Welcome back to CSS Breakdown: Book by Book — Season 4. In this episode, we walk with Will Durant through one of the most personal chapters of Fallen Leaves — his lifelong reflection on faith, Catholicism, and the tension between belief and reason."

In Episode 8, we join Will Durant on a deeply personal journey through the complexities of faith, doubt, and philosophy. Reflecting on his Catholic upbringing and seminary training, Durant explores what he gained, what he left behind, and what still lingers in his view of religion.

⛪️ Key themes include:

• His early immersion in Catholic doctrine and the intellectual crisis that emerged from philosophical inquiry
• A thoughtful departure from inherited theology, not out of rebellion, but through rigorous and respectful questioning
• An enduring respect for the symbolic value of religious teachings and their power to provide meaning, order, and consolation
• Concerns about the Catholic Church’s political and educational influence, particularly in the context of American democracy
• A hope for a future where religion and philosophy can coexist — where tolerance, reason, and spiritual tradition work hand in hand

This episode is not just about faith — it's about wrestling with legacy, truth, and the search for meaning in a modern world. Perfect for CSS aspirants exploring comparative religion, Western philosophy, or the role of belief in public life.