The Profits of Religion, Fifth Edition

In this incisive study the author turns a skeptical eye toward the financial underpinnings of religious institutions, arguing that faith often functions as both a source of income and a shield for privilege. Drawing on decades of research, the text treats superstition not as a mystical mystery but as a marketable commodity, inviting listeners to reconsider familiar rituals through an economic lens.

Structured as a series of “churches” that map different facets of spiritual life— from the conquering clergy to the merchants of salvation—the work blends historical anecdotes, sharp argumentation, and vivid observations. The opening chapters set the stage with a striking scene of “bootstrap‑lifting” believers, illustrating how devotion can be harnessed for material gain. With clear, conversational prose, the author challenges entrenched assumptions while remaining grounded in documented facts, offering a thought‑provoking entry point for anyone curious about the intersection of belief and profit.