Published in 1976 this is a later 1979 printing. Hardcover book is in good condition dust jacket is intact with minor tears. Please see my detailed photos for condition.

Today many cults flourish in Western countries as more and more people seem to be turning away from rationalism and religion to search for truth along unconventional paths. This book examines the current cult phenomenon in the light of cultism in history. It looks at past and present cults of violence, such as the Thugs and the Manson Family; of sexual excess or sexual prohibition; of Eastern mysticism; of crank scientific theories; and of messiahs, such as Joanna Southcott and Father Divine.

In the last few years, people are also taking an interest in witchcraft again-a cult with many variations of practice within it. Most modern witches claim to follow an ancient pagan religion that predates Christianity by centuries and that promotes the use of magic for good. This book deals with the history of witchcraft, including the cruel persecution of witches from the 15th

to the 17th centuries, and the character of both witches and the witch hunters.

It explains the division of witchcraft into white and black magic, looking at both in rich detail. And it draws some interesting conclusions about the appeal and growth of witchcraft today.

Please let me know if you have any questions.