Introducing Anthropology of Religion

This clear and engaging guide introduces students to key areas of the field and shows how to apply an anthropological approach to the study of religion in the contemporary world.

Praise for the second edition: "This book is the best example I know of its kind an introductory text that combines sophisticated, cross-cultural, and historically nuanced discussion with an intuitive ordering of subjects. Eller is especially good at weaving together contemporary perspectives with classical anthropological theory. The book's accessibility and erudition make it perfect for advanced undergraduate courses and graduate seminars alike." Liam D. Murphy, California State University, Sacramento, USA "The first edition of Introducing Anthropology of Religion was one of the most engaging, comprehensive, and theoretically sophisticated overviews ever published. Eller's second edition includes a range of new and revised material as well as expanded web resources. Beginning students and specialists alike will learn much from this volume." Stephen D. Glazier, University of NebraskaLincoln, USA

Autorentext

Jack David Eller is a retired Associate Professor of Anthropology at the Community College of Denver and Head of Anthropology of Religion for the Global Center for Religion Research in Denver, USA. He is the author of a major introductory textbook, Cultural Anthropology: Global Forces, Local Lives (fourth edition, 2020).

Inhalt

1. Studying Religion Anthropologically: Definitions and Theories 2. Beliefs, Beings, and Bodies 3. Symbols, Specialists, and Substance 4. Religious Language: Words of Truth, Words of Power 5. Ritual: Religion in Action 6. Religion and Morality: Forming Society, Transforming Self 7. Religion, Medicine, and Wellness 8. Religious Change and New Religious Movements 9. Translocal or "World" Religions 10. Religious Fundamentalism 11. Religious Violence 12. Secularism and Irreligion Glossary