The Emergence and Conceptual Evolution of Ecology and Environment in Social Sciences of Religion Journals

The intersection of religion, spirituality, and ecology has gained growing prominence in the social sciences of religion. This study examines the emergence and conceptual evolution of ecological themes within prominent anglophone and francophone journals, including Sociology of Religion, Journal of Contemporary Religion, JSSR, Religiologiques, Social Compass, and Archives des Sciences Sociales des Religions. By employing a comparative framework, we analyze the cultural anchoring of these journals and their influence on the treatment of ecological themes. Key objectives include: (1) identifying the phases of emergence and integration of ecology, (2) examining the cultural factors shaping its treatment, and (3) mapping conceptual frameworks and methodologies. Initial findings highlight temporal and cultural specificities. This study underscores the plurality of approaches to ecology and religion and highlights the epistemological challenges of synthesizing diverse perspectives. It contributes to understanding eco-religious discourse’s role in addressing contemporary environmental crises.