Is the Christian church in Europe doomed to collapse under the weight of globalization; Western secularism; and a flood of Muslim immigrants? Is Europe on the brink of becoming "Eurabia"? Though many pundits are predicting just such a scenario; God's Continent reveals the flaws in these arguments and offers a much more measured assessment of Europe's religious future. While frankly acknowledging current tensions; Philip Jenkins shows; for instance; that the overheated rhetoric about a Muslim-dominated Europe is based on politically convenient myths: that Europe is being imperiled by floods of Muslim immigrants; exploding Muslim birth-rates; and the demise of European Christianity. He points out that by no means are Muslims the only new immigrants in Europe. Christians from Africa; Asia; and Eastern Europe are also pouring into the Western countries; and bringing with them a vibrant and enthusiastic faith that is helping to transform the face of European Christianity. Jenkins agrees that both Christianity and Islam face real difficulties in surviving within Europe's secular culture. But instead of fading away; both have adapted; and are adapting. Yes; the churches are in decline; but there are also clear indications that Christian loyalty and devotion survive; even as institutions crumble. The third book in an acclaimed trilogy that includes The Next Christendom and The New Faces of Christianity; God's Continent offers a realistic and historically grounded appraisal of the future of Christianity in a rapidly changing Europe.
#111386 in Books Stephen Kotkin 2008-12-23 2008-12-23Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 5.40 x .80 x 7.40l; .75 #File Name: 0195368630280 pagesArmageddon Averted The Soviet Collapse 1970 2000
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Was wonderful to finally get the background story on why the ...By Dan JantschI found the book extremely interesting; thought provoking and laced with meaningful details. Was wonderful to finally get the background story on why the Soviet Union failed and the various actions leading up to it. I had relatives in East Germany during the Soviet occupation and visited there in 1983. I came to understand firsthand how much the East Germans detested the Soviets and how they were completely "under the thumb" of the Soviets. The East Germans would have revolted had they felt they had any realistic means to do so. This book brought together all of my prior knowledge as well as the aspects that I had never known until I had the opportunity of reading about it.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Insightful Analytical AnalysisBy Eternal StudentThis is an outstanding title that explains the events leading up to the unexpected and unforeseen collapse of the communist regime. Forged in blood and pain many wondered why the meltdown did not lead to widespread; unrest turbulence;blood shed or even nuclear holocaust. It also examines how close Russia came to not actually shrugging of the yoke or a broken ideology. Interesting; insightful; and enjoyable read from and excellent and knowledgeable scholar.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Good book; but incompleteBy TomThe book is good and provides a lot of useful information. However; I was missing more info about economy; more hard facts. Almost completely missing is a description of situation within Soviet Army; the army that was well armed and in possession of nuclear arms; often beyond Russian borders. Army could have caused the Armageddon that did not happen; yet is not covered by the book. Another interesting topic would have been role of secret services - if any. In summary; great insight into politburo activities; but less focus beyond.
