Shopping for Faith is as good as it gets in assessing the U.S. religion scene at millennium's end. Cimino and Lattin present a picture of multiple trends headed in often contradictory directions. - Robert Ellwood , emeritus professor of religion, University of Southern California American religion flourishes in a consumer culture, and presents us with a bewildering array of choices as we navigate the shopping mall of faith. The authors identify dozens of trends which will shape American religion in the next century and bring together the latest research and intimate portraits of Americans describing their beliefs, their religious heritage, and their spiritual search. With warmth and style the authors document how consumerism shapes religious practice -- from conservative evangelical worship to the most esoteric New Age workshop.
Change often takes ten years to happen so the authors views seem to be occurring in 2007-2008. In the 80's and into the 90's mega churches were the ones that attracted the middle class folk. Well educated, 'religious' folks have been pretty consistent on not joining any church. And then there is the big group of 'religious' folk who having as an example attended a Catholic school and church still treasures the rituals on occasion but is more akin to Buddhism and Quaker ways of life. Walk the talk living. Also don't overlook how the economy drives peoples beliefs. A recession often brings about simple living beliefs which is attractive to those who are Buddhist, Quaker, small town churches with social justice mode. A book well worth reading.
Informative analysis of today's American religious scene
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
This book, written in 1998, takes an objective look at the varieties of religious expression in America at the end of the 20th century and projects the observed trends into the new millennium. This is good information for anyone to have, whether one is a "seeker", a casual observer, or a devoted follower of a particular religion. It covers the "mix-and-match" religious experiences that are popular in some areas as well as the tradional religions who are embracing new methodology to impact today's society. The influence of religion in the social and political arenas is also addressed quite extensively. One subject the authors glossed over a little too quickly is the impact of televangelism and the effect it has on religious beliefs and practices. For good or for ill, televangelism has a much greater impact, at least in America's heartland, than the authors indicate. Otherwise, this book is very comprehensive and never ceases to be interesting.
Exploring faith has many avenues
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
Terrific book at identifying why our search for faith and spiritual life has taken so many different roads. Influenced by the world events, yet still desiring a faith to guide us and make sense of our spiritual side. This book will help people to explore options and understand why they may have had some different feelings about their spirit along the way. The CD that comes with the book helps keep the explorations fresh.
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