A Critical Introduction To The Study Of Religion Av Craig Martin

<P><EM>A Critical Introduction to the Study of Religion</EM> introduces the key concepts and theories from religious studies that are necessary for a full understanding of the complex ways in which religious and cultural institutions and traditions influence society. </P><P>This book provides readers with an arsenal of critical concepts for studying religious ideologies, practices, and communities. This edition has been thoroughly revised and now includes a new chapter on "Belief" and a rewritten chapter on "Essentialism," and has been restructured to clearly emphasize key topics includin </P><UL><LI>problems with the concepts of "religion" and "belief systems;"</LI><P></P><P><LI>functionalism and classification;</LI><P></P><P><LI>essentialism, socialization, and habitus; and</LI><P></P><P><LI>legitimation, authority, and authenticity.</LI><P></P></UL><P>All ideas and theories are clearly illustrated, with contemporary and engaging examples and case studies throughout. It¿s an e