The Economics, Religion and Public Policy set is a three-volume exploration of religious beliefs and their persistent impact on economic life. The series employs an eclectic mix of economics, politics, sociology and history to rigorously study how religion influences individual wellbeing, social harmony, governance and economic development. Each volume in the series contains a selection of chapters which critically examine specific cases from both Western and non-Western experience.Volume 1 lays some intellectual groundwork for the series as a whole, illustrating foundational concepts, intellectual influences and inner tensions within the economics of religion. The chapters in the volume illustrate diverse approaches to 'doing' the economics of religion, applying economic reasoning to a range of issues, from examining one's identity and the sources of overall human flourishing to studying the impact of religion on criminal organizations and events such as the tragedy of Jonestown. The chapters highlight that religion has been important throughout human history, and that any carefully constructed socioeconomic policy must be sensitive to the religious roots that often still exert seen and unseen influences on institutions, culture, and life in general.Volume 2 examines the deep connection between religion, governance, and societal dynamics. Through interdisciplinary analysis, it explores topics such as monotheism, theocracies, religious revivalism, and their effects on political and economic behavior. The book sheds light on how religion evolved alongside human cognition and culture, influencing cooperation, governance, and social stability across history and modern contexts.Volume 3 expands on earlier themes by exploring conflict, tensions between religions, and interactions between religion and nature. It incorporates global perspectives, particularly from non-Western traditions, and investigates how religion adapts to modern challenges such as capitalism, climate change, and generational shifts.
