Handbook of leaving religion /
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The Handbook of Leaving Religion introduces a neglected field of research with the aim to outline previous and contemporary research, and suggest how the topic of leaving religion should be studied in the future. The handbook consists of three sections: 1) Major debates about leaving religion; 2) Case studies and empirical insights; and 3) Theoretical and methodological approaches. Section one provides the reader with an introduction to key terms, historical developments, major controversies and significant cases. Section two includes case studies that illustrate various processes of leaving religion from different perspectives, and each chapter provides new empirical insights. Section three discusses, presents and encourages new approaches to the study of leaving religion.
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Includes index. :
1 online resource. :
9789004331471
A new model of religious conversion : beyond network theory and social constructivism /
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Based on the analysis of 52 conversion narratives to various religious groups, A New Model of Religious Conversion utilizes case studies for comparison of converts' backgrounds, network influence, and conversion narratives. The author convincingly illustrates a \'fit\' between the converts' background and the religion they convert to, such as between disorganized family backgrounds and highly structured religions. Conversely, those from highly structured backgrounds often convert to more \'open\' groups. The book also makes it clear that not all conversions are influenced by networks or align themselves with a social constructivist view of a conversion as an \'account.\' Taking converts' trajectories seriously, the author makes a strong case for the application of biographical sociology to the study of conversion and (American) sociology overall.
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1 online resource. :
Includes bibliographical references and index. :
9789004266506 :
1542-1279 ;
Ecclesial identification beyond late modern individualism? : a case study of life strategies in growing late modern churches /
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Why do some late modern churches grow, counter to the trend in Western Europe? Why do people identify with such churches - and does identification lead to morally transforming commitments beyond late modern consumerism? This case study investigates these questions based on 'real life' or empirical research, which include both the level of individual life strategies and organisational practice in two growing European churches. This innovative and interdisciplinary study draws on recent findings in theology, moral philosophy, sociology and organisational psychology. Its findings may prove useful not only for scholars in these disciplines, it may also enrich the reflection of practitioners who seek to perform the difficult art of transformational leadership in a late modern context.
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Revision of the author's thesis (doctoral)--Norwegian School of Theology, 2009. :
1 online resource (xx, 385 pages) : illustrations. :
Includes bibliographical references (p. [373]-381) and index. :
9789004184800 :
1876-2247 ; :
Available to subscribing member institutions only.