The Kingdom of God with Stephen Dempster

In 'The Return of the King', the third and final volume of 'The Lord of the Rings', Frodo and Sam face their most daunting challenge as they journey through Mordor to destroy the One Ring. Meanwhile, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli navigate the Paths of the Dead, and the armies of Rohan and Gondor prepare for the Siege of Minas Tirith. The book concludes with the destruction of the Ring, the defeat of Sauron, and the aftermath of the war, including the return of the hobbits to the Shire and Frodo's eventual departure to the Undying Lands.

The End of Bias: A Beginning is a groundbreaking book that delves into the science and practice of overcoming unconscious bias. Jessica Nordell, after fifteen years of research, presents a hopeful and achievable vision for eradicating bias. The book weaves gripping stories with scientific research, highlighting successful interventions such as diagnostic checklists used by doctors to eliminate gender disparities in treatment, police units using mindfulness to reduce violence, and media interventions that reduce religious intolerance. Nordell’s work is praised for its compassionate and insightful approach, making it a practical guide for individuals, groups, and institutions to combat prejudice and create a more just world.

In 'Dominion,' Matthew Scully presents a comprehensive and eloquent case against the mistreatment of animals. The book delves into various aspects of animal suffering, including factory farming, hunting, whaling, and laboratory experiments. Scully challenges the notion that humans have unlimited dominion over animals, as suggested by biblical interpretations, and argues for a moral and compassionate approach to animal treatment. He draws on both religious and scientific perspectives to make his case, emphasizing the importance of empathy and the recognition of animal consciousness and suffering. The book is a call to action for reform and a plea for human benevolence and mercy towards animals.