The study of the origin or evolution of religion usually attracts those who are antagonistic to religion – those who assume or hope to prove that religion is nothing more than a man-made phenomenon. For such individuals, no matter what the evidence reveals, the existence of God is rejected. If the religions studied are in conflict, then they must all be wrong. If they are similar, then they must merely be human inventions.
Rodney Stark refuses to begin with this secular assumption. He suggests that the study of the origin and evolution of religion may result in an authentic “discovery” of God. It is for this reason that his book is titled, Discovering God.
Among other things, Rodney examines ancient temple religions and the movement to a more market-driven religious culture due to Roman de-regulation of religion. He demonstrates how religions that are "godless" eventually proclaim their founder as a god (e.g., Buddhism). He exposes the militant violence of Muhammad - his raids, assassinations, and massacres of Jews. He concludes by affirming the discovery of God in the monotheistic religions of Judaism and Christianity. (He rejects Islam, seeing it as a regression rather than progression). For my extended thoughts, click here.
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