In this, his latest book, noted cultural critic and activist Parenti warns against the dangers of religion's dark side, whether the evils committed in the name of God or the hypocrisies of religious figures. Instead of condemning all believers, however, the author focuses on the exploitation of religious faithful by the powerful; on sectarian intolerance and violence; and on the reactionary collusion between leaders of church and state. Suggesting that religious fundamentalists and theocrats are a danger to democratic freedoms, Parenti documents the increasing efforts of secularists and progressive religionists to fight back against religious intolerance. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)