Cicero on gods and religion

The article deals with Cicero’s attitude to gods and religion. Basing on the tradition established in the Roman society, not on his own convictions, Cicero acknowledges the existence of gods, considering them immortal, blissful, animated and anthropomorphic. Besides, he extensively dwells upon a question of interaction between gods and people, accepting it but not asserting its positive basis. Undoubtedly, Cicero is convinced of the importance of religion for Roman people due to the popular belief, not to his own viewpoint.