How to Study Global Christianity: A Short Guide for Students

This book provides an accessible introduction to Global Christianity scholarship, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of the field and its lack of reflection on the various disciplines it encompasses. It explores different methods used in the study of Global Christianity and discusses their implications, while also identifying themes and offering a survey of the field's past, analytical priorities, and potential future directions for research.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 145 pages
Publication date: 17 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive book serves as an accessible yet critically oriented introduction to the foundational methods and themes in Global Christianity scholarship over the past four decades. While the field of Global Christianity is inherently interdisciplinary, it has largely overlooked the diverse disciplines that comprise it. By exploring various approaches that have shaped this field, Jason Bruner draws attention to the ways in which these elements have converged and the implications they have had for their use in the past and potential future. In addition to identifying key themes within the discourse, this book provides a comprehensive survey of the field's historical trajectory, analytical priorities, and potential avenues for future research projects and trajectories.

The book begins by providing a historical overview of Global Christianity scholarship, tracing its development from the early studies in mission and religious history to the more recent interdisciplinary approaches. It explores the contributions of various scholars and academic disciplines, including sociology, anthropology, history, and religious studies, to the study of Global Christianity.

One of the key strengths of the book is its ability to critically engage with the methods and themes employed in Global Christianity scholarship. Bruner challenges traditional approaches that may overlook the complexities and diversity of Christian communities around the world. He encourages scholars to adopt a more nuanced and intersectional approach, considering factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, class, and sexuality in their analysis.

The book also offers a survey of the major themes and debates within Global Christianity scholarship. These include questions about the globalization of Christianity, the role of Christianity in shaping global politics and society, the relationship between Christianity and other religions, and the challenges and opportunities faced by Christian communities in the contemporary world.

In addition to its theoretical and methodological contributions, the book provides practical insights for future scholars and researchers. It offers guidance on developing research projects and trajectories in Global Christianity scholarship, including suggestions for data collection, analysis, and interpretation. It also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the value of engaging with a range of academic disciplines and perspectives.

Overall, this book is an essential resource for students, scholars, and researchers interested in Global Christianity scholarship. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field, while also challenging traditional approaches and encouraging a more nuanced and interdisciplinary understanding of Christian communities around the world.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031128103
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022