3.2 Comparing Portable Belief Systems

Animism

the belief that spiritual beings or souls can exist without a body to house them or in plants, animals, and other objects

Assimilate

to absorb and incorporate (an ethnically distinct group) into the dominant culture of an area

Belief System

a set of principles or tenets which together form the basis of a religion, philosophy, or moral code

Caste System

a social structure in which one's class in society is determined by heredity

Convert

to change or influence change in someone else's or one's own faith or beliefs

Monotheism

the belief that there is only one supreme being

Pantheon

all gods of a people, collectively; a temple dedicated to all of a people's gods

Persecute

to subject (especially those belonging to a different political, religious, or racial group) to persistent harassment, punishment, or ill-treatment

Pilgrimage

a long trip undertaken for religious purposes, such as to visit a holy place