Perspectives on the new age /

These 19 essays constitute a comprehensive treatment of an area in religious studies that has heretofore been rather neglected. Beginning with methodological considerations for studying the New Age movement, it includes an examination of historical roots, aspects and characteristics, comparative treatments with other forms of religion e.g., Hinduism, Neopaganism, feminist spirituality, astrology, and the pentecostal/charismatic revival and ends with an exploration of the international impact of New Age in Nigeria, Japan, South Africa, and Italy. In addition to carefully crafted studies from differing perspectives and a critical examination much of the previous scholarship on the New Age, this book also provides insights into how people within and outside the movement understand it. Of superior quality and broad scope, this volume not only presents the state of the art of New Age movement scholarship but will become a basis from which other research will be done. It includes almost 70 pages of notes and references that indicate sources and provide a substantial bibliography. The ten-page index is a useful entry into these essays. This volume should be added to all libraries with collections of religious studies, religion in America, and American studies. R. L. Massanari; Alma College