A Doomsday Reader: Prophets, Predictors, and Hucksters of Salvation

The approach of the year 2000 has made the study of apocalyptic movements trendy, but groups anticipating the end of the world will continue to predict Armageddon even after the calendar clicks to triple 0s.This book brings together pronouncements, edicts, and scriptures written by prominent apocalyptic movements from a wide range of traditions and ideologies to offer an exceptional look into their belief systems.

Focused on attaining paradise, millenarianism often anticipates great, cosmic change. While most think of religious belief as motivating such fervor, Daniels’ comparative approach encompasses secular movements such as environmentalism and the Montana Freemen, and argues that such groups are often more political than religious in nature.

The book includes documents from groups such as the Branch Davidians, the Order of the Solar Temple, Heaven’s Gate, and white supremacists. Each document is preceded by a substantive introduction placing the movement and its beliefs in context. This important overview of contemporary politics of the End will remain a valuable resource long after the year 2000 has come and gone.