The Making of Religion By: Andrew Lang (1844-1912) |
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In "The Making of Religion" by Andrew Lang, readers are taken on an intriguing journey through the origins and evolution of religious beliefs across different cultures and time periods. Lang's insightful analysis delves deep into the foundations of religion, exploring the various factors that shaped and continue to shape our understanding of spirituality.
One of the notable strengths of this book is Lang's ability to approach the subject matter with an open and unbiased mindset. Rather than presenting a singular view or favoring any particular religious system, he instead embraces a comparative approach, drawing upon a wealth of cultural and historical examples to illustrate his arguments. This method allows readers to gain a broader perspective and enables them to perceive the common threads that run through different religious practices.
Lang's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the complex concepts and theories he presents far more digestible for a wide range of readers. He skillfully weaves together narratives and anecdotes from various sources, creating a tapestry of knowledge that keeps readers captivated and eager to learn more. The author's talent lies in his ability to present intricate ideas in a clear and concise manner, never overwhelming readers with jargon or convoluted arguments.
One of the key takeaways from "The Making of Religion" is the recognition that religious beliefs and practices are intrinsically tied to the human experience and reflect our innate need to find meaning and purpose in life. By examining the historical and cultural contexts in which religions emerged, Lang sheds light on the way our societal and personal beliefs are shaped by the circumstances that surround us. This enlightenment allows readers to question their own beliefs and appreciate the immense diversity found within religious traditions.
However, one minor drawback of the book is that at times, lang's arguments may seem overly generalized or lacking in concrete evidence. While he provides a plethora of examples to support his claims, some readers may desire a more extensive examination of certain theories or a more robust analysis of specific religious practices.
Overall, "The Making of Religion" is an illuminating and thought-provoking book that offers valuable insights into the origins and development of religious ideas. Andrew Lang's approach of comparing various religious systems gives readers a broader perspective on the subject, inviting them to critically reflect on their own beliefs while appreciating the rich tapestry of human spirituality. This book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of religious thought and its impact on society throughout history. BY ANDREW LANG M.A., LL.D. ST ANDREWS HONORARY FELLOW OF MERTON COLLEGE OXFORD SOMETIME GIFFORD LECTURER IN THE UNIVERSITY OF ST ANDREWS SECOND EDITION 1900 TO THE PRINCIPAL OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. ANDREWS DEAR PRINCIPAL DONALDSON, I hope you will permit me to lay at the feet of the University of St. Andrews, in acknowledgment of her life long kindnesses to her old pupil, these chapters on the early History of Religion. They may be taken as representing the Gifford Lectures delivered by me, though in fact they contain very little that was spoken from Lord Gifford's chair. I wish they were more worthy of an Alma Mater which fostered in the past the leaders of forlorn hopes that were destined to triumph; and the friends of lost causes who fought bravely against Fate Patrick Hamilton, Cargill, and Argyll, Beaton and Montrose, and Dundee. Believe me Very sincerely yours, ANDREW LANG . PREFACE TO THE NEW EDITION By the nature of things this book falls under two divisions. The first eight chapters criticise the current anthropological theory of the origins of the belief in spirits. Chapters ix. xvii., again, criticise the current anthropological theory as to how, the notion of spirit once attained, man arrived at the idea of a Supreme Being... Continue reading book >>
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