The Tyranny of Shams

The Tyranny of Shams by Joseph McCabe is a critical work that challenges societal, religious, and political norms, with particular focus on the oppressive nature of these “shams” in modern life. Written in the early 20th century, McCabe, a well-known freethinker and writer, examines how false beliefs, conventional social structures, and dogmatic ideologies limit human potential, hinder intellectual growth, and promote conformity.
In addition to critiquing organized religion, McCabe also targets the military and its role in perpetuating violence, nationalism, and blind obedience. He argues that military institutions serve as a powerful form of control, often demanding unquestioning loyalty and suppressing independent thought. According to McCabe, the militaristic mindset fosters a culture of authoritarianism, leading to the sacrifice of personal autonomy for the sake of state power. McCabe’s critique is unapologetically polemical, aiming to inspire intellectual liberation and social reform. By encouraging people to question not only religion and societal conventions but also the military’s role in promoting authoritarianism, McCabe calls for a radical reevaluation of traditional institutions and their influence on society.