This fascinating book considers systems of belief and practice which are
not religions in the full-blown sense, but which nevertheless affect
human life in ways similar to the role played by the recognised
religions. Professor Smith's thorough account compares the features
which Humanism, Marxism and Nationalism share with recognised religions,
analysing each in turn, and asks whether there is not always a threat of
the demonic when any contingent reality - man, the economic order, or
the state - is made absolute.