Many of today's pop mysticisms affirm some aspect of a system commonly called "New Thought." New Thought has its origins "in nineteenth-century America with Phineas Parkhurst Quimby and Mary Baker Eddy, inspired in some measure by Ralph Waldo Emerson" (21). New Thought should not be confused with New Age beliefs and practices: "[O]ne may embrace New Thought belief without accepting the larger worldview of the New Age (including pyramids, reincarnation, sunken continents, crystals, channeling, flying saucers, etc.), so may one learn much from New Thought without imbibing the philosophical assumptions its advocates have used to support it" (21).
Though he hints at it along the way, by the end of the book it is clear that Price is an advocate of New Thought. The previous paragraph summarizes his convictions. He embraces New Thought but rejects its metaphysical wrappings. The last thing he wants is to be labeled as New Ager. To Price, the insights of New Thought have to do with psychological insights and not metaphysical systems. Price wants nothing to do with a metaphysic that would introduce a genuine spiritual element to the equation. This would undermine his commitment to modern rationalism.
Seeking to save the husk of the truth while removing the metaphysical shell, Price begins to assess and critique pop mysticisms.
For my extended summary of this helpful book, click HERE.
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