Overview

Why do human beings believe in divinities? Why do some seek eternal life, while others seek escape from recurring lives? Why do the beliefs and behaviors we typically call

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9780190935085

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Reviews

The strengths of the book include its logical and clear chapter organization and layout, the critical assessments of the work of the theorists provided at the conclusion of each chapter, and Pals' highly readable and engaging style of writing. The brief biographical sketches that open each chapter introduce readers to the lives of the theorists which helps to make their ideas more relatable by providing historical context. -Robert Stephens, Clemson University The text is readable and accessible to many students, including those with little social science background. Each chapter is well-organized and follows the same pattern. Pals presents each theory in the best possible light first, then presents balanced criticisms. -Henry Delcore, California State University, Fresno The strength is the author's writing style. Students are never sure which theorist the author prefers... because his presentation is objective and fair. It allows students to see the development of scholarly thinking about religious phenomena, highlighting the interdisciplinary character of the field. -Quinton Dixie, Purdue, Northeast 'I appreciate the clarity of the author's writing, and his ability to convey abstract ideas in an accessible (but not overly simplistic) way. In presenting the theorists, Pals is sufficiently thorough without overestimating how much detail and depth a typical undergraduate can absorb. -Adrienne Ambrose, University of the Incarnate Word

"The strengths of the book include its logical and clear chapter organization and layout, the critical assessments of the work of the theorists provided at the conclusion of each chapter, and Pals' highly readable and engaging style of writing. The brief biographical sketches that open each chapter introduce readers to the lives of the theorists which helps to make their ideas more relatable by providing historical context."" -Robert Stephens, Clemson University The text is readable and accessible to many students, including those with little social science background. Each chapter is well-organized and follows the same pattern. Pals presents each theory in the best possible light first, then presents balanced criticisms."" -Henry Delcore, California State University, Fresno The strength is the author's writing style. Students are never sure which theorist the author prefers... because his presentation is objective and fair. It allows students to see the development of scholarly thinking about religious phenomena, highlighting the interdisciplinary character of the field."" -Quinton Dixie, Purdue, Northeast 'I appreciate the clarity of the author's writing, and his ability to convey abstract ideas in an accessible (but not overly simplistic) way. In presenting the theorists, Pals is sufficiently thorough without overestimating how much detail and depth a typical undergraduate can absorb."" -Adrienne Ambrose, University of the Incarnate Word"

Author Information

Daniel L. Pals is Professor of Religious Studies and History at University of Miami. He is the author of Introducing Religion: Readings from the Classic Theorists (OUP, 2008).

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