Nature and the Nation Review: The New Polytheism (Miller) by David Miller and James Hillman
Sep 20, 2025
Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on polytheism as David Miller explores its relevance in sociology, psychology, and philosophy. Discover how Nietzsche's ideas on the death of God ushered in a pluralistic mindset. Unpack Niebuhr's critique of competing values and the challenges of monotheism’s rationalism. Learn about the lessons of Greek tragedy and the need to revive mythic thinking to reconnect with our feelings. Plus, hear how Heidegger perceives gods as underlying our logic, and poets as interpreters of new divine ideas.
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Modern Pluralism As Polytheism
- David Miller frames modern pluralism as a form of 'polytheism' after Nietzsche's death of God thesis.
- He argues the end of monotheistic centrality opens diverse, competing values and lifestyles.
1970s Counterculture Lens
- Dylan John reflects on Miller's 1974 context and late-60s counterculture influences.
- He cautions that some enthusiasms then now appear mistaken or harmful in hindsight.
Three Faces Of Polytheism
- Miller distinguishes social, philosophical, and psychological polytheism as plurality in values, logic, and selves.
- He claims this plural experience requires a polytheistic theology to fully account for modern life.
