Overview

This book calls for a reformation of the image of monotheism in studies of Japanese religions and in the study of religions in general. According to most scholars, “Japan” and “monotheism” mix like oil and water. Whatever Japanese religion is, we are told, the “Western” category of monotheism cannot not be imposed. The predominance of this standard ruling makes critical the study of Japan’s new religious movements (NRMs)—exemplified in this volume by Kurozumikyō, Tenrikyō, and Konkōkyō, which have occasionally and controversially been pinned with the monotheism label. However, significant disagreement and confusion have persisted for nearly a century in Western scholarship over precisely how to classify these religions and furthermore over where their monotheism, if it exists, might have come from. Chandler argues that this long history of dissonance in the West is the result of a complex layering of taxonomical, sociocultural, and scholarly issues. Furthermore, he suggests this impasse can be addressed via an updated definition of monotheism that takes into account its nuances and includes new monotheistic subcategories. The book reveals the monotheism of Japan’s NRMs in light of this new framework and through a new historical investigation into Japanese sources of monotheism. It is especially relevant to scholars with an interest in Japanese religions and new religious movements as well as the comparative study of religion and philosophy of religion.

Full Product Details

9781032971094

Table of Contents

Reviews

“In this clear book, Kegan Chandler makes a conceptual intervention in the study of Japanese religions, extending the category of ‘monotheism’ to cases where people have resisted it and showing how to reflect critically on our scholarly categories without undermining their reference to the world.” – Kevin Schilbrack, Appalachian State University, USA “Chandler’s book makes significant contributions to the advancement of comparative study, modern Japanese religions, Japanese religious and intellectual history, and other relevant fields. His comparative analysis, supported by thoughtful and clear theoretical bases, makes possible the novelty of bringing together religions so far studied separately.” – Higashibaba Ikuo, Tenri University, Japan

Author Information

Kegan A. Chandler is an Honorary Research Associate at the Centre for the Study of Asian Religions (CSAR) in the Department for the Study of Religions at the University of Cape Town, South Africa.

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available