Dew (sociology, Victoria U. of Wellington, New Zealand) argues that a Durkheimian perspective can provide insights into the place of public health in contemporary society. Taking public health as a religion in Durkheimain terms, he applies the pioneer sociologist's discussion on the role of religion in society to the theory and practice of public health. He covers public health theories and theorizing public health; myths, morality, and modern public health; the politics of public health; health promotion settings and health hostile environments; public health and health professionals; the political use of public health; public health campaigns; and the cult of health and its rituals. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)