more interesting books
drw@math.mit.edu
Mon, 20 Jun 88 21:14:16 EDT
You could try "The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross" (or perhaps
vice-versa) by Allegro. It's thesis is that the Bible consists
largely of allegories composed by a mystery cult to record their
doctrines, which were misinterpreted around AD 300 and taken
literally. Among other things, he suggests that Jesus, Moses, et al.
are totally fabricated. Unfortunately, it may not be in print
anymore. Guaranteed to please Fundamentalists.
Another goodie is "The Selfish Gene" by Richard Dawkins, still
available in paperback after twelve years in print. Basicially it is
a popularized (but accurate) introduction to evolution and behavior;
which is like saying that Galileo's "Dialogues Concerning Two New
Sciences" was about mechanics. One cannot read the book and not think
things which are very disturbing to the holders of all traditional
political and social philosophies.
Dale
