Sociology of Religion: A Reader

by Susanne C. Monahan, Michael O. Emerson, William A. Mirola

This collection of articles explores the relationship between the structure and culture of religion and various aspects of social life in the United States. Based on both classic and contemporary research in the sociology of religion, it highlights a variety of research methods and theoretical approaches in exploring the ways in which religious values, beliefs and practices shape the world outside of church, synagogue, or mosque walls while simultaneously being shaped by the non-religious forces operating in that world. Many readings from drawn popular sources--e.g., newspapers and magazines--and although many of the readings are about religion in the Christian tradition, there are also readings about religion outside the American context (e.g., Poland, England, El Salvador, Nicaragua), and beyond the Christian tradition (e.g., Judaism, alternative religions, Hindu traditions). Classic Sociological Definitions Of Religion; Belief And Ritual; Religious Experience; Race, Ethnicity And Religion; Gender And Religion; Social Class And Religion; Sexual Identity And Religion; The Secularization Debate; Religious Organizations, Institutions And Authority; Alternative Religions; Media And Religion; Politics And Religion; Science And Religion; Social Movements And Religion. For anyone interested in the sociology of religion or religious perspectives on social issues.

Genres: Nonfiction, Sociology, Religion, Textbooks

439 pages, Paperback

First published October 9, 2000

Reviews

[Jamie Scott-Bryant · Rating 1 out of 5]

I used this book for a SOC class. it was BORING!

[Katharine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read for Sociology of Religion Course

[Carlos · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although this book is clearly intended for use in a classroom setting, it still manages to make readings quite interesting for the student. It is also very US centered but in that ambit it still explores more than just the Christian tradition as well as introducing the complexities of the intersection of race and religion.

[Titus Hjelm]

Emphasis on the word 'reader'. Probably useful in a classroom setting, but not so for independent study. Targeted exclusively at an American audience, so more useful for 'religion in the US' than sociology of religion courses outside that context.

[Grant]

good