Religion at the Edge

This book explores the evolving landscape of spirituality and secularism in the Pacific Northwest, particularly through the lens of Religion at the Edge.

The book Religion at the Edge delves into the unique social and physical landscape of the Pacific Northwest, highlighting its role as a fertile ground for an exploration of contemporary spirituality and secularism. This region, encompassing British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon, has historically been at the forefront of cultural transformations across North America, especially in relation to religious institutions and practices. The authors present a comprehensive analysis of the rise of religious 'nones,' the decline of mainstream Christian denominations, and the emergence of diverse spiritual and environmental innovations.

Religion at the Edge offers an in-depth examination of the increasing religious pluralism in Cascadia, illustrating the growth of smaller, more traditional faith groups alongside the decline of larger institutions. This volume stands out as the first research-driven book to address the complex interplay of religion, spirituality, and irreligion in the Pacific Northwest, both historically and in contemporary contexts. Through a combination of surveys, archival research, interviews, and focus groups, the contributors present a rich tapestry of beliefs and practices from various communities, including Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Muslim, Jewish, Baha’i, New Age, Indigenous, and irreligious groups.

By expanding our understanding of contemporary society, Religion at the Edge engages in empirical and theoretical discussions about the nature and implications of socio-religious changes in North America. The book also emphasizes the relevance of regionalism in these discussions, providing valuable insights into how local contexts shape spiritual and secular identities.