The Anthropology of Religion: An Introduction [Illustrated] [Paperback]

The Anthropology of Religion is an invaluable source for students which provides detailed information on the development of Anthropological thought and the key debates and theories on religion. As may be expected from a synopsis, Bowie's views are not readily expressed which is evident by the way she presents the views of other anthropologists, preferring to directly quote rather than paraphrase. Bowie's preface outlines her intention that the chapters of the book can be read individually or interchangeably. As such, the result is a collection of individual but linked essays on the diverse aspects of an anthropological approach to religion illustrated with a range of ethnographic examples both classic and modern. The chapters, of a uniform length and depth of analysis, deal with eight main topics: Theories; Symbolism; boundaries; gender; environment; ritual; shamanism, and witchcraft. Each chapter is structured into several sections, including an introduction and conclusion, with notes, references and suggestions for further reading following. Key terms are explained and contextualized in separate boxes throughout the text, indicative of an introductory textbook, (for example Eriksson: 2001), which makes for better, more fluent reading. The book includes an extensive appendix of film and video resources.

Morris' 1987, Anthropological Studies of Religion, which must have been the key introductory textbook on religion for students of Anthropology before Bowie's book, approaches religion from an historical perspective. Each chapter is based on a different school of thought, centering on the key theorists. While Morris' traces, in detail, the development of theories on religion, anthropology and methodology, Bowie's book surpasses this structure and focuses on the different theoretical ideas and offers ethnographic examples in each chapter, incorporating discussions of theory and theorists when appropriate.

The Anthropology of Religion takes an holistic approach to the study of Religion, as may be expected from a modern textbook. Bowie's feelings on the importance of reflexivity when conducting fieldwork are an implicit undercurrent throughout the text, she qualifies her research and selection of material for the book reflexively, citing her Christian background, anthropological education and fieldwork experiences as influences on the tenor of the book (29). There are comprehensive ethnographic examples to support the text, and without offering her own definition of religion, it is clear that Bowie has intended to cover a range of topics as to define religion in the broadest sense. The result is an accessible collection of readings on the key topics in the Anthropology of religion. Clearly and logically presented with extensive notes and suggestions for further reading, The Anthropology of Religion is a suitable, if not essential, introductory text at undergraduate level.

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