This book offers a clear, concise introduction to the meaning of problematic terms, and the ways in which they should legitimately be used. Each entry considers the following: - Why is this concept problematic? - What are the origins of the concept? - How is it used or misused, and by whom? - Is it still a legitimate concept in the study of religion and, if so, what are its legitimate uses? - Are there other concepts that are preferable when writing on religion? Concepts covered include: - Belief - Religion - Magic - Secularisation - Violence This is a jargon-free indispensable resource for students and scholars that encourages the critical use of terms in the study of religion.

Surveys concepts in the study of religion that are frequently used, yet present problems through inappropriate use, ambiguity, or lack of clarity.

About the Author
George D. Chryssides is Research Fellow in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at York St John University, UK. His publications include The Study of Religion (Bloomsbury, 2014) and The Bloomsbury Companion to Studying Christians (Bloomsbury, 2020). Amy Whitehead is Senior Lecturer in Social Anthropology at Massey University, New Zealand. Her publications include Religious Statues and Personhood: Testing the Role of Materiality (Bloomsbury, 2013) and she is the managing editor for Bloomsbury Studies in Material Religion.

Reviews
Though aimed for more advanced readers, the book has significant value for undergraduate and graduate students, teachers, and those simply interested in religion and culture. The quality of thought and writing make it a valuable contribution to religious and cultural studies. * Nova Religio *



Book Information
ISBN 9781350243804
Author George D. Chryssides
Format Paperback
Page Count 200
Imprint Bloomsbury Academic
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC