Steve Knowles

Dr. Steve Knowles is a Senior Lecturer in Religion and Popular Culture at the University of Chester, affiliated with the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. He holds a BTh from the University of Chester (2000) and a PhD from the University of Liverpool (2007). His research focuses on the intersection of religion and popular culture, particularly contemporary apocalyptic beliefs and their correlation with risk perceptions in Western societies. Current projects examine the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (Exclusive Brethren), exploring their media engagement and belief systems.

Dr. Knowles teaches undergraduate modules such as Studying Religion: Issues, Questions and Concepts, Studying Christianity, and Spirituality and Popular Culture. He also contributes to the Doctor of Professional Studies in Theology and Religious Studies. His work investigates how apocalyptic ideologies intersect with geopolitical events (e.g., Brexit), digital media, and contemporary risk discourse.

Research outputs include studies on the mediatization of religious sects, eschatological semiotics, and the impact of risk society theories on religious belief systems. He co-edited Transforming Exclusion: Engaging Faith Perspectives and authored works on evangelical theological methodology. Dr. Knowles holds a Senior Fellowship from the Higher Education Academy, reflecting his commitment to pedagogical innovation.

His research is anchored in the Culture and Society Research and Knowledge Exchange Institute at the University of Chester, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to cultural and religious studies.