Philosopher Jacob Needleman's groundbreaking study of America's alternative spiritual movements is back in print with a new introduction by the author.

Originally published in 1970, The New Religions was the first full-scale study of alternative spirituality in America. It remains unparalleled for the intellectual depth and seriousness with which it regards Eastern, New Age, and alternative faiths on the American landscape.

Needleman’s writing and reportage are unfailingly thoughtful and incisive as he illuminates topics that other scholars failed to consider or could not fully grasp.
“The best survey of transplanted Oriental mysticism in America.”
—Theodore Roszak

“Of all books published to date on today’s ‘spiritual revolution,’ Jacob Needleman’s The New Religions is clearly superior . . . indispensable and invaluable.”
— Robert Galbreath, The Journal of Popular Culture

“Needleman is the first thoughtful author to present the teachings of the new spiritual renaissance to the general public.”
—San Francisco Sunday Examiner & Chronicle

“A vital study of a phenomenon that has dramatically altered the lives of those it has touched.”
—Harvard Bulletin
Jacob Needleman is professor of philosophy at San Francisco State University. He is the author of many bestselling books, including, most recently, A Little Book on Love. View titles by Jacob Needleman

About

Philosopher Jacob Needleman's groundbreaking study of America's alternative spiritual movements is back in print with a new introduction by the author.

Originally published in 1970, The New Religions was the first full-scale study of alternative spirituality in America. It remains unparalleled for the intellectual depth and seriousness with which it regards Eastern, New Age, and alternative faiths on the American landscape.

Needleman’s writing and reportage are unfailingly thoughtful and incisive as he illuminates topics that other scholars failed to consider or could not fully grasp.

Reviews

“The best survey of transplanted Oriental mysticism in America.”
—Theodore Roszak

“Of all books published to date on today’s ‘spiritual revolution,’ Jacob Needleman’s The New Religions is clearly superior . . . indispensable and invaluable.”
— Robert Galbreath, The Journal of Popular Culture

“Needleman is the first thoughtful author to present the teachings of the new spiritual renaissance to the general public.”
—San Francisco Sunday Examiner & Chronicle

“A vital study of a phenomenon that has dramatically altered the lives of those it has touched.”
—Harvard Bulletin

Author

Jacob Needleman is professor of philosophy at San Francisco State University. He is the author of many bestselling books, including, most recently, A Little Book on Love. View titles by Jacob Needleman