In this provocative anthology, Mark Robert Waldman has gathered works from some of the world's foremost religious and political thinkers and philosophers to examine the ever-changing landscape of religion. A diverse collection, Reinventing God offers essays on the evolution of America's "alternative religions"; women and the politics of Islamic fundamentalism; the cult as an essential element of American society; the neuropsychological basis of religions; the use of psychedelic drugs to induce religious experiences; scientific attempts to understand religious ecstasy; and more. In addition, Waldman includes seminal works by Paine and Tolstoy. An elegant and challenging work of literature, Reinventing God is a balanced and inclusive addition to the ongoing dialogue about religion.