JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF RELIGION

Scope & Guideline

Charting New Territories in Religious Research

Introduction

Welcome to your portal for understanding JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF RELIGION, featuring guidelines for its aims and scope. Our guidelines cover trending and emerging topics, identifying the forefront of research. Additionally, we track declining topics, offering insights into areas experiencing reduced scholarly attention. Key highlights include highly cited topics and recently published papers, curated within these guidelines to assist you in navigating influential academic dialogues.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0021-8294
PublisherWILEY
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Converge1977, from 1979 to 1980, from 1983 to 1984, from 1987 to 1988, from 1996 to 2001, from 2005 to 2024
AbbreviationJ SCI STUD RELIG / J. Sci. Stud. Relig.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ

Aims and Scopes

The "Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion" focuses on the empirical research of religion, integrating diverse methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches to understand the role of religion in society. The journal emphasizes the relationship between religion and various social, political, and cultural factors, providing a platform for rigorous scholarly analysis.
  1. Empirical Research on Religion:
    The journal prioritizes empirical studies that provide quantitative and qualitative insights into religious behaviors, beliefs, and institutions.
  2. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    Research published in the journal often intersects with sociology, psychology, political science, and cultural studies, fostering a comprehensive understanding of religious phenomena.
  3. Social and Political Contexts of Religion:
    A significant focus is placed on how religion interacts with social movements, political ideologies, and cultural dynamics, particularly in the context of contemporary issues such as nationalism, race, and gender.
  4. Diversity of Religious Experiences:
    The journal explores a wide range of religious expressions, including mainstream, minority, and non-religious identities, highlighting the complex landscape of belief systems.
  5. Impact of Religion on Social Issues:
    There is a consistent examination of how religion influences social issues such as health, well-being, morality, and community engagement, providing valuable insights for policy and practice.
Recent publications in the "Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion" reveal emerging themes that are gaining traction within the field. These trends reflect the evolving landscape of religious studies and the increasing relevance of religion in contemporary social discourse.
  1. Intersectionality in Religion:
    There is a growing focus on how intersecting identities—such as race, gender, and sexuality—shape religious experiences and practices, highlighting the complexity of personal faith in diverse contexts.
  2. Religion and Social Justice Movements:
    Recent studies emphasize the role of religion in social justice initiatives, particularly regarding racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental activism, indicating a trend towards activism within religious communities.
  3. Impact of COVID-19 on Religious Life:
    The pandemic has sparked a surge of research on how COVID-19 has affected religious practices, community engagement, and individual beliefs, revealing significant shifts in how faith is experienced.
  4. Digital Religion and Technology:
    An increasing number of studies explore the intersections of religion and technology, including how digital platforms are reshaping religious practices and community engagement in the modern age.
  5. Religious Disaffiliation and Secularization Trends:
    Emerging themes focus on the dynamics of religious disaffiliation, particularly among younger generations, and the implications of these trends for traditional religious institutions.

Declining or Waning

While the journal has maintained a robust focus on various aspects of religion, certain themes appear to be declining in prominence over recent years. This trend may reflect shifts in societal interest or changes in the academic landscape surrounding the study of religion.
  1. Traditional Doctrinal Studies:
    Research focused solely on doctrinal or theological aspects of specific religions has decreased, as the journal increasingly emphasizes empirical and sociological perspectives.
  2. Historical Analysis of Religion:
    There appears to be a waning interest in purely historical analyses of religious traditions, with a shift towards contemporary applications and implications of religious beliefs and practices.
  3. Religious Exclusivism:
    Themes centered around the exclusivity of particular religious beliefs or practices are less frequently addressed, as the journal increasingly highlights pluralism and interreligious dialogue.
  4. Static Models of Religiosity:
    There is a decline in studies that utilize static models of religiosity, with a growing interest in dynamic and contextual approaches that account for changes in religious identity over time.
  5. Conventional Religious Practices:
    Research exploring conventional religious practices without considering their broader social implications is becoming less common, as the journal seeks to connect religion with contemporary societal issues.

Similar Journals

European Journal for Philosophy of Religion

Elevating Scholarly Discourse in Philosophy and Religion
Publisher: EUROPEAN JOURNAL PHILOSOPHY RELIGIONISSN: 1689-8311Frequency: 4 issues/year

European Journal for Philosophy of Religion is a distinguished platform dedicated to advancing critical discourse in the fields of philosophy and religious studies. Published by the European Journal Philosophy Religion, this journal serves as an essential resource for scholars interested in exploring the intricate relationship between philosophical inquiry and religious thought. With an impressive 2023 Scopus Ranking, positioning it in the 80th percentile for Religious Studies and 69th percentile for Philosophy, the journal reflects a robust academic influence in its fields. This UK-based publication, operating out of the University of Innsbruck's Institute of Christian Philosophy, offers a Q3 category ranking, indicating its significance in ongoing scholarly discussions. Although currently not open access, the European Journal for Philosophy of Religion provides valuable insights and is a critical venue for researchers, professionals, and students who are eager to engage with contemporary philosophical debates surrounding religion.

