Farley, Helen S. (2016) Introduction to Volume IV. Critical Concepts in Religious Studies, Volume IV. Taylor & Francis (Routledge), United Kingdom, pp. 1-6. ISBN 978-1-138-91770-5
Abstract
This final volume of Religion, the Occult, and the Paranormal is mostly concerned with how the supernatural is finding form in popular culture, in everyday life, and among the youth, with their apparently insatiable appetite for all that is different, macabre, alien, or sitting outside normal society. Film franchises based on paranormal themes are among the biggest grossing films of all time. The Harry Potter franchise appeals to adults and children alike, as does the Lord of the Rings franchise. These films are invariably released at holiday time so parents can take their children, buy them some themed merchandise, and escort them to various dress-up events populated by hundreds of small Harry Potters and Hermione Grangers. Religious and supernatural ideas are integral to the appeal of these films. Several chapters in this volume explore that unlikely relationship. The current also flows in the other direction, with popular culture providing the stuff of emerging religions. Most are familiar with Jediism, drawing its inspiration from the Star Wars franchise and the noble ideals of the Jedi Knights.
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| Item Type: | Book (Commonwealth Reporting Category A) |
|---|---|
| Refereed: | Yes |
| Item Status: | Live Archive |
| Additional Information: | Editorial material and selection © 2016 Carole M. Cusack and Helen Farley; individual owners retain copyright in their own material. |
| Faculty / Department / School: | Historic - Australian Digital Futures Institute |
| Date Deposited: | 19 Sep 2016 04:28 |
| Last Modified: | 25 Jun 2018 05:37 |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | paranormal; esotericism; religion; religious studies |
| Fields of Research : | 22 Philosophy and Religious Studies > 2204 Religion and Religious Studies > 220405 Religion and Society |
| Socio-Economic Objective: | C Society > 95 Cultural Understanding > 9504 Religion and Ethics > 950406 Religious Traditions (excl. Structures and Rituals) |
| URI: | http://eprints.usq.edu.au/id/eprint/28397 |
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