Product Description: There can be no doubt that as a matter of fact a religious life, exclusively pursued, does tend to make the person exceptional and eccentric. I speak not now of your ordinary religious believer, who follows the conventional observances of his country, whether it be Buddhist, Christian, or Mohammedan...read more

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Religious Conversion: Religion Scholars Thinking Together explores various issues relating to the nature, methods, and effects of religious conversion in the major world faiths. Presents the results of an innovative ten-year project initiated the World Council of Churches Features contributions from religious scholars and leaders of Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, and Muslim traditions Considers myriad issues relating to the nature, methods, and effects of religious conversion in the major world faiths Addresses questions on religious freedom, legal considerations, and the future for religious conversion

Now in a fully revised and expanded third edition, this landmark text provides comprehensive, up-to-date coverage of an increasingly rich and varied field. The authors synthesize classic and contemporary research on religious thought, belief, and behavior across the lifespan; the forms and meaning of religious experience; the social psychology of religious organizations; and connections to biology, morality, coping, and mental health. As in previous editions, the focus is on scientific work that is moving the psychology of religion into the mainstream of academic psychology, rather than broad interpretative and conceptual discussions. Organized for optimal use in advanced undergraduate- or graduate-level courses, every chapter features thought-provoking quotations, sidebars, and examples that bring key concepts to life.New in the Third Edition*Restructured and expanded to accommodate the rapidly growing literature*Fully updated with the latest findings and interpretations*New chapter on religion and biology*New chapter on empirical foundations*Coverage of such timely topics as religious extremism and clerical child abuse

Product Description: Is religion to blame for deadly conflicts? Should religious behaviour be credited more often for acts of charity and altruism? In what ways are religious and ‘spiritual’ ideas, practices and identities surviving and changing as religion loses its political power in those parts of the world which are experiencing increasing secularization? Written by one of the world’s leading authorities on the psychology of religion and social identity, Psychological Perspectives on Religion and Religiosity offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary review of a century of research into the origins and consequences of religious belief systems and religious behaviour...read more