How did religion ever get started in the first place? We talked to renowned sociologist Robert Bellah shortly before he died. He said religion isn't about belief in God. Its origins go back to the rituals of our ancient ancestors, and ultimately to play.
Intelligent. Optimistic. Curious.
Audio
James McBride won the National Book Award for "The Good Lord Bird," his novel about the abolitionist John Brown. He explains why he doesn't like most fictional portraits of slavery and how he tried to tell a different story.
Mike Greenberg is a self-described metrosexual who cares a lot about his appearance and lifestyle.
Kent Walker is the son of Sante Kimes, who is currently incarcerated for the murder of a New York woman. Walker is the author of a memoir called “Son of A Grifter.”
The French satirical magazine, Charlie Hebdo, was presented with a Freedom on Expression award from the PEN American Center this week. Six high-profile writers boycotted the awards ceremony at PEN's big annual gala. Hundreds more protested, while others gave the magazine's editors a standing ovation. The chariman of the PEN World Voices Festival is Colm Toibin, the celebrated Irish novelist. Toibin shares his thoughs on the controversy.
Jayne Anne Phillips is the author of several novels and two collections of widely anthologized short stories...
Novelist Jane Hamilton talks with Steve Paulson about the role of nostalgia in literary fiction.
Luis Rodriguez talks with Steve Paulson about his work, why kids are drawn to gangs, and admits he failed his own son who’s now serving a long sentence in prison for attempted murder.
Pages
