Edward Carpenter was close friends to E. M. Forster and Laurence Houseman and was a member of The Fabian Society. In Pagan and Christian Creeds: Their Origin and Meaning, Carpenter delves into the fascinating journey of religious evolution, from the earliest forms of worship and magic to the intricate doctrines of Paganism and Christianity. He examines the psychological aspects behind the formation of religious rites, symbols, and deities, suggesting that these elements are deeply intertwined with the growth of human consciousness. The book looks at various theories and schools of thought in religious study, including the worship of sun gods, earth and nature spirits, and the significant role of fear and self-consciousness in shaping religious experiences.