Power to the pulpit
Religion has always been an election issue in America. But in the current campaign, argues James Crabtree, it’s not just the Republicans who are courting the faith vote
Faith & Religion
Editorial: Toxic mix
From Russia to India, France to Iran, come particular examples of a general rule – religion and politics are a toxic mix
Servants of the Supernatural: The Night Side of the Victorian Mind by Antonio Melechi
Peter Wayne serves up the supernatural
Diary: Give us a hug
Peyvand Khorsandi pays a visit to Amma – India's hugging saint
Forced to be free
France’s ban on headscarves was hailed as a victory for secularism. But, argues Joan W Scott, its political roots are more sinister
Tea and empathy
The human imagination, says Martin Rowson, allows us to make the world in the image of ourselves
Rush hour of the gods
India's middle classes are becoming increasingly pious, says Meera Nanda
True confessions
What can we learn about extremism from the memoirs of former Islamist radicals? Stephen Howe investigates
Russian roulette
After the Russian election it may be all change at the top. But, asks Michael Binyon, who is the real winner?
African Psycho by Alain Mabanckou
Natalie Haynes is unimpressed by an African murder mystery