"Without an inner defence against toxic passions, something begins to break. Integrity cracks – and the soul goes up for sale…"

Trading one's soul for power is an age-old temptation. History holds tragic examples – such as when many Christians rallied behind Hitler. In those days, courageous voices – among them the Lutheran pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer – sought above all to guide young people toward inner resilience.

Today we need to find ways to do the same. Our world is different in many ways, yet the allure and the passions feel hauntingly familiar. Once again, Christianity is being hijacked by destructive powers – with devastating consequences across the globe.

Faustian Bargain, No Thanks points to a counterforce: the seven classical virtues of Faith, Hope, Love, Wisdom, Just-mindedness, Moderation, and Courage. It draws on philosophy and theology, not as abstractions but as tools for navigating today's reality.

If you feel the call to push back, this book is for you – whether you are a believer, a sceptic, or somewhere in between.