Winners and Losers in Our Religious Economy
This edition offers research, statistics and stories that document-increased participation in religious groups in the US in the 21st century. New chapters chart the development of African American churches from the early 19th century and the ethnic religious communities of recent immigrants.
Winners and Losers in Our Religious Economy
Winner of the "Distinguished Book Award" from the Society for the Scientific Study of Religion, this work challenges the conventional understanding of American religious history. Critics praise it as a "pugnacious" reevaluation that is essential reading for both laypersons and scholars alike. The authors present a revolutionary analysis of the social history of American religion, arguing that organized religion has thrived in American society, which contradicts widely held beliefs. Their findings dismantle many established theories and biases, particularly the "establishment" perspective that has obscured the true pluralistic trends among Christian denominations. This compelling narrative not only prompts a serious rewrite of American religious history but also positions itself as a significant contribution to the field. The authors, Roger Finke and Rodney Stark, are respected scholars in sociology and religious studies, lending credibility to their groundbreaking insights. Their work is recommended for anyone interested in a fresh perspective on the dynamics of religion in America.