The Profits of Religion, Fifth Edition

"The Profits of Religion" by Upton Sinclair is a critical examination of how organized religion and economic inequality are intertwined. The book argues that religious organizations often function as tools for the wealthy to make money, all while maintaining unfair social systems. Sinclair uses an economic perspective to look at culture, revealing what he sees as the insincere and money-driven reasons behind religious actions. The book starts with a powerful scene showing people trying to improve themselves spiritually in a way that ultimately doesn't help them, keeping them from seeing their real problems. It suggests that religious leaders benefit from their followers' dedication by urging them to ignore earthly needs. This paints religion as something that keeps people busy and distracted from the economic realities and exploitation in established faiths, positioning these structures as ones focused on income more than spiritual change.