The Routledge Companion to the Study of Religion is a major resource for courses in Religious Studies. It begins by explaining the most important methodological approaches to religion, including psychology, philosophy, anthropology and comparative study, before moving on to explore a wide variety of critical issues, such as gender, science, fundamentalism, ritual, and new religious movements. Written by renowned international specialists, this new edition includes eight new chapters, including post-structuralism, religion and economics, religion and the environment, religion and popular culture, and sacred space; surveys the history of religious studies and the key disciplinary approaches; explains why the study of religion is relevant in today's world; highlights contemporary issues such as globalization, diaspora and politics; includes annotated reading lists, a glossary and summaries of key points to assist student learning.