This volume contains a collection of essays that survey the various religions as they are practiced and represented in the United States, and also the religious world of various ethnic and national populations. Each of 14 chapters is devoted to a religious group or topic and written by a prominent scholar in the field of religious studies. The scholars provide factual data concerning each religion or topic, as well as their personal observations, opinions, and conclusions, giving the student not only a well-informed introduction to religions in America but also a sense that these religions are alive, active, and relevant to one's and the world's well-being. Of special interest are the chapters on religion and its relationship to women, politics, and society in general. Every chapter ends with study questions, essay topics, word explorations, and a further reading list.