A World Without God
The Search for Meaning in a Society Overwhelmed by Despair
- Philosophy
- Publisher: Zondervan Reflective (Zondervan)
- Published: 2026
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Publisher's Description
Is the existence of God essential to humanity? A World Without God is a philosophical exploration that challenges readers to consider the implications of a hypothetical society without divine influence. Like Dostoyevsky's enigmatic characters and the brutal depictions of reality in the book of Judges, this book considers--in the form of narrative philosophy--the consequences of abandoning faith in God. Journeying into the nihilistic haze of technological oversaturation and moral decline, Chris Palmer, PhD, confronts today's most persistent questions about meaning, purpose, and existence in a world adrift. A World Without God offers an honest yet hopeful path for those open to God but unsure why they should commit to a belief they cannot ground in science. In its fresh look at key influences in literature--from Albert Camus to Jordan Peterson--this book examines how people search for meaning without a creator and how the absence of the divine can lead to chaos and psychological collapse. Whether you're a Christian, a skeptic, or simply curious about the implications of a world without God, this book will spark imagination and deep reflection.
Endorsements (8)
“Christopher Palmer’s A World Without God masterfully weaves the eerie town of Novemberton and its cast of quirky characters into a perfectly pitched allegory of our increasingly shallow and distracted world. Drawing on the profound insights of existentialists, nihilists, and theologians alike, Palmer paints a vivid picture of how an entire culture can lose its soul. Yet amid this evocative and imaginative narrative, he also illuminates a path back to hope, faith, and love. This prescient piece of writing underscores why a weary world seems to be awakening once more to its need for God.”
“literature, and theology, making connections with the real world around us in a way that is illuminating and inviting. You’ll come away from this book inspired to be more thoughtful and engaged with both deep questions and the everyday world.”
“Christopher Palmer is a tour guide through the sloughs of despondence that have afflicted the modern world, where the revolutions that have conquered nature have left the human soul feeling more despairing than ever. He shows from poetry, novels, music, and art the dark side of the moon that many feel trapped on. Yet Palmer also points us toward an audacious hope centered on the Lord Jesus Christ, who brings us into joy, beauty, and enchantment. A timely book for an anxious age.”
“Christopher Palmer’s book A World Without God is a biting critique of the way we have chosen to live: free of God. Its prophetic message and graceful invitation will leave you wondering how we’ve lived so long without a deep and hungry heart for God. Read this at your own risk. It won’t feel good. But it will wake you up.”
“honest book, Christopher Palmer weaves together literary and cultural themes, using them as pointers to help us navigate this confused, haunted modern world. He offers a sure and wise path forward through life’s difficulties. This world is, after all, a God-haunted one: The God who made this world that fell away from him came to bring light and truth and healing through Christ, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest—their true homes—in him.”
“Reading A World Without God is like wandering through dark, plague-filled streets reeking of death before suddenly darting into a pine-scented room illuminated by a Christmas tree. Chris Palmer—a writer with a lyrical voice—is your surefooted surefooted and beguiling guide on this crosstown journey.”
“for it.”
“A fantastic guide to the practical power of worldview, this book shows how our views of God quietly shape how we live, choose, and endure in a tough world—whether with despair or with hope.”
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