Some methodological problems in Sociology of Religion

Abstract

Th is paper deals with some questions of the methodological approaches in the
research and the analysis of issues of religion and religiosity in contemporary
society. Th e fi rst question raised here is whether and to what extent is applicable
the comparative method in sociology of religion, such as the question of
the reliability of research fi ndings in the West in their application to studies
of religion in the East. Th e diffi culties that are seen here, refer to the question
of objectivity and understanding of the very concept of religion in diff erent
religious and cultural backgrounds and areas. Th e question is: can you observe
one religion based on the other religions? Another important methodological
issue that arises in this work is the use of the “in-depth interview” as
the dominant instrument in the empirical research? Th e third issue that this
work starts, is the manner and forms of typology of religiosity, especially in
the modern conditions?