The Politics of Ritual

The book "The Politics of Ritual" explores the political power of rituals, which are social practices that create, maintain, and transform individuals and societies. Molly Farneth argues that rituals are dynamic activities bound up in processes of continuity and change, and can be used to redraw boundaries, reallocate goods and power, and cultivate the habits of citizenship. The book examines a range of rituals enacted to just and democratic ends, including border Eucharists, candlelight vigils, and rituals of mourning, and makes a case for an innovative democratic ritual life that can enable people to create and sustain communities that are more just, inclusive, and participatory.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2023
Publisher: Princeton University Press

The Politics of Ritual is a groundbreaking new exploration of the profound influence of rituals on our political lives. In this comprehensive and thought-provoking book, Molly Farneth compellingly argues that rituals are dynamic social practices that enable individuals to create, maintain, and transform themselves and their societies. Far from being mere scripts or mechanical routines, rituals are intricate processes steeped in continuity and change. Farneth emphasizes the crucial role of rituals in democratic engagement, demonstrating how people adapt their rituals to redefine the boundaries of their communities, reallocate resources and power, and cultivate the habits of citizenship.

By delving into a diverse range of rituals enacted with the aim of promoting justice and democracy, The Politics of Ritual offers a transformative perspective on our understanding of these powerful phenomena. From border Eucharists to candlelight vigils and rituals of mourning, Farneth examines the ways in which rituals are used to express solidarity, commemorate historical events, and advocate for social change. This timely book makes a compelling case for an innovative democratic ritual life that can empower individuals to create and sustain communities that are more just, inclusive, and participatory than those in which they currently find themselves.

Through her insightful analysis and compelling storytelling, Farneth demonstrates how rituals can serve as powerful tools for building social cohesion, fostering empathy, and promoting collective action. By recognizing the political significance of rituals, we can harness their power to create a more inclusive and equitable society. The Politics of Ritual is a must-read for anyone interested in politics, social movements, and the power of ritual to shape our world.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691198927