Studying Religion and Power: Conceptual and Methodological Challenges

Authors

  • Pål Repstad University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway

Abstract

The article offers a historical sketch of the conceptual developments and debates regarding the concept of power in the social sciences, focusing particularly on religious power. The author points out the strengths and limitations of two ways of looking at power: first, as exercised by actors with intentions, and second, as structural constraints and forces. In terms of religious power, a distinction is made between the power of religious actors, which can include forms of power other than religious power (e.g., economic), and religious power as such, which consists mainly of relating certain structures, views, or actions to transcendent forces. Religious power in this latter sense can also be used by those who are not in religious positions. Several methodological challenges are discussed in the article, which is based in part on the author’s work in studies of religion and power in Norway.

Author Biography

  • Pål Repstad, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway

    Professor in sociology of religion,
    Department of religion, philosophy and history,
    University of Agder

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Published

2020-05-18

How to Cite

Studying Religion and Power: Conceptual and Methodological Challenges. (2020). Religion and Society in Central and Eastern Europe, 5(1), 9-19. http://rascee.net/index.php/rascee/article/view/41