The Profits of Religion: An Essay in Economic Interpretation

The author examines religion through an economic lens, arguing that supernatural belief and ecclesiastical institutions often function to concentrate wealth and shield privilege. A sequence of chapters surveys priesthoods, denominational hierarchies, revivalism, sects, and spiritualist movements, showing intersections with commerce, politics, and industry—from fundraising and tax exemption to moral rhetoric that legitimizes inequality. Investigative episodes explore clerical incomes, charitable practice, pseudo‑religious enterprises, and institutional graft, while later sections consider socially radical and reformist alternatives that would democratize religious life. The tone blends reportage, polemic, and theoretical critique to connect theological claims with material interests.