Phenomenology of Religion

Phenomenology of religion is one of the most important as well as one of the most controversial paradigms in the modern study of religion. Because of its wide-reaching influence, one cannot ignore it, but it is rare for discussions of it to avoid polemics. And yet, despite its polemicized position, phenomenology has not faded away.This volume presents a complete overview of the phenomenology of religion from its very beginnings up until today, also including the most significant criticisms. Over twenty-five noteworthy texts present the development of the phenomenological paradigm from its earliest significant representatives (such as Chantepie de la Saussaye and van der Leeuw) to the mid-20th century classics (Eliade and Widengren). It also moves beyond these to highlight the most significant critics (such as Hans Penner and Gavin Flood) and the most important contemporary phenomenological scholars (such as Thomas Csordas and James L. Cox).Together, this collection presents the complete intellectual history of the phenomenology of religion in the variety of forms in which it has been discussed and implemented in the study of religion.