Theories and Methods in the Study of Religions (Philosophico-Theological Appraisal Based on Socio-Psychological & Subaltern Concerns)

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About the Book The book discusses the methodological issues in the study of religions in general and in the context of various approaches to the study of religion such as, the Comparative Science of Religion approach of Max Mueller, Sociological approach of Max Weber and Emile Durkheim, Psychological approach of Carl Jung. It also deals with the Indian approach to the study of religion especially that of Mahatma Gandhi and also the study of other religions undertaken by Christian scholar, Kenneth Cragg.

It further analyzes two different approaches towards Vedanta thought by Indian Christian thinkers namely Brahmabandhav Upadhyaya and D. G. Moses.

Finally, the book presents the distinctive subaltern postcolonial methodology as a viable approach to study the religio-cultural traditions of the subaltern community in India. This scholarly presentation is a must read for students of religion, culture and philosophy and for those involved with the struggles of the subaltern community.

About the Author Dr. John V. Mathew is a member of the Church of South India (CSI), Madhya Kerala Diocese. He began his theological journey from Union Biblical Seminary, Pune (UBS), by completing his Bachelor of Divinity in 2004 and went on to obtain his Master of Theology (Religion) in 2007 and Doctor of Theology (Religion) in 2013 from the Senate of Serampore College (University), India. As part of his secular education, he obtained his Bachelor of Commerce in 1999 from Bangalore University.

At present, he is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Religion, Philosophy and Culture at Allahabad Bible Seminary, Allahabad. He is also the coordinator for the Centre for the Study of Indian Culture and Society (CSICS) at Allahabad Bible Seminary. Apart from his numerous articles which have been published in leading journals, his two acclaimed books are Advaita Vedanta Re-explored towards Ecological and Dalit Theology and Modern Religious and Secular Movements. He hails from the state of Kerala and cherishes his life with his wife Preeti and sons Nathan and Ethan.

Foreword It is with extreme joy and pleasure that I write a foreword for this book by my friend Dr. John V. Mathew, who is currently a faculty at Allahabad Bible Seminary, Allahabad. I have known Dr. Mathew, for the past 10 years as a student, friend and also co-worker for the

Lord's vineyard. This book, is a timely publication for the serious and passionate students of religions who wish to study the whole phenomena of religion from an objective and scientific perspective.

Introduction The study of religion is an endeavor to systematically analyze the origin and development of religion as an important aspect of human culture and its impact on human life. Since its emergence various approaches and methods have developed in the study of religions. The study of religion unveils the religious facts of human history and helps us to face our contemporary challenges.

**Contents and Sample Pages**