Why Researchers Choose Religious Studies for High-Impact Publications
Religious Studies stands as a cornerstone in the field of religious and spiritual life, offering scholars a platform to delve into profound questions about faith, philosophy, and human spirituality. Published by Cambridge University Press since 1965, this quarterly journal has built a reputation for rigorous scholarship that bridges theology, philosophy of religion, and interdisciplinary approaches to spiritual practices. Researchers are drawn to Religious Studies for its commitment to advancing understanding of religious phenomena across cultures and historical periods. The journal's scope encompasses analytical philosophy applied to religious concepts, comparative religion, and critical examinations of spiritual traditions, making it a vital outlet for work that challenges conventional boundaries in religious studies.
With a focus on original articles that contribute to ongoing debates, Religious Studies publishes peer-reviewed content that resonates with academics worldwide. Its impact factor of 0.3 reflects steady influence in a niche yet essential discipline, where citation metrics underscore the journal's role in shaping discourse. Scholars value the journal's emphasis on clarity and depth, ensuring that submissions receive thorough evaluation from leading experts. For those exploring 'Religious Studies impact factor' or considering 'publish in Religious Studies', the journal's hybrid open access model provides flexibility, allowing authors to reach broader audiences while maintaining traditional subscription access.
The editorial process prioritizes intellectual rigor, with articles often cited in philosophy and theology curricula. Whether investigating mystical experiences or ethical dimensions of faith, contributors find Religious Studies a venue that amplifies their voice in religious and spiritual life scholarship. As the journal evolves, it continues to adapt to contemporary issues like secularism and interfaith dialogue, solidifying its place among top periodicals.
To explore opportunities in this field, consider browsing religious studies academic positions or checking the academic calendar for upcoming conferences and deadlines.
Overview & History
Founded in 1965, Religious Studies emerged as a dedicated space for philosophical inquiry into religion, initiated under the auspices of Cambridge University Press. The journal's inception responded to growing interest in applying analytical methods to theological questions, filling a gap in existing literature. Over decades, it has chronicled shifts in religious studies, from mid-20th-century phenomenology to modern cognitive science of religion.
Key milestones include its expansion to include diverse global perspectives and the integration of interdisciplinary work. Today, Religious Studies maintains a quarterly publication schedule, featuring 4-6 articles per issue alongside book reviews and discussions. Its enduring legacy lies in fostering dialogue between philosophy and religion, influencing generations of scholars in religious and spiritual life.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
Religious Studies welcomes submissions that explore the philosophy of religion, theology, and related areas. The journal prioritizes original research on topics such as religious epistemology, the problem of evil, and comparative spirituality. It encourages contributions from religious and spiritual life, philosophy, and anthropology, provided they engage critically with religious concepts.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Philosophy of Religion | Analytical treatments of divine attributes, faith, and reason. |
| Theology | Doctrinal analysis across Christian, Islamic, and other traditions. |
| Comparative Religion | Cross-cultural studies of spiritual practices and beliefs. |
| Ethics in Religion | Moral philosophy intersecting with religious ethics. |
| Religious Experience | Phenomenological and psychological approaches to spirituality. |
This broad yet focused scope ensures Religious Studies remains relevant for researchers seeking to 'publish in Religious Studies' across intersecting fields.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 0.3 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| CiteScore | 0.5 | Scopus 2023 |
| h-Index | 25 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
| Submission to Publication Time | 12-18 months | Publisher data |
These metrics highlight Religious Studies' steady contribution to religious and spiritual life scholarship, with the impact factor indicating targeted influence.
Indexing and Abstracting
Religious Studies is indexed in major databases, ensuring visibility for authors. It appears in Scopus, Arts & Humanities Citation Index (AHCI), and PhilPapers. Abstracting services include ATLA Religion Database and Religious & Theological Abstracts. This coverage aids discoverability, with articles accessible via the journal's official homepage. For broader reach, explore philosophy academic jobs that value such indexed publications.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal, Religious Studies offers subscription-based access with open access options. Authors can publish under a traditional model at no fee or choose gold open access with an Article Processing Charge (APC) of approximately £2,530 (excluding taxes). Cambridge University Press supports waivers for corresponding authors from low-income countries. This model balances accessibility and sustainability, appealing to researchers in religious and spiritual life.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled via the ScholarOne platform at ScholarOne for Religious Studies. Manuscripts should be 6,000-8,000 words, double-spaced, with Chicago-style citations. Initial review takes 4-6 weeks, followed by peer review. Guidelines emphasize originality and philosophical depth; consult the official instructions for details. For 'Religious Studies submission' tips, review professor reviews on successful strategies.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team, led by Editor-in-Chief Yujin Nagasawa (University of Birmingham), includes experts like Paul Draper (Purdue University) in philosophy of religion and Mikel Burley (University of Leeds) in comparative studies. This international board ensures diverse perspectives, enhancing the journal's credibility in religious and spiritual life.
Why Publish in Religious Studies?
Publishing here offers prestige in a specialized field, with opportunities for citation in philosophy and theology. The journal's Cambridge affiliation boosts CVs, and its focus on impactful topics like religious pluralism aids career advancement. Researchers benefit from rigorous feedback, positioning their work for influence. Link your publication to theology faculty positions for enhanced visibility.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Publisher | Impact Factor | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Religious Studies | Cambridge UP | 0.3 | Philosophy of religion |
| Journal of Religion | University of Chicago Press | 0.2 | Theological studies |
| Faith and Philosophy | Philosophy Documentation Center | 0.1 | Analytic theology |
| International Journal for Philosophy of Religion | Springer | 0.4 | Global religious philosophy |
| Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science | Wiley | 0.6 | Interdisciplinary religion |
This comparison shows Religious Studies' competitive edge in philosophical depth within religious and spiritual life.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Align your abstract with the journal's philosophical bent.
- Use clear, argumentative structure in manuscripts.
- Cite recent issues to demonstrate engagement.
- Seek feedback before 'Religious Studies submission'.
- Highlight interdisciplinary angles for broader appeal.
For more guidance, visit higher education jobs resources or academic advising sections.