Secular Societies, Spiritual Selves?: The Gendered Triangle of Religion, Secularity and Spirituality

The book "Secular Societies, Spiritual Selves?" explores the gendered intersections of religion, spirituality, and the secular through an ethnographic approach, examining how spirituality has emerged as a silent category for people navigating between the religious and secular. It analyzes the experiences of women and those who challenge binary sexual identities advocating for a queer spirituality, and will be of interest to anthropologists, sociologists, and scholars in other disciplines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Secular Societies, Spiritual Selves? is a groundbreaking first volume that delves into the intricate and multifaceted intersections of religion, spirituality, and the secular, employing an ethnographic approach. The book explores the emergence of spirituality as a relatively "silent category" that serves as a means for individuals to navigate the boundaries between religious and secular realms, shedding light on its relationship to gendered ways of being and relating. Through a lived religion lens, the contributors analyze the intersections between spirituality, religion, and secularism across diverse geographical regions, including the Netherlands, Portugal, Italy, Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The chapters delve into the spiritual experiences of women, their quest for a more gender-equal approach to the divine, as well as the experiences of men and those who challenge binary sexual identities, advocating for a queer spirituality.

This volume holds immense appeal to anthropologists, sociologists, and scholars from various disciplines who are eager to comprehend the profound role of spirituality in shaping the intricate gendered dynamics of modern societies. It offers valuable insights into the diverse ways in which individuals navigate spiritual and religious landscapes, challenging traditional gender norms and advocating for inclusivity and equality.

By examining the intersections between spirituality, religion, and the secular, Secular Societies, Spiritual Selves? contributes to our understanding of the complex tapestry of contemporary cultures and societies. It provides a rich and nuanced perspective on the ways in which individuals seek meaning, purpose, and connection in a rapidly changing world, and highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting the diverse spiritual expressions and experiences of all individuals.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032336152