Religion of the Devil, Philosophy of the Coiled Serpent
In yoga’s early days in the United States, skeptics warned it would lead people (e.g., women) of good faith and standing into paganism and ill repute.
Terence McKenna’s Anarchic Psychedelic Religion
Terence McKenna was an evangelist for the use of psilocybin and other mind-altering drugs, as a way to transcend and escape “untrammeled rationalism.”
The Changing Meaning of “Mysticism”
People who don't follow organized religion sometimes describe themselves as spiritual. But this idea isn't a recent invention.
How Columbine Brought Religion into Public Life
In the aftermath of 1999's Columbine massacre, American media and politicians focused on the secret world of delinquent youth and how they might be saved.
The Uncertain Future of the Religious Left
The aftermath of the 2016 U.S. election has renewed calls for an empowered coalition of religious liberals. Is there a place for the religious left?
The Unlikely Reason Why Mount Rushmore Exists
Mount Rushmore has been controversial since its inception. Its designer, Gutzon Borglum, wanted to communicate a particular vision of American history.
Drinking the Kool-Aid at Jonestown
Did you drink the Kool-Aid? The phrase has become such a part of the vocabulary that for many its origins have been obscured.
Spiritualism, Science, and the Mysterious Madame Blavatsky
Madame Helena Blavatsky was the 19th century's most famous and notorious occultist. She was also the godmother of the New Age movement.
