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American Exorcism: Expelling Demons in the Land of Plenty
A guided tour through the burgeoning business of exorcism and the darker side of American life .
There is no other religious ritual more fascinating, or more disturbing, than exorcism. This is particularly true in America today, where the ancient rite has a surprisingly strong hold on our imagination, and on our popular entertainment industry. We’ve all heard of exorcism, seen the movies and read the books, but few of us have ever experienced it firsthand.
Conducted by exorcists officially appointed by Catholic archdioceses and by maverick priests sidestepping Church sanctions, by evangelical ministers and Episcopal charismatics, exorcism is alive and well in the new millennium. Oprah, Diane Sawyer, and Barbara Walters have featured exorcists on their shows. The New York Times , Los Angeles Times , Time , and other publications have charted the proliferation of exorcisms across the United States. Last year, the Archdiocese of Chicago appointed its first full-time exorcist in its 160-year history; in New York, four priests have officially investigated about forty cases of suspected possession every year since 1995.
American Exorcism is an inside look at this burgeoning phenomenon, written with objectivity, insight, and just the right touch of irony. Michael W. Cuneo attended more than fifty exorcisms and interviewed many of the participants–both the exorcists who performed the rituals and the people from all walks of life who believed they were possessed by the devil. He brings vividly to life the ceremonies themselves, conjuring up memories of Linda Blair’s astonishing performance in the 1973 movie The Exorcist and other bizarre (and sometimes stomach-churning) images. Cuneo dissects, as well, the arguments of such well-known exorcism advocates as Malachi Martin, author of the controversial Hostage to the Devil , self-help guru M. Scott Peck, and self-professed demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren of Amityville Horror fame.
As he explores this netherworld of American life, Cuneo reflects on the meaning of exorcism in the twenty-first century and on the relationship between religious ritual and popular culture. Touching on such provocative topics as the “satanic panics” of the 1980s, repressed memory, and ritual abuse, American Exorcism is a remarkably revealing, consistently entertaining work of cultural commentary.
From the Hardcover edition.
There is no other religious ritual more fascinating, or more disturbing, than exorcism. This is particularly true in America today, where the ancient rite has a surprisingly strong hold on our imagination, and on our popular entertainment industry. We’ve all heard of exorcism, seen the movies and read the books, but few of us have ever experienced it firsthand.
Conducted by exorcists officially appointed by Catholic archdioceses and by maverick priests sidestepping Church sanctions, by evangelical ministers and Episcopal charismatics, exorcism is alive and well in the new millennium. Oprah, Diane Sawyer, and Barbara Walters have featured exorcists on their shows. The New York Times , Los Angeles Times , Time , and other publications have charted the proliferation of exorcisms across the United States. Last year, the Archdiocese of Chicago appointed its first full-time exorcist in its 160-year history; in New York, four priests have officially investigated about forty cases of suspected possession every year since 1995.
American Exorcism is an inside look at this burgeoning phenomenon, written with objectivity, insight, and just the right touch of irony. Michael W. Cuneo attended more than fifty exorcisms and interviewed many of the participants–both the exorcists who performed the rituals and the people from all walks of life who believed they were possessed by the devil. He brings vividly to life the ceremonies themselves, conjuring up memories of Linda Blair’s astonishing performance in the 1973 movie The Exorcist and other bizarre (and sometimes stomach-churning) images. Cuneo dissects, as well, the arguments of such well-known exorcism advocates as Malachi Martin, author of the controversial Hostage to the Devil , self-help guru M. Scott Peck, and self-professed demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren of Amityville Horror fame.
As he explores this netherworld of American life, Cuneo reflects on the meaning of exorcism in the twenty-first century and on the relationship between religious ritual and popular culture. Touching on such provocative topics as the “satanic panics” of the 1980s, repressed memory, and ritual abuse, American Exorcism is a remarkably revealing, consistently entertaining work of cultural commentary.
From the Hardcover edition.
