Exploring the symbolic meanings of the Bomb, this book excavates the "depth dimension" of the nuclear age. Rather than adding to the many ethical commentaries asking whether or not there should be nuclear weapons, the authors ask why there are nuclear weapons and a continuing arms race. They also address the kinds of symbolic changes that must occur in order to reverse the build-up of nuclear weapons.

The authors approach these questions from the perspective of academic research, not from particular faith commitments, asking the reader to envision different human responses to this technology, human stances that can be illuminated by the creative insight of religious studies.

Ira Chernus is Associate Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Colorado, Boulder.

Edward Tabor Linenthal is Professor of Religion and American Culture at the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh.