Research Methods for the Study of Religion

Taking research methodology seriously involves thinking about how we design research projects, how and why we use particular methods and wider issues about the nature of research. The topics pages on this site seek to address these different areas by the exploring the conceptual, political and ethical dimensions of research on religion, key issues in research design and a range of methods and approaches that researchers studying religion might use.

Each topic page has a downloadable discussion paper or structured exercise which introduces key issues. The topic pages also provide additional resources, including sample studies, bibliographies, or links to other relevant websites. They have been designed to be a useful reference point for individual researchers as well as providing materials for courses in research methodology and the study of religion.