Books like A concise introduction to world religions by Willard G. Oxtoby

An updated, comprehensive guide to the world’s major faiths—including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism—and the native spiritual traditions of the Americas, Australia, Africa, and Oceania, emphasizing their core teachings and inner dimensions.

The overwhelming majority of people in the world--85%--are religious, and more religions are now practiced in the United States than in any other country. Religion plays a critical role in international politics, in the global economy, and in a wide variety of social and cultural interactions on the domestic front. Even though religion is such an integral part of today's world, many Americans have difficulty discussing it publicly. They are often unfamiliar with any religion but their own, finding other religions mysterious or even threatening. Offering a brief and accessible point of entry into the subject, Rethinking Religion: A Concise Introduction begins by highlighting the significance of religion in modern society and providing a simple definition that goes beyond vague notions of "faith" or "belief in God." Drawing material from a diverse range of religions--including Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and primal religions--author Will Deming walks readers through thirty examples of how religions "work," exploring the significance of religious events and pronouncements. He also considers several topics that continue to fascinate and challenge Westerners: the ethics of studying someone else's religion, the "truth" of religion, the possibilities for preferring one religion over another, religious pluralism, and the contentious dialogue between science and religion. Enhanced by an innovative glossary of religious terms and numerous pictures and analyses of everyday religious activities, Rethinking Religion: A Concise Introduction is ideal for introducing students to the concept of religion and for courses in comparative and world religions. It is also captivating reading for theologians, scholars, and anyone interested in the topic.

"Now in its third successful edition, 'A concise introduction to world religions' is a comprehensive introduction to major faith traditions around the globe. Building on the strong foundations provided by the two-volume set 'World religions: Eastern traditions; and 'World religions: Western traditions', this contributed volume offers students an engaging, insightful overview of each tradition's history, practices, and place within the contemporary society. Highlights: A new introductory chapter gives students an up-to-date overview of the study of religion around the globe; Three new contributions offer fresh chapters on Indigenous, Jewish, and Christian traditions; Increased coverage of women's roles and contributions brings to light often overlooked aspects of religious life; Fully revised sections on contemporary issues help students understand the challenges that religious traditions face in the modern world; Online ancillaries -- including an instructor's manual, a test generator, and PowerPoint slides for instructors and a study guide for students -- offer additional support to enhance the teaching and learning experiences." -- rear cover.