Doctor Who: The Gods Must Be Crazy | Analysis

Doctor Who is sending a powerful message this season and throughout its history: gods are evil and must be fought. In the current two seasons, the gods have declared war on the hero and showrunner Russell T. Davies has set up an intense battle between good and evil. It all started in the 60th Anniversary special, “Wild Blue Yonder,” when the Doctor opened the door for gods to enter the universe, leading to epic showdowns with beings like The Toymaker and Maestro, the gods of games and music. Season one featured Sutekh, the god of death, while season two introduces Lux, the god of light, all vying to challenge the Doctor.

Throughout Doctor Who’s history, there’s a clear pattern: gods are always portrayed as evil. Even in the old episodes, when the gods appeared, they were never benevolent. The series takes a strong anti-authority stance, showing that gods are not to be trusted and must be defeated. This theme has been present since the early days of the show, with gods like the Black Guardian and Fenric representing powerful and corrupt entities that the Doctor must confront and overcome.

At its core, Doctor Who’s message is one of resistance against authority and elitism. The gods in the series symbolize the elite, the rulers, the despots who seek to exploit and destroy. The Doctor stands as a counterbalance, a god-like figure who chooses to help rather than harm. Davies once called the Doctor “the lonely god,” emphasizing the character’s role as a force for good in a world filled with evil gods.

In the end, Doctor Who is more than just a sci-fi series—it’s a modern parable about standing up against oppression and injustice. The gods may be powerful, but the Doctor proves time and time again that true strength comes from compassion and courage. So, as the series continues to explore the battle between good and evil, remember that in the world of Doctor Who, atheism is resistance.

**Doctor Who is available for streaming on Disney+ outside the UK.**