SOCIAL COMPASS

Scope & Guideline

Bridging Disciplines to Uncover Social Truths

Introduction

Explore the comprehensive scope of SOCIAL COMPASS through our detailed guidelines, including its aims and scope. Stay updated with trending and emerging topics, and delve into declining areas to understand shifts in academic interest. Our guidelines also showcase highly cited topics, featuring influential research making a significant impact. Additionally, discover the latest published papers and those with high citation counts, offering a snapshot of current scholarly conversations. Use these guidelines to explore SOCIAL COMPASS in depth and align your research initiatives with current academic trends.
LanguageMulti-Language
ISSN0037-7686
PublisherSAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1953 to 1957, from 1959 to 1960, 1962, 1965, 1967, from 1969 to 1970, from 1972 to 1974, from 1985 to 2024
AbbreviationSOC COMPASS / Soc. Compass
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address1 OLIVERS YARD, 55 CITY ROAD, LONDON EC1Y 1SP, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Social Compass' is dedicated to the interdisciplinary exploration of social aspects of religion, spirituality, and secularism. Its aim is to foster dialogue across various fields, including sociology, anthropology, and religious studies, while focusing on contemporary issues and global contexts.
  1. Interdisciplinary Studies of Religion:
    The journal emphasizes the intersection of religion with other social phenomena, encouraging contributions that analyze religious practices, beliefs, and identities through various disciplinary lenses.
  2. Global Perspectives on Religiosity:
    It seeks to understand and document diverse religious experiences and transformations across different cultural and geographical contexts, reflecting on how globalization affects local religious practices.
  3. Exploration of Secularism and Non-Religion:
    A significant focus is placed on secularism and the experiences of non-religious individuals and groups, examining how these identities interact with traditional religious frameworks.
  4. Methodological Innovations:
    'Social Compass' promotes the use of innovative and reflexive methodologies in studying religion, spirituality, and secularism, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method approaches.
  5. Engagement with Contemporary Social Issues:
    The journal addresses pressing social issues such as gender, sexuality, environmentalism, and political movements, exploring how these intersect with religious beliefs and practices.
  6. Youth and Religion:
    A notable emphasis is placed on the exploration of youth engagement with religion and spirituality, particularly how younger generations navigate their identities in a changing social landscape.
  7. Religious Diversity and Pluralism:
    The journal examines the dynamics of religious pluralism and the coexistence of multiple faiths within societies, focusing on interfaith dialogues and conflicts.
In recent years, 'Social Compass' has seen a rise in interest in several innovative and timely themes that reflect the changing landscape of religion and spirituality in contemporary society. These emerging areas are indicative of the journal's responsiveness to global trends and social issues.
  1. Environmental Spirituality:
    Recent publications increasingly explore the intersection of spirituality and environmental issues, reflecting a growing recognition of the role that religious beliefs play in environmental activism and eco-theology.
  2. Intersectionality in Religious Studies:
    There is a marked trend towards examining intersectional identities within religious contexts, particularly how gender, sexuality, and race influence religious experiences and practices.
  3. Youth Activism and Religion:
    The journal is witnessing an upsurge in research focused on young people's activism within religious contexts, highlighting how youth engage with social justice issues, including climate change and LGBTQ+ rights.
  4. Transnational Religious Movements:
    Emerging themes include the study of transnational religious movements and their impact on local cultures, reflecting the globalized nature of contemporary religious practice.
  5. Spirituality in Crisis Contexts:
    There is an increasing focus on how spirituality manifests in crisis situations (e.g., pandemics, migration), examining the role of faith in coping mechanisms and community resilience.
  6. Digital Religion:
    The exploration of how digital technologies affect religious practice and community formation is gaining traction, with studies examining online religious communities and digital expressions of faith.

Declining or Waning

While 'Social Compass' continues to explore a broad range of themes, certain topics have shown signs of declining prominence in recent publications. These waning areas reflect shifts in the focus of the journal's contributors and the evolving landscape of religious studies.
  1. Traditional Religious Authority:
    There has been a noticeable decline in papers that focus on established religious authorities and institutions. The journal's recent issues have shifted towards more grassroots and lived experiences of religion, moving away from traditional hierarchical structures.
  2. Historical Analysis of Religions:
    Themes centered around historical analysis of specific religions, particularly those that do not connect to contemporary issues, are less frequently represented. The focus has shifted towards current social dynamics and their implications for religious practices.
  3. Exclusively Theoretical Discussions:
    Papers that solely engage in theoretical discourse without empirical grounding are becoming less common. The journal is increasingly favoring research that combines theory with practical case studies and real-world implications.
  4. Static Views of Secularism:
    Contributions that depict secularism as a fixed or unchanging phenomenon are declining. Instead, the journal is increasingly interested in the dynamic and fluid nature of secular identities and practices.
  5. Focus on Major World Religions:
    There is a waning interest in studies that focus exclusively on major world religions (e.g., Christianity, Islam, Judaism) without considering the broader context of syncretism and emerging spiritual movements.

Similar Journals

Religious Studies Review

Illuminating Insights in Religious Discourse
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0319-485XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Religious Studies Review is a prestigious academic journal published by WILEY, serving as a critical platform for scholarly discourse in the field of religious studies. With an ISSN of 0319-485X and an E-ISSN of 1748-0922, the journal has played an influential role in the academic community since its inception, showcasing rigorous research, book reviews, and critical essays that explore various aspects of religion and spirituality. Despite its current categorization as Q4 in the 2023 quartiles, it has a history of sharing valuable insights that provoke thought and foster dialogue among researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal has undergone several convergence years, indicating its adaptability and ongoing relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of religious studies. While it does not currently offer open access, the wealth of knowledge contained within its pages makes it an essential resource for anyone engaged in the study of religion, particularly in the context of contemporary societal issues. Located at 111 River St, Hoboken, NJ, this journal continues to contribute to the academic discourse through its comprehensive reviews and analyses, solidifying its position as a must-read publication in the field.

