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Generally, sociologists do not use the word “cult.” Those that do, such as William Bainbridge and Rodney Stark, use it in a highly specialized way to indicate groups that are innovative (unlike churches) but open to everyone (unlike sects). Religion scholars who study “new religious movements” (or NRMs) are the first to admit that “cult,” in its modern usage, has always been a theological term used by Protestants to label religions they do not like.

Almost half of the world’s countries have laws or policies that penalize blasphemy, apostasy, contempt of religion, or religious “hate speech.”

Group that calls for “revolution” is seeking to have personhood amendment on state ballot.

With an economy in freefall, the Greek PM is broaching the subject of making the Church pay its share.

One can see why Beck, positioned between the end of his Fox TV program and the beginning of his internet broadcast venture, would stage his next rally in Jerusalem.

This book is my own effort to equip myself to talk about and engage with the nation’s fastest growing religion, to offer a snapshot of one of its most influential institutions, and to tell the stories of the students and scholars who have taken up the challenge of this experiment in American education.

Last night’s debate revealed just how far the Republican Party has edged toward the religious right goal of abolishing public education.

The oddities of last night’s debate.

August is a stupid month. It just got stupider, at least when it comes to faith and politics.

American Pentecostals embroiled in the religious and political life of newly-created nation.