Politics Religion & Ideology

Fostering Insight into the Dynamics of Belief and Authority
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2156-7689Frequency: 4 issues/year

Politics Religion & Ideology, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a leading academic journal dedicated to exploring the intricate relationships between politics, religion, and societal ideologies. With an ISSN of 2156-7689 and E-ISSN of 2156-7697, this journal offers a crucial platform for researchers and scholars to disseminate their findings and engage in meaningful dialogue within these fields. Since its inception in 2011 and continuing through 2024, Politics Religion & Ideology has garnered recognition for its significant contribution to the exploration of contemporary issues, currently holding a Q1 rank in Philosophy and Religious Studies, highlighting its importance in these disciplines. Researchers will find the journal's articles insightful and thought-provoking, significantly enhancing their academic endeavors. While it does not offer open access, the journal remains a cherished resource for professionals and students alike, offering vital perspectives and fostering a deeper understanding of the role of religion and ideology in shaping political landscapes.

TEMENOS

Unveiling the Nuances of Global Religions
Publisher: FINNISH SOC STUDY RELIGIONISSN: 0497-1817Frequency: 2 issues/year

TEMENOS, a respected journal in the field of Religious Studies, is published by the Finnish Society for the Study of Religion and has been a pivotal platform for scholarly discourse since its inception. With an ISSN of 0497-1817 and a commendable ranking of #77 out of 644 in the Scopus Arts and Humanities category, TEMENOS stands out in the 88th percentile, demonstrating its academic rigor and impact. The journal, categorized in the Q2 quartile for 2023, focuses on the comparative study of religions, fostering an understanding of diverse belief systems, practices, and philosophical implications. Currently based in Finland, at the University of Turku's Department of Comparative Religion, TEMENOS offers a platform for innovative research and critical analysis, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students eager to delve into the complexities of religion in modern society. Although it is not an open-access publication, the journal's rich content and scholarly contributions are invaluable for those seeking to engage deeply with current developments in the field.

Cultura y Religion

Unveiling the cultural dimensions of religious practices.
Publisher: UNIV ARTURO PRAT, INST ESTUDIOS INDIGENASISSN: 0718-5472Frequency: 2 issues/year

Cultura y Religión is a pioneering academic journal dedicated to exploring the intersections of culture and religion within various socio-cultural contexts. Published by the Universidad Arturo Prat's Instituto de Estudios Indígenas, this journal has been an invaluable resource for researchers, professionals, and students since its inception, adopting an Open Access model since 2007 to enhance the dissemination of knowledge. With an ISSN of 0718-5472 and an E-ISSN of 0718-4727, this journal aims to provide a multidisciplinary platform for the examination of religious practices, beliefs, and their cultural implications, particularly in indigenous contexts. Situated in Iquique, Tarapacá, Chile, Cultura y Religión plays a critical role in enriching the academic discourse and fostering a deeper understanding of the cultural dimensions of religion, making it a must-read for those invested in cultural studies, anthropology, and religious studies.

Journal of Beliefs & Values-Studies in Religion & Education

Exploring the Intersection of Faith and Learning
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1361-7672Frequency: 3 issues/year

The Journal of Beliefs & Values - Studies in Religion & Education is a pivotal interdisciplinary publication that delves into the complex relationship between religious beliefs and educational practices. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this esteemed journal offers a platform for rigorous research, insightful commentary, and in-depth analyses that contribute to the fields of both education and religious studies. Since its inception in 1984, the journal has grown to encompass a diverse range of topics, making significant contributions to the discourse around faith, values, and their influence on educational paradigms. With a commendable Q1 ranking in Religious Studies and a Q3 ranking in Education as of 2023, it hosts high-impact articles that are ranked in the top percentile of Scopus metrics. The journal is published in the UK and holds an important place for researchers, educators, and policymakers seeking to understand the interplay of religious beliefs and educational frameworks. By providing high-quality, scholarly articles, the Journal of Beliefs & Values continues to facilitate essential conversations that shape both academic inquiry and practical applications in educational settings.