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 24, 2016
This was a superb reading journey for a student of exorcism or anyone with an interest in the topic. The author, Michael Cuneo began the book as an opened-minded sociologist who is unsure about the rite and practice of exorcism. He tackles the rite of exorcism as practiced by Catholics, Evangelicals and Pentecostals. I found this book to be a wonderful history of modern exorcism, deliverance ministries and charismatic spiritual warfare. He also shines a light on some of the giants (Ed and Lorraine Wareen, Francis MacNutt, Bishop MacKenna, Don Basham, Derek Prince, Win Worley, Malachi Martin, John Nicola, Neal Anderson, et al)in the field of exorcism, spiritual cleansing and deliverance. I found it interesting that the author also shines a light on the impact that the film and book industry have had on exorcism. Mr. Cuneo handles all of the topics with professionalism, surprise (at times) and respect. There are times that he takes 'a tongue in cheek' approach but he leaves it up to the reader to make up his/her mind. Cuneo states that the rite of exorcism may seem antiquated but it remains a part of religious practices and tradition. Overall, this is a good book for those who want to learn about the rite of exorcism.
March 1, 2012
This is an interesting book for anyone interested in exorcism, specifically, or, more generally, the practice conservative (non-Eastern Orthodox) Christianity in the post-1960’s therapy-mad USA. Cuneo is sufficiently skeptical that the book reads well and does not slide to one side or the other (For instance, he does not say one way or another that demons exist; he merely states that he did not see any in the exorcisms/deliverances he observed.).
The book starts with a discussion of how the ideas of demonic possession and exorcism had almost completely disappeared from American thought only to roar back on to the scene after the release of: William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist in 1971 (A fictionalized version of events that supposedly happened in 1949: in Washington state, not Washington, DC; with a pre-adolescent boy, not an adolescent girl; a working class family, not upper class; and with less “sexy” priests.), the 1973 film based on The Exorcist, and lastly Malachi Martin’s “investigative report” of five possession cases Hostage to the Devil (1976). It then moves into examining the Roman Catholic rite of exorcism (with discussions of renegade priests who, as part of their resistance to Vatican II, perform exorcisms not recognized as such by the RC hierarchy) as well as the Pentecostal/Charismatic Protestant idea of deliverance. (Both situations indicating that the idea of an outside evil (Devil, Satan, demons, etc.) is still very much a part of the cosmology of many Americans.) Much of the book looks at how the exorcism/deliverance phenomena fit very well with the self-help crazes of the 1970’s-present and how the media influences the practice of religion far more than many would like to admit. The book also touches on the satanic worship/ritual abuse scare of the 1980’s that gave rise to the bizarre recovered memory phenomena that seized the popular imagination (Oprah, etc.) at that time.
Interesting Tidbits from American Exorcism:
• Before the release of The Exorcist there was only one officially-sanctioned Roman Catholic exorcist in the United States. Even now with the rise of demand there are very few. (Those Pentecostal/Charismatic Protestants who give deliverance on the other hand are far more common as there is not the issue of a church hierarchy.)
The book starts with a discussion of how the ideas of demonic possession and exorcism had almost completely disappeared from American thought only to roar back on to the scene after the release of: William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist in 1971 (A fictionalized version of events that supposedly happened in 1949: in Washington state, not Washington, DC; with a pre-adolescent boy, not an adolescent girl; a working class family, not upper class; and with less “sexy” priests.), the 1973 film based on The Exorcist, and lastly Malachi Martin’s “investigative report” of five possession cases Hostage to the Devil (1976). It then moves into examining the Roman Catholic rite of exorcism (with discussions of renegade priests who, as part of their resistance to Vatican II, perform exorcisms not recognized as such by the RC hierarchy) as well as the Pentecostal/Charismatic Protestant idea of deliverance. (Both situations indicating that the idea of an outside evil (Devil, Satan, demons, etc.) is still very much a part of the cosmology of many Americans.) Much of the book looks at how the exorcism/deliverance phenomena fit very well with the self-help crazes of the 1970’s-present and how the media influences the practice of religion far more than many would like to admit. The book also touches on the satanic worship/ritual abuse scare of the 1980’s that gave rise to the bizarre recovered memory phenomena that seized the popular imagination (Oprah, etc.) at that time.
Interesting Tidbits from American Exorcism:
• Before the release of The Exorcist there was only one officially-sanctioned Roman Catholic exorcist in the United States. Even now with the rise of demand there are very few. (Those Pentecostal/Charismatic Protestants who give deliverance on the other hand are far more common as there is not the issue of a church hierarchy.)
