Jailed for atheism and disowned by his family, George Jacob Holyoake came out of an English prison at the age of 25 determined to bring an end to religion's control over daily life. This first modern biography of the founder of Secularism describes a transformative figure whose controversial and conflict-filled life helped shape the modern world. Ever on the front lines of social reform, Holyoake was hailed for having won "the freedoms we take for granted today." With Secularism now under siege, George Holyoake's vision of a "virtuous society" rings today with renewed clarity.

About the Author
The late Ray Argyle was a journalist and media consultant. His articles appeared in such magazines as Reader's Digest, France Today, and World War II History. He lived in Kingston, Ontario.

Reviews
"Ray Argyle is an author who writes exceptionally fascinating stories on social and cultural change."-Toronto Globe and Mail
"Holyoake and his influence on the development of almost every modern progressive cause has been a secret kept for too long within the humanist movement. Argyle's scrupulously researched historical analysis brings this at last to light in both a scholarly and accessible way."- Andrew Copson, Chief Executive, Humanists UK



Book Information
ISBN 9781476684215
Author Ray Argyle
Format Paperback
Page Count 273
Imprint McFarland & Co Inc
Publisher McFarland & Co Inc
Weight(grams) 363g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 152mm * 14mm