Originally published in 1959, this book was planned as a second contribution towards critique and apologetics of Quakerism, the first being a booklet called Friends and Truth published in 1956. While the author did not lose sight of that original intention, the scope of the book widened in the writing. It was hoped that it would make a contribution from the Quaker point of view, to the study of the predicament of Western man. Today it can be read in its historical context.

This book is a re-issue originally published in 1959. The language used and views portrayed are a reflection of its era and no offence is meant by the Publishers to any reader by this re-publication.

Richard K. Ullmann (1904-1963) was born in Frankfurt and gained a degree in philosophy from Frankfurt University. He came to England as a refugee from Nazi oppression shortly before the outbreak of the war. From then until his death he worked in adult education and in various Quaker activities, for many years serving as an Associate Lecturer at Woodbrooke. Brought up as a Lutheran, he joined the Society of Friends in 1946.