The New Age is a cultural movement that embraces esoteric practices. It has a long history, dating back to the Gnostic groups of early Christianity. It gained popularity during the American and French Revolutions. Many of the New Age's practices share a few common traits. It can be described by Western esotericism as a modern version.
Spangler
David Spangler is a well-known new age philosopher. He believes that the soul of mankind is one single spirit. And this spirit is God. The new age movement emphasizes the importance and value of a spiritual path. New age believes in reincarnation as well as rebirth. It focuses on nature and the human spirit.
Spangler's critique
David Spangler is a prominent writer on the current New Age movement. He has written many books on the topic including Revelation: The birth of a new age, Towards a planetary vision, and The New Age Vision. He is often considered a founder or the modern New Age movement. However, his critique of it is notable.
Spangler's criticism of David Spangler
David Spangler is frequently portrayed as a "new-age channeler", but his ideas tend to be less obscure and more relatable than theosophy. He claimed to have had contact with non-physical entities, and was able recall his past existence prior to his birth in this lifetime. He claims that this experience is shared by all humanity.
Spangler's perspective on gnosticism
There are many authors who view New Age Spirituality as spiritual narcissism. David Spangler belongs to this group. Despite his popularity, he is still very distant from the New Age's more mystical aspects.
Spangler's view on angels
Angels have been a hot topic in the New Age. There has been a boom in books and paintings. New Age practitioners describe these spiritual friends in an unsystematic manner. They invoke them to relax and have a greater sense of control over their lives.