A Little History of Religion (Little Histories) - Hardcover

Holloway, Richard

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0300208839 ISBN 13: 9780300208832

Publisher: Yale University Press, 2016

Synopsis

For curious readers young and old, a rich and colorful history of religion from humanity's earliest days to our own contentious times In an era of hardening religious attitudes and explosive religious violence, this book offers a welcome antidote. Richard Holloway retells the entire history of religion-from the dawn of religious belief to the twenty-first century-with deepest respect and a keen commitment to accuracy. Writing for those with faith and those without, and especially for young readers, he encourages curiosity and tolerance, accentuates nuance and mystery, and calmly restores a sense of the value of faith. Ranging far beyond the major world religions of Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Hinduism, Holloway also examines where religious belief comes from, the search for meaning throughout history, today's fascinations with Scientology and creationism, religiously motivated violence, hostilities between religious people and secularists, and more. Holloway proves an empathic yet discerning guide to the enduring significance of faith and its power from ancient times to our own.

About this title

Review:

"This is a well-written book, from which most of us will come away knowing more about the religions of the world than we knew before. . . . In its own way this engaging book might be seen as a period piece."--John Charmley, Times
"Holloway's account is brimful of arresting facts."--Ian Thomson, Financial Times
"As an informed reflection on the state of faith in the western world in the 21st century, written by someone who has plenty of experience, it is insightful and intelligent."--Tim Whitmarsh, The Guardian
"Holloway's narrative is made up of many different threads and details carefully woven together to make a satisfying read. The pace is leisurely despite the amount of ground covered, and he manages to include memorable details."--Carol Palfrey, Sofia

"In an age of religious tension, this is an important contribution to understanding different beliefs. . . . A straightforward, well-written introduction to religion and its various manifestations."--Library Journal
"For readers in search of a thoughtful, thorough, and approachable survey of the history of religion, this book is an excellent place to start."--Booklist
"[Holloway] deftly makes his knowledge accessible to the public. . . . A great service for students of religion. This is no dry textbook: With its conversational prose and density of information, it is a pleasure to read."--The Weekly Standard
"A Little History of Religion both delights readers and tackles a subject historically and emotionally wide-ranging. . . . Holloway repeatedly links religious movements to political action, perhaps cautionary tales for our times, and how to seek accurate religious history--a surprisingly superior handbook."--Katharine C. Black, Anglican and Episcopal History
"It is difficult to name anyone more qualified to write on this topic than Richard Holloway. His own journey of faith has encompassed so many experiences that he writes with an admirable combination of detachment, knowledge and affectionate engagement."--Diarmaid MacCulloch, author of A History of Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years

About the Author:

Richard Holloway, former Bishop of Edinburgh and Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church, is an internationally popular writer and broadcaster. His more than twenty books include the best-selling Leaving Alexandria: A Memoir of Faith and Doubt. He lives in Edinburgh, UK.

About this edition

• Publisher: Yale University Press
• Publication date: 2016
• ISBN 10: 0300208839
• ISBN 13: 9780300208832
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 288