Encyclopedic Sourcebook of Satanism by Lewis, James R; , Petersen, Jesper Aagaard

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Occult Philosophy

Encyclopedic Sourcebook of Satanism

Name: Encyclopedic Sourcebook of Satanism
Price: 125.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.6 (2 reviews)
Author: Lewis, James R; , Petersen, Jesper Aagaard
ISBN: 9781591023906

Lewis, James R; , Petersen, Jesper Aagaard

Reader rating

4.6

(1 reviews) 175 sold

$125.00

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📚 ABOUT THE BOOK

Unmasking the true face of modern Satanism, beyond sensational headlines and moral panics.

This authoritative compendium meticulously dissects the complex landscape of contemporary Satanism, moving far beyond the lurid fantasies often perpetuated by popular culture. Through a collection of scholarly articles and primary sources, it clarifies the distinction between organized, philosophical Satanic movements—largely influenced by Anton LaVey—and the pervasive, yet utterly unfounded, fears surrounding the Satanic Ritual Abuse hoax of the late 20th century. Offering a fact-based perspective, this volume illuminates how internet communication has fostered cohesion among disparate groups while systematically dismantling prevalent myths.

Key themes

Modern Satanic Movements Satanic Ritual Abuse Hoax Fact Versus Fiction

Historical context

This volume emerges from the scholarly effort to demystify modern esoteric movements, countering decades of sensationalist media coverage with rigorous academic inquiry. It sits firmly within the tradition of sociological and historical analysis of alternative religious groups.

Difficulty

●●● Demanding

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🏛 Prometheus Books 📅 2007 📖 774 pages 📔 Hardcover 📐 Hardcover ISBN: 9781591023906

Fun fact

This is an indispensable reference for anyone serious about understanding modern Satanism and the societal forces that shape its perception. Its rigorous scholarship effectively dismantles widespread myths, offering clarity where sensationalism often reigns. While invaluable for researchers and critical readers, those seeking an introductory guide to occult practices or a sensationalist expose will find it disappointingly academic. It firmly establishes itself as a cornerstone text in the study of new religious movements and sociological phenomena, particularly concerning moral panics.

📝 Description: Encyclopedic Sourcebook of Satanism

In the public imagination Satanism is associated with bizarre rituals, perverse hedonistic lifestyles, heavy metal music, immature adolescents acting out, horror movies, and rumors of ritual abuse. But what are the facts behind the urban legends and the "moral panics" that periodically sweep the country regarding this countercultural phenomenon? This authoritative reference work gathers together scholarly studies of Satanism and original source material, focusing on two major aspects--organized religious Satanism and the Satanic Ritual Abuse hoax that was prevalent in the 1980s and early 1990s. The contributors first examine modern Satanism, a decentralized movement whose only coherence is based on certain themes that date back to the writings of Anton Szandor LaVey, especially his Satanic Bible. Among other factors, the authors discuss how the emergence of the Internet as a form of communication has created some coherence among disparate groups through cross-reference. Many articles are devoted to the Satanic Ritual Abuse scare, an erroneous belief in a vast underground network of Satanists who were abusing children. For years members of the law enforcement community and numerous therapists, encouraged by the hype of mass media, bought into this panic. Other topics include the role of the media in the perceptions of Satanism and Satanic Ritual Abuse, juvenile delinquency and Satanism, and police pursuit of satanic crime. The volume concludes with primary source material, including a report from the Ritual Abuse Task Force and selections from current Satanism groups. This objective reference work will be useful for professionals in many fields and members of the public interested in sorting out the facts from the myths surrounding this controversial subculture.

