The Sacred Canopy: Elements of a Sociological Theory of Religion

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 240 pages
• Published by: Anchor September 1, 1990
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0385073054
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0385073059
• Book Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.2 x 0.6 inches
• Weighs: 6.4 ounces

Product Review
Professor Berger, of The New School in New York, seeks in this volume to apply a general theoretical perspective derived from the sociology of knowledge to the phenomenon of religion. He does not intend the book to be a theological discussion, nor a sociology of religion, but to carry to final sociological Consequences an understanding of religion as a historical product. In developing this Objective, he divides the discussion into two parts, the first concerned with systematic elements focused upon showing the part taken by religion in constructing and maintaining the human world - religion being "the human enterprise by which a sacred cosmos is established"; the second part centering upon historical elements under the general topic of the process of secularization. The work is fully documented by wide reference to religion as a universal human engagement, and at the same time thoroughly contemporary in its awareness of what is going on in today's theological, sociological, and experiential trends. AS readers of Professor Berger's earlier works would expect, the style is lucid, lively, and communicative. This book should have wide use among students both of sociology and religion. (Kirkus Reviews)

Product Description
This important contribution to the sociology of religion provides an analysis that clarifies the often ironic interaction between religion and society.  Berger is noted for his concise and lucid style.

Reader Reviews
"The Sacred Canopy" is an excellent introduction to Peter Berger, as well as a good way to gain a new perspective on how we construct a sacred reality for ourselves. Berger's goal in this book is not to get us to abandon our religious faith, but to examine it as at least partially social projection which we then accept as objective and subsequently internalize. He then goes on in the second half to examine the phenomenon of secularization and its impact on the power which religious traditions hold over their adherents. This is a scholarly book, but it is not by any means esoteric-- due mainly to Berger's exceptional writing style. This would be a good one to keep on the shelf for multiple readings.