The Anthropology of Religion Magic and Witchcraft

This concise and accessible textbook introduces students to the anthropological study of religion. It examines religious expression from a cross-cultural perspective and exposes students to the complexities of religion in small-scale and complex societies. The chapters incorporate key theoretical concepts and a wide range of ethnographic material. The fifth edition ofThe Anthropology of Religion, Magic, and Witchcraftoffers: • a revised introduction covering the foundations of anthropology of religion, anthropological methods, and a push towards decolonizing the anthropology of religion • expanded coverage of symbols, healing, wizardry, and the intersections of religion with other social institutions • new case study material with examples drawn from around the globe, especially from Indigenous communities•marginalia in each chapterintroducing provocative small-case examples relatedto the chapter - many of these can be used as prompts for further research, small in-class case studies or examples for hands-on learning•anew chapter on religion and healing, especiallyuseful for Anthropology programs without representation of four fields, as it provides a wider and more interdisciplinary application of the discipline•a consistent review of foundations from chapter to chapter, linking material and enabling studentsto connect what they are learning throughout the course • further resources via a comprehensive companion website, including interactive activities, critical case studies, updated study questions, bibliographical suggestions (including video), and color images.This is an essential guide for students encountering anthropology of religion for the first time and also those with ongoing interest in this fascinating field.