Cruel creeds, virtuous violence

Jack David Eller

Throughout this compelling investigation, the author locates himself and remains firmly planted on that narrow patch of middle ground between blaming all violence on religion and claiming that religion is purely nonviolent and peaceful. Before his analysis begins in earnest, he first fleshes out the meanings of religion and violence, a step that is often skipped and yet is absolutely critical if we are ever to fully understand and resolve the phenomenon of religious violence. Without a doubt, religion, violence, and nonviolence are complicated concepts, but the road to ending or reducing religious violence does not necessarily have to be so fraught with accusations, conflicting views, and dismissive attitudes. After clearing away many misconceptions about religious violence as well as numerous easy and all-to-improbable solutions, he details a realistic approach to creating a more...