of human affairs that will bring the desire of all nations, assuring to the people life, liberty and happiness." The magazine also contained articles about "social, political, and economic issue and was not confined to purely religious matters". Georges D. Chryssides notes that some articles "were opposed to orthodox medicine", particularly against vaccinations, theories about germs and the use of aluminum cooking utensils, "and recommended alternative methods of health care and remedies". Awake! contains articles on general interest topics such as nature, geography, health, family life, and also the Bible and biblical history, and is overseen by the Writing Committee of the Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses. Many issues claim that mankind is living in the end times. Distribution The magazine is printed in nineteen countries. Awake! has a worldwide circulation of 31,460,000 copies of each issue and is available, in selected languages, online in various digital formats. The magazine is distributed by Jehovah's Witnesses in the course of their public ministry including door-to-door canvassing, approaching people in public places, given informally to acquaintances and professionals, or left as reading material in waiting areas. Cost The Golden Age was initially available for $1.50 () per year on a subscription basis. Until March 1990, Awake! was available for a small charge that varied over time and in different countries. For example, in the United States, the suggested donation per issue was $0.05 in 1950, gradually increasing to $0.25 in 1989. On January 17, 1990, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled against Jimmy Swaggart that sales of religious literature were subject to taxation, which introduced ambiguity into the formerly tax-free practice of suggesting a particular donation in exchange for the magazines. The Watch Tower Society supported Swaggart in the case, arguing that the perceived sale of religious literature should be exempt from taxation. From March 1, 1990, the magazines were made available at no cost, on a freewill donation basis in the United States, with the stated purpose of simplifying their Bible educational work and distinguishing themselves from those who commercialize religion. An article in the May 1990 issue of Our Kingdom Ministry—a newsletter provided to members—stated that "there are growing pressures against all religious elements" and went on to say that their main concern was to move ahead in the worldwide preaching work, "without hindrance". The sale of Jehovah's Witnesses' literature was gradually phased out in other countries, and