Research pathways in communication and religion in Brazil: New trails, stimulating journeys

Abstract

Analyzing the contemporary Brazilian sociopolitical and cultural landscape without considering the role of religions constitutes an analytical mistake. In the field of Communication, in particular, it becomes impossible to understand communicational processes without recognizing the place occupied by religions within the dynamics of human relations. It is therefore necessary to reaffirm fundamental elements for studies in Communication and Religions and to correct limiting conceptions that still persist in this research field. This essay seeks to offer guidelines for research within this interface. To do so, it draws on two important references: (1) the Brazilian Dictionary of Communication and Religions (Unaspress, 2021) and its production process; and (2) the proceedings of the Communication and Religions Research Group at the annual national Intercom congresses, which highlight pressing themes that inspire new and relevant approaches, systematized in the topics that compose this study.