Contested Concepts in the Study of Religion

This book offers a clear, concise introduction to the meaning of problematic terms, and the ways in which they should legitimately be used. Each entry considers the following:



– Why is this concept problematic?

– What are the origins of the concept?

– How is it used or misused, and by whom?

– Is it still a legitimate concept in the study of religion and, if so, what are its legitimate uses?

– Are there other concepts that are preferable when writing on religion?



Concepts covered include:



– Belief

– Religion

– Magic

– Secularisation

– Violence



This is a jargon-free indispensable resource for students and scholars that encourages the critical use of terms in the study of religion.