From the back cover: "The Tao and the Daimon examines a central theme in religious studies: the question of the authority and authenticity of traditional religious faith and practice in light of the challenge from the spirit of critical reason (Socrates" daimon) From a non-judgmental, historical standpoint, it develops the dialectical relation between religion and rational inquiry. Neville employs a philosophical system to set a task for reflection, making it possible to see how Eastern and Western religious traditions differ, overlap, contradict, and reinforce one another."