What is the main theme in the novel, Cannibals and Missionaries?

Perhaps the most overriding of McCarthy's themes is the notion of idols — idols of the mind, fetishes which keep people from balancing their perceptions and attachments. When Helen refuses to give up her Vermeer, clergyman Frank admonishes her against creating false gods to worship, but the committee members have their own idols, democracy and human dignity, and the terrorists theirs. Sophie notes in her journal: "A. keeps calling the kapers [terrorists] fanatics; look at 'Chaddie,'. . . Frank is a fanatic on keeping an open mind." Idols (and ideals), however, are not only ubiquitous but also necessary for human aspiration and civilization.