Marketplace of the Gods, awardwinning journalist Larry Witham tells the inside story of this expanding 'economic approach' to religion, the puzzles it tries to solve, the controversies it has stirred, and the people who are making it happen. He shows that the economic approach, while evoking images of stock markets or accounting ledgers, actually begins with a simple idea about human beings as rational actors, judging costs and benefits in life. Every life has limits, so human experience is a series of tradeoffs, balancing resources to make choices for the best possible benefits. As the economics of religion shows, this model can be applied to the rich story of the human race and its gods. Beginning with the individual, the choices in religion shape households, groups, movements, and entire 'religious economies' of nations. On the one hand, this mixing of the profane and the sacred, the economic and the religious, is an exciting exchange of ideas between economics, sociology, psychology, history, and theology. On the other, it has spurred a lively protest. Indeed, for some, the economic approach seems to transform our good angels into grubby consumers.As Witham shows, however, the economic approach to religion has insights for everyone, believers and skeptics alike. He illuminates this approach in a volume rich with ideas, history, contemporary events, and the insights of some of our sharpest modernday thinkers.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the page count of Marketplace of the Gods? A: The book has two hundred fifty-six pages. This length provides an in-depth exploration of the economics of religion.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures one point one inches in thickness, six point two inches in width, and nine point three inches in height. These dimensions make it a standard hardcover size.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: Marketplace of the Gods is a hardcover book. This type of binding adds durability and a classic feel to the reading experience.
- Q: How do I read Marketplace of the Gods? A: You can read it like any standard book, starting from the front cover and moving through to the back. The author's narrative style makes complex economic concepts accessible.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in economics? A: Yes, it is suitable for beginners. The author explains economic theories in a straightforward manner, making it easy to understand even for those new to the subject.
- Q: What age group is Marketplace of the Gods appropriate for? A: The book is appropriate for adults and older teens. It discusses complex ideas about religion and economics that may resonate more with mature readers.
- Q: How should I care for my copy of Marketplace of the Gods? A: To keep it in good condition, store it upright on a shelf and avoid exposure to moisture. Clean the cover with a dry cloth to remove dust.
- Q: Is there a specific way to handle the book to prevent damage? A: Yes, always handle the book with clean hands and avoid bending the spine. Opening the book gently will help maintain its condition.
- Q: Can I return the book if I don't like it? A: Yes, you can typically return it within a specified period if you keep the receipt. Check the retailer's return policy for specific details.
- Q: What if my copy of Marketplace of the Gods arrives damaged? A: If it arrives damaged, contact the retailer immediately for a replacement or refund. Most sellers have policies in place for damaged goods.
- Q: Does this book cover contemporary issues in religion? A: Yes, it addresses contemporary events and how they relate to religious beliefs. The author uses current examples to illustrate economic theories.
- Q: Who is the author of Marketplace of the Gods? A: The author is Larry Witham. He is an award-winning journalist known for his insights into religion and economics.
- Q: What genre does Marketplace of the Gods belong to? A: This book belongs to the Science and Religion genre. It combines elements of sociology, psychology, and economics.
- Q: Is this book part of a series? A: No, Marketplace of the Gods is a standalone book. It provides a comprehensive view of its subject without being part of a series.
- Q: What main topics are discussed in this book? A: The main topics include the economic approach to religion, behavioral science insights, and historical perspectives on belief systems. These themes are intertwined throughout the narrative.