This excellent collection provides an analytical framework for understanding religion and an overview of important, contemporary topics. Unique in its dual focus on religion as a ground of agency and a source of social control, it is perfect for my Religion in Public Life course and similar undergraduate classes.
--Penny Edgell, Sociology University of Minnesota
Wilcox's approach to contemporary religion masterfully combines breadth of coverage with in-depth analysis. This volume underscores the lively debates that characterize scholarship on the subject. Wilcox is a thoughtful and learned guide through the landscape of contemporary religion.
--John P. Bartkowski, Sociology, University of Texas at San Antonio
This is an exciting textbook that will help students engage in a range of conversations related to religion in the contemporary world. I strongly recommend it.
--Wendy Cadge, Sociology, Brandeis University
Thanks to Wilcox's meticulous organisation, this is an exquisitely-crafted volume. Presenting over 30 classical and contemporary key readings across five important themes, with each theme elegantly framed by Wilcox's own insightful, lucid, and highly-accessible commentary, this volume provides a systematic and perfectly-pitched guide for the theoretical and empirical exploration of religion in today's world. I strongly recommend it as essential reading for undergraduates.
-Andrew Kam-Tuck Yip, Sociology, University of Nottingham
Wilcox's reader is a welcome addition to a field often criticized for its North American parochialism. Cosmopolitan in focus, it offers a global introduction to the sociology of religion. Exploring the religious dimensions of political violence, sexuality, and social change, it is as relevant as tomorrow's front page.
--John Schmalzbauer, Religious Studies, Missouri State University
With this volume, Melissa Wilcox succeeds in giving us a college reader that provides variety, nuance, and sophistication to our understanding of religion. Readings--both classic and contemporary--expose students to a broad range of styles and substantive themes. These smart selections are inherently flexible to suit the curriculum of all social scientists of religion. As a bonus, Wilcox's introductory essays are thoughtful and useful, accentuating key theorists and ideas to further help beginning students. Altogether a well-constructed text for helping us expand the sophistication of our students.
--Gerardo Marti, Sociology, Davidson College
Wilcox asought a format that allows instructors to involve their undergraduate students in the broad debates and issues that will equip them to analyze, discuss, and make their own judgments about religion/society long after they move on from the course. The framing essays are written in a clear, engaging style, with good organization (including bold-faced major terms) that will appeal to undergraduates and make their learning more efficient. Wilcox's volume, with both classic and contemporary primary sources and integrating framing essays, serves the series' objective well.- Professor Meg Karraker, University of St Thomas
