JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF RELIGION
Scope & Guideline
Transforming Religious Studies Through Empirical Excellence
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Empirical Research on Religion:
The journal prioritizes empirical studies that provide quantitative and qualitative insights into religious behaviors, beliefs, and institutions. - Interdisciplinary Approaches:
Research published in the journal often intersects with sociology, psychology, political science, and cultural studies, fostering a comprehensive understanding of religious phenomena. - 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. - 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. - 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.
Trending and Emerging
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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
Journal of Religion in Japan
Advancing Understanding of Faith in JapanJournal of Religion in Japan, published by BRILL, is a premier academic journal that explores the multifaceted dimensions of religion within the context of Japan. With an ISSN of 2211-8330 and an E-ISSN of 2211-8349, this journal boasts a remarkable position in the field, holding a Q1 ranking in Religious Studies and a commendable 85th percentile ranking in Scopus, indicating its significant impact and recognition among scholars. Covering pivotal themes such as the interplay between tradition and modernity in Japanese religious practices, the journal serves as a critical resource for researchers, professionals, and students, providing in-depth analyses, cutting-edge research findings, and thoughtful discussions. The journal's availability from 2012 to 2024 showcases its commitment to continuous exploration and engagement in religious studies, offering invaluable insights into the dynamic landscape of religion in contemporary Japan.
European Journal for Philosophy of Religion
Cultivating Insightful Perspectives on Religion and PhilosophyEuropean 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.
Journal of Beliefs & Values-Studies in Religion & Education
Illuminating the Ties Between Beliefs and PedagogyThe 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.
International Journal for the Psychology of Religion
Illuminating the Psychological Dimensions of BeliefWelcome 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 and Society-Advances in Research
Exploring the Intersections of Faith and SocietyReligion and Society-Advances in Research is a distinguished journal published by BERGHAHN JOURNALS, focusing on the multifaceted relationship between religion and societal dynamics. With an ISSN of 2150-9298 and E-ISSN 2150-9301, this journal has earned its reputation within the realm of Religious Studies, achieving an impressive Q1 ranking as of 2023, which places it among the top quartile of scholarly journals in its category. It features comprehensive research on various aspects of religion in contemporary society, making it a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to explore this dynamic field. Since transitioning to Open Access in 2020, the journal enhances its commitment to disseminating knowledge widely, fostering greater academic dialogue and outreach. The journal's emphasis on advancing rigorous scholarship, alongside its Scopus rank of #146/644 with a 77th percentile standing amongst peers in the Arts and Humanities, highlights its significant contributions to ongoing conversations in religious studies. Based in Brooklyn, NY, the journal welcomes submissions that deepen our understanding of the roles religions play in shaping societies today.
International Journal of Latin American Religions
Connecting Cultures through the Lens of ReligionInternational Journal of Latin American Religions, published by SpringerNature, is a leading peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing the understanding of religious practices, beliefs, and developments across Latin America. Since its inception in 2017, the journal has established a prominent position in critical fields, earning distinguished Q1 and Q2 rankings in History, Religious Studies, and Anthropology, which reflects its commitment to high-quality scholarship and research influence. With a Scopus rank that places it within the top percentiles of its discipline, the journal offers an integrative platform for scholars and practitioners to explore the diverse tapestry of Latin American religions. The Open Access model promotes greater visibility and accessibility of research findings, fostering collaborations among a global audience. This journal plays a pivotal role in synthesizing academic discourse and fostering innovative research, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students passionate about the intricate interplay of culture, history, and spirituality in Latin America.
Journal of Religion Media and Digital Culture
Transforming Perspectives on Religion through Digital CultureThe Journal of Religion Media and Digital Culture, published by BRILL, is a premier open-access academic journal that dives into the intersections of religion, media, and digital culture. Since its inception in 2014, it has established itself within the Q1 quartile of Religious Studies, holding an impressive ranking of #133 out of 644 in Scopus, placing it in the 79th percentile among its peers. The journal aims to facilitate critical discourse and innovative scholarship, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students interested in the dynamic ways that digital media influences religious practices and beliefs globally. With a commitment to high-quality research, the journal invites contributions that explore diverse methodologies and perspectives, as the impact of digital culture continues to reshape the landscape of religious communication. Located in Leiden, Netherlands, the journal addresses a broad international audience, promoting accessibility and inclusiveness in scholarship. Explore the rich contents of the Journal of Religion Media and Digital Culture to enrich your understanding and contributions to this evolving field.
Religion Brain & Behavior
Decoding the Interplay Between Faith and Neural FunctionReligion 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.
REVER-Revista de Estudos da Religiao
Engaging Cultures, Contexts, and SpiritualityREVER - Revista de Estudos da Religião, published by the esteemed Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo, is a leading journal dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of religion, examining its interactions within cultural, social, and historical contexts. With its ISSN 1677-1222, the journal aims to foster dialogue among scholars, practitioners, and students, making significant contributions to the field of religious studies. Although Open Access options are not provided, REVER ensures the dissemination of high-quality research that adheres to rigorous academic standards. Researchers and professionals will find value in its rich array of articles, which encompass theoretical, empirical, and applied perspectives on religion and spirituality, thereby enhancing understanding and critical engagement with these vital areas of human experience. Situated in the vibrant city of São Paulo, Brazil, the journal also emphasizes regional studies while fostering global discourse, making it an indispensable resource in the field.
Journal of Media and Religion
Exploring the Intersection of Faith and MediaThe Journal of Media and Religion is a leading interdisciplinary journal dedicated to exploring the complex interactions between media and religion. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this journal serves as a critical platform for researchers and practitioners within the fields of communication and religious studies. With an impressive impact factor and a distinguished ranking—placing it in the top quartile for Religious Studies and the second quartile for Communication—Journal of Media and Religion showcases high-quality research that enhances our understanding of how media influences religious practices and vice versa. The journal has been converging insightful contributions from 2010 to 2024, fostering scholarly dialogue and innovative methodologies. As an essential resource for academics, professionals, and students alike, it promotes open access to groundbreaking studies, facilitating the exchange of ideas that shape both fields.