Being Human

In Being Human, Rowan Williams, one of today’s most brilliant and profound thinkers, has produced a rich and thought-provoking meditation on the themes of consciousness, language, relationship, speech, silence and what it is to be a person. A marvellous and moving work: philosophical theology at its very best. * Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks *
Through an elegant exploration of the nature of human consciousness Being Human convincingly debunks current discourse about the value of autonomy as the foundation of self-confidence, restoring human narrative and relationships to the heart of our being. A fascinating book, worthy of reflection and discussion. * Baroness Sheila Hollins, Emeritus Professor of the psychiatry of learning disability at St George's, University of London *
'Rowan William's most striking characteristics are his humanity and his fine intellect. Here he uses both gifts quite brilliantly to illuminate what it means to be human. A stimulating collection of provocative yet reassuring essays. A gift from an exceptional man.' * Baroness Helena Kennedy QC, FRSA, Chair of Justice – the UK section of the International Commission of Jurists *
Williams never disappoints: his reflections on such important topics as the nature of consciousness, how we view time, and the wisdom of silence make vital reading. * Iain McGilchrist, author of The Master and his Emissary *
One of the strengths of this book is that Williams recognises religion can go bad. He defends a proper sense of dependence but distinguishes this from the infantilism certain institutions encourage. * The Church of England Newspaper *
This book is cooler in tone, more academic and less direct, but it is learned, insightful and illuminating. Nobody concerned with the present state of humanity should miss it. * The Tablet *