💎 Expert review

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💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

While this compendium provides a necessary corrective to pervasive cultural myths, it is not a light read for casual enthusiasts seeking thrill or validation. It does not suit readers looking for ritual instructions, supernatural lore, or entertainment derived from fear. The text demands intellectual engagement with scholarly articles and primary sources, which may alienate those preferring narrative-driven accounts of the occult. However, for those willing to engage with the academic rigor required to separate fact from fiction, it stands as a definitive, albeit dry, authority on the subject.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

This book serves as an essential resource for anyone seeking clarity amidst the noise of moral panic and internet misinformation. It is particularly valuable for skeptics, journalists, and students of religion who need a fact-based perspective on contemporary Satanism. By dismantling the myths surrounding ritual abuse hoaxes and clarifying the philosophical distinctions within Satanic movements, it offers intellectual relief from sensationalism. Readers will gain a nuanced understanding of how digital communication has shaped these communities, making this an indispensable guide for those ready to look beyond lurid headlines and engage with the reality of modern occultism.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.6/5

★★★★★

If you're seeking an honest, scholarly examination of Satanism, free from tabloid sensationalism or lurid speculation, this comprehensive guide is essential. Perfect for researchers, critical thinkers, and anyone eager to understand the true nature of a frequently misunderstood counter-cultural…

Reader rating

4.6

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

While this compendium provides a necessary corrective to pervasive cultural myths, it is not a light read for casual enthusiasts seeking thrill or validation. It does not suit readers looking for ritual instructions, supernatural lore, or entertainment derived from fear. The text demands intellectual engagement with scholarly articles and primary sources, which may alienate those preferring narrative-driven accounts of the occult. However, for those willing to engage with the academic rigor required to separate fact from fiction, it stands as a definitive, albeit dry, authority on the subject.

❓ Frequently asked questions

No, this is a purely academic and descriptive reference work. It aims to present facts and scholarly analysis about Satanism, not to promote or endorse its practices or beliefs.

Absolutely. While comprehensive, its clear structure and focus on dispelling myths make it an excellent starting point for anyone wishing to understand the actual history and sociology of modern Satanism and related social phenomena.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Modern Satanic Movements

Explore the diverse and often decentralized nature of contemporary Satanism. This book traces its roots primarily to Anton LaVey's foundational writings, examining how core themes are interpreted and how digital platforms have facilitated connectivity and identity among adherents, revealing a movement far more nuanced than public perception suggests.

Satanic Ritual Abuse Hoax

Delve into the alarming phenomenon of the 1980s and 90s, where widespread, unsubstantiated claims of organized Satanic child abuse gripped society. This volume meticulously documents the origins and consequences of this 'moral panic,' showcasing how fear and misinformation can lead to profound societal delusion and injustice, particularly within law enforcement and public discourse.

Fact Versus Fiction

Challenge prevailing misconceptions by presenting rigorous academic analysis that distinguishes reality from sensationalism. The book serves as a crucial resource for understanding the genuine tenets and practices of modern Satanism, contrasting them sharply with the fantastical narratives often associated with the movement, offering a clear, evidence-based perspective.

💬 Quotes from the book

“Modern Satanism, in its most organized forms, is less a unified doctrine and more a constellation of philosophical themes, heavily influenced by Anton LaVey, which find resonance and new interpretations across online communities.”

“The Satanic Ritual Abuse phenomenon stands as a stark example of how societal anxieties, fueled by misinformation, can construct an elaborate, yet utterly false, narrative that profoundly impacts innocent lives and public policy.”

📜 Historical context

Emerging from a period ripe with moral panics and a burgeoning academic interest in new religious movements, this work contributes significantly to the scholarly tradition of demystifying fringe spiritualities. It stands alongside other critical studies that dissect societal fears and shed light on how subcultures are often misrepresented by mainstream narratives, particularly in the wake of the late 20th century's 'cult' scares.

📚 Glossary

LaVeyan Satanism
Satanic Ritual Abuse (SRA)
Moral Panic

📔 Questions to reflect on

Before reading this book, what were your preconceptions about Satanism, and where do you think those ideas originated?
Reflect on a time when you witnessed or were part of a 'moral panic.' How did the information presented in this book help you understand that experience?
How has the internet, as discussed in the text, both unified and fragmented counter-cultural movements like modern Satanism?