World Religions

by Warren Matthews

WORLD RELIGIONS, Seventh Edition, methodically introduces readers to the richness and diversity of these traditions. The "Worldview" sections in particular make this the most helpful textbook for comparative analyses of the religions. In these sections, readers can see how the different religions approach a common set of ten themes that are fundamental to all traditions, including the nature of the Absolute, the place of humans in the world, rituals and symbols, and the prospects for life after death. Furthermore, this text combines insightful, engaging prose with maps, photographs, timelines, excerpts from sacred texts, and other helpful pedagogical aids that provide a comprehensive yet accessible survey of world religions. Warren Matthews thoughtful and balanced approach depicts the unique traditions and perspectives of diverse world religions with objectivity and respect.

Genres: Religion, Textbooks, Nonfiction

464 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1991

Reviews

[John]

There are much better textbooks out there for an introductory World Religions course. Matthews's style has an annoying Dick-and-Jane quality; there are also factual errors here and there. The organization of the chapters is probably the biggest challenge--material is presented haphazardly, and the isolation of "Worldview Topics" at the end of chapters is strange. I'm switching to Molloy's Experiencing the World's Religions for my world religions course.

[Belle Meade School]

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