SOCIOLOGY OF RELIGION

Scope & Guideline

Unraveling the Complex Tapestry of Religion and Society

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of SOCIOLOGY OF RELIGION with our guidelines, detailing its aims and scope. Our resource identifies emerging and trending topics paving the way for new academic progress. We also provide insights into declining or waning topics, helping you stay informed about changing research landscapes. Evaluate highly cited topics and recent publications within these guidelines to align your work with influential scholarly trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1069-4404
PublisherOXFORD UNIV PRESS INC
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1964 to 1975, from 1977 to 1978, from 1980 to 1984, from 1986 to 1994, 1996, from 1998 to 2001, from 2005 to 2024
AbbreviationSOCIOL RELIG / Sociol. Relig.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressJOURNALS DEPT, 2001 EVANS RD, CARY, NC 27513

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Sociology of Religion' aims to explore the complex interactions between religion and social dynamics, focusing on how religious beliefs and practices shape, and are shaped by, societal structures and cultural contexts. It adopts a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating perspectives from sociology, anthropology, political science, and cultural studies to investigate various dimensions of religion in contemporary society.
  1. Intersections of Religion and Identity:
    This area examines how religion interacts with various identity markers such as race, gender, sexuality, and nationality, exploring the implications of these intersections for individual and collective identities.
  2. Religious Practices and Beliefs:
    A focus on the lived experiences of individuals within their religious contexts, analyzing how beliefs manifest in everyday practices and rituals, and how these practices are influenced by broader social forces.
  3. Religion and Social Movements:
    Investigating the role of religion in social movements, this area looks at how religious groups mobilize for social change, engage in activism, and influence political processes.
  4. Secularization and Nonreligion:
    This scope addresses the processes of secularization and the growing presence of nonreligious identities, exploring how these phenomena affect societal norms, values, and individual beliefs.
  5. Globalization and Religion:
    Analyzing the impact of globalization on religious practices and beliefs, this area explores how transnational movements and global interconnections influence local religious expressions.
  6. Religion, Politics, and Power:
    Examining the relationship between religion and political structures, this focus looks at how religious beliefs inform political ideologies and governance, as well as the implications for social justice and power dynamics.
The 'Sociology of Religion' journal reflects dynamic shifts in the study of religion, with several emerging themes gaining traction in recent publications. These trends indicate a responsiveness to contemporary societal issues and the evolving landscape of religious identity.
  1. Queer Theology and LGBTQ+ Issues:
    There is a notable increase in research addressing the intersection of religion and LGBTQ+ identities, highlighting how queer individuals navigate their faith and challenge traditional religious norms.
  2. Digital Religion and Online Communities:
    The rise of digital platforms for religious expression and community building is becoming a prominent area of study, reflecting the impact of technology on religious practices and identities.
  3. Religious Responses to Social Justice Issues:
    Emerging scholarship is exploring how various religious communities engage with social justice movements, reflecting a broader trend of faith-based activism in response to contemporary social challenges.
  4. Post-Secular Perspectives:
    Research is increasingly examining post-secular frameworks that consider the resurgence of spiritual and religious practices in contexts previously thought to be secularizing, indicating a complex interplay between secularization and religious revival.
  5. Global Religious Movements:
    Studies focusing on transnational religious movements and the global spread of religious ideas are gaining importance, reflecting the interconnectedness of religious practices across borders.

Declining or Waning

While the 'Sociology of Religion' journal covers a wide range of topics, certain themes have shown signs of declining prominence in recent years. This could be due to shifting societal interests or the emergence of new areas of inquiry that capture researchers' attention.
  1. Traditional Religious Authority:
    Research focusing on established religious authorities and institutions appears to be waning. This may reflect a broader societal trend towards questioning traditional forms of authority in favor of more decentralized or individualistic approaches to spirituality.
  2. Religious Exclusivism:
    The exploration of exclusivist religious ideologies, which assert the sole truth of one faith over others, is becoming less frequent. This decline may be linked to increasing pluralism and interfaith dialogue in contemporary society.
  3. Rural Religious Dynamics:
    Studies specifically centered on rural religious communities have decreased. As urbanization continues to rise, the focus has shifted more towards urban religious practices and the complexities of religious life in metropolitan areas.
  4. Interfaith Conflicts:
    Research specifically addressing interfaith conflicts and tensions has diminished, possibly overshadowed by a growing interest in collaboration and coexistence among diverse religious groups.

Similar Journals

Politics and Religion Journal

Navigating the Complexities of Governance and Belief Systems
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.

Journal of Contemporary Religion

Navigating the Complexities of Modern Belief
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.

