The Idea of Divinity is the third and most recently published of a series of books based on the belief that ideas cause behavior - that the things people believe to be true strongly influence and often determine one's actual behavior. The thesis of this volume is that the idea of divinity is innate in human nature. In chapter one the author seeks to validate his thesis based on the research of other scholars, and by the examination and analysis of various primitive cultures. In the remaining chapters Dr. Crowder seeks to identify and trace the origin, growth, and development of the idea of divinity through the world's great religions, concentrating especially on each religion's fundamental beliefs and ideas, and the unique contribution each has made to the world of ideas, and to the history of humanity. Though limited in scope and explications, its focus on the essentials does provide a clear and concise reading of man's search for the divine from the time he became a conscious being to the present. In the "Introduction" to the book, Dr. Crowder states: "I have made a special effort to be as historically accurate as possible, leaving ample room for discussion and improved understanding on the part of the reader. If he or she gains a clearer understanding of the beliefs and ideas of today's great religions, I shall be compensated for my efforts in full."

sub-title -- The Challenge and Response of A Purpose-Driven Life The Cold War had heated up and the President had sent his assistant, Sam Radford, on a mission to Paris to try to negotiate a settlement and prevent a major catastrophe threatening to destroy civilization. In the meantime, Sam's personal life -- his previous romance with Sylvia and his marriage to, and love for, Sheila -- struggled under the pressures of his mission. Could Sam's marriage survive the many separations required by his mission? Could Sylvia, who had known Sam since high school, carve out a niche in his life? Could Sheila, a genteel Southern country girl, fit into Sam's world?