Reactions to the Law by Minority Religions

This book explores how minority religions respond to legal environments, offering examples from North America, Europe, and Asia. It demonstrates how religions with low status may resort to violence or acceptance, change beliefs or practices, or use the law to change their legal standing. The volume applies sociological insights to these responses, providing a valuable reference for scholars of religion and the law.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The impact of law on emerging and minority religions has garnered significant attention in scholarly discourse, while the response of these religions to legal frameworks remains relatively understudied. This book aims to bridge this gap by presenting a diverse range of responses from minority religions to the legal environments in which they operate. Drawing from a panel of international experts, the book showcases examples from North America, Europe, and Asia, illustrating how religions with limited status navigate the complexities of the law. It explores the strategies employed by these religions, including resorting to violence or passive acceptance, altering their beliefs or practices to comply with legal requirements, or leveraging the law itself to challenge their legal standing. The volume concludes by applying theoretical insights from sociological studies of law, religion, and social movements to analyze the various responses observed.

This comprehensive collection serves as a valuable resource for scholars engaged in the study of religion and the law, as well as those interested in new religious movements, minority religions, and the sociology of religion. It sheds light on the complex dynamics between law, religion, and social movements, offering valuable insights into the ways in which minority religions navigate and respond to legal challenges.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367694494