Title
The Profits of Religion,Used
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The Profits of Religion: An Essay in Economic Interpretation is a snapshot of the religious movements in the U.S. before its entry into World War I. The book is the first of the 'Dead Hand' series: six books Upton Sinclair wrote on American institutions. The series also includes The Brass Check (journalism), The Goosestep (higher education), The Goslings (elementary and high school education), Mammonart (art) and Money Writes! (literature). The term 'Dead Hand' ironically refers to Adam Smith's concept that allowing an 'invisible hand' of individual self interest to shape economic relations provides the best result for society as a whole. In this book, Sinclair attacks institutionalized religion as a 'source of income to parasites, and the natural ally of every form of oppression and exploitation.' Most clergymen are hypocrites, but they are not entirely to blame. Like other men, they are victimized by 'the competitive wagesystem, which presents them with the alternative to swindle or to starve.' Sinclair savages the Episcopal establishment for transforming the proletarian Jesus into a defender of wealth and privilege, and for a long history of alliance with political power in England and the United states. Turning to the 'nonconforming' Protestant sects, adherents of 'The Church of the Merchants' are focused on achieving prosperity within the existing economic system. So are the devotees of the mostly Californiabased 'new religions' or 'cults', including New Thought.
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- Q: What is the main theme of 'The Profits of Religion'? A: The main theme of 'The Profits of Religion' is a critical examination of institutionalized religion in the United States, particularly its relationship with economic systems and social oppression.
- Q: Who is the author of 'The Profits of Religion'? A: The author of 'The Profits of Religion' is Upton Sinclair, an influential American writer known for his critiques of social and economic issues.
- Q: What type of book is 'The Profits of Religion'? A: 'The Profits of Religion' is a paperback book categorized under Church History, consisting of 232 pages.
- Q: When was 'The Profits of Religion' published? A: 'The Profits of Religion' was published on June 1, 2010.
- Q: What condition is the book in? A: 'The Profits of Religion' is listed as a used book in good condition.
- Q: Is 'The Profits of Religion' part of a series? A: Yes, 'The Profits of Religion' is the first book in Upton Sinclair's 'Dead Hand' series, which includes other works addressing various aspects of American institutions.
- Q: What topics does Upton Sinclair address in this book? A: In this book, Sinclair addresses the hypocrisy in organized religion, the exploitation by clergymen, and the alignment of religious institutions with political and economic power.
- Q: What is the significance of the title 'The Profits of Religion'? A: The title 'The Profits of Religion' highlights the financial gains and exploitation associated with organized religion, suggesting that it serves as a source of income for 'parasites' rather than a true spiritual guide.
- Q: Can 'The Profits of Religion' be considered a historical document? A: Yes, 'The Profits of Religion' serves as a historical document reflecting the socio-economic context of the religious movements in the U.S. before World War I.
- Q: What audience would benefit from reading 'The Profits of Religion'? A: Readers interested in church history, economic critique, and social justice will find 'The Profits of Religion' particularly insightful and thought-provoking.