Theory of Women in Religions - by Catherine Wessinger (Paperback)

About the Book

"This title explores women in religions from a theoretical angle"--

Book Synopsis

An introduction to the study of women in diverse religious cultures

While women have made gains in equality over the past two centuries, equality for women in many religious traditions remains contested throughout the world. In the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints women are not ordained as priests. In areas of Pakistan and Afghanistan under Taliban occupation girls and women students and their teachers risk their lives to go to school. And in Sri Lanka, fully ordained Buddhist nuns are denied the government identity cards that recognize them as citizens. Is it possible to create families, societies, and religions in which women and men are equal? And if so, what are the factors that promote equality?

Theory of Women in Religions offers an economic model to shed light on the forces that have impacted the respective statuses of women and men from the earliest developmental stages of society through the present day. Catherine Wessinger integrates data and theories from anthropology, archaeology, sociology, history, gender studies, and psychology into a concise history of religions introduction to the complex relationships between gender and religion. She argues that socio-economic factors that support specific gender roles, in conjunction with religious norms and ideals, have created a gendered division of labor that both directly and indirectly reinforces gender inequality. Yet she also highlights how as the socio-economic situation is changing religion is being utilized to support the transition toward women's equality, noting the ways in which many religious representations of gender change over time.

Review Quotes

"Theory of Women in Religions provides an engaging and incisive examination of gender, power, and culture. As captivating and absorbing as it is thorough, it is a must-read for anyone interested in gender or religion."--Laura Vance, Brevard College

"A compelling and readable account of the complex relationships between religion and gender by a scholar at the peak of her powers. The wealth and historical breadth of examples that Wessinger amasses is stunning. What sets this book apart is Wessinger's detailed focus on the psychological and religious factors that perpetuate male dominance and the gradual social and religious revolutions underway as women seek greater equality. Lucidly written and persuasively argued, Theory of Women in Religions should be required reading for students as well as established scholars."--Kelly E. Hayes, author of Holy Harlots: Femininity, Sexuality, and Black Magic in Brazil

"Highlighting fascinating historical and contemporary examples, this book offers a persuasive grand theory of economic development, gender relations and religion. Wessinger has made a substantial contribution to the field of women and religion."--Susan Sered, Suffolk University

About the Author

Catherine Wessinger is the Rev. H. James Yamauchi, S.J. Professor of the History of Religions at Loyola University New Orleans. She is the author or editor of a number of books, including Religious Institutions and Women's Leadership: New Roles Inside the Mainstream.