Description
Book SynopsisAn introduction to the study of women in diverse religious cultures
While women have made gains in equality over the past two centuries, equality for women in many religious traditions remains contested throughout the world. In the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints women are not ordained as priests. In areas of Pakistan and Afghanistan under Taliban occupation girls and women students and their teachers risk their lives to go to school. And in Sri Lanka, fully ordained Buddhist nuns are denied the government identity cards that recognize them as citizens. Is it possible to create families, societies, and religions in which women and men are equal? And if so, what are the factors that promote equality?
Theory of Women in Religions offers an economic model to shed light on the forces that have impacted the respective statuses of women and men from the earliest developmental stages of society through the present day. Cathe
Trade Review
Theory of Women in Religions provides an engaging and incisive examination of gender, power, and culture. As captivating and absorbing as it is thorough, it is a must-read for anyone interested in gender or religion. -- Laura Vance, Brevard College
Highlighting fascinating historical and contemporary examples, this book offers a persuasive grand theory of economic development, gender relations and religion. Wessinger has made a substantial contribution to the field of women and religion. -- Susan Sered, Suffolk University
A compelling and readable account of the complex relationships between religion and gender by a scholar at the peak of her powers. The wealth and historical breadth of examples that Wessinger amasses is stunning. What sets this book apart is Wessinger’s detailed focus on the psychological and religious factors that perpetuate male dominance and the gradual social and religious revolutions underway as women seek greater equality. Lucidly written and persuasively argued, Theory of Women in Religions should be required reading for students as well as established scholars. -- Kelly E. Hayes, author of Holy Harlots: Femininity, Sexuality, and Black Magic in Brazil
