【作者】埃里森,C.G.
【内容提要】
We argue that sociology should be the integrative discipline for the scientific study of religion. Sociology has made considerable progress by incorporating specialized knowledge of religion from disciplines ranging from gerontology and community psychology to religious economics, church history, and even theology. Sociology has also generated insights in other disciplines concerned with the study of religion, at times shaping the types of questions asked, the concepts and research methods employed, and the conclusions reached in these fields. To elaborate our arguments, we focus on two important substantive areas: (1) research on the relationships between religion, meaning systems, and personal well-being; and (2) research on religious behavior and religious markets. We underscore the integrative role of sociology, and identify several neglected opportunities for synthesis. In addition, briefly assess the effect of sociology on work in other disciplines and on the functioning of religious organizations.