The Anthropology of Religion, Magic and Witchcraft 4th Edition 9781138692527

The Anthropology of Religion, Magic, and Witchcraft, 4th Edition by Rebecca Stein and Philip L. Stein (ISBN-13: 9781138692527) is a concise and accessible textbook that introduces students to the anthropological study of religion. This text provides a cross-cultural perspective on religious expression and examines the varying complexity of world religions. Incorporating key theoretical concepts and a rich range of ethnographic material, this book is an essential guide for students encountering the anthropology of religion for the first time.

Publisher’s Description: The fourth edition of The Anthropology of Religion, Magic, and Witchcraft offers:

• Increased coverage of new religious movements, fundamentalism, and religion and conflict/violence.
• Fresh case study material with examples drawn from around the globe.
• Further resources via a comprehensive companion website.

With its clear and engaging style, this textbook encourages students to explore the diverse ways in which religion, magic, and witchcraft are practiced across cultures. The chapters are designed to provide a strong foundation in the theoretical approaches to the study of religion while offering in-depth analysis through case studies and ethnographic examples.

Key Features:

• Cross-Cultural Perspective: Explores religious expression and practices from a global viewpoint, providing a comprehensive understanding of world religions.
• Updated Content: Includes new material on religious movements, fundamentalism, and the role of religion in conflict and violence.
• Accessible and Concise: Written in a clear and engaging style, making complex concepts accessible to students.
• Companion Website: Offers additional resources for further study and exploration.

ISBN Information:

• ISBN-13: 9781138692527
• ISBN-10: 1138692522

Table of Contents:

Preface

1. The Anthropological Study of Religion

• The Anthropological Perspective
• Cultural Relativism
• The Study of Religion
• Theoretical Approaches
• Suggested Readings and Websites

2. Mythology

• The Nature of Myths
• Worldview and Stories of the Supernatural
• Approaches to Analysis
• Common Themes in Myths
• Suggested Reading and Websites

3. Religious Symbols

• The Meaning of Symbols
• Sacred Art and Time
• Symbolism of Music and Dance
• Suggested Reading and Websites

4. Ritual

• Basics of Ritual Performance
• Classification and Survey of Rituals
• Rites of Passage, Pilgrimages, Religious Obligations
• Suggested Reading and Websites

5. Altered States of Consciousness

• Nature and Entry into Altered States
• Ethnographic Examples and Drug-Induced States
• Suggested Reading and Websites

6. Religious Specialists

• Shamans, Priests, Healers, Diviners, Prophets
• Suggested Reading and Websites

7. Magic and Divination

• Nature and Societal Role of Magic
• Forms and Techniques of Divination
• Suggested Reading and Websites

8. Souls, Ghosts, and Death

• Concepts of the Soul, Ancestors, Ghosts
• Death Rituals and Funeral Practices
• Suggested Reading and Websites

9. Gods and Spirits

• Types and Roles of Gods and Spirits
• Monotheism, Atheism
• Suggested Reading and Websites

10. Witchcraft

• Concepts of Witchcraft in Various Cultures
• Euro-American Witchcraft Beliefs
• Modern-Day Witch Hunts
• Suggested Reading and Websites

11. The Search for New Meaning

• Adaptation and Change in Religion
• Revitalization Movements
• High Demand Religions and UFO Religions
• Suggested Reading and Websites

12. Religion, Conflict, and Peace

• Religion’s Role in Conflict and Violence
• Fundamentalism and Terrorism
• Religion and Peacebuilding
• Suggested Reading and Websites

Glossary

Index

The Anthropology of Religion, Magic, and Witchcraft, 4th Edition is an essential textbook for students and educators seeking to understand the complex interplay between religion, magic, and society across cultures. With its updated content and accessible presentation, it serves as a comprehensive guide to the anthropological study of religion.