Robert S. Ellwood Book order

The book provides a thorough exploration of mysticism, addressing major issues and scholarly debates within the field. It features vivid first-person accounts and a balanced assessment of various perspectives, showcasing the author's intellectual depth. Readers can expect a blend of historical and contemporary examples that make the material both engaging and accessible. The second edition is praised for its clarity and thoughtful methodology, appealing to both newcomers and those familiar with mysticism.

Set against the backdrop of 1950, the book explores the intersection of a booming religious fervor and the pervasive fears of the Cold War. It delves into the impact of McCarthyism, the hydrogen bomb, and the Korean War on American society, highlighting the varied reactions from religious leaders. Through vibrant religious journalism, the narrative captures the tension between postwar prosperity and the anxiety surrounding global communism, illustrating a complex era of faith and fear.

Challenging the idealized view of the 1950s as a time of social harmony and spiritual clarity, this narrative explores the underlying spiritual struggles of the decade. Robert Ellwood delves into the complexities of religious life, revealing a period marked by conflict and discontent rather than the nostalgia often associated with it. Through this examination, the book invites readers to reconsider the true nature of spirituality and societal norms during a time frequently romanticized in American culture.

Intended for courses in World Religions, this text provides a strong historical approach with appropriate attention paid to the social and cultural context of each religion.