Review by Choice Review
Social scientists since Max Weber have predicted that as countries modernize, reason will replace religion as the primary determinant of behavior. A competing model of rational choice and the rise of fundamentalism have challenged the secularization theory. Relying on empirical evidence, sociologist Bruce (Univ. of Aberdeen, Scotland) vigorously defends the idea that religion has lost its power and prestige. Surveys consistently indicate an irreversible downward trend in church attendance. Bruce shows that even in groups in which contemporary religion has seemingly flourished--New Age seekers, the Christian Right--the approach looks increasingly secular in its emphasis on individual, this-worldly affirmation. The argument recapitulates much of Bruce's earlier work and relies heavily on settling scores with other scholars. His data come primarily from an Anglo-Christian perspective, so he can offer few compelling explanations for the persistence of religion in developing countries, other than to say that they have not yet modernized. The book will not resolve the debate about religion in the modern world, but it will force other authors to consider Bruce's claims. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above. P. S. Cahn Boston University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
