PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
New Religious Movements, Sects And alternative Spiritualities
This book gives readers a comprehensive map of the significant religious
and spiritual groups functioning in today's world, especially in the
West. It is written by specialists but with the non-specialist in mind.
The Encyclopedia of New Religions offers an authoritative and lavishly
illustrated guide to more than two hundred of these extremely varied
groups and movements. The new religions, sects and alternative
spiritualities are categorized according to the religious traditions
from which they spring. Included are well established groups like the
Mormons and the Hutterites, and more recent movements like the Santeria,
the Unification Church and ISKCON (the `Hare Krishnas'). In addition to
Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Zoroastrianism, Indian Religions and the
Religions of East Asia, sections are devoted to movements and groups
inspired by Indigenous and Pagan traditions, and by Western Esoteric and
New Age traditions. Especially fascinating is the discussion of the
religious offspring of Modern Western Culture, including Scientology,
UFO-based groups and even the worship of celebrities like Elvis and
Princess Diana. Each section begins with an overview of the parent
religion, before the new religions, sects and alternative spiritualities
are described in chronological order. There are also a number of
feature articles throughout the book which highlight broad topics such
as New Religions in China as well as intriguing subjects such as Cargo
Cults, Martial Arts, Astrology and Feng Shui. The Encyclopedia of New
Religions is a fascinating and colourful guide to the bewildering array
of religious and spiritual options open to the modern seeker