Contested Concepts in the Study of Religion

This book offers a clear, concise introduction to the meaning of problematic terms, and the ways in which they should legitimately be used. Each entry considers the following:- Why is this concept problematic?- What are the origins of the concept?- How is it used or misused, and by whom?- Is it still a legitimate concept in the study of religion and, if so, what are its legitimate uses?- Are there other concepts that are preferable when writing on religion?Concepts covered include:- Belief- Religion - Magic- Secularisation - ViolenceThis is a jargon-free indispensable resource for students and scholars that encourages the critical use of terms in the study of religion.