In Praise of Doubt

In Praise of Doubt explores how to survive the political, moral, and religious challenges raised by the extreme poles of relativism and fundamentalism.In this insightful and thought-provoking book, two world-renowned social scientists, Peter L. Berger and Anton C. Zijderveld, ask and answer Big Questions, offering invaluable guidance on how to have convictions without becoming a fanatic.&quote;A book of great practical wisdom by authors who have profound insight into the intellectual dynamics governing contemporary life.&quote; -Dallas Willard, author of Knowing Christ Today&quote;The virus of fanaticism takes several forms. In Praise of Doubt targets two: fundamentalists and relativists. . . . Bracing . . . lay-friendly and seasoned with humor.&quote; -The Boston Globe&quote;The best parts of In Praise of Doubt explore the cultural battlegrounds where a consensus has broken down or not yet coalesced . . . Berger and Zijderveld are optimistic: They believe that moral progress is on the march and that moderation is a virtue everyone can agree on.&quote; -The Wall Street Journal&quote;This is . . . a serious attempt to explain how to find middle ground between conviction-religious and otherwise-and doubt . . . In fact, Berger and Zijderveld argue that doubt-especially as expressed in the idea of a loyal opposition-is at the heart of a democratic system.&quote; -Los Angeles Times&quote;This book addresses, both broadly and individually, how to balance dedication to strong religious and moral beliefs, while simultaneously being objective and discerning. This book grapples, in a thoughtful, entertaining way with these and other meaty philosophical questions.&quote; -Reference & Research Book News