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Introducing Anthropology of Religion
Culture to the Ultimate
By Jack Eller
- Price: $37.95
- Binding/Format: Paperback
- ISBN: 978-0-415-40896-7
- Publish Date: July 16th 2007
- Imprint: Routledge
- Pages: 368 pages
Description
Written by an experienced teacher, this basic introduction to the anthropology of religion explores key contemporary issues such as: definitions, theories, beliefs, symbols and language, and behaviour. The second part of the book analyzes religion in the modern world, violence, fundamentalism and key world religions and new religious movements.
Unlike other introductions which have tended to focus solely on traditional anthropological areas, this book also shows how to apply an anthropological approach to contemporary world religions, reflecting broader trends.
Assuming no prior knowledge of the subject, this is the perfect resource for students.
Reviews
'One of the most engaging, comprehensive, and compelling overviews of anthropology of religion ever published. Eller successfully integrates and interprets a wide array of ethnographic information, giving ample attention to both past contributions and contemporary perspectives. Beginning students and specialists alike will learn much from this volume.' - Stephen D. Glazier, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Contents
Introduction Part One: The Fundamentals of an Anthropological Study of Religion 1. Studying Religion Anthropologically: Definitions and Theories 2. Religious Beliefs 3. Religious Symbols and Specialists 4. Religious Language 5. Religious Behavior 6. Religious Values and Functions Part Two: Religion in the Modern World 7. Religion as a Force for Adaptation and Change 8. New Religious Movements: The Continuous Creation of Religions 9. Religion and Violence 10. Alternatives and Challenges to Religion: Pluralism, Secularization, Humanism, and Science 11. Fundamentalism as a Cultural System. 12. Religion in American Society