Violence and the Sacred in the Modern World

The authors of this book explore how symbolic violence relates to real acts of religious violence around the modern world, providing insights into important incidents and responding to theoretical issues articulated by René Girard in Violence and the Sacred (1977).

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The relationship between symbolic violence and real acts of religious violence around the modern world is a complex and multifaceted issue that has been explored by numerous scholars and researchers. In their book, first published in 1992, the authors delve into this question by examining a range of volatile religious and political conflicts, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Sikhs in India, militant Jewish groups in Israel, and Muslim movements from the Middle East to Indonesia.

The authors, who are social scientists and historians of comparative religion, aim to respond to the theoretical issues articulated by René Girard in his seminal work, Violence and the Sacred (1977). This volume represents the first collection of essays that seek to test Girard's theories regarding the social significance of religious symbols of violence against real, rather than symbolic, acts.

Throughout the book, the authors provide valuable insights into these important incidents, while also engaging with the theoretical frameworks presented by Girard. In some cases, their findings align with Girard's theories, offering a deeper understanding of the role of religious symbols in perpetuating violence. However, in other instances, the authors offer alternative theories that challenge or expand upon Girard's perspectives.

In a concluding essay, co-authored by Mark Anspach, Girard himself provides a response to the arguments presented by the authors. He reflects on the insights gained from their research and offers a thoughtful reflection on the ongoing challenges of addressing religious violence in the modern world.

Overall, this book is a valuable contribution to the field of religious studies, providing a comprehensive exploration of the relationship between symbolic violence and real acts of religious violence. It sheds light on the complex dynamics that drive these conflicts and offers insights into the potential for transformative change.

Weight: 266g
Dimension: 156 x 232 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367030896