Had enough of religious fundamentalism? Disillusioned with traditional religions?Can't understand where all the craziness comes from? Well, if you're seeking realanswers to tough questions, then this is the book for you.Stirringly original, and supported by twelve pages of illustrations, this updatededition of "Psychology, Symbolism, and the Sacred" is a dynamic and entertainingread that offers some truly original insights on issues that concern us all. Based upon his own personal experiences in education, psychology, and religiousministry, Manning tackles the world¿s ongoing `religious problem¿ (as he sees it)with courage, tenacity, and forthrightness. Opening the book with an exposé ofclassic religious dysfunctions Manning argues that religion¿s position in anincreasingly global society needs to be urgently re-evaluated. Citing the dramatic evidence of archetypal themes and motifs in history, Manningshows how today¿s authoritarian institutions are the disturbing remnants of aDark-Ages mentality that still pervade the world¿s most popular religions.Terrorism, so-called `holy wars¿, and pernicious ecclesiastic abuses for example,are each born of a general credulity; a sometimes-willing state of collectiveignorance; and a disturbing tendency on the part of far too many religioniststowards sectarian elitism. Such attitudes have no place in an increasingly integrated and better-educatedworld. In discussions exploring the differences between education andindoctrination, and between reality and superstition, Manning shows how no othersocial institution presumes the right to indoctrinate the young and credulous inideologies that not only fly in the face of scientific facts, but all too oftenfuel the divisions and animosities that nurture some of society¿s most perniciousevils. Relying on the evidence of history, Manning explains how inhumane beliefsinevitably produce inhumane institutions. Promoting a theory of `universalhumanism¿ he explains that before we can address the religious problem we firsthave to understand it in more than abstract terms.In uncomplicated language Manning shows that the fundamental principles thatgovern light and energy are, and always have been present in all of our socialinstitutions, both in actual and symbolic forms. If indeed true, then this is adiscovery of monumental significance to philosophers, scientists, andreligionists everywhere. This is a captivating piece of research and courageous writing that willundoubtedly challenge many, especially those who harbour any sense of piouselitism or other forms of partisan exclusiveness. The book culminates with a challenge to each of us to honestly review our ownbelief systems in light of the evidence presented, and urges a genuine `GoldenRule¿ attitude of radical reform both within ourselves as individuals andespecially within authoritarian religious institutions which, Manning argues,only continue to thrive at an immense cost to human society and to any True God.