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.

Journal of Religion in Europe

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of European Beliefs
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.

JOURNAL OF CHURCH AND STATE

Exploring the Intersection of Faith and Governance
Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESSISSN: 0021-969XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Journal of Church and State is a leading interdisciplinary journal dedicated to the exploration of the complex relationships between religion and government, published by Oxford University Press. With an ISSN of 0021-969X and an impressive E-ISSN of 2040-4867, this journal serves as an essential platform for scholars in the fields of History, Religious Studies, and Sociology and Political Science. Recognized for its scholarly contributions, it holds a prestigious Q1 ranking in both History and Religious Studies, positioning it among the top journals in these disciplines for 2023. The journal’s robust scope spans historical perspectives, contemporary debates, and critical analyses related to church-state interactions, making it indispensable for researchers, professionals, and students alike. With access options that reflect its academic integrity, the Journal of Church and State continues to enrich scholarly discourse and foster a deeper understanding of religious influences on governance and vice versa.

Nordic Journal of Religion and Society

Connecting Theory and Practice in Nordic Religious Studies
Publisher: SCANDINAVIAN UNIV PRESS-UNIVERSITETSFORLAGET ASISSN: 0809-7291Frequency: 2 issues/year

The Nordic Journal of Religion and Society is a leading academic journal dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of religion within societal contexts, published by Scandinavian University Press - Universitetsforlaget AS. With its ISSN 0809-7291 and E-ISSN 1890-7008, this journal proudly occupies a significant position in the field, reflected by its Q2 ranking in Religious Studies (2023) and a commendable Scopus percentile of 77, ranking 147 out of 644 in its category. The Nordic Journal of Religion and Society aims to publish high-quality, original research that explores how religious beliefs and practices intersect with societal transformations across the Nordic context. The journal emphasizes the importance of diverse methodological approaches and theoretical frameworks, fostering scholarly dialogue that enhances understanding of contemporary socio-religious phenomena. Though it operates under a subscription model, the journal’s commitment to academic excellence makes it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students keen on advancing knowledge within this dynamic and evolving field.

JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF RELIGION

Innovative Insights into the Science of Religion
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0021-8294Frequency: 4 issues/year

JOURNAL FOR THE SCIENTIFIC STUDY OF RELIGION is a leading academic journal published by Wiley, dedicated to advancing the field of religious studies through rigorous empirical research and theoretical exploration. With an impressive impact factor and ranking in the Q1 category for Religious Studies, this journal has established itself as a vital resource for scholars, researchers, and students alike, positioning itself at the forefront of the discipline. Since its inception in 1977, it has provided a platform for innovative studies that explore the complexities of religion and its role in society, culture, and individual behavior. The journal is recognized among the top-tier publications in the field, holding a remarkable rank (#7 out of 644) in Scopus, reflecting the high standards of scholarship and research it publishes. Despite its non-open access nature, the journal is committed to disseminating valuable insights and fostering academic dialogue among professionals passionate about the scientific study of religion.

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 Contemporary Religion

Advancing Scholarly Discourse on Religion Today
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1353-7903Frequency: 3 issues/year

Journal of Contemporary Religion is an esteemed academic journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, situated in the United Kingdom. With a strong focus on the dynamic interplay between religion and contemporary issues, this journal provides a vital platform for interdisciplinary scholarship, bringing together perspectives from cultural studies, philosophy, and religious studies. The journal, which has been a contributing voice in its field since 1995, boasts impressive 2023 Scopus rankings, placed in the first quartile of its categories—ranking #66/644 in Religious Studies and #278/1304 in Cultural Studies, reflecting its high impact and relevance. Researchers and academics will find access to a wealth of original research, theoretical discourse, and critical analysis that challenges and expands the understanding of contemporary religious phenomena. Although not open access, the journal ensures rich content that engages a diverse readership, making it a pivotal resource for those at the forefront of religious studies scholarship.

Politics and Religion Journal

Advancing Understanding of Religion's Role in Society
Publisher: CENTER STUDY RELIGION & RELIGIOUS TOLERANCEISSN: 1820-6581Frequency: 2 issues/year

Politics and Religion Journal, published by the CENTER STUDY RELIGION & RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE in Serbia, stands as a pivotal platform for scholarly dialogue at the intersection of political science, sociology, and religious studies. Established as an Open Access journal since 2007, it provides unrestricted access to research findings, fostering a comprehensive understanding of how religion influences political dynamics across various cultures and societies. With ISSN 1820-6581 and E-ISSN 1820-659X, the journal has consistently contributed to the academic discourse, evident in its ranking within the 63rd percentile for Religious Studies and 22nd percentile for Sociology and Political Science, according to Scopus metrics. The journal aims to present innovative research, critical essays, and reviews that examine the nuanced relationships between faith, governance, and societal norms, ultimately enhancing the dialogue among researchers, professionals, and students globally.

International Journal of Latin American Religions

Connecting Cultures through the Lens of Religion
Publisher: SPRINGERNATUREISSN: 2509-9957Frequency: 2 issues/year

International 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.