A History of the World's Religions

Professor John Allen Paulos' application of reason and logic to analyze and evaluate the arguments made to "prove" the existence of God, is the very methodology used by most rational people in areas involving topics outside of religion, including believers, adamant in their insistence that God exists. Why then do most - including "true" believers - refuse to apply reason and logic, which they will unhesitatingly use to make rational decisions and come to valid conclusions in every day life, but not in regards to religion? The powerful emotion, fear, often makes the normally rational, irrational. Perhaps Anton Chekhov says it best: "Man is what he believes."

Another good text from a top notch class I decided to keep for reference. The class did use supplemental materials but this is a good overall source for info on the historic origins and development of world religions.

A truly excellent, penetrating, work. David Noss provides an opportunity for the reader to personally shake hands with each major religion: each is introduced with unobtrusive eloquence and exactitude; each is treated with the utmost respect; and so is the reader accorded this same, unpretentious, sacred reverence. One might gain the impression that a very sane and learned scholar in each religion covered is laying out for you the fundamentals and origins of his beliefs and faith, in a non-proselytizing way, for you to see. Excellent!

The key words for the book could be as the following -- Tactful, sophisticated, academic, reader's friendly, accurate, intriguing, inspiring, comprehensive. One can get proud of the Mankind history - not only wars and dirty politics did we have but the heights of spiritual life, in many forms and manifestations.