REVIEW OF RELIGIOUS RESEARCH

Bridging Traditions and Contemporary Thought
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0034-673XFrequency: 4 issues/year

REVIEW OF RELIGIOUS RESEARCH, published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS INC, is a premier, peer-reviewed journal that plays a pivotal role in advancing the fields of Religious Studies and Philosophy. With an impressive categorization in the Q1 quartile for both disciplines in 2023, this journal stands out in the arts and humanities, supported by its notable Scopus rankings—18th out of 644 in Religious Studies and 78th out of 806 in Philosophy—placing it in the top percentiles (97th and 90th, respectively). Emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches, the journal promotes scholarly dialogue through its comprehensive analysis of religious phenomena, theological developments, and moral questions stemming from varied cultural contexts. With publishing years extending back to 1977, the journal has consistently provided a robust platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike, who seek to explore the complex relationships between religion, society, and philosophy. As a crucial resource in understanding contemporary religious dynamics, REVIEW OF RELIGIOUS RESEARCH invites contributions that are insightful, well-researched, and thought-provoking, making it an essential publication for anyone invested in the study of religion today.

International Journal for the Psychology of Religion

Advancing Understanding of Religion through Psychology
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1050-8619Frequency: 4 issues/year

Welcome to the International Journal for the Psychology of Religion, a leading academic platform dedicated to the exploration of the intricate relationship between psychological processes and religious beliefs. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this esteemed journal serves as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students in the fields of psychology and religious studies. With an impressive impact factor and a robust Scopus ranking, including a Q1 classification in Religious Studies and a Q2 in miscellaneous Psychology categories, it stands out for its rigorous academic contributions. The journal's scope has evolved over the years, maintaining its relevance since its inception in 1991 and continuing to present innovative research through 2024. While primarily subscription-based, it encourages submissions that push the boundaries of understanding in both disciplines. Engage with cutting-edge studies that illuminate the psychological dimensions of religious practices, belief systems, and their impacts on human behavior.

Religion Brain & Behavior

Bridging Mind, Belief, and Behavior
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2153-599XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Religion Brain & Behavior is a premier journal in the domains of Experimental and Cognitive Psychology and Religious Studies, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd. With an impressive Q1 ranking in Religious Studies and Q2 ranking in Experimental and Cognitive Psychology for 2023, this journal is recognized for its pivotal role in advancing the interdisciplinary study of the interactions between religion, brain function, and behavior. The journal's rigorous peer-review process ensures the publication of high-quality research that contributes significantly to our understanding of cognitive processes as influenced by religious belief and practice. With its notable Scopus ranking placing it in the top 2% of journals in Religious Studies, and the accessibility to a diverse range of scholarly works, Religion Brain & Behavior is an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to explore the complexities of religion and cognition in a scholarly context. It is based in the United Kingdom, operating from its headquarters at 2-4 Park Square, Milton Park, Abingdon.

Numen-Revista de Estudos e Pesquisa da Religiao

Bridging Cultures through the Lens of Religion
Publisher: UNIV FEDERAL JUIZ FORA, INST CIENCIAS HUMANASISSN: 1516-1021Frequency: 2 issues/year

Numen-Revista de Estudos e Pesquisa da Religião is a distinguished academic journal dedicated to the multifaceted study of religion, published by the Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, specifically within the Institute of Human Sciences. With its ISSN 1516-1021 and E-ISSN 2236-6296, this journal serves as an essential platform for scholars and researchers interested in exploring diverse aspects of religious studies, including theological, sociological, and anthropological perspectives. Although the journal currently does not offer open access, it provides a rich repository of peer-reviewed articles aimed at advancing the understanding of religious phenomena across cultural contexts. Located in Brazil, the journal aims to foster academic discourse and contribute to the global conversation on religion, drawing connections between local practices and global trends. The absence of H-index and quartile rankings does not detract from its significance; rather, it invites emerging researchers to contribute valuable insights to this evolving field.

Journal of Religion in Europe

Connecting Historical Contexts with Contemporary Issues
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 1874-8910Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Journal of Religion in Europe is a prestigious academic publication dedicated to exploring the intricate relationships between religion and European society. Published by BRILL, one of the world’s foremost publishers in the humanities, this journal holds a remarkable Q1 ranking in Religious Studies and is positioned in the 77th percentile of Scopus ranks, underscoring its significance in the field. With a focus on interdisciplinary research, the journal covers topics ranging from historical analyses to contemporary issues relating to religion across Europe. Although it operates under a traditional subscription model, readers can access a wealth of peer-reviewed articles that seek to advance scholarly discourse. The Journal of Religion in Europe serves as an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of religion in a rapidly changing European landscape.