Studying Religion: An Introduction Through Cases

by Gary E. Kessler

Through the use of thought-provoking case studies, summaries, and review questions, this introductory level text shows students how to engage in the academic, objective study of religion and helps instructors address some of the typical problems they encounter when introducing students to the study of religion. Kessler guides students through an unbiased and varied study of religious beliefs and practices such as sacred power, myths and rituals, religious art, the problem of evil, and the relationship between religion and morality. The text also addresses issues of gender and religious institutionalization.

Genres: Religion, Nonfiction

384 pages, Paperback

First published September 13, 2002

Reviews

[Elle]

Read this for my religions class and I am so grateful I did. Interesting take on other religions outside of my own, really opened my eyes.

[Laramie]

Read for my religious studies class, Kessler does a great job at teaching you not only how to study religion competently but by also teaching readers how to formulate opinions based on multiple layers: intentionality, knowledge, truth, and complete insight as to how studying religion works. Granted the book has its moments where I squint my eyes and flip the page, but regardless a fantastic read.

[Haley Murphy]

i had to read this for my religions class in college so i just added it to my list. its a good book to look at all the cases about religion studies. kind of boring for some but some cases were really interesting!

[Tina]

This is a college textbook, and has little value outside an introductory religion course.

[Miranda]

REL 200: Religious Studies Concepts & Methods