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Absence of Mind
176 pages, 2011
In this daring book—an impassioned defense of the power of religious faith and a critique of modern scientific thinking—Marilynne Robinson tackles some of the headiest topics in the history of human thought: science, religion, and consciousness.
Absence of Mind is a book that challenges the so-called rationalists who argue that the world would be a better place if we were all atheists.
In Robinson's view, the quest for knowledge by which these rationalists define themselves is in fact a search for answers, not necessarily a simpler model of reality. By defending the importance of individual reflection, Robinson celebrates the power and diversity of human consciousness in the tradition of William James.
Marilynne Robinson challenges the modern scientific view that dismisses the importance of human consciousness. She argues that our minds are not just biological machines, but rather, they hold a deeper, spiritual significance.
Robinson takes a critical look at the way modern science tends to dismiss anything that can't be measured or quantified. She suggests that this approach limits our understanding of the world and ourselves.
In Absence of Mind, Robinson emphasizes the importance of individual experience and subjective reality. She encourages readers to value their own experiences and perceptions as valid and meaningful.
Robinson explores the role of religion in understanding human consciousness. She argues that religious thought can provide valuable insights into the nature of the mind and should not be dismissed by science.
Absence of Mind encourages readers to question the status quo and not accept scientific 'facts' at face value. Robinson invites us to dig deeper into our understanding of the world and ourselves.
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Marilynne Robinson's 'Absence of Mind' challenges us to reconsider the role of faith in our society and the place of science in our lives.
Barack Obama - 44th U.S. President'Absence of Mind' is a profound exploration of the intersection between faith and intellect, a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the human condition.
Rowan Williams - Archbishop of CanterburyRobinson's 'Absence of Mind' is a powerful critique of the modern dismissal of the spiritual, a call to recognize the depth and complexity of the human mind.
James Wood - Literary Critic'Absence of Mind' is a compelling exploration of the human spirit, a testament to Robinson's ability to illuminate the profound with the simple.
Zadie Smith - Novelist, EssayistIn 'Absence of Mind', Robinson has crafted a deeply thoughtful meditation on the human soul, a work of rare insight and beauty.
Harold Bloom - Literary Scholar