Description
Book SynopsisAdherents of the Baha'i faith view themselves as united by a universal belief that transcends national boundaries. This volume examines how this global identity is interpreted locally through the study of a Baha'i community in Atlanta, Georgia.
Trade ReviewMcMullen demonstrates that the social factors that typically influence religious belief (gender, race, education, etc.) are unrelated to how Baha'i engage in personal and community spiritual obligations or adhere to Baha'i principles, a finding that appears unique among religious groups. . . . This work offers fresh insights and useful findings about a new religious approach to globalization. * Library Journal *
This work presents in a careful scholarly manner the Baha'i identity. The fieldwork was centered on the Baha'i community in Atlanta. . . . An appendix includes the Atlanta questionnaire survey materials, along with 47 pages of notes, bibliography, and index. Highly recommended. * Choice *
McMullen focuses on the Baha'i of Atlanta in order to demonstrate how the faith confers upon its members' global religious identity in response to rapid social change. . . . A competent guide to the mental universe of these well-intentioned, colorful universalists. * Jerusalem Post *
The Baha'i seeks to demonstrate the ideological and organizational mechanisms that shape Baha'i identity, and the faith, more generally. . . . This is a work that should prove of interest to those interested in globalization and religion. . . . The book provides a solid overview of the Baha'i faith, its ecclesiastical structure, and the basis of the Baha'i religious identity. * Contemporary Sociology *
