The Anthropological Study of Religion

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to the anthropological study of religion, providing a comprehensive review for exam preparation.

What does the term 'anthropological perspective' imply in the study of religion?

It refers to a theoretical orientation that compares human societies, both contemporary and historical, and emphasizes a holistic approach to study the integrated aspects of human life.

What are the four fields of anthropology traditionally recognized?

The four fields are physical anthropology, archaeology, linguistic anthropology, and cultural anthropology.

Why is the term 'primitive' considered pejorative in anthropology?

It is seen as implying negative connotations such as inferiority and 'less than,' which does not accurately represent small-scale societies.

What is meant by the term 'holism' in anthropology?

Holism is the approach that examines human societies as integrated wholes, considering all aspects of the society's structure and functions.

What is ethnography?

Ethnography is the descriptive study of human societies, typically involved in cultural anthropology, providing detailed accounts of communities.

What distinguishes the emic and etic perspectives in anthropology?

The emic perspective seeks to understand the insider's view (how people within the society understand their culture), while the etic perspective analyzes from the outsider's viewpoint.

What role does cultural relativism play in anthropology?

Cultural relativism entails understanding another culture's beliefs and practices without judging them against one's own cultural standards.

According to Ninian Smart, what are the six dimensions of religion?

The six dimensions are institutional, narrative, ritual, social, ethical, and experiential.

What does the functional approach in the study of religion focus on?

It focuses on what religion does in society, such as creating social cohesion and providing comfort to individuals.

Define 'kuru' as it relates to the Fore society.

Kuru is a fatal disease among the Fore, linked to their cannibalistic funeral practices, resulting from prion transmission.

How does the cultural practice of the Fore regarding cannibalism illustrate the concept of holism?

It affects social organization, gender roles, and responses to illness, highlighting that understanding a practice requires considering the entire cultural context.

What is the defining characteristic of animism in religious belief?

Animism is the belief in spirit beings and the attribution of life and agency to non-human entities.

Why is defining 'religion' a challenging task for anthropologists?

Because it encompasses diverse beliefs and practices across cultures and risks being ethnocentric or overly broad.

What is the role of symbols in culture according to anthropological definitions?

Symbols are shared understandings that convey meaning, often forming the basis for religious beliefs and rituals.

What is the interpretive approach in anthropology?

It emphasizes understanding cultural systems through detailed descriptions and interpretations of meanings and symbols rather than seeking laws or origins.

What did Karl Marx believe about the nature of religion?

Marx viewed religion as a construct of the ruling class that diverts people's attention from their suffering and exploitation in society.