The analytical framework upon which this book is based owes much to the work of two important sociologists, Talcott Parsons of Harvard University, who was my teacher, and the late Karl Mannheim.
I also want to thank all those who encouraged my efforts: the Very Reverend Laurence J. McGinley, S. J., President of Fordham University, who upon seeing a preliminary draft was the first to suggest publication; Rev. Gustave A. Weigel, S. J.; Rev. Vincent Martin, O.S.B.; my colleagues at Fordham, Professors Charles Donahue and Frank A. Santopolo, and many others both at Fordham and elsewhere. Responsibility for final interpretations in this work rests, of course, entirely with me.
Special thanks are owed to Philip Scharper, a patient and helpful editor, and to my wife who both aided and encouraged me.
Thomas F. O'Dea
Fordham University
June 1958
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