Blasphemy in the Christian World

Blasphemy in the Christian World offers additional persuasive evidence for religion's continued relevance by showing how the rediscovery of seemingly archaic blasphemy laws in Europe and the Americas challenges cherished ... legal traditions of free speech and expression * Gregory Halfond, The Historian *
Nash's book...represents the definitive reference volume for the history of blasphemy in the West. * Elizabeth Horodowich The English Historical ReviewElizabeth Horodowich, Historical Journal *
Dr Nash's study offers a comparative and critical analysis of his subject on draws on a considerable range of evidence. * G. M Ditchfield, History *
[An] impressive book... a rewarding work of history. * Jonathan Wright, Catholic Herald *
The book is lucid and with both depth and width. * Jim Herrick, The Freethinker *
discursive and thought-provoking book * Jonathan Sumption, Literary Review *
[An] incisive and erudite study... * The Universe *
an important and scholarly analysis of an issue that is not going to go away * Dr Bradley, Church Times *
David Nash is the world's foremost commentator on the history of blasphemy. This astute, readable survey of the illuminating ironies of the subject deserves to become a classic. He ably and colourfully demonstrates the cynical and sincere use made of the notion of blasphemy by the very bad and the well-meaning. He points up the crucial political lessons to be learned, but never rams them down the reader's throat. This book will fascinate all interested in the uneasy relationship between state authority and individual freedom. * Charles Foster, Contemporary Review *