Quakerism : The Basics

Quakerism: The Basics introduces a vibrant twenty-first-century religion, tracing the evolution of the Religious Society of Friends from its origins in seventeenth-century England to a worldwide religion, balancing discussion of Quaker history, evolving beliefs and practices, and contemporary social action. An accessible and engaging introduction to the history and diverse approaches and ideas associated with the Religious Society of Friends, this book treats Quakerism as a global religion with wide geographic reach and varied beliefs that range from evangelical Christianity to non-theism, including:

• Quaker values in action
• Quaker history, worship, and practice
• Quakerism in different regions of the world
• The future of Quakerism

This thoroughly revised second edition now includes information on Quakers in Africa, Friends active engagement with electoral politics, electronic communication and online meetings, and a new appendix on Quakers in film. Quakerism: The Basics is suitable for secondary and university courses on Quakerism and comparative religion, with features including suggested readings, timelines, boxed features on special topics, a glossary, and guides to Quakers in fiction and on film. This book is also intended for individuals new to Quakers, for meeting and church study groups, and for those who want to refresh their understanding of Quakerism.

Margery Post Abbott is a member of the Multnomah Meeting in Portland, Oregon, and an independent scholar who has published widely on Quaker beliefs and practices.

Carl Abbott is a member of the Multnomah Meeting in Portland, Oregon, and is an Emeritus Professor of Urban Studies and Planning at Portland State University, USA. He is the author of numerous books on the history of American cities and the American West and the co-author of Quakers in Politics.