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Humour and Religion: Challenges and Ambiguities
Contributor(s): Geybels, Hans (Editor), Van Herck, Walter (Editor)
ISBN: 1441163131     ISBN-13: 9781441163134
Publisher: Continuum
OUR PRICE:   $188.10  
Product Type: Hardcover - Other Formats
Published: March 2011
Qty:
Additional Information
BISAC Categories:
- Humor | Topic - Religion
- Religion | Comparative Religion
Dewey: 202.2
LCCN: 2010023061
Series: Continuum Religious Studies
Physical Information: 1" H x 6.4" W x 9.3" (1.25 lbs) 288 pages
 
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc.
Publisher Description:

Humour and Religion highlights the importance and functioning of humour in different world religions. Exploring the major religious cultures, the book looks at more constructive aspects to the relation between humour and religion, with humour seen as a pathway to spiritual wisdom.

Exploring how religions contain (implicit) references to the finitude and relativity of the human condition, and why humour and spirituality fit well together, contributors discuss what the meaning of humour in different religions is - Did it evolve historically? How does it function? How is humour related to the realization of spiritual goals?

Looking at religions from an external perspective, the contributors then analyze the way religion interacts with humour in society. How does a religion respond to sarcasm and irony? Are there limits to mockery and making fun of believers? Does humour have a pacifying effect when societal tensions run high or does it intensify the sensitivities?

This volume will provide essays of value to scholars in the various religions and literatures covered.