The Sociology of Religion - 9780415226660

Taylor & Francis

This expanded second edition combines a discussion of the main theorists with a wide range of material illustrating the diversity of religious beliefs and practices. > This clear introduction to the sociology of religion combines a discussion of key theorists with a modern emphasis on the diversity of religious beliefs and practices. Malcolm Hamilton's expanded second edition brings the discussion fully up-to-date, and extends its material on secularization and religious sects, giving a broad comparative view. Drawing on the insights of history, anthropology and sociology, he surveys classic and contemporary theory to give a full picture of the variety and scope of theoretical perspectives. > Preface to the second edition, 1. Introduction, 2. Religion and reason, 3. Magic, 4. Religion and emotion, 5. Buddhism, 6. Religion and ideology: Karl Marx, 7. The coming of the millennium, 8. Religion and solidarity: Emile Durkheim, 9. The birth of the gods, 10. Religion and solidarity: t.