The SAGE Encyclopedia of the Sociology of Religion takes a three-pronged look at this, namely investigating the role of religion in society; unpacking and evaluating the significance of religion in and on human history; and tracing and outlining the social forces and influences that shape religion.  This encyclopedia covers a range of themes from:

• fundamental topics like definitions

• secularization

• dimensions of religiosity to such emerging issues as civil religion

• new religious movements

This Encyclopedia also addresses contemporary dilemmas such as fundamentalism and extremism and the role of gender in religion.