From Library Journal
Reformation came to Communist Central and Eastern Europe's repressive regimes in 1989. Some were overthrown by force of arms. Author Nielsen (philosophy and religious thought, Rice Univ.) argues for Christianity's critical role in instituting freedom without violence. He asserts that the church was a constant in these struggles, maintaining a society under authoritarian rule when others would not or could not. Covering eight countries in less than 200 pages, his analysis is more comprehensive than probing. Some awkward phrases encumber the text. Still, this is virgin territory; Nielsen has opened an avenue of religious and cultural debate that greatly deserves further scholarship from students of church and society. Recommended.
- Sandra Collins, SLIS, Univ. of PittsburghCopyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.
