Religion and Livelihoods Studies

Abstract

This chapter examines the marginalisation of religion in livelihoods studies and the implications of this for achieving improved livelihoods strategies and outcomes. This is followed by an examination of the relevance of religion in livelihoods studies in two main areas: the role that religion plays in shaping livelihoods; and the impact of religion on social inequality and social exclusion, thereby restricting access to the resources necessary for sustainable livelihoods. Drawing on the work of Norman Long, I propose an actor-oriented approach to religions and livelihoods in the Global South that is underpinned by a number of interlinked observations. First, although ‘religion’ is significant to understanding the kinds of livelihoods that people pursue, it only exerts an influence in intersection with other factors such as gender, race, ethnicity and class. Second, although religious texts, teachings, institutions and leaders are important sources of information about the role that religion plays in shaping livelihoods, a ‘lived religion’ approach is likely to offer more reliable and grounded data. Finally, in attempts to promote sustainable livelihoods it is important not to decontextualise and instrumentalise religious teachings and traditions that appear to promote resource conservation without the participation of local communities to avoid reinforcing power hierarchies.