0 Introduction 1 Beliefs 2 Social Organization 3 Individual and Family Practices 4 Group Practices 5 Myths and Historical Origins 6 Literary Origins and Influences 7 Social and Charismatic Influences 8 Denominations 9 Ethics and Politics 10 Current Issues 11 Research in Pagan Studies 13 Glossary 14 Bibliography 15 Index
Barbara Jane Davy holds a Ph.D. in religion from Concordia University, Montreal. She has been engaged in the academic study of Paganism for ten years, and has written articles on Paganism, shamanism, and nature religion ritual studies, environmental ethics, and the philosophy of Emmanuel Levinas in journals and encyclopedias. She currently serves as President of the Environmental Studies Association of Canada and has been an active member of the Nature Religion Scholars Network within the American Academy of Religion since 1997.
In this refreshingly grounded, balanced, informative, thorough and
equitable work, Paganism comes of age with Barb Davy's Introduction
to Pagan Studies. The book discusses Paganism through the
categories of theology, cosmology, social organization, ritual
practices and historical origins in a comprehensive yet engaging
manner that will appeal to insiders and outsiders alike. Davy has
successfully chronicled Pagan growth from new religious movement to
a world religion - especially its denominational tendency. In
short, by exploring the multiple nuances of Paganism, this is the
book for which everyone has been waiting.
*Michael York, Bath Spa University*
This book provides a detailed and fascinating introduction to the
varied worlds of contemporary Paganism. While some might dismiss
the rise of nature religions as a fad, Davy skillfully excavates
the origins of the movement, as well the multiple streams that have
woven their way across the religious landscape. She offers a
valuable contribution to the emerging study of contemporary
Paganism.
*Professor Douglas E. Cowan, Renison College, University of
Waterloo*
An essential overview and distillation of current academic thought
concerning the history, beliefs, and practices of modern Paganism.
Accessible and written as an introductory textbook, Davy provides
an excellent starting point to people wanting to know more about
Paganism, and to Pagans wanting to explore the burgeoning realm of
Pagan Studies. Highly recommended.
*The Wild Hunt Blog*
Davy...has crafted a fine text to support undergraduate scholarly
study of this religion...of particular interest are the sections on
literary influences, origins, ethics, current issues, and
research...This book will be excellent for courses in religious
studies, sociology, and cultural studies. Summing Up: Highly
Recommended. All levels.
*CHOICE*
This book is invaluable to teachers and students and a critical
addition to every Pagan's library. Introduction to Pagan Studies
gives the reader a solid understanding of the diverse and
complicated collection of beliefs, practices, and issues involved
in the many religious traditions that fall under the banner of
contemporary Pagnism, and operates as a springboard to deeper study
and research.
*Newwitch*
Barbara Davy's excellent introduction to the study of Paganism
offers a clear view of the state of academic knowledge about
Paganism, anticipates areas of growing interest, and skilfully
enables readers to reflect on approaches to this and other
religions. This accessible book will be of value to anyone
interested in Paganism and to anyone interested in the study of
religions.
*Dr. Graham Harvey, Religious Studies, Open University, UK*
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