THE NEW BLACKWELL COMPANION TO THE Sociology of Religion “…I enjoyed reading this book for its in-depth examination of the complexities of the social forces that are shaping and are being shaped by religious groups around the world. I certainly see this being of theoretical value for researchers engaging the new religious realities of our world.” Sociology of Religion: A Quarterly Review “… The new companion is a timely and valuable work, validly updating the original companion and a good addition to the reference shelves of any academic or specialist library.” Reference Reviews Reflecting recent developments in the field, this companion provides a comprehensive introduction to the sociology of religion with a clear emphasis on comparative and historical approaches. Covering all the areas relevant to undergraduate courses in this area, the Companion begins by laying down the anthropological and sociological foundations of the study of religion and their contemporary developments. It continues with an analysis of both traditional and contemporary forms of organization, such as church–sect typologies as well as “megachurches” and modern forms of spirituality. The secularization and post-secular society debates are considered in depth along with the globalization process, fundamentalism, charismatic movements, and revivalism. It also discusses the sociology of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and religions of China, as well as the areas of American exceptionalism from de Tocqueville onwards, religious nationalism, women and piety movements, and the spirituality of Native American communities. Considering new developments in social theory and religion, the collection concludes with a discussion of recent work that attempts to understand the future of religion, blending the sociology of modern societies, anthropological ethnography, and philosophical inquiry. "All of this being said I enjoyed reading this book for its in-depth examination of the complexities of the social forces that are shaping and are being shaped by religious groups around the world. I certainly see this being of theoretical value for researchers engaging the new religious realities of our world." (Sociology of Religion: A Quarterly Review, 6 August 2011) "That said, the new companion is a timely and valuable work, validly updating the original companion and a good addition to the reference shelves of any academic or specialist library." (Reference Reviews, 1 December 2010) "That said, the new companion is a timely and valuable work, validly updating the original companion and a good addition to the reference shelves of any academic or specialist library." (Reference Reviews, 1 December 2010) ""The New Blackwell Companion to Social Theory" is aptly titled since it involves a dramatic revision and updating of the previous volume. It is an excellent overview of the state of social theory with strong essays written, in the main, by many of the world's leading social theorists. An indispensable resource for anyone interested in social theory." "George Ritzer, University if Maryland" "Comprehensive and engaging, this new companion will help students and other readers understand both the changing agendas and the core content of social theory." "Craig Calhoun, New York University" Reflecting the very latest developments in the field, this companion provides a comprehensive introduction to the sociology of religion with a clear emphasis on comparative and historical approaches. Covering all the areas relevant to undergraduate courses in this area, the companion begins by laying down the anthropological and sociological foundations of the study of religion and their contemporary developments. It continues with an analysis of both traditional and contemporary forms of organization, such as church--sect typologies as well as “megachurches” and modern forms of spirituality. The secularization and post-secular society debates are considered in depth along with the globalization process, fundamentalism, charismatic movements, and revivalism. It also discusses the sociology of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, and religions of China, as well as the areas of American exceptionalism from de Tocqueville onwards, religious nationalism, women and piety movements, and the spirituality of Native American communities. Considering new developments in social theory and religion, the collection concludes with a discussion of recent work that attempts to understand the future of religion, blending the sociology of modern societies, anthropological ethnography, and philosophical inquiry. “…I enjoyed reading this book for its in-depth examination of the complexities of the social forces that are shaping and are being shaped by religious groups around the world. I certainly see this being of theoretical value for researchers engaging the new religious realities of our world.” Sociology of Religion: A Quarterly Review “… Th