March 17, 2018
This book is a bit of a rarity—a book about demonic possession that doesn't belittle the subject but is nevertheless witty and critical. Since much of the recent interest in demons came after The Exorcist, Cuneo starts there and follows the trail of several exorcists in America. Not being a scholar of religious studies, but sociology and anthropology, he brings an interesting angle to the discussion. The accounts don't have anything that has to rely on the supernatural to explain them, but, as might be expected for a sociologist, they have quite a bit about group activities.
Cuneo, although skeptical, treats the people he interviews with respect. His descriptions of the exorcists themselves and the events are artfully done. It's almost like reading a novel in that respect. The idea of possession being a widespread phenomenon is given considerable time here and this is a great source to find out about charismatic exorcism and demon beliefs. The idea of a "deliverance ministry" gets a lion's share of the book.
The Roman Catholic reticence to allow outside observation of what is a very rare (but increasing) phenomenon means that it doesn't receive quite as much treatment as Protestant exorcism does.
I read this book as part of my research for a forthcoming book of my own, and I wrote a bit more about it on my blog, for those interested: Sects and Violence in the Ancient World.
Cuneo, although skeptical, treats the people he interviews with respect. His descriptions of the exorcists themselves and the events are artfully done. It's almost like reading a novel in that respect. The idea of possession being a widespread phenomenon is given considerable time here and this is a great source to find out about charismatic exorcism and demon beliefs. The idea of a "deliverance ministry" gets a lion's share of the book.
The Roman Catholic reticence to allow outside observation of what is a very rare (but increasing) phenomenon means that it doesn't receive quite as much treatment as Protestant exorcism does.
I read this book as part of my research for a forthcoming book of my own, and I wrote a bit more about it on my blog, for those interested: Sects and Violence in the Ancient World.
September 30, 2008
Research. But still, is good to learn that many Americans think that there is a demon inside their heads. Is sad that demons are not for sale in pet stores. But is ok. Can maybe find one in North Carolina according to book. Fun fact: instead of Friday night bingo, some churches like to have group vomiting sessions.
June 23, 2023
An interesting piece of research into a little-known area of society. Oh first glance, exorcism does sound bizarre but after finishing the book my thoughts changed from the initial “Wow - people undergoing exorcisms are batshit crazy!!” to “well ok I guess for some it’s just another therapeutic measure”. The saddest part about the whole thing is people want exorcisms to be the insane head-twirling projectile vomiting fiascos of the movies but really they’re fairly bland. And if people feel better after undergoing one (and blaming demons on their problems instead of looking deep within) - then why not?
June 22, 2011
Are you enamored with the surreal, the untouchable, slightly sinister? If you are searching for a book that addresses the issue of exorcism and demonic possession from a journalistic standpoint, then American Exorcism (by Michael Cuneo) should be your must-read tome. Three hundred pages of various denominational exorcist interviews and 50+ personal exorcism viewings later, the author concludes his journey with his nearly noncommittal opinion. Whether you are a fan of the hyped classic, Hostage to the Devil, or you abhor the theatrics sensationalizing the Exorcist movie, you may find bits of the author’s accounts to satisfy your expectations.
From my personal viewpoint, I was intrigued by the title and synopsis of this book. Growing up in a family of extreme spiritual superstition, I naturally assumed that the demonic and angelic forces battled for the souls of men (and women). Of course, people hear voices in their head. It’s not psychological derangement – it’s just a demon. Levitation – I’ve read books about it, at least from a spiritual warfare manual. Stories of exorcism and demonic possession were dinner table talk with my parents and at extended family gatherings. Until I left the cult in which I was raised, I never questioned the scientific validity of exorcism.
A few years removed from my purposefully ignorant past, I have delved into ravenous study of the supposedly spiritual realm. American Exorcism came highly recommended to me through a scholar whom I admire. He suggested that the accounts might illuminate the misperceptions I held as irrefutable fact in my childhood. Was he correct in his assumption? Yes. I read the book…every word in it…from cover to cover. Approaching the book with an open mind, I decided to critically analyze the contents of the book, to whichever conclusion it may have led.
In retrospect, I agree with the author’s concluding notes. He states that he did not witness anything displaying an outlandish supernatural presence during the exorcisms. He believes that many of the supposedly possessed could have been experiencing psychological or otherwise scientifically plausible afflictions. He does not discount the placebo effect that the exorcism procedure may have provided the recipients, but he did not conduct a follow-up to measure the lasting effects. He does not claim to be an expert on demonology or the spiritual realm and did not criticize the exorcist ministers.
