ABSTRACT
Our chapter seeks to situate the approaches of queer theory as they have developed over the last 20 years in relation to the study of religion. Here, in this brief overview, we will be interested in queering religion as well as methodology in religious studies. By starting with methodology, we aim to offer pointers towards how queer critiques might be engendered. We give some thought to when – that is to say the historical context of queer theory and its emergence out of the politics of identity. Offering insight into how queer ‘doubts’ might be productively raised concerning the whatness – the nature, purpose and effects of categories such as religion, spirituality, theology (and their epistemologies) – will outline its deconstructive purpose. We shall next speculate on who has been key in synthesising questions of religion, spirituality and sexuality in significant ways, namely Butler and Foucault, but also others less known such as Althaus-Reid, Warner, Wilcox, and Loughlin. We shall also draw attention to where queer theory has been exercised, and what its geo-political influences might be. Finally we mention how the trope of damage has permeated thinking on religion, spirituality and sexuality.
