Steve Bruce s book has all the hallmarks of his work: clarity, verve, graphic illustration and common sense. The argument is Bruce s cumulative statement of the secularization theme, bringing the various elements together in an impressive synthesis, as well as building in counter-arguments, such as those to do with the role of religion in ethnic solidarity. Within its own terms and specific context - western liberal democracies, and especially Europe - it is difficult to refute.
--David Martin, London School of Economics

"Bruce s book is a compelling, vigorous and scrupulously fair defense of what the secularization paradigm means and does not mean. Highly recommended." ( Library Journal )

"The sooner churches face up to Bruce s thesis, the better." ( Ministry Today )

"Readable, debatable, and full of important insights on everything from the failure of New Age religions to a cautious defense of the golden age of religion thesis, it is a book that all libraries should own. No serious (or even casual) student of religion can afford to neglect it." ( Choice )

"...the pace and style of Bruce s narrative, the crispness and clarity of his argument, and his frequent digs at aspects of the contemporary mood...make God is Dead a truly entertaining and enlightening book."
--Michael Rosie ( British Sociological Association Network Magazine )

"Readable, debatable, and full of important insights on everything from the failure of New Age religions to a cautious defense of the golden age of religion thesis, it is a book that all libraries should own. No serious (or even casual) student of religion can afford to neglect it." ( Choice )

"This book is exactly what the back cover claims: a robust defense of the secularization thesis...The writing and the presentation are both concise and clear, offering a resource that students will cherish." ( Theology )

"[T]his volume is a welcome resource for teachers/scholars interested in current theoretical disputes in the sociology of religion as well as students of the religious change in particular cultures of the West." ( Religious Studies Review )

"[T]he pace and style of Bruce s narrative, the crispness and clarity of his argument, and his frequent digs at aspects of the contemporary mood...make God is Dead a truly entertaining and enlightening book." ( BSA Network )