Cuneo’s summation is best described in his own words (p. 281), “Drawing its inspiration from traditional religious symbolism, pop culture iconography, and current notions of psycho-spiritual healing, exorcism is a pastiche of curiously disjointed yet mutually enhancing elements.”
Do you believe in demons? Wherever you fall on the spiritual spectrum from adamant skepticism to unabashed belief, Michael Cuneo provides a compelling resource to satisfy your innate curiosity.
From my personal viewpoint, I was intrigued by the title and synopsis of this book. Growing up in a family of extreme spiritual superstition, I naturally assumed that the demonic and angelic forces battled for the souls of men (and women). Of course, people hear voices in their head. It’s not psychological derangement – it’s just a demon. Levitation – I’ve read books about it, at least from a spiritual warfare manual. Stories of exorcism and demonic possession were dinner table talk with my parents and at extended family gatherings. Until I left the cult in which I was raised, I never questioned the scientific validity of exorcism.
A few years removed from my purposefully ignorant past, I have delved into ravenous study of the supposedly spiritual realm. American Exorcism came highly recommended to me through a scholar whom I admire. He suggested that the accounts might illuminate the misperceptions I held as irrefutable fact in my childhood. Was he correct in his assumption? Yes. I read the book…every word in it…from cover to cover. Approaching the book with an open mind, I decided to critically analyze the contents of the book, to whichever conclusion it may have led.
In retrospect, I agree with the author’s concluding notes. He states that he did not witness anything displaying an outlandish supernatural presence during the exorcisms. He believes that many of the supposedly possessed could have been experiencing psychological or otherwise scientifically plausible afflictions. He does not discount the placebo effect that the exorcism procedure may have provided the recipients, but he did not conduct a follow-up to measure the lasting effects. He does not claim to be an expert on demonology or the spiritual realm and did not criticize the exorcist ministers.
Cuneo’s summation is best described in his own words (p. 281), “Drawing its inspiration from traditional religious symbolism, pop culture iconography, and current notions of psycho-spiritual healing, exorcism is a pastiche of curiously disjointed yet mutually enhancing elements.”
Do you believe in demons? Wherever you fall on the spiritual spectrum from adamant skepticism to unabashed belief, Michael Cuneo provides a compelling resource to satisfy your innate curiosity.
February 21, 2023
American Exorcism is a totally engaging text that walks a very fine line between credulity and open-mindedness about not only whether someone can actually be possessed, but also independent of the actual reality of possession, whether exorcism can have a therapeutic effect on a recipient of the rite.
Cuneo is a sociology professor and it is pretty clear that he doesn't really believe that anyone is actually being possessed by real life demons, though he is careful to couch his descriptions of the events he witnesses as neutrally as possible. His book covers the impact of the Exorcist book and film, and the subsequent glut of exorcism related media, both popular and religious. He then moves into the nitty-gritty, finding and interviewing many of the more prominent practitioners of exorcism, both its more accepted Catholic variety and the protestant knock-off versions. While there are definitely kooks at work in many of these ministries, Cuneo is skilled at painting individuals sympathetically and describing their work as honestly as he can.
I greatly appreciated the nuanced discussion what it really means to the recipients of exorcism to have their "demons" expelled. Cuneo compares the practice to a sort of therapy. On the one hand, there is certainly a tendency to use the idea of demonic possession as a way to divert responsibility for your own actions away from yourself. Essentially, "I didn't do it, the demon did!"
On the other hand, Cuneo identifies that many of these people are in the grip of forces larger than their own choices, and are the victims of abuse, violence, and neglect. An exorcism can identify these outside forces that bear on our actions and "free" us from their continued bearing our actions. If the exorcism can be paired with ongoing psychological help, it is possible to imagine that the seemingly crude and silly exorcisms could lead to a heathier life for many people.
It's a thoughtful and serious treatment of a topic that many of us might scoff at initially, from someone that takes pains to present their thoughts in a way that doesn't belittle anyone involved. I devoured the book and will no doubt refer it any time I might be involved in a discussion of the subject.
