Using an unbiased, balanced approach, the 7th edition of this text continues to offer a sound analysis of religion as a social institution that is interdependent and in constant interaction with other societal units. It helps students understand the role and function of religion in society that occur regardless of anyone's claims about the truth or falsity of religious systems. The focus is on American religious institutions, but includes many examples of the interaction of religion and society in other cultures both historic and contemporary; students will encounter major discussions of Islam and other non-Western religions.