New Religions: Emerging Faiths and Religious Cultures in the Modern World [2 Volumes]

A valuable resource for students and general audiences, this book provides a unique global perspective on the history, beliefs, and practices of emergent faith communities; new religious traditions; and religious movements worldwide, from the 19th century to the present. New Religions: Emerging Faiths and Religious Cultures in the Modern World provides insightful global perspectives on the emergent faith communities and new traditions and movements of the last two centuries. Readers will gain access to the information necessary to explore the significance, complexities, and challenges that modern religious traditions have faced throughout their history and that continue to impact society today. The work identifies the themes and issues that have often brought new religions into conflict with the larger societies of which they are a part. Coverage includes new religious groups that emerged in America, such as the Seventh-day Adventists, the Latter-day Saints, and the Jehovah's Witnesses; alternative communities around the globe that emerged from the major Western and Eastern traditions, such as Aum Shinrikyo and Al-Qaeda; and marginalized groups that came to a sudden end, such as the Peoples Temple, Heaven's Gate, and the Branch Davidians. The entries highlight thematic and broader issues that run across the individual religious traditions, and will also help students analyze and assess the common difficulties faced by emergent religious communities.

Table of Contents:
Alphabetical List of Entries Guide to Related Topics Preface Introduction Chronology A–Z Entries Index

About the Author :
Eugene V. Gallagher is Rosemary Park Professor of Religious Studies Emeritus at Connecticut College. Lydia Willsky-Ciollo is associate professor of religious studies at Fairfield University.

Review :
An excellent starting point for those who wish to explore new religions further. Recommended for anyone interested in emerging religions, and an essential resource for academic and religious libraries. Given this work's breadth and accessibility, it makes a good reference for high-school or undergraduate introductory courses in new religions around the world. The “usual suspects” are soundly covered. The entries are well-written for [the] target audience [of] high school and undergraduate students.