Sociological and related studies of systems of religion tend to be fragmented. This book brings together and assesses a diverse range of substantive sociological, anthropological and social-psychological scholarship dealing with the broad spectrum of religious belief, experience and behaviour from the work of anthropologists on the religions of tribal and pre-industrial peoples to explorations of the origins, development and impact of the great world religions. The book will have particular appeal not only in the fields of sociology, social anthropology, but also religious studies.

This expanded second edition provides a clear and comprehensive discussion of theoretical perspectives in relation to a wide range of substantive issues illustrating the diversity of religious beliefs and practices. Offering a broad comparative view, Malcolm Hamilton draws on the insights of history, anthropology and sociology, surveying classic and contemporary theory to give a full picture of the variety and scope of theoretical perspectives. Theoretical issues are related to particular beliefs and practices, showing how abstract concepts affect and illuminate specific areas of religion....

Sociological and related studies of systems of religion tend to be fragmented. This book brings together and assesses a diverse range of substantive sociological, anthropological and social-psychological scholarship dealing with the broad spectrum of religious belief, experience and behaviour from the work of anthropologists on the religions of tribal and pre-industrial peoples to explorations of the origins, development and impact of the great world religions. The book will have particular appeal not only in the fields of sociology, social anthropology, but also religious studies.

The charismatic movement has a high profile in contemporary Christianity. The book's contributors include insiders and outsiders, charismatics and sociologists; with Britain as their focus, they trace the movement's international connections, historical development and variety. The book provides a wealth of information and analysis which will interest both those within the movement and students of religion wanting to know more about it.