ABSTRACT
Basic literacy in the nature of lived religion and its interactions with social characteristics and roles is important for researchers, policymakers and those who work in Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. This volume contributes to evidence-based understanding by a comparative discussion of five major faith traditions (Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and some folk religious traditions) and a review of recent research in a range of countries. An analytical framework is developed to build understanding of the ways in which religious actors are intertwined with social systems and sociopolitical dynamics and the factors explaining their engagement and its outcomes. More detailed chapters consider some key themes of recent research: the social welfare activities of religious organisations, including the provision of basic education for children, and the engagement of religious actors in movements for social change, especially those seeking changes in family law and recognition of the rights of sexual and gender minorities. Some of the contributions of the available research are summarised in this chapter; its shortcomings are identified, including its uneven coverage of religious traditions, topics and sociopolitical contexts; and some of the outstanding research needs are identified, including better coverage of the religious mainstream in each tradition, attention to neglected topics and more comparative studies.
