Religion in the Contemporary World: A Sociological Introduction - Tapa dura

The new edition of Religion in the Contemporary World is a timely guide to the social significance of religion. It is comprehensive, clear and convincing. Alan Aldridge is to be congratulated for writing such a well informed and readable account of both the routine and the eye-catching aspects of religion in various regions of the world. From cults to civil religion, from secularization to state control, and from diversity to identity, the analysis of arguments and examples is challenging and shrewd. This is the sociology of religion at its best. James A. Beckford, University of Warwick Aldridge provides an insightful and thoughtfully engaged discussion of the many varieties of religion in contemporary society. His smooth narrative and timely examples make religion come alive on the page and illuminate why it continues to be such a significant social force. Michele Dillon, University of New Hampshire "This is a well-written and concise book and a thoughtful insight about the meaning and purpose of religion and religious belief for a contemporaneous and social society. This would be an important read for students and scholars interested in the sociological narrative and should certainly be a primary source of reference for those interested in why religion continues to hold its persuasive force." Benjamin Bury, Birmingham

In the new edition of this widely praised text, Alan Aldridge examines the complex realities of religious belief, practice and institutions. Impressive in its scholarly analysis of a vibrant and challenging aspect of human societies, it will continue to appeal strongly to students and to anyone interested in the place of religion in today's world.