Description
Taylor and Francis Studying Religion An Introduction 2Nd Edition 2019 Edition by Russell T. McCutcheon
Widely used as a primer, a class text, or just a provocation to critical thinking, Studying Religion clearly explains the methods and theories employed in the academic study of religion by tackling the problem of how we define religion. Written for newcomers to the field, its chapters explore the three main ways in which religion is defined and, along the way, also considers a range of related topics, from the history and functions of religion to public discourse on religion, religion in the courts, and the classification of religions. The works of classic and contemporary scholars-from Karl Marx and Sigmund Freud to Bruce Lincoln and Wendy Doniger-are analyzed and explored in its readable chapters and detailed supporting materials. Studying Religion represents a shift away from the traditional world religions approach and, instead, invites readers to consider how they divide up, name, and come to know the world around them.Thoroughly revised throughout, this second edition now includes a significantly expanded glossary, summaries of technical terms and global case studies at the end of each chapter, and additional biographies of key scholars mentioned. This book will be invaluable to all students of religious studies-whether in the introductory class or as an example of an alternative way of approaching the field. Preface to the 2nd Edition Acknowledgements IntroductionWhat is the Study of Religion? Example: '..., But Not Specially Defined' Summary of Vocabulary and ScholarsChapter 1What's in a Name? Example: Fruit or Vegetable? Summary of Vocabulary and ScholarsChapter 2The History of 'Religion' Example: 'Religion' on the Colonial Frontier Summary of Vocabulary and ScholarsChapter 3The Essentials of Religion CriticismsExample: 'He's Your Father!' Summary of Vocabulary and ScholarsChapter 4The Functions of Religion Criticisms Example: 'People Started to Come to Her for Healing' Summary of Vocabulary and ScholarsChapter 5The Resemblances Among Religions CriticismsExample: 'Not an Easy Task' Summary of Vocabulary and ScholarsChapter 6The Public Discourse on Religion Example: Public Muslim Cemeteries in France Summary of Vocabulary and ScholarsChapter 7Religion and the Insider/Outsider Problem Example: Under the Academic Microscope Summary of Vocabulary and ScholarsChapter 8Religion and Classification Example: The World Religions Paradigm Summary of Vocabulary and ScholarsAfterwordThe Necessary Lie: Duplicity in the Disciplinesby Jonathan Z. Smith Honesty Is the Best Pedagogyby K. Merinda Simmons Glossary Scholars Bibliography Resources Index