Abstract

Scholarly books of edited readings depend on the ability of the editor, the range of topics and authors, and the breadth versus depth with which the subject is approached. Too much breadth results in a platitudinous mishmash, while too much depth usually lacks context. In this work, the editor, Tim Miller of the University of Kansas, strikes a reasonable compromise. Not all chapters will be of equal interest to any reader, but all are germane to the topic.This book has thirteen chapters, seven written by North Americans, three by U.K. residents, two by Europeans, and one by an Israeli. Eight of these authors are current or ex-members of “spiritual and visionary” communities, three are academics, and two are...