Cuneo is a sociology professor and it is pretty clear that he doesn't really believe that anyone is actually being possessed by real life demons, though he is careful to couch his descriptions of the events he witnesses as neutrally as possible. His book covers the impact of the Exorcist book and film, and the subsequent glut of exorcism related media, both popular and religious. He then moves into the nitty-gritty, finding and interviewing many of the more prominent practitioners of exorcism, both its more accepted Catholic variety and the protestant knock-off versions. While there are definitely kooks at work in many of these ministries, Cuneo is skilled at painting individuals sympathetically and describing their work as honestly as he can.
I greatly appreciated the nuanced discussion what it really means to the recipients of exorcism to have their "demons" expelled. Cuneo compares the practice to a sort of therapy. On the one hand, there is certainly a tendency to use the idea of demonic possession as a way to divert responsibility for your own actions away from yourself. Essentially, "I didn't do it, the demon did!"
On the other hand, Cuneo identifies that many of these people are in the grip of forces larger than their own choices, and are the victims of abuse, violence, and neglect. An exorcism can identify these outside forces that bear on our actions and "free" us from their continued bearing our actions. If the exorcism can be paired with ongoing psychological help, it is possible to imagine that the seemingly crude and silly exorcisms could lead to a heathier life for many people.
It's a thoughtful and serious treatment of a topic that many of us might scoff at initially, from someone that takes pains to present their thoughts in a way that doesn't belittle anyone involved. I devoured the book and will no doubt refer it any time I might be involved in a discussion of the subject.
March 9, 2015
I was in 7th grade when I read this, so my memory of it is not perfect. Perhaps due to my age and perhaps due the fact that I attended a very small Catholic school that was governed by a nun who hinted on occasion that the devil was very real, I was totally taken in by this book. It didn't help that any questions about the Rite of Exorcism in religion class were met with a quick change of subject.
The author attempts to take a very objective tone in explaining the various theologies and politics at play and in offering up plausible scientific explanations, but that rationality is juxtaposed with the gripping testimonies that, if believed, defy logic. Throughout the book, it was difficult for me to tell what and whom the author actually believed, which made it even more of a page-turner.
Aside: a few months after reading this book, I had breakfast with a very old Czech priest. I asked if there was an exorcist in our archdiocese, and he said that there indeed was, inot just in our diocese but in most, but that the priests' identities are kept secret. I pressed him on the issue and asked if he knew of any exorcisms that had actually happened, or if the exorcist was appointed "just in case" they ever needed him. To my HUGE surprise, he said "oh, yes" he was aware, for instance, of an a exorcism where an "afflicted" girl flew up to the ceiling. "Flew like a bird?" I asked. He responded, "no, it was more like she was pushed by something invisible up the wall and into the corner, 10 or 15 feet." I suppose he decided that he had said too much — it was probably my totally bewildered expression — but he immediately changed the subject to the fresh Czech kolaches we were eating
The author attempts to take a very objective tone in explaining the various theologies and politics at play and in offering up plausible scientific explanations, but that rationality is juxtaposed with the gripping testimonies that, if believed, defy logic. Throughout the book, it was difficult for me to tell what and whom the author actually believed, which made it even more of a page-turner.
Aside: a few months after reading this book, I had breakfast with a very old Czech priest. I asked if there was an exorcist in our archdiocese, and he said that there indeed was, inot just in our diocese but in most, but that the priests' identities are kept secret. I pressed him on the issue and asked if he knew of any exorcisms that had actually happened, or if the exorcist was appointed "just in case" they ever needed him. To my HUGE surprise, he said "oh, yes" he was aware, for instance, of an a exorcism where an "afflicted" girl flew up to the ceiling. "Flew like a bird?" I asked. He responded, "no, it was more like she was pushed by something invisible up the wall and into the corner, 10 or 15 feet." I suppose he decided that he had said too much — it was probably my totally bewildered expression — but he immediately changed the subject to the fresh Czech kolaches we were eating
February 2, 2008
This is a re-read, but I needed it as a palate-cleanser after M. Scott Peck's Glimpses of the Devil. It's a fascinating study of the ways that the popular media fuels interest in exorcism and deliverance ministry. Cuneo argues compellingly that while concerns about demon possession have always been around, the release of "The Exorcist" (both the movie and the book) and Malachai Martin's blockbuster Hostage to the Devil sparked new media interest in exorcism, and in turn led many Americans to seek out the services of exorcists. Cuneo spends more time on charismatic Protestant deliverance ministries than he does on Catholic exorcism, in part because they are much more common, as well as being a distinctly American phenomenon. Cuneo doesn't set out to debunk the exorcisms, and although he is clearly a skeptic, I found his attitude to be respectful and not mocking. Definitely recommended for people who are interested in the sociology of religion and how it relates to popular culture.
