The American spiritual culture Book

"American religious leaders, self-saddled with responsibility for protecting the nation's morals, bereft of a unified voice and of legal authority to do much, faced with competition from an increasing number of activities that occupied people's time, began early in the nineteenth century to make control of the marketplace of culture a major priority". This quote sums up the purpose of Moore's book nicely. Throughout, he gives the reader a plethora of examples on how religion became a commodity in America. Previously "sinful" activities were turned into wholesome fun by religious organizations. Over the course of American history, secular activities that people found enjoyable would receive religious alternatives to make them "moral". Moore concludes that the commodification of religion has enabled it to reach broader audiences, but asks a question: "Where are the real religious prophets? Can there be any in a country whose self-image relies on fast, friendly, and guiltless consumption?"

The book has an excellent theme, but it's too droll and verbose to enjoy.