Description
Book SynopsisWhy and how did Jews, Christians, and Muslims missionize, and when and why did their efforts falter? Why did both Christianity and Islam suddenly become less tolerant of Jews late in the eleventh century, prompting outbursts of mass murder? This book examines these questions.
Trade Review"This intriguing work argues that few if any social forces are as important as monotheism... Stark says monotheism has extraordinary power to unite people and give them purpose."--Richard N. Ostling, Associated Press Newswires "Bracing, rollicking, startling, belligerent, informative, and guaranteed to provoke second and third thoughts about what readers thought they always knew about religion and the history of the world."--First Things "Stark's conception of civility as public moderation of particularism is intriguing, and his sociology of religion blends James Madison's analysis of factions and Adam Smith's faith in the market's invisible hand, which calls for a proliferation of 'sacred umbrellas' rather than a 'sacred canopy.'"--Booklist "A book that is a joy to read... a thought-provoking and heartening book."--Library Journal "Stark's discussion is lively, pointed and frequently illuminating. This is an informative, provocative and timely contribution to the study of religion."--Leo D. Lefebure, Christian Century
Table of ContentsList of Illustrations vii Acknowledgments ix Introduction 1 1. God's Nature: A Theory of Gods 9 2. God's Chosen: Monotheism and Mission 33 3. God's Wrath: Religious Conflict 115 4. God's Kingdom: Religious Persistence 175 5. God's Grace: Pluralism and Civility 219 Bibliography 261 Index 303
