This is an explanation of how the Catholic Church came to hold such a powerful position in Irish society, and the factors central to the decline in the Church’s monopoly on morality.Reviews“This is a fascinating and very readable study of the growth and diminution of the Church’s influence over all aspects of life in Ireland from the beginning of the last century up to the present.” The Irish Emigrant Book Review March 1998 “This fine book avoids the juvenile tendency prevalent in recent times, to deride the Catholic Church. Even when Inglis criticises the Church he does so with reasoned arguments and non-hysterical tone. As a result he valuably contributes to debate on the Church’s future in Ireland.” Denis Carroll RTE Guide Sept 1998 “This is a fascinating and very readable study of the growth and diminution of the Church’s influence over all aspects of life in Ireland from the beginning of the last century up to the present day.” Boston Irish Reporter May 1998Book InformationISBN 9781900621120Author Tom InglisFormat PaperbackPage Count 320Imprint University College Dublin PressPublisher University College Dublin PressWeight(grams) 510gDimensions(mm) 23mm * 16mm * 2mm