Irving Hexham is professor of religious studies and Karla Poewe is professor of anthropology, both at the University
of Calgary.
Poewe, Karla : University of Calgary
Review
"This book offers a fresh and original approach to the study of new religious movements ... [it]contains
a challenging thesis that needs to be considered by every scholar working in the field ..."
--Nova Religio
"Hexham and Poewe prove to be intelligent analysts and critics ... This treasure trove of provocative insights
and propositions should in any case be read by all serious students of modern spiritual ferment."
--Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion
"In this strongly recommended and well-balanced study, Irving Hexham and Karla Poewe provide a much-needed
general survey of the plethora of contemporary new religions. The authors do what others often neglect: By setting
new religions within a broad cross-cultural context they assist the reader in recognizing the underlying similarity
of concepts that are developing throughout the world to create distinct global cultures. The book will be a useful
tool for anyone beginning an examination of new religions."
--Joan B. Townsend, University of Manitoba
"The combined anthropological, sociological, and literary skills of the two writers have given us an illuminating
and accessible survey of the appeal and effects of this century's new religions. Learned in substance, shrewd in
judgment, and simple in expression, this is a highly recommended resource for all students of religion."
--James Packer, Regent College
Perseus Books Group Web Site, September, 2000
Summary
In the face of the popular crusade to link new religious movements to dangerous cults, brainwashing, and the
need for deprogramming, Irving Hexham and Karla Poewe argue that many cults are in fact the product of dynamic
interaction between folk religions and the teachings of traditional world religions. With the widespread loss of
belief in biblical mythology in the nineteenth century, new mythologies based on science and elements derived from
various non-Western religious traditions emerged, leading to the growth and popularity of new religions and cults.
Drawing on examples from Africa, the United States, Asia, and Europe, the authors suggest that few new religions
are really original. Most draw on rich, if localized, cultural traditions, which are then shaped anew by the influence
of technological change and international linkages.
Table of Contents
The Great Anti-cult Crusade
From Cults to New Religions and Global Culture
New Religions as Global Cultures
New Religions and Primal Experiences
Myths and Mythological Fragments
Yogic and Abramic Religions
The Membership Process
New Religions: New Visions
How Dangerous Are New Religions?
