Perspectives on American Religion and Culture

This is a collection of original essays on a wide variety of topics on religion in the United States, covering both historical and contemporary times, by the most exciting scholars working in the field today. Topics covered include the African American and Native American religious experience; the roles of gender and family in various religious communities; diversity and pluralism in American religious life; regional differences throughout the US; the relationship between religion and economic life; popular and material culture; and major themes in American religious thought. The approaches used reflect the impact of American studies and social and intellectual history on the study of religion. Students, scholars, and general readers will encounter a stimulating introduction to current scholarship while instructors will find this volume a valuable source for teaching students about the depth and diversity of the American religious experience.

Peter Williams is Distinguished Professor of Religion and American Studies and Director of the American Studies program at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio.