The Devil and Secular Humanism

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 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.