The Location of Religion: A Spatial Analysis

by Kim Knott

The ways in which humans interact with their location is an important topic within sociological studies of religion. It is integral to the place of religion in secular society. 'The Location of A Spatial Analysis' offers an overview of the ways in which religion can be located within social, cultural and physical space. It examines contemporary spatial theory - notably the work of the influential sociologist Henri Lefebvre - and the many disciplines that have contributed to the spatial study of religion. This volume will be invaluable to all those interested in the role of religion in spatial analysis.

Genres: Religion, Geography

Hardcover

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am always ready to read books by Kim Knott, she is very readable despite the complexity of the nature of the subject, in this case the Location of Religion within secular societies. Within this book, as an example, she tackles society's ideas connected with the right hand and left hand. The left being the wild element that can either support the right hand or counteract it. The emphasis is on spatial analysis, determining the actual location of religiosity within society, with reference to Henri Lefebvre and others. There are many examples of stigmatisation against left handed people and religious rules about which hand to use for eating or washing, etc.

The book discusses practicalities, and deeply entrenched perceptions of good and evil. This is the sort of book I always say I will have to read again because it is so encompassing and well researched. I've also read her 'Short Introduction to Hinduism' which I would recommend to anyone interested in the nature of religions.