Introductory Essay: The Anthropology of Religion after Socialism (original) (raw)

The essay explores the anthropology of religion in post-socialist contexts, examining how scholarly interpretations have shaped the understanding of ethnic and national identities. It highlights the works of key ethnographers, such as Gail Kligman, who critique earlier dichotomies between socialism and tradition, emphasizing the complex interplay between state-building and religion. Additionally, it reflects on the methodological challenges of studying religion under socialist regimes and the significant insights gained from both local ethnographic work and broader theoretical frameworks.