Sociology Study Guide: Religion and Society

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering the main concepts, definitions, and beliefs related to religion and society based on sociological perspectives.

Religion

A social institution involving beliefs and practices based on recognizing the sacred.

Characteristics of Religion

Includes beliefs about the supernatural, rituals and practices, a community of believers, and provides meaning to life and death.

Durkheim's view on Religion

Religion creates social cohesion and collective consciousness.

Marx's view on Religion

Religion is the 'opiate of the masses,' maintaining social inequality.

Weber's view on Religion

Religion can drive social change, exemplified by the Protestant ethic and capitalism.

Functionalist perspective on Religion

Religion provides social stability, cohesion, and moral guidance.

Conflict Theorist perspective on Religion

Religion perpetuates inequality by legitimizing the status quo.

Symbolic Interactionist view on Religion

Religion is created through individual interactions and shared meanings.

Religious Experience

A personal connection to the divine, such as feeling spiritual ecstasy during prayer.

Religious Belief

Accepted truths within a faith, such as belief in one God in Christianity.

Religious Ritual

Formalized religious practices, for instance, attending Mass or Ramadan fasting.

Secularization in the U.S.

Rising numbers of 'nones' (no religious affiliation), yet religion remains influential.

Megachurch

A Protestant church with 2,000+ attendees weekly, offering modern services and broad programs.

Ecclesia

A state-affiliated religion that includes most citizens, exemplified by the Church of England.

Denomination

A large, organized religious body, such as the Baptist Church.

Sect

A breakaway group emphasizing purity, like the Amish.

Cult

A small, new religious group often seen as deviant, which can evolve into major religions.

Major World Religions

Includes Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism.

Monotheism

Belief in one God, with examples including Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.

Polytheism

Belief in multiple gods, as seen in Ancient Greek and Roman religions.

Animism

Belief that spirits inhabit natural objects, common in Indigenous beliefs.

Hinduism

World's oldest major religion with beliefs in karma, dharma, and reincarnation.

Buddhism

Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha), focuses on personal enlightenment.

Confucianism

Founded by Confucius, an ethical philosophy emphasizing social harmony and hierarchy.

Judaism

First major monotheistic religion founded by Abraham, centered on the covenant with God.

Christianity

Largest world religion founded by Jesus Christ, emphasizing salvation through him.

Islam

Founded by Prophet Muhammad, characterized by the Five Pillars and Quran.