This complete overview of religious studies provides students with the essential knowledge and tools they need to explore and understand the nature of religion. Covers the early development of religion, with overviews of major and minor religions from Islam to ScientologyConsiders recent developments including secularization; the relationship between religion and science; and scientific studies on religion, health, and mystical experienceUses humor throughout, allowing students to remain open-minded to the subjectExplains what it means to study religion academically, and considers the impact of the study of religion on religion itselfContains numerous student-friendly features including photos, maps, time lines, side bars, historical profiles, and population distribution figuresProvides classroom users with a lively website,www.wiley.com/go/religiontoolkit,  including questions, quizzes, extra material, and helpful primary and secondary sources