Religions

Scope & Guideline

Fostering Inclusive Dialogue on Global Spirituality

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of Religions with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN-
PublisherMDPI
Support Open AccessNo
Country-
Type-
Converge-
AbbreviationRELIGIONS / Religions
Frequency12 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressST ALBAN-ANLAGE 66, CH-4052 BASEL, SWITZERLAND

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Religions' encompasses a wide spectrum of research that critically examines the multifaceted nature of religious beliefs, practices, and their socio-cultural impacts. It seeks to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and offers a platform for innovative methodologies and theoretical frameworks.
  1. Interdisciplinary Approaches to Religion:
    The journal emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary methodologies, integrating perspectives from anthropology, sociology, history, and media studies to analyze religious phenomena.
  2. Cultural and Historical Contextualization:
    A consistent focus on the historical and cultural contexts of religious practices allows for a deeper understanding of how religions evolve and interact with societal changes.
  3. Exploration of Contemporary Issues:
    The journal addresses contemporary issues within religious contexts, such as secularism, pluralism, and the role of technology in religious practices, highlighting the relevance of religious studies in today’s world.
  4. Diverse Religious Traditions:
    'Religions' publishes research across a broad spectrum of religious traditions, including but not limited to Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, and indigenous belief systems, promoting a global perspective on religious studies.
  5. Rituals and Performance Studies:
    An interest in the performative aspects of religion, including rituals and their social implications, is a key focus, reflecting the dynamic nature of religious expressions.
The journal 'Religions' is currently experiencing a vibrant exploration of emerging themes that reflect the evolving landscape of religious studies. These trends indicate a growing interest in contemporary issues and diverse methodologies.
  1. Digital Religion and Media:
    Recent publications highlight the intersection of technology and religion, exploring how digital media shapes religious practices and community formations, reflecting the impact of the digital age on spirituality.
  2. Queer Activism and Religion:
    Themes surrounding queer identities and activism in relation to religious practices are increasingly prominent, suggesting a growing recognition of diverse sexual orientations within religious contexts.
  3. Environmental Perspectives in Religion:
    An emerging focus on the relationship between religion and environmental issues indicates an awareness of ecological crises and the role of religious narratives in addressing sustainability.
  4. Ritual Innovation and Adaptation:
    There is a rising interest in how traditional rituals adapt to modern contexts, showcasing the dynamic nature of religious practices and their ability to respond to contemporary challenges.
  5. Interreligious Dialogue and Pluralism:
    Research emphasizing the importance of interreligious dialogue and pluralistic approaches is on the rise, reflecting a commitment to understanding and promoting coexistence among diverse faiths.

Declining or Waning

While the journal continues to explore various themes, certain areas have shown a decline in focus over recent years. This shift may reflect broader trends in religious studies and societal changes.
  1. Traditional Religious Authority:
    There has been a noticeable decrease in papers addressing traditional forms of religious authority and dogma, suggesting a shift towards more fluid and personal interpretations of spirituality.
  2. Historical Narratives without Contemporary Relevance:
    Themes centered purely on historical narratives of religion that do not connect to contemporary issues or current debates appear to be waning, indicating a preference for relevance in modern contexts.
  3. Monolithic Views on Religion:
    Research that treats religions as monolithic entities rather than recognizing their internal diversities and complexities has become less prevalent, as the field increasingly acknowledges the pluralistic nature of faith.
  4. Static Ritual Practices:
    Attention to static or unchanging ritual practices has declined, as there is a growing interest in how rituals adapt and transform in response to contemporary societal pressures.
  5. Western-Centric Perspectives:
    The journal has seen a reduction in publications that focus solely on Western religious traditions or perspectives, reflecting a broader shift towards inclusivity and representation of global religious contexts.

Similar Journals

TEMENOS

Exploring the Depths of Belief Systems
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.

Nova Religio-Journal of Alternative and Emergent Religions

Fostering Dialogue on Innovative Spiritual Practices
Publisher: UNIV CALIFORNIA PRESSISSN: 1092-6690Frequency: 2 issues/year

Nova Religio: Journal of Alternative and Emergent Religions, published by University of California Press, stands at the forefront of the exploration of contemporary religious movements, innovative spiritual practices, and the complexities of belief systems outside of mainstream religion. With an impressive Q1 ranking in the Religious Studies category and a position in the top 86th percentile within its field, this journal not only addresses the academic study of alternative religiosity but also fosters discussions on emergent phenomena that are reshaping spiritual landscapes globally. As a critical platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike, Nova Religio provides rigorous peer-reviewed articles and reviews, making significant contributions to our understanding of the dynamic interactions between religion, culture, and society. Although this journal does not offer Open Access options, it remains a crucial resource for anyone seeking to engage deeply with the evolving narratives within the realm of religious studies.

Fieldwork in Religion

Cultivating Knowledge in the Realm of Religion
Publisher: EQUINOX PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 1743-0615Frequency: 2 issues/year

Fieldwork in Religion, published by EQUINOX PUBLISHING LTD, stands as a pivotal platform for scholarly discourse within the dynamic field of Religious Studies. With an ISSN of 1743-0615 and an e-ISSN of 1743-0623, this esteemed journal, founded in 2014, has steadily gained recognition, achieving a Q2 ranking in the 2023 Scopus category for Religious Studies. Operating out of the United Kingdom, Fieldwork in Religion delves into the methodological and empirical dimensions of religious practice, exploring the complex interplay between fieldwork and religion through innovative research articles, case studies, and theoretical explorations. This journal is crucial for researchers, professionals, and students alike who are seeking to deepen their understanding of contemporary religious phenomena and fieldwork methodologies. While the journal currently does not offer open access options, its contributions are instrumental in shaping future dialogues and advancing academia in this field, fostering a collaborative environment for knowledge sharing among scholars.

