This book uses empirical data and theory to explore the role of faiths as public actors; their contribution to welfare services, how they help build community cohesion, and break it down, and what it means for them and for others to be involved in new modes of governance.

'Whatever your perspective you will value this contribution to understanding 'faith at the public table'. Controversy and not a little misunderstanding surround these themes; this book provides a sure footed exploration of the policies, politics and importantly the social theories and philosophies that many choose to ignore. A very welcome contribution.' - Richard Farnell, Applied Research Centre in Sustainable Regeneration, Coventry University, UK

'He highlights the need to use both social science and theology to understand faiths, and for those engaging with faiths to start 'where they are, in all their locatedness' -British Journal of Social Work

'...this is a superb book that will be essential reading to scholars of the sociology of religion and social policy.' -Sociology

Autorentext

ADAM DINHAM is Reader and Director of the Faiths and Civil Society Unit at Goldsmiths, University of London, UK. His research concerns the politics, policies and practices of disadvantage, community development and regeneration, in particular as they relate to the engagement of faith communities.

Inhalt
Preface Faiths at the Public Table Who on Earth Are We Talking About? Faiths, Diversity and Localism What on Earth Are We Talking About? Meanings, Definitions and Debates Faiths and the 'Faith Community' Faiths, Social Capital and Community Cohesion Faiths and the Provision of Services Faiths, Governance and Democracy Faiths, Active Citizens and Strengthened Communities Conclusion: Policies, Problems and Controversies