Bilimname

Advancing Islamic Scholarship and Social Inquiry
Publisher: ILAHIYAT BILIMLERI ARASTIRMA VAKFIISSN: Frequency: 2 issues/year

Bilimname is a distinguished academic journal published by the ILAHIYAT BILIMLERI ARASTIRMA VAKFI, dedicated to advancing knowledge in the fields of Islamic studies, theology, and social sciences. With its E-ISSN: 2148-5860, this open-access journal provides a platform for researchers, scholars, and students alike to publish and share innovative ideas and groundbreaking research. While specific metrics such as H-Index and Scopus ranks are currently unavailable, Bilimname continues to foster academic discourse and engagement, making it an essential resource for individuals keen on exploring contemporary issues within its scope. Located in Kayseri, Turkey, the journal aims to bridge theoretical insights with practical applications, thereby contributing significantly to the academic community and shaping future research in relevant disciplines.

REVER-Revista de Estudos da Religiao

Connecting Scholars to the Heart of Religious Inquiry
Publisher: PONTIFICIA UNIV CATOLICA SAO PAULOISSN: 1677-1222Frequency: 3 issues/year

REVER - 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 RELIGION IN AFRICA

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of African Faiths
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 0022-4200Frequency: 4 issues/year

The JOURNAL OF RELIGION IN AFRICA, published by BRILL, serves as a pivotal academic platform dedicated to the exploration and analysis of religious practices, beliefs, and transformations across the African continent. Since its inception, the journal has developed a rich tapestry of scholarship that spans its convergence years from 1967 to 2024, with a particular focus on the historical and sociocultural dimensions of religion. Holding a distinguished position in its field, it ranks in the Q2 category in both History and Religious Studies for 2023, reflecting its significant impact and quality of research. With Scopus rankings placing it in the 69th percentile of Religious Studies, this journal is essential for researchers, students, and professionals interested in understanding the complexities of African religious dynamics. Although it is not an open-access journal, the rigorous peer-review process ensures that only high-quality manuscripts contribute to the ever-expanding discourse on religion in Africa. The journal's commitment to scholarly excellence makes it a vital resource for anyone seeking to engage deeply with the subject.

Religion State & Society

Pioneering Research on the Intersection of Faith and Governance
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0963-7494Frequency: 4 issues/year

Religion State & Society is a prestigious academic journal published by ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD, focusing on the intricate relationships between religion, state, and society. With an ISSN of 0963-7494 and an E-ISSN of 1465-3974, this journal serves as a vital platform for scholars and practitioners in the fields of Religious Studies, Sociology, and Political Science. As a testament to its impact, it holds a Q1 ranking in Religious Studies and a Q2 ranking in Sociology and Political Science as of 2023, reflecting its significant contribution to the academic discourse. Spanning from 1992 to 2024, the journal publishes empirical research, theoretical analyses, and critical reviews that illuminate the dynamic interplay between religion and societal structures. Located in the UK, this journal offers a unique perspective crucial for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to understand the role of religion in contemporary social and political contexts. Although it does not offer Open Access options, the journal's high Scopus rankings—the 33rd percentile in Religious Studies and the 546th in Sociology and Political Science—underscore its credibility and influence in the scholarly community.

Religioni e Societa-Rivista di Scienze Sociali della Religione

Exploring the Interplay Between Faith and Society
Publisher: FABRIZIO SERRA EDITOREISSN: 0394-9397Frequency: 3 issues/year

Religioni e Societa-Rivista di Scienze Sociali della Religione, published by FABRIZIO SERRA EDITORE, is a leading journal in the field of social sciences and religious studies, focusing on the intricate relationships between religion and society. With an ISSN of 0394-9397 and an E-ISSN of 1722-4705, this journal aims to advance scholarly discourse through the publication of high-quality research articles, thoughtful reviews, and discussions that explore the sociocultural dynamics of religion in contemporary contexts. Hailing from Pisa, Italy, the journal contributes to global conversations and offers insights that are crucial for researchers, professionals, and students interested in understanding the impact of religious beliefs and practices on social structures. Although it currently does not provide Open Access options, the journal encourages submissions that push the boundaries of knowledge within the realm of religious studies, making it a vital resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the interplay between faith and societal trends.

International Journal of Latin American Religions

Fostering Global Conversations on Latin American Faiths
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.

Critical Research on Religion

Illuminating the Intersection of Religion and Culture
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.

RELIGION AND AMERICAN CULTURE-A JOURNAL OF INTERPRETATION

Interpreting Religion's Role in Cultural Dynamics
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 1052-1151Frequency: 3 issues/year

Religion and American Culture: A Journal of Interpretation, published by Cambridge University Press, is an essential platform for scholars interested in the dynamic interplay between religion and various facets of American life. With its ISSN 1052-1151 and E-ISSN 1533-8568, this journal has been contributing to the fields of Cultural Studies and Religious Studies since its inception in 1991. It is recognized for its diverse and interdisciplinary approach, reflecting the complexities of religious practices and beliefs in the American context. Positioned in the Q4 quartile for Cultural Studies and Q3 for Religious Studies in 2023, the journal ranks #304/644 in Religious Studies and #766/1304 in Cultural Studies according to Scopus, indicating a growing influence among researchers and academics. Although it operates under a traditional subscription model, it continually seeks to publish innovative research that fosters greater understanding of the cultural implications of religion in America. As a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike, Religion and American Culture invites contributions that advance scholarly dialogue and interpretation within this significant area of study.