A Beginner's Guide to the Study of Religion

A Beginner's Guide to the Study of ReligionAuthor(s): Bradley L. HerlingHow should we understand and interpret the strange but familiar thing that we call “religion”? What are the foundations of a methodical approach to this subject, and what theoretical tools are available to students who are new to this area of inquiry? A Beginner's Guide to the Study of Religion provides an accessible, wide-ranging introduction to theories and basic methodology in the field. Now in its second edition and updated throughout, this concise but comprehensive book includes:- - A case for the urgency and relevance of studying religion today- Discussion of the role and perspective of the student of religion- Description of the nature of theory and its function- An accessible survey of classic theorists in the modern study of religion- Feature boxes highlighting essential quotations and guiding principles for application of theories