Religion and the Medieval and Early Modern Global Marketplace

This book explores the importance of religious beliefs, objects, and practices to the development and evolution of markets and marketplaces in material, geographic, and ideological terms. It covers Europe, South Asia, South America, Africa, and the Middle East, comparing the role of religion in the pre-modern world. It is an interdisciplinary volume, bringing together scholars of literature, history, archaeology, and sociology to investigate religion and the marketplace.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 218 pages
\n Publication date: 29 October 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
\n

Exploring the profound significance of religious beliefs, objects, and practices in the development and evolution of markets and marketplaces across material, geographic, and ideological dimensions, this comprehensive textbook offers students and scholars an accessible introduction to the latest research in the field. Spanning continents, including Europe, South Asia, South America, Africa, and the Middle East, the chapters shed light on the role religion played in shaping the marketplace in the pre-modern world. This interdisciplinary volume brings together scholars from diverse disciplines, including literature, history, archaeology, and sociology, to investigate the intricate relationship between religion and the marketplace, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic field.

Introduction:
Religious beliefs, objects, and practices have played a central role in shaping the economic and social landscapes of societies throughout history. From the formation of early trade networks to the establishment of modern markets, religion has been an influential force in determining the rules, values, and practices that govern economic transactions. This textbook aims to provide an accessible introduction to the latest research in the field of religion and the marketplace, exploring the ways in which religious beliefs, objects, and practices have influenced the development and evolution of markets and marketplaces in material, geographic, and ideological terms.

Chapter 1: Religious Beliefs and the Marketplace:
In the early stages of human civilization, religious beliefs played a crucial role in shaping the development of markets and marketplaces. Before the advent of organized religion, individuals relied on their own beliefs and practices to navigate the complexities of trade and commerce. However, with the rise of organized religion, religious leaders began to exert influence over economic activities, shaping the rules and regulations that governed trade. For example, in ancient Mesopotamia, the religious beliefs of the Babylonians influenced the development of their marketplace, which was known for its complex system of trade and commerce.

Chapter 2: Religious Objects and the Marketplace:
Religious objects have also played a significant role in the development of markets and marketplaces. From the sacred symbols of ancient religions to the modern-day artifacts of religious devotion, religious objects have been used as a means of exchange, a form of investment, and a symbol of cultural identity. For example, in ancient India, the sacred Hindu text the Bhagavad Gita was used as a means of exchange, while the sacred Hindu temple was used as a form of investment. In modern times, religious objects have become a popular commodity in the global marketplace, with religious tourism and the sale of religious artifacts generating significant revenue.

Chapter 3: Religious Practices and the Marketplace:
Religious practices have also played a significant role in the development and evolution of markets and marketplaces. From the religious festivals and ceremonies that promote trade and commerce to the religious laws and regulations that govern economic activities, religious practices have been an integral part of the economic landscape. For example, in ancient Egypt, the annual flooding of the Nile River was used as a means of irrigation, which promoted the growth of agriculture and the development of trade. In modern times, religious practices have become a source of innovation and entrepreneurship, with religious entrepreneurs creating new businesses and products that reflect their religious beliefs and values.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, religious beliefs, objects, and practices have played a profound role in the development and evolution of markets and marketplaces across material, geographic, and ideological dimensions. This textbook provides an accessible introduction to the latest research in the field, exploring the ways in which religious beliefs, objects, and practices have influenced the formation and functioning of markets and marketplaces in different regions and periods of history. By understanding the role of religion in the marketplace, students and scholars can gain a deeper appreciation of the complex and multifaceted relationship between religion and economics, and how it has shaped the world we live in today.

\n Weight: 360g\n
Dimension: 226 x 313 x 9 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367536756\n \n