Digital Religion

Abstract

Although it seems paradoxical, religion in all its forms and functions is transferring and blending with the digital world. This new relationship is altering how we do religion and also how religion impacts and influences the society and culture. Digital religion is an intermingling of our modern mediated society with contemporary religious beliefs and practices. Digital religion is not just about having “religion” on digital media, rather it is a blending of all of the societal and cultural components we associate with religion with all of the elements we associate with a digital society. Two current theories have developed that seem to be gaining traction in the field studying religion and digital culture. Campbell has developed a theory called “networked religion,” and Hoover and Echchaibi are developing the concept of “third spaces of digital religion.” By examining several case studies, this chapter will show that each theory has its own merits. Networked religion may be more helpful in examining official religious activity, while third spaces may be more helpful in studying everyday or lived religion.