Summary
Contents
What is youth? How do we understand youth in its social and cultural context?In this timely and sought-after title, Cieslik and Simpson provide a concise and readily accessible introduction to the interdisciplinary field of youth studies. Drawing upon the latest research and developments in the field, as well as discussing the fundamental ideas underlying the disciplines as a whole, it offers a comprehensive yet unpacked understanding of youth as a social phenomenon. Illuminating the many abstract and contested concepts within youth studies, this book offers explanations to questions such as: • How might we define youth? • How can we understand young people in relation to their social identities and practices? • What is the relationship between youth and social class? • How do youth cultures develop? • How can we understand youth in a globalized perspective? Key Concepts in Youth Studies stands out as a natural companion for students on youth studies, sociology, criminology and social science programmes. It will also be useful for youth practitioners such as social workers and teachers. Key Concepts in Youth Studies stands out as a natural companion for students on youth studies, sociology, criminology and social science programmes. It will also be useful for practitioners in area of social work and youth and community development.
Young People and Religion
Young People and Religion
Religion has been considered to comprise three essential elements which are based on an idea of the sacred (Durkheim, 1912). First, beliefs in the supernatural such as a God(s) and/or divinities including angels; second, symbols such as a cross or iconography; and third, practices including rituals such as baptism or fasting. These elements can be the basis of a socio-religious community such as a church, temple or sect. Sacred things are categorised as protected and isolated by religious command within these communities. The sacred elements of the Christian religion are a supreme being labelled ‘God’, which is considered omnipotent, and his followers worship and praise him through established rituals (masculine characteristics are ascribed to the Christian God ...
