Books like Secret Societies by Philip Gardiner

Mark Booth challenges conventional history, arguing that hidden narratives by secret societies and mystery schools shape our past. He presents a 3,000‑year alternative view spanning Greek, Egyptian, Jewish, Christian, Freemason, and modern influences.

Throughout history Man's search for knowledge has revealed strange truths. this title explores the allure and the hidden history of the esoteric religious beliefs and investigates how these societies have come to gain a powerful hold upon the popular imagination.

Provides information on a wide variety of secret societies and orders around the world, including the Knights Templar, the Hell Fire Club, the Ordo Templis Orientis, and the Freemasons

A nonfiction critique of secret societies, examining their secrecy, oaths, and exclusivity, and arguing that their historical roots in ancient civilizations do not justify their alleged harms.

Secret Societies in one form or another have existed throughout the history of human culture. But what is their appeal? What is it that makes so-called respectable people indulge in peculiar ceremonies, dressed in fanciful costumes uttering blood-curdling oaths of loyalty with the threat of death hanging over them should they reveal the inner workings of the cult? Are these organisations simply a way for like-minded followers to get together in a convivial atmosphere for purely social reasons or is there really a dark side to their activities. Are they really trying, as some have suggested, to control world affairs for their own nefarious ends or in some cases harbour the Devil? Are the secret societies' claims that they are in the possession of great knowledge or valuable secrets also true? Are they really trying to engineer history or keep hidden that which may bring about the fall of a religion or a country? In Secret Societies Nick Harding describes some of the best known organisations along with some of their least known counterparts. He highlights the similarities that all these cults have - they all work to a similar pattern and that basic human psychology plays a far more important role in their continued existence and their enduring appeal than any hidden wisdom, knowledge or world-shattering secret.

A look at secret cults, covering everything from Ninjas to Mafia gangs, codes, signs and symbols, and strange ceremonies.

Comprehensive guide to secret societies, from the Freemasons and the Knights Templar to the Rosicrucians and Chinese Triads, including their history, beliefs and secret rituals.