Reviews
Review by: Ralph Hood Jr., Former editor Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion - September 15, 2015
Steven Reiss has developed a comprehensive theory of religion that illuminates why it is that religion is such a pervasive cultural force. Rather than impose unwarranted assumptions that either applaud or condemn religion, Reiss allows his empirically grounded theory to reveal how values that define religion are rooted in the sixteen basic desires all humans have.
Review by: Andrew McKinnon, University of Aberdeen - September 15, 2015
Steven Reiss’ response to those who see religion as stemming from the fear of death is very powerful—and a major contribution of the book in itself.
Review by: Carol Dweck, Lewis & Virginia Eaton Professor of Psychology at Stanford University - September 15, 2015
Steven Reiss is a profound thinker and a deeply compassionate person. Those qualities come together in this book as he probes one of the most difficult questions of all time—what are our basic human needs and how do religion and spirituality fulfill those needs? His answers will captivate and enlighten you.
Review by: Ellen Langer, Professor of Psychology at Harvard University - September 15, 2015
Professor Reiss has written an extremely interesting, creative, and original book presenting a new theory about religion and the religious life.