The Basics of World Religion

<p><em>The Basics of World Religion</em> is uniquely designed to introduce students to fundamental concepts in world religion. The text provides the critical information students need to grasp the basics of religion and build upon that knowledge in more advanced courses. <br /><br />The text begins with an introduction to religion as a concept practice and academic discipline and outlines the four key types of religion and major world religions. The proceeding chapter addresses various aspects and types of ancient and indigenous religions including shamanism divination and astrology creation stories and more. Dedicated chapters explore branches belief systems common myths and holidays of Islam Judaism Christianity Hinduism Buddhism Jainism Daoism Confucianism Shinto and Korean religion and Sikhism. The book concludes with a chapter that outlines new and emerging religions. Throughout students are exposed to illustrations and photos of religious rituals figures and houses of worship in the United States to bring the content to life. <br /><br />Lively humorous and engaging in its presentation of material <em>The Basics of World Religion</em> is an ideal resource for introductory undergraduate courses in religion.</p><p><strong>Christopher D. Martinez</strong> holds a Ph.D. in adult education and a master’s degree in religious studies. He has traveled the world studying religions and collecting artifacts. Dr. Martinez has also applied key learning strategies and developed curriculum for several colleges and universities. He is an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Religion at St. Petersburg College. Dr. Martinez is the author of <em>Survival Guide for the End of the World</em> a guidebook on how to survive the end-of-times scenarios of the world’s great religions.</p>