December 3, 2008
A solid piece on exorcism in America, surveying everything from Catholic exorcism to pentecostal "deliverance" ministries and examining the connection between pop culture, media, and exorcism in American society. Cuneo's main contention is that exorcism is a kind of religious consumerism, something Americans want based on expectations and scripts straight out of Hollywood. While his reporting is fair, sensitive, and open-minded, I was naggingly reminded that never once does he address the issue of exorcism in nonAmerican, nonWesternized countries. It would be interesting (and possibly problematic to his thesis) to see how a survey of exorcism and notions of demonic possession in other countries compared with the American version. One wonders, that's all.
April 5, 2014
My concerns with this book were that it might be too campy, or at the other end, too academic. I didn't find it to be in either of those categories, but I did find it to be a bit dull.
It seems to be well documented, and well cited, including a huge range of figures related to the history of exorcism and deliverance practices in America. If you're interested in that history, this book might be worth a read for you.
It seems to be well documented, and well cited, including a huge range of figures related to the history of exorcism and deliverance practices in America. If you're interested in that history, this book might be worth a read for you.
January 17, 2009
Cuneo approaches his controversial subject with a healthy helping of skepticism, as well as an engaging open-mindedness. This is both the book's strength and its downfall. There is no hard proof given one way or the other, and the fact that we are meant to blithely make up our own minds makes for an unsatisfying read. Still, considering the touchiness of the topic, admirably executed.
January 2, 2009
Research purposes only.
July 8, 2025
The truly fascinating aspect of this book is the way it shows the influence of popular culture. Cuneo convincingly argues the film THE EXORCIST and a purportedly nonfiction account of five exorcisms regenerated the practice of exorcism among Christians of various denominations. For some Christians, it seems, nearly all personal failings can be attributed to the machinations of demons. Superstition and supernatural explanations are alive and well under the guise of religion. (This book is a bit old at this point but still well worth a read.)
December 2, 2018
The subject matter and the history of various exorcisms/deliverances throughout America is really fascinating. I enjoyed that aspect. What I didn't like is that the authors' skepticism could get read through his words. I wanted to come to my own thoughts and conclusions about what he was talking about, not be led by his own thoughts and feelings on the subject.
June 3, 2018
This is a solidly researched examination of various exorcism practices in the U.S. circa the early 2000s. Cuneo is adequately skeptical. I appreciated his empathy for all those he interviews. If you're hoping for cliched scenarios, look elsewhere.
February 16, 2019
This was a really interesting book about a guy who travels around the United States, witnessing exorcisms, faith healings and lots of fascinating stuff. Really interesting, and I have to read The Exorcist now, obviously.
March 21, 2018
Very informative
Well researched and fair in his depiction of demon phenomena. The book presents many diffferent methods and points of view.
Well researched and fair in his depiction of demon phenomena. The book presents many diffferent methods and points of view.
April 23, 2018
Interesting book with lots of info on the history of exorcism in America, starting with the 1970's. This book was very well researched and the info was presented in an unbiased way.
October 27, 2018
Very interesting
Thorough and informative. I honestly got this on a whim, but found the topic fascinating. Glad I took the time to read it.
Thorough and informative. I honestly got this on a whim, but found the topic fascinating. Glad I took the time to read it.
March 4, 2025
Americans would rather get an exorcism than go to therapy.
October 13, 2024
This was a fascinating read that told a lot about the American culture of the 1980's and '90's (influenced by earlier threads in previous decades, but intensified in these). I remember the shock and awe of satanism, mysterious devil worshipers hidden from view, the disappearance of cats for sacrifices, and other stories. And that's what they were: stories. Nothing was substantiated, but I would hear the whispers, "Did you hear about the devil worshipers who cut open stray cats and burn parts in a big barrel drum?" These were the stories that had several of my Halloween's void of witches, skeletons, and ghosts. And most vividly: no one was to dress as the devil.
Such hysteria was whipped up in the telling of stories and it gave me a sense that such things should not be messed with or entertained.
