The Routledge Handbook of Religion and Cities

Cities are complex ecosystems that are shaped by various factors, including religion. The Routledge Handbook of Religion and Cities provides an interdisciplinary reference source to the key topics, problems, and methodologies of this subject, focusing on the interaction of religions and their urban contexts. With 29 chapters by international contributors, the Handbook explores emerging research and analysis of current dynamics of urban religions, including housing, economics, sacred ritual, immigration, political conflicts, social change, ethnic and religious diversity, urban policy, racial justice, architecture, religious art, symbology, religion and urban violence, technology, smart cities, climate change, and religious meaning-making.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Cities, much like ecosystems, undergo a dynamic and intricate process of development, transformation, growth, adaptation, expansion, and contraction. Within this complex tapestry, religion emerges as a vital component, intricately shaping and being shaped by the urban contexts in which it thrives. This captivating relationship is explored in depth in the Routledge Handbook of Religion and Cities, an exceptional interdisciplinary resource that delves into the key themes, challenges, and methodologies associated with this rapidly evolving field.

Spanning a diverse range of cities and religions, the Handbook adopts an ecological and spatial analytical approach, providing a comprehensive exploration of the intricate interplay between religions and their urban environments. This groundbreaking collection stands as the first of its kind, showcasing cutting-edge research that sheds light on the dynamic interactions between religions and their urban contexts.

Organized into three distinct parts, the Handbook offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the complexities of this subject. The first part, "Research Methodologies," provides a thorough introduction to the various research approaches employed in studying religion and cities. It explores the methodological challenges and opportunities that arise when examining the complex relationships between these two spheres, including qualitative and quantitative methods, ethnographic studies, and spatial analysis.

The second part, "Religious Frameworks and Ideologies in Urban Contexts," delves into the diverse religious frameworks and ideologies that shape urban life. It explores how religious beliefs, practices, and institutions interact with urban structures, policies, and social dynamics, shaping the experiences and identities of urban residents. The chapters in this section examine the role of religion in housing, economics, gentrification, sacred ritual and public space, immigration and the refugee crisis, political conflicts and social change, ethnic and religious diversity, urban policy and religion, racial justice, architecture and the built environment, religious art and symbology, religion and urban violence, technology and smart cities, the challenge of climate change for global cities, and religious meaning-making of the city.

The third part, "Contemporary Issues in Religion and Cities," presents a timely and relevant examination of the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing religious communities and cities today. It explores the ways in which religions respond to urban transformations, such as the growth of megacities, the rise of religious extremism, and the impact of globalization. The chapters in this section offer insights into the strategies and tactics employed by religious organizations, communities, and individuals to navigate the complexities of urban life, promote social cohesion, and contribute to the betterment of society.

The Routledge Handbook of Religion and Cities is a testament to the interdisciplinary nature of this field, drawing upon expertise from a wide range of disciplines, including religious studies, urban studies, sociology, history, architecture, urban planning, theology, social work, and cultural studies. Comprising 29 chapters authored by a team of international contributors, the Handbook offers a comprehensive and up-to-date account of the state-of-the-art research in this area.

This resource is invaluable for students and researchers in religious studies, urban studies, and related fields. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the key topics, theories, and methodologies employed in studying religion and cities, equipping students with the tools they need to engage with this complex and rapidly evolving field. The Handbook's interdisciplinary approach fosters a deeper understanding of the relationships between religions and urban contexts, enabling researchers to explore the multifaceted dimensions of this subject and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on religion, society, and the city.

In conclusion, the Routledge Handbook of Religion and Cities is a groundbreaking resource that offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the complex relationship between religions and cities. By adopting an ecological and spatial analytical approach, the Handbook provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the ways in which religions shape and are shaped by urban environments. This resource is essential for students, researchers, and practitioners in religious studies, urban studies, and related fields, as it offers a valuable contribution to the ongoing dialogue on religion, society, and the city.

Weight: 870g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367653149