The Profits of Religion: An Essay in Economic Interpretation
signed first edition
1918 · Pasadena, CA
by SINCLAIR, UPTON (CHARLIE CHAPLIN)
Pasadena, CA: Self-Published, 1918. First Edition, First Printing. Signed and inscribed by the author, Upton Sinclair, to silent film star, Charlie Chaplin, on the front free endpaper. Inscribed: “To Charlie Chaplin with best wishes. Upton Sinclair.” 315 pages with a two-page ad for ‘Upton Sinclair’s Magazine’ featuring endorsements from such well known authors as H.G. Wells, Frank Harris, Havelock Ellis, Eden Phillpotts, H.L. Mencken, etc. Very good lightly used copy with gilt-stamping to the front board and spine gleaming, with some minor edge wear, a 3” x 3/4” faded rubbed spot to the cloth at the bottom of the front board, and a hint of darkening to the cloth at the spine without dust jacket. The book focuses on what Sinclair proposes as the corruptive influence of economics on the world’s major religious faiths, including Evangelists, Holy Rollers, Mormons, Christian Scientists, and faith healers. According to Leon Harris’ book, Upton Sinclair, American Rebel, Sinclair’s writings had a profound effect on actor Charlie Chaplin’s political points of view, thus inspiring his interest in Socialism. It was Chaplin who brought Sinclair together with famed Russian film director, Serge Eisenstein, which led to Sinclair’s subsequent financial support for Eisenstein’s ill-fated film project, Que Viva Mexico. All in all, a compelling association. (Inventory #: 16198E)