The text will present, explain and critically evaluate different sorts of literature from a range of disciplines that are relevant to thinking about the relationships between religions and development. It provides insight into a comprehensive range of approaches to guide readers through current debates about the role that religions play in development - from positive contributions to more complicated and contested notions of impact, for instance, in terms of religiously inspired violence or gender inequality.

Dr Emma Tomalin is a Senior Lecturer in Religious Studies at the School of Philosophy, Religion and the History of Sciences at University of Leeds. Her research interests are focused around religion and global development. and religion, gender and society.

1. Introduction: Religions and Development: A New Agenda 2. Approaches to the Theory and Practice of Development: From 'Estrangement' to 'Engagement' with Religions 3. Concepts and Theories for Studying Religions Globally 4. Religious Approaches to Development 5. Human Rights, Religions and Development 6. Gender, Religions and Development 7. Environmentalism, Religions and Development 8. Researching and Understanding the Role of 'Faith-based Organizations' (FBOs) in Development 9. Conclusion: Religions and International Development in the 21st Century