Description
Book SynopsisReligious violence is on the rise globally. Hardly a day passes without news of a vicious attack being carried out in the name of religion. Religion can, of course, bring security to many but its perversion leads to insecurity for all. Why is this? How and why do so many claim to act on God's behalf to inflict deliberate human suffering? InReligion and International SecurityLee Marsden explores the return of religion as a major cause of insecurity in the contemporary world. He guides readers through the different theoretical perspectives surrounding the study of religion and security, arguing that the secular bias that marginalized the role played by religion in recent times must change to reflect the realities of the emerging post-secular international order. Packed with examples from around the world, the book offers a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of religion and security through key themes such as religiously motivated and inspired terrorism and warfare, the human security of women and gay people in religiously dominated communities, and the capacity for religious communities and leaders to heal conflict through peacebuilding. For those who would rather deny a role for religion when considering security, the genie is truly out of the bottle. This book seeks to understand this phenomenon and how to come to terms with it.
Trade Review‘Lee Marsden provides a timely analysis of religion in international security. He tackles today’s pressing questions, showing that sometimes the truth is obscured by how we frame the issue and whether we understand the powerful impact politics has on religion.’
Brian Grim, President of the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation
‘How religion impacts on security issues is a key topic in international relations. Marsden shows that it is not all about “9/11” and a “clash of civilizations”, by describing religion's important role in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.’
Jeffrey Haynes, London Metropolitan University
Table of ContentsAcknowledgements
Abbreviations
Tables and Figures
Introduction
1. Theorising religion and international security
2. Sacred violence and clashing civilizations
3. Just war and jihad
4. Blessed are the peacemakers
5. Faith-based initiatives and international security
6. Suffering and dying in the name of God
Conclusion: Religions of peace and war? A matter of choice.
References
Appendix
Index