Journal of Religion in Europe

Unveiling the Complex Tapestry of European Religions
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.

Estudos de Religiao

Connecting Scholars in the Study of Religion
Publisher: UNIV METODISTA SAO PAULOISSN: 0103-801XFrequency: 2 issues/year

Estudos de Religiao is a prestigious academic journal published by UNIV METODISTA SAO PAULO, dedicated to the study of religious phenomena, practices, and thought. Since its establishment in 2007, this open-access journal has served as a crucial platform for researchers, scholars, and students interested in exploring various aspects of religion, spirituality, and their socio-cultural impacts. With an ISSN of 0103-801X and an E-ISSN of 2176-1078, the journal aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and promote scholarly communication in the field of religious studies. The editorial team is committed to maintaining high academic standards and ensuring the visibility of research through a rigorous peer-review process. By providing free access to its content, Estudos de Religiao not only enhances the dissemination of knowledge but also encourages global collaboration among researchers interested in the complexities of religious life.

Journal for the Academic Study of Religion

Advancing Insights in Religious Studies
Publisher: EQUINOX PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 2047-704XFrequency: 3 issues/year

Journal for the Academic Study of Religion, published by EQUINOX PUBLISHING LTD, is a leading peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing knowledge in the field of religious studies. With an impressive impact factor representing its influential position within the Q1 quartile category, this journal features high-quality research that spans a range of topics in religion, spirituality, and their intersections with contemporary societal issues. Established in 2013, it continues to be an essential resource for scholars and practitioners alike, widely recognized for its rigorous academic standards and innovative contributions to the discipline. The journal is indexed in SCOPUS, holding a prestigious rank of #148 out of 644 in its category and placing in the 77th percentile. Researchers, professionals, and students interested in deepening their understanding of religious phenomena and their implications will find valuable insights and discussions within its pages. For more information and access options, authors and readers can refer to the journal's website.

Critical Research on Religion

Exploring the Complexities of Faith and Society
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 2050-3032Frequency: 3 issues/year

Critical Research on Religion is a premier academic journal dedicated to the exploration of religious phenomena, offering a critical lens on the complexities of religion in contemporary society. Published by SAGE Publications Inc in the United Kingdom, this journal serves as an essential resource for researchers, practitioners, and students in the field of Religious Studies. With an esteemed Q1 category ranking in 2023, it is positioned within the top 8% of journals, reflecting its significant contribution to the domain, as evidenced by its impressive Scopus Rank of #50 out of 644 in the Arts and Humanities field. Operating on a commitment to rigorous scholarship, the journal accepts articles that engage with theoretical frameworks and empirical research, encouraging interdisciplinary dialogue and insight. As a vital platform for critical discourse, Critical Research on Religion invites contributions that challenge conventional perspectives and deepen our understanding of religious practices, beliefs, and their socio-cultural implications. With a publication timeline spanning from 2013 to 2024, the journal is dedicated to fostering scholarly collaboration and knowledge dissemination.

Journal of Korean Religions

Connecting Tradition and Modernity in Korean Religions
Publisher: INST STUDY RELIGION, SOGANG UNIVISSN: 2093-7288Frequency: 2 issues/year

Journal of Korean Religions, an esteemed publication under the Institute for the Study of Religion at Sogang University, serves as a vital platform for scholarly dialogue and research in the field of Religious Studies. Established in 2010, this journal, with its ISSN 2093-7288 and E-ISSN 2167-2040, explores diverse aspects of Korean religions, offering insights into historical, cultural, and contemporary practices. As a Q4 category journal for 2023, it holds a respectable rank of #250 out of 644 within the Scopus database, placing it in the 61st percentile among its peers. While primarily focusing on religious phenomena in Korea, it also engages with broader theoretical discussions that resonate with global religious studies. Available in the United States and operating out of Seoul, South Korea, the Journal of Korean Religions embraces open access options, welcoming contributions from researchers, professionals, and students interested in advancing the discourse on religious studies. With a commitment to academic rigor and innovative research, this journal is essential for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the dynamic interplay between religion and society in Korea.

Cultura y Religion

Bridging cultures through the lens of spirituality.
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.

STUDIES IN RELIGION-SCIENCES RELIGIEUSES

Uncovering Insights into Religious Phenomena
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0008-4298Frequency: 4 issues/year

STUDIES IN RELIGION - SCIENCES RELIGIEUSES, published by SAGE Publications Ltd, serves as a premier platform for scholarly research in the field of Religious Studies, with an ISSN of 0008-4298 and an E-ISSN of 2042-0587. As a journal with a distinguished history dating back to 1971, it has established itself in the Q1 category of Religious Studies and ranks an impressive 173 out of 644 in Scopus, positioning itself in the 73rd percentile among its peers. The journal not only aims to disseminate innovative research that advances understanding of religious phenomena but also fosters critical dialogue among scholars, professionals, and students alike. Although it does not currently offer Open Access options, its rigorous peer-review process ensures that published articles meet the highest academic standards. Situated in the United States, the journal is committed to maintaining scholarly excellence and relevance in an ever-evolving field of study, making it an essential resource for anyone engaged in the academic exploration of religion.