This book is an echo of things I heard from the quiet pastors who spoke about these matters when no one of church influence was around. They spoke about it like they didn't want us to think they were crazy, but that the had seen and experienced something hard to explain, but undeniably dark.
Such hysteria was whipped up in the telling of stories and it gave me a sense that such things should not be messed with or entertained.
This book is an echo of things I heard from the quiet pastors who spoke about these matters when no one of church influence was around. They spoke about it like they didn't want us to think they were crazy, but that the had seen and experienced something hard to explain, but undeniably dark.
October 7, 2014
The material gathered was interesting, and combined with a decent writing style, the book was a fun and quick read. There were problems with the analysis and commentary that annoyed me. First, the way the author described women just bugged me. There were comments about sexiness and women being dowdy. And the way he often described how women behaved was a tad sexist to be honest. Second, a clear bias towards Roman Catholics made him way more sympathic towards priest exorcists and lead to some rather shallow interpretation of Evangelical deliverance services. Third, his final analysis I think just fell flat: blame it on the media. Overall the book read like a piece of journalistic nonfiction which is fine but the book is billed as academic.
May 19, 2009
Well done, easy to read. The author's voice is objective, sees the human in all of it. Never "sees" the supernatural despite the claims of the religious to the contrary. Good balance between protestant & catholic as well as mild to extreme and the attitudes that factor into the approaches. This book shows the power of group-think (or non-think). Author seems compassionate toward his subjects, humanistic, but he also gently points out the whackiness of the practice, exorcism/deliverance. He could have been even more critical. I would recommend this book to anyone.
October 23, 2009
i was pleasantly surprised that this book was not just a badly written, sensational piece of fluff. cuneo clearly did his research and writes in a mildly academic manner. most thankfully, he is a hard sell, not overeager to validate the stories of heads spinning and bodies levitating and in fact, at the end of the book, still extremely skeptical of the existence of demons.
still, the book gets quite repetitive and despite the fact that he is a professor, never gets deep enough or academic enough to be a solid examination of the subject.
still, the book gets quite repetitive and despite the fact that he is a professor, never gets deep enough or academic enough to be a solid examination of the subject.
January 11, 2014
The Author casts a skeptical eye on this highly controversial subject, he doesn't seem to believe in possession but will give anyone the chance to prove him wrong.
What I enjoyed most about this book was learning about the many religions that he explored.
It boggles the mind to think of how much time he must have spent on research alone.
Besides telling us about various religions and their core beliefs, he also touches on everything from Sybil Leek to SRA to The Amityville Horror.
Highly recommended.
What I enjoyed most about this book was learning about the many religions that he explored.
It boggles the mind to think of how much time he must have spent on research alone.
Besides telling us about various religions and their core beliefs, he also touches on everything from Sybil Leek to SRA to The Amityville Horror.
Highly recommended.
August 6, 2007
I stumbled across this book while doing research for a sociology class.
The idea that exorcisms are still being sought out and performed on a wide scale is a bit disturbing. The fact that a lot of the people seeking them out are (supposedly) educated middle-class Americans is every more disturbing. Just the next step in the American idea that Nothing Is Your Fault. "I was molested as a child" is so last year. Now it's "the devil made me do it."
The idea that exorcisms are still being sought out and performed on a wide scale is a bit disturbing. The fact that a lot of the people seeking them out are (supposedly) educated middle-class Americans is every more disturbing. Just the next step in the American idea that Nothing Is Your Fault. "I was molested as a child" is so last year. Now it's "the devil made me do it."
December 3, 2007
Interesting sociological look at the phenomeon of exorcism in the U.S. Cuneo discusses types of exorcisms occurring in various parts of the country and various religions offering exorcisms. He also accompanies a few exorcists as they weed out the psychological cases from those deemed to be actual and sits in on a few exorcisms. He doesn't sensationalize but rather draws reasonable conclusions from his experiences.
May 8, 2009
The author has studied the 'phenomenon' of exorcisms in America in the mid to late 20th century. An interesting view of life, at times quite unflattering. The views are unbiased although some of the author's scepticism does seem to creep into the narrative. Well worth reading whether you believe in demon possession or not
September 27, 2013
This is probably the best book on exorcisms & deliverance written by an academic. Cuneo is honest and comprehensive in his research, and the book has the flow of a story - definitely not a dry analysis. It's a great introduction into a subset of American culture that most of us never knew existed.
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