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Who are some of the most influential figures in religious studies and why?

Tracey Lucy

Well, there are several influential figures in religious studies that have shaped our understanding of religion and spirituality over the years. One such figure is Karen Armstrong - a renowned writer and commentator on religion. Her work has focused on the history of religion and its meaning in contemporary society.

Another influential figure in the field is Huston Smith. He is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the study of comparative religion. Smith spent his career studying spirituality and the world's religions, producing various works that offer deep insights into the human journey and the meaning of life.

One more influential figure is Mircea Eliade - a Romanian historian of religion and the author of a multitude of works on the subject. Eliade's work is noted for its phenomenological approach to the study of religion, and for its emphasis on the importance of religious experience.

Then we also have Joseph Campbell, whose work has been particularly influential in the area of myth and symbolism. His work on the hero's journey has been used widely in literary and cultural studies, and his insights into the power of myth have had a major impact on the spiritual and philosophical views of many.

And finally, we can't leave out Martin Buber - an Austrian-Israeli philosopher who is most well-known for his work on Hasidic Judaism and his concept of the "I-Thou" relationship. His ideas have had a significant impact on religious studies and have helped many to understand the significance of human relationships.

All of these figures have had a profound impact on the field of religious studies through their groundbreaking work and profound insights into the meaning of spirituality. Their ideas have helped to shape the way we understand religion and its role in human society, and they continue to influence contemporary thought today. Overall, these are just a few of the many influential figures in religious studies and their contributions have greatly enriched our understanding of religion and spirituality.