Between Communitas and Pantheism

This chapter argues that the openness and egalitarianism of scientific discourse to be found in Terry Pratchett’s Nation functions as an alternative to the hierarchical structures imposed by colonialism. In addition, the chapter discusses the ways in which Pratchett attributes liminal potential to religious beliefs and posits the suggestion that pantheism is the most appropriate religious belief system within the social-scientific framework of his model post-colonial society. Finally, the chapter argues that Nation highlights the importance for young readers of addressing and critically reflecting on the issue of their own belief systems, in order to manage the difficulties of 21st-century living.