Religion is a major force in contemporary society. It is also one of the least understood social and political influences on individuals and communities. In this innovative collection of original essays and classic readings, experts explore the significance of contemporary religiosity: as a source of meaning and motivation, how it unites and divides us, and how it is used politically and culturally. Readers will be introduced to the broad debates in ways that will equip them to analyze, discuss, and make their own judgments about religion and society. This book should be read by anyone interested in understanding religion as a central source of meaning and politics, and is ideally suited for undergraduate teaching on religion and social issues and from a global perspective.

About the Author

Melissa M. Wilcox is Associate Professor and Chair of Religion, and Director of Gender Studies at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. She has been teaching courses on the sociology of religion for over ten years, and is the author or co-editor of three other books focusing on religion, sexuality, and gender.

Reviews

This excellent collection provides an analytical framework for understanding religion and an overview of important, contemporary topics. Unique in its dual focus on religion as a ground of agency and a source of social control, it is perfect for my Religion in Public Life course and similar undergraduate classes.

--Penny Edgell, Sociology University of Minnesota

Wilcox's approach to contemporary religion masterfully combines breadth of coverage with in-depth analysis. This volume underscores the lively debates that characterize scholarship on the subject. Wilcox is a thoughtful and learned guide through the landscape of contemporary religion.

--John P. Bartkowski, Sociology, University of Texas at San Antonio

"This is an exciting textbook that will help students engage in a range of conversations related to religion in the contemporary world. I strongly recommend it."

--Wendy Cadge, Sociology, Brandeis University

Thanks to Wilcox's meticulous organisation, this is an exquisitely-crafted volume. Presenting over 30 classical and contemporary key readings across five important themes, with each theme elegantly framed by Wilcox's own insightful, lucid, and highly-accessible commentary, this volume provides a systematic and perfectly-pitched guide for the theoretical and empirical exploration of religion in today's world. I strongly recommend it as essential reading for undergraduates.

-Andrew Kam-Tuck Yip, Sociology, University of Nottingham

Wilcox's reader is a welcome addition to a field often criticized for its North American parochialism. Cosmopolitan in focus, it offers a global introduction to the sociology of religion. Exploring the religious dimensions of political violence, sexuality, and social change, it is as relevant as tomorrow's front page.

--John Schmalzbauer, Religious Studies, Missouri State University

With this volume, Melissa Wilcox succeeds in giving us a college reader that provides variety, nuance, and sophistication to our understanding of religion. Readings--both classic and contemporary--expose students to a broad range of styles and substantive themes. These smart selections are inherently flexible to suit the curriculum of all social scientists of religion. As a bonus, Wilcox's introductory essays are thoughtful and useful, accentuating key theorists and ideas to further help beginning students. Altogether a well-constructed text for helping us expand the sophistication of our students.

--Gerardo Marti, Sociology, Davidson College

"Wilcox asought a format that "allows instructors to involve their undergraduate students in the broad debates and issues that will equip them to analyze, discuss, and make their own judgments about religion/society long after they move on from the course." The framing essays are written in a clear, engaging style, with good organization (including bold-faced major terms) that will appeal to undergraduates and make their learning more efficient. Wilcox's volume, with both classic and contemporary primary sources and integrating framing essays, serves the series' objective well."- Professor Meg Karraker, University of St Thomas

Book Information
ISBN 9780415503877
Author Melissa Wilcox
Format Paperback
Page Count 600
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 1012g