Domination
Alice Roberts (Simon & Schuster)

Alice Roberts’ latest book represents a distinct shift. In her earlier works, Basement and Burial, she combined her knowledge of osteophysiology, which examines preserved human bones, with more conventional historical strategies, such as analyzing ancient texts. Her blend of technical science and insightful discussions of historical records aimed to create a multifaceted perspective of past human life and culture.

In contrast, Rule: The Decline of the Roman Empire and the Ascendancy of Christianity largely steers clear of osteophysiology. Instead, it delves into historical documents. This isn’t necessarily a shortcoming; Roberts showcases her keen and deliberate approach to historical analysis, albeit this might necessitate an avid readership.

The focal point of her exploration is the ascent of Christianity from a modest Eastern Mediterranean sect to a globally dominant faith. Amid the disappearance of many other beliefs, what factors contributed to its supremacy?

Central to this narrative is the Roman Empire, which held sway over nearly all Mediterranean territories, extending from Britain to Syria when Christianity first appeared. Although the Romans worshipped numerous deities, Christianity gradually garnered more favor. Key moments stand out: Constantine I’s reign (AD 306-337) saw the decriminalization of Christianity (and possibly his own conversion), although Roberts identifies evidence gaps about this. Theodosius I’s rule (AD 379-395) marked another pivotal moment, as he made Christianity the state religion.

Roberts questions the conventional narrative which suggests Christianity was inherently more appealing or its followers exceptionally devoted. She contends that such assertions are mere Christian propaganda.

Instead, she asserts that the genuine key to Christianity’s success lay in its rapid infiltration of the upper echelons of Roman society. While Jesus associated with the marginalized, his followers targeted affluent Romans, soldiers, and educated elites for recruitment—this strategy proved tremendously effective. “Early adopters emerged from the middle and upper classes of urban centers, not merely the lower classes of the rural and imperial populations,” Roberts states.

Over ensuing decades and centuries, the church amassed a business empire. As Roberts articulates, “Stripped of religious pretense, what’s revealed is a vast, intricate network of interrelated enterprises: welfare, healthcare, law, agriculture, shipping, education, and beyond.”

The church also undertook charitable initiatives covering various state responsibilities, particularly in addressing poverty. However, this was managed with a clear veneer of cynicism. “Christian charity,” Roberts observes, “was never intended to eradicate poverty.” Instead, it enabled the church to position itself favorably across all societal tiers, suggesting to the poor that they would be compensated in the afterlife, while assuring the wealthy that their donations were the pathway to heaven.

This arrangement thrived amid the glaring social inequalities of the time, drawing parallels to modern billionaire philanthropy.

Ultimately, Roberts argues that the Roman economic landscape was thoroughly reshaped around the church, as educated elites pursued careers within its structure.

When the Western Roman Empire crumbled, the elite aligned themselves with the new leadership but retained existing power structures. “Regardless of the rhetoric or spiritual messaging, the whole system mirrored Roman commerce, as always,” Roberts notes. “The eternal truth is not theological; gods come and go, temples rise and fall, but business is always business.”

The opening of Domination may prove somewhat challenging, with a plethora of names to track and a non-linear narrative. However, once Roberts refines her argument, the narrative accelerates. The outcome is a sharp, thought-provoking, and at times contentious examination of one of humanity’s most significant organizations.

Michael Marshall is a writer based in Devon, UK

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