S2 E14. Rod Dreher: Miracles, angels and demons - why the supernatural is back

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Jun 17, 2025

Rod Dreher, a cultural critic and bestselling author, delves into the rising interest in the supernatural amidst our secular culture. He shares transformative experiences from his own life, including a powerful encounter at Chartres Cathedral. The conversation explores the interplay between technology and belief, emphasizing the quest for deeper meaning amid modern distractions. Topics like faith, solitude, and even psychedelics as a path to spirituality highlight the importance of genuine connections with the divine in today’s world.

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ANECDOTE

Rod Dreher's Conversion Story

Rod Dreher's faith journey began at Chartres Cathedral where God's glory dissolved his teenage doubts.
An encounter with an elderly priest whose tears revealed deep holiness completed his conversion to Christianity.

INSIGHT

Faith Shapes Sacred Architecture

Medieval builders created enduring beauty because of deep, embodied faith in God everywhere.
Modern architecture often lacks permanence and beauty, reflecting a loss of sacred purpose and enchantment.

INSIGHT

Disenchantment and Enchantment Defined

The modern world is "disenchanted," losing sensory experience of God's presence.
Restoring enchantment requires balance between analytic thought and perceptive, spiritual intuition.

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Homo Deus

A Brief History of Tomorrow

Yuval Noah Harari

In 'Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow', Yuval Noah Harari examines the future of humanity, predicting that in the 21st century, humans will strive for happiness, immortality, and god-like powers. The book discusses how technological developments, such as artificial intelligence and genetic engineering, will shape human society. Harari speculates on the possibilities of overcoming death, creating artificial life, and the potential risks and philosophical implications of these advancements. He also explores the impact of humanism, individualism, and transhumanism on our future and questions the continued dominance of humans in a world increasingly driven by data and algorithms.

They Flew

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Carlos Eire

Why I'm Still a Christian

Justin Brierley

Alister E. McGrath

The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God

Why New Atheism Grew Old and Secular Thinkers Are Considering Christianity Again

Justin Brierley

The master and his emissary

The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World

Iain McGilchrist

This book argues that the division of the brain into two hemispheres is essential to human existence, allowing for two incompatible versions of the world. The left hemisphere is detail-oriented, prefers mechanisms to living things, and is inclined to self-interest, while the right hemisphere has greater breadth, flexibility, and generosity. McGilchrist takes the reader on a journey through the history of Western culture, illustrating the tension between these two worlds as revealed in the thought and belief of thinkers and artists from ancient to modern times. He argues that the increasing dominance of the left hemisphere in today’s world has potentially disastrous consequences.

Living in Wonder

Rod Dreher

Rod Dreher's "Living in Wonder" explores the resurgence of spiritual and mystical experiences in a technologically advanced, secular world. The book delves into the concept of 're-enchantment,' examining how individuals are seeking deeper meaning and connection beyond traditional religious institutions. Dreher discusses various phenomena, including UFOs, AI, and the occult, as manifestations of this spiritual yearning. He argues that while these experiences can be genuine, they must be understood within a Christian framework to avoid potential dangers. Ultimately, the book advocates for a return to a more profound and direct experience of faith.