Understanding the Sociology of Religion

This illuminating book provides an essential overview of the sociology of religion. Staf Hellemans explores the core concepts and rationales that have been developed since the discipline expanded in the West after 1960, shedding light on existing literature and future avenues of research.
This illuminating book provides an essential overview of the sociology of religion. Staf Hellemans explores the core concepts and rationales that have been developed since the discipline expanded in the West after 1960, shedding light on existing literature and future avenues of research.

Hellemans surveys the debate on secularization, on whether, why and how the major religions of the world are in long-term decline. With a particular focus on Christianity, the book engages with the interpretation of religious change and its links to modernity, assessing how the great transformation of religion has spurred the reconceptualisation of religion at