In Memoriam – James A. Beckford

James A. Beckford
December 1, 1942 – May 10, 2022

It is with deep sadness that the CSSR announces the passing of James A. Beckford (University of Warwick) May 10, 2022. Jim’s accomplishments in the sociology of religion were both groundbreaking and lasting; he founded and led numerous associations and professional societies for the sociological study of religion and brought his expertise to multiple international research projects. Jim’s work challenged assumptions about religious difference and religious minorities and sought to bridge disciplines, to strengthen the study of religion as a whole.
An active cyclist and gardener, lover of owls and juggling, Jim was always interested in the people engaging in scholarship. He mentored graduate students and early career scholars with both humanity and academic rigour. Jim will be deeply missed.