Religion

Definition and Conceptual Questions: 1. Introduction Defining “religion” is a central problem in religious studies, sociology, anthropology, and philosophy. There is no universally accepted definition, as religion encompasses beliefs, practices, experiences, symbols, ethics, institutions, and worldviews. Definitions can be substantive (content-based) or functional (purpose-based). 2. Substantive Definitions 2.1 Edward Tylor…

Definition and Conceptual Questions 1. Introduction The purpose of religion in society is a multi-dimensional question studied across sociology, anthropology, psychology, philosophy, and theology. Religion performs functions ranging from individual meaning-making to maintaining social order and cultural continuity. 2. Theoretical Perspectives 2.1 Emile Durkheim: Social Cohesion In The Elementary Forms…

Definition and Conceptual Questions 1. Introduction The distinction between religion and spirituality is a major theme in contemporary philosophy, psychology, and religious studies. While historically interconnected, modern discourse often contrasts them in terms of structure, authority, belief systems, and individual experience. 2. Definitions 2.1 Religion Scholarly Definitions Key Features 2.2…

Comparative Religion Questions 1. Introduction Indigenous and tribal religions represent the oldest spiritual systems of humanity, deeply embedded within specific ethnic, cultural, and geographical contexts. They are often: This analysis examines their definitions, characteristics, theological frameworks, and cultural influence. 2. Definitions 2.1 Indigenous Religions Religions rooted in specific local communities,…

Scientific and Rationality Questions 1. Introduction The compatibility of religion and science has been a central philosophical and theological question for centuries. Responses range from conflict theories arguing they are fundamentally opposed, to integrationist approaches seeing them as complementary or mutually informative. This analysis examines: 2. Defining Terms 2.1 Science…

Scientific and Rationality Questions 1. Introduction Religions across cultures present diverse accounts of creation and the origins of life, reflecting theological, cosmological, and anthropological concerns. These narratives often explain: This analysis explores major religious creation accounts, their interpretations, and philosophical implications. 2. Abrahamic Religions 2.1 Judaism Genesis Creation Accounts Theological…

Scientific and Rationality Questions 1. Introduction The relationship between science and religion has been characterised by conflict, independence, dialogue, and integration (Barbour, 1990). This analysis examines: 2. Definitions 2.1 Science Systematic study of the natural world through empirical observation, experimentation, and falsifiable theories, aiming for objective knowledge (Popper, 1959). 2.2…

Social and Cultural Questions 1. Introduction Religion is a foundational force shaping culture, traditions, and individual or collective identity. It informs worldviews, social structures, ethics, and artistic expressions. This analysis examines: 2. Theoretical Perspectives 2.1 Clifford Geertz: Religion as Cultural System Geertz (1973) argues religion is: Implication: Religious beliefs and…

Social and Culture 1. Introduction Religion’s role in society is ambivalent: it has historically united communities through shared beliefs and rituals, while also fostering divisions based on doctrine, identity, or competition for power. This analysis examines sociological, anthropological, and theological perspectives to evaluate whether religion promotes cohesion or division. 2.…

Social and Culture 1. Introduction Religious rituals and symbols are core to spiritual expression, cultural identity, and social cohesion. They shape how individuals interpret reality, structure time, and interact with others. This analysis explores: 2. Definitions 2.1 Rituals Rituals are prescribed actions imbued with symbolic meaning, repeated to express, enact,…

Social and Culture 1. Introduction Religious dietary, dress, and purity laws are integral to many faith traditions, shaping daily behaviour and community identity. This analysis examines: 2. Defining Terms 2.1 Dietary Laws Regulations on permissible and forbidden foods (e.g. kosher in Judaism, halal in Islam). 2.2 Dress Codes Rules governing…

Conflicts and Violence 1. Introduction Throughout history, many wars have been framed as religious conflicts. The causes, however, are complex. This analysis examines: 2. Historical Examples of Religious Wars 2.1 The Crusades (1095–1291) Context Initiated by Pope Urban II to “liberate” Jerusalem and the Holy Land from Muslim rule, combining:…

Conflicts and Violence 1. Introduction The relationship between religion and violence is complex and highly debated. While some argue religion inherently causes violence due to its absolutist truth claims, others suggest religion is primarily used to legitimise and mobilise pre-existing political, economic, and social conflicts. This analysis examines both perspectives,…

Conflicts and Violence 1. Introduction While religion is often associated with conflict, historically and doctrinally, religions also promote peace and reconciliation as central ethical imperatives. This analysis examines major religious teachings and practical initiatives for peacebuilding, drawing on theology, sociology, and international studies. 2. Theological Foundations for Peace 2.1 Christianity…

Modern Challenges: 1. Introduction Across Western societies and increasingly elsewhere, significant numbers are leaving organised religion, identifying as religiously unaffiliated (‘nones’) or adopting spiritual-but-not-religious (SBNR) identities. This analysis explores the phenomenon using sociological, psychological, philosophical, and cultural perspectives, situating it within secularisation theory and its critiques. 2. The Secularisation Thesis…

1. Introduction Modern technologies and global crises pose profound ethical questions. Religions worldwide have developed diverse theological, moral, and practical responses to issues such as cloning, artificial intelligence (AI), and climate change. This analysis surveys major religious perspectives and doctrinal frameworks addressing these challenges. 2. Cloning 2.1 Definition and Context…

Modern Challenges: 1. Introduction Globalisation and multiculturalism are two defining forces of the modern world. They shape economic, political, and cultural landscapes, deeply affecting religious beliefs, practices, identities, and institutions. This analysis examines their interaction with religion from sociological, anthropological, and theological perspectives, using empirical and theoretical evidence. 2. Defining…

1. Introduction The question of whether religion is declining or transforming is central in sociology, anthropology, and theology. The secularisation thesis predicted religious decline with modernisation, yet recent evidence suggests a more nuanced reality involving transformation, diversification, and regional contrasts. 2. The Secularisation Thesis 2.1 Classical Theory The secularisation thesis…

1. Introduction Religious history is marked by continuous emergence, adaptation, and evolution of beliefs and systems. This analysis examines whether new religions will emerge in the future by evaluating historical patterns, sociological theories, cultural shifts, and technological implications. 2. Defining ‘New Religion’ New religions refer to religious movements that arise…

Technology and Digital Life 1. Introduction The relationship between technology and religion has evolved from ancient tools for ritual to today’s digital immersion shaping belief and practice. This analysis explores how contemporary and emerging technologies influence religious communities, doctrines, rituals, and personal faith, grounded in sociology, theology, anthropology, and digital…

Future of Religion 1. Introduction The idea of a universal religion – a single faith embraced by all humanity – has intrigued scholars, theologians, and philosophers for centuries. This analysis evaluates historical trends, theological frameworks, sociological theories, and future projections to assess whether humanity could ever converge into one religion,…