Religion and Youth

'For a variety of reasons we need to know more about the religious lives of young people. This book tells us why, in addition to supplying - in abundance - facts, figures, examples and explanations about a complex but fascinating subject. I recommend it very warmly.' Grace Davie, University of Exeter, UK 'This volume is the first comprehensive international perspective - rooted in the sociology of religion - to explore the complexities of religion and youth, and take account of geographical and organisational contexts. ... The Church needs continually to find a wisdom that discerns the many ways of engaging with youth culture and generational change, ways that are wise, and are practised both generously and courageously. In this remarkable book, the editors highlight the changes and challenges posed by contemporary youth culture.' Church Times 'Editors Sylvia Collins-Mayo and Pink Dandelion have collected diverse and stimulating contributions on topics ranging from British trance clubbing to European Protestant confirmation students and teenage witchcraft.' Religion Watch '... this edited book offers a plethora of perspectives on the state of play at the interface of sociology, religion and young people. ... it is a book to be commended, especially for the generally intelligent non-specialist reader, and for students looking for a balanced gateway into sociological reflections on religion and young people.' Youth & Policy 'The eye-catching cover doesn't disappoint when you start to read this book. It is a collection of high-quality chapters written by significant scholars in the field and is published in association with the British Sociological Association Sociology of Religion Study Group. ... The book raises questions and issues that need further thought, research and debate. This is perhaps the most valuable aspect of the collection. Some of the highlights in this respect are: identifying some of the positive influences of religion on young people; young people's feelings of belonging, community and spiritual experience in a club culture; how young people 'believe in belonging', search for authenticity and want to see morality located within social influences and norms rather than imposed by a religion; the absence of women in formal study of religion in textbooks and teaching; insights into the lives and beliefs of young people of other faiths; faith and identity formation; and the importance of intergenerational experience and of offering young people significant leadership opportunities.' Modern Believing '... this is an excellent volume with much to offer those who study youth and/or religion at a variety of levels. The balance of original research, commentary, and methodological insight provides an excellent introduction to those needing a primer in the field (primarily advanced undergraduate and graduate students). The volume in total, especially with the introduction and conclusion, will be food for thought for more experience researchers in this area with calls to consider where we have come and where we should go with theory and further empirical investigation.' Journal of Contemporary Religion 'As religion increases its visibility in wider society, an engaged sociological response is required. Often sociology has marginalized religion, but groups like Socrel can go some way in addressing the public benefit question, publicising to a diverse range of audiences the importance of religion in social life, and highlighting the sociological work that is being conducted in this field.' Network '... [A] valuable addition to the study of religion in contemporary society.' Fieldwork in Religion