Methodissed

I'm looking for a comparative religion reference (preferably from an atheist perspective) that provides an overview of world religions and religious sects. For example, I'd like a reference to help me understand the difference between a Lutheran and a Baptist. It would be great if it also included beliefs specific to each group, e.g., Shamans claim to have out of body visits to heaven/hell. I don't want anything real indepth however.

Alternately, can anyone recommend a book or article on comparative religion (overviews, not heavy content)?

While I enjoyed the Online Atheist Dictionary, it is obviously intended for entertainment value.

Celsus

Hi Methodissed,

Religious Tolerance may not have the specific details you're looking for, but it's an excellent reference point for comparing religions.

Joel

never been there

God-u-Like is probably much more flippant in tone that what you're looking for, and devotes more time and attention to the more freaky or controversial faiths, but it covers a lot of sects and is amusing - rude, but fair.

Methodissed

Both sites are very helpful - thank you.

In perusing the Religious Tolerance site, it was obvious that racism is alive and well in the World Church of the Creator - geez!

AdamWho

For a book, I like

Huston Smith, "Religions of man"