This Element examines the complex intersections between minority religions, legal protections and restrictions, and the role of courts in securing, or inhibiting, religious freedom. It considers the legal status of minority religions in selected countries from a comparative perspective, using sociology of law theories to explain how legal systems treat such religious groups. Relevant actions of the European Court of Human Rights are examined as is how minority religions are dealt with in selected societies where authoritarian or theocratic systems of governance prevail. The Element then examines how interactions with law and the courts have led to changes, or 'deformations,' in selected well-known and controversial new and other minority religions. The Element concludes by observing how courts in Europe and North America have used cases involving minority faiths to promote their own agendas and authority, as well as accomplish other important considerations, including religious freedom.
By:
James T. Richardson (University of Nevada Reno) Imprint: Cambridge University Press Country of Publication: United Kingdom Weight: 141g ISBN:9781009617260 ISBN 10: 1009617265 Series:Elements in New Religious Movements Pages: 75 Publication Date:11 December 2025 Audience:
General/trade
,
ELT Advanced
Format:Paperback Publisher's Status: Active