The Devil and Secular Humanism: The Children of the Enlightenment [Hardcover]

Howard B. Radest (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 30, 1990

There is currently much confusion about the nature of humanism and a good deal of interest in its point of view. As the object of attack and suspicion by fundamentalists, conservatives, and traditional religionists, Howard B. Radest believes that humanism deserves a clear and responsible treatment. He accomplishes this in this book by clarifying the nature of humanism in historical and current thought. The Enlightenment, Radest states, gave birth to a number of humanist values that are still being worked out in today's societies. He reconstructs how humanist values have been considered dangerous by those who fear a change in the status quo. Humanism, Radest maintains, is the true descendant of the age of reason and freedom. In this unique volume, humanism is viewed as being misunderstood by both traditionalists and the humanists themselves. Radest does not wish to disparage traditional beliefs, but he emphasizes that humanism is a legitimate philosophical, ideological, and religious alternative--a party to the current struggle for a postmodern life philosophy. The Devil and Secular Humanism examines humanism in a more comprehensive way than most current literature, and it includes an assessment of the prospects for humanism in the years ahead. It will be of great use to a literate, but nontechnical, audience who are engaged in philosophy, religion, law, and politics.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

HOWARD B. RADEST is Director of the Ethical Culture Fieldston Schools in New York City.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 184 pages
• Publisher: Praeger Publishers (November 30, 1990)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 027593442X
• ISBN-13: 978-0275934422
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.2 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #5,207,187 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.