Description
Book SynopsisThis is an analysis of the observable, human side of faith. The text combines theorizing with discussion as it moves from considering the religiousness of individuals to the dynamics of religious groups to the workings of entire societies as religious groups contend for support.
Table of ContentsIntroduction: Atheism, Faith, and the Social Scientific Study of Religion
PART ONE • PARADIGMS IN CONFLICT
1. A New Look at Old Issues
2. Rationality and the “Religious Mind”
3. Secularization, R.I.P.
PART TWO • THE RELIGIOUS INDIVIDUAL
4. The Micro Foundations of Religion
5. Religious Choices: Conversion and Reaffiliation
PART THREE • THE RELIGIOUS GROUP
6. Religious Group Dynamics
7. Catholic Religious Vocations: Decline and Revival
PART FOUR • THE RELIGIOUS ECONOMY
8. A Theoretical Model of Religious Economies
9. Religious Competition and Commitment: An International Assessment
10. Church-to-Sect Movements
Appendix: Propositions and Definitions
Notes
References
Index
