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.