Introducing the Field: ‘Migration and Religion’

Abstract

In this chapter, we introduce the topic, discuss the aim, define a few key concepts and examine some of the methodological difficulties in researching migration and religion. The chapter aims to make the reader aware of the difference between research and serving up an opinion. Across Europe there are many vocal, opiniated debaters who all too often offer simple answers and quick fixes to identified problems. The very idea behind research is precisely the opposite; it is about grounding rich descriptions and theorisation in carefully crafted, methodologically sound, hard work.