Locates Roger Bastide (1898-1974) in the general context of sociology as it developed in the generation following that of Emile Durkheim. This biography shows how he helped broaden the original agenda by taking interest in historical factors and paying attention to the work of ethnologists on so-called primitive societies.

Roger Bastide developed the theory of acculturation which provides a framework for understanding contact between different cultures and beliefs. 'Bastide on Religion' offers a clear introduction to the life and work of this influential scholar. The volume focuses on Bastide's study of Afro-Brazilian religions, in particular his study of Candomble, a religion born from the contact between African and Brazilian cultures. The book outlines Bastide's work on acculturation, his concept of the relationship between religion and culture, and his challenge to many dominant approaches to economic development.