Description:
This book offers an overview of religion in contemporary Australia and applies sociological theories to show how religious institutions, groups, and individuals have adapted to social change and continue to influence Australian life. In doing so, it explores how religion intersects with issues including politics, race, gender, and new media.
Review Quotes:
Packed with astute observation and insightfully drawing on sociological theory, Religion and Change in Australia provides a sharp analysis of the state of religion in modern Australia. How has Indigenous peoples' religion changed since European invasion? How does religion influence current Australian politics? Did Harry Potter lead to an increase in witchcraft? Whatever your question, this book makes complex concepts both readable and entertaining.
Marion Maddox, Professor of Social Sciences, Macquarie University, Australia
This much-needed volume is a tour de force and is certain to become a classic source for information and understanding of the evolution of religion in Australia. It is thoroughly grounded in relevant sociological theory and also full of detailed descriptive material that contributes to the theoretical analyses the authors present. The volume is a must-read for anyone interested in Australia's religious history, but also should be viewed as an important commentary on the evolution of religion in all Western societies.
James T. Richardson, Professor Emeritus of Sociology & Judicial Studies, University of Nevada, Reno, USA