Beyond the End of the World Apocalyptic Cultures and Politics

Beyond the End of the World examines the history of apocalyptic movements and ideas. Will Black explains how apocalyptic themes not only run through major religions, including, Christianity and Islam, but are also embedded in many areas of human culture, including politics and film.Ideas of massive change being just over the horizon have given power to cult leaders, religious 'authorities', demagogue politicians and revolutionaries alike. Similar characteristics have been observed in charismatic politicians, rabble-rousing extremists and violent uprisings cloaked in the clothing of religion.Black's book sheds light on the characteristics of charismatic leaders and those who follow them, which can help explain much of the political and religious turmoil observed in recent years. Will Black has a background in social anthropology, working in specialist psychiatric services and journalism. His 2015 book, Psychopathic Cultures and Toxic Empires, drew on clinical experience and an anthropological perspective. His 2018 book, Veneer of Civilisation, brought together conflict studies, anthropology, politics and psychology to examine the ways in which human civilisation can be eroded or violently torn away. Beyond the End of the World followed his postgraduate research into groups and individuals that exploited ignorance about Mayan culture to peddle a variety of beliefs and products.