Beyond Idols: The Shape of a Secular Society

by Richard K. Fenn

Book Overview

This book attempts to articulate the nature of a secular society, describe its benefits, and suggests the conditions under which such a society could emerge. To become secular, argues Fenn, is to open oneself and one's society to a wide range of possibilities, some interesting and exciting, some burdensome and dreadful. While some sociologists have argued that a "Civil Religion" is necessary to hold together our newly "religionless" society, Fenn urges that there is nothing to fear--and everything to gain--from living in a society that is not bound together by sacred memories and beliefs, or by sacred institutions and practices.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0195143698
• ISBN13: 9780195143690
• Release Date: June 2001
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 0.10 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.5" x 9.6"