Dr Isabella Kasselstrand will convene a research symposium, entitled A Symposium on Secularization: New Reflections on Classical Theory, to mark the launch of her latest collaborative book, Beyond Doubt: The Secularization of Society (NYU Press, 2023).
In their book, Dr Kasselstrand, Professor Phil Zuckerman (Pitzer College) and Professor Ryan Cragun (University of Tampa) explore the evidence that religion is declining globally as a result of modernization and confirm the trend of global secularization.
Beyond Doubt has gathered attention for its analysis, having featured in The New York Times Opinion section, 'Lots of Americans Are Losing Their Religion. Have You?' and the Religion News Service.
The symposium will broaden the debate beyond the book to include perspectives on secularization and influence, the neverchurched, and visible and invisible secularity.
The event will feature three invited speakers, as well as Dr Kasselstrand, who will open the day with a reflection on Beyond Doubt and the long-running debate in the social scientific study of religion over theories, mechanisms, and trends of religious decline.
Of the three speakers, Professor Steve Bruce (University of Aberdeen) will discuss 'Secularization and Influence, Personal and Impersonal', while Professor David Voas (University College London), will share his research on 'Visible and Invisible Secularity in the United States'.
Finally, Professor Callum Brown (University of Glasgow) will explore 'Secularization and the Neverchurched: New Theory?'.
The event will run between 14:00 and 16:30, and will be held in room KCF7 at the University of Aberdeen, with a light lunch available from 13:30.
For further information about the event, contact Dr Kasselstrand. If you would like to attend the lunch, please send an email to Kerry Boyne, by August 21, stating any dietary requirements.