Will Black conducted postgraduate research into apocalyptic movements and cults. Beyond the End of the World takes as its point of departure misinformation that circulated about the closing of a cycle of the Mayan calendar, before examining the history of apocalyptic movements and ideas. In doing so, Black explains how apocalyptic themes not only run through major religions, including Christianity and Islam, but are also embedded in many areas of human culture, including politics. Ideas of massive change being just over the horizon have given power to cult leaders, religious 'authorities', demagogue politicians and revolutionaries alike. Similar characteristics have been observed in charismatic politicians, rabble-rousing extremists and violent uprisings cloaked in the clothing of religion. Will Black's book sheds light on the characteristics of charismatic leaders and those who follow them, which can help explain much of the political and religious turmoil observed in many societies in recent years.