The Anthropology of Religion, Magic, and Witchcraft (4th Edition)

The Anthropology of Religion, Magic, and Witchcraft provides a concise and accessible introduction to the anthropological study of religious practices and beliefs. Rebecca L. Stein examines religious expression through a cross-cultural lens, exposing students to the diverse and complex nature of world religions. By integrating key theoretical concepts with a rich array of ethnographic material, this text offers a comprehensive foundation for understanding how different cultures navigate the supernatural.

The fourth edition features updated content and expanded discussions on critical contemporary issues, including:

• Increased coverage of new religious movements and fundamentalism.
• In-depth analysis of the relationship between religion, conflict, and violence.
• Fresh case studies and ethnographic examples drawn from diverse global contexts.
• Theoretical frameworks that bridge classical anthropological thought with modern perspectives.

This book remains an essential resource for students encountering the anthropology of religion for the first time, providing the tools necessary to analyze the role of magic, witchcraft, and spirituality in human society.