Types of Religion

Animism

The belief that animals, plants, mountains, etc. contain spirits that positively or negatively affect humans.

Paganism

A belief system that sees the earth as named after a goddess and involves different spirits associated with different seasons.

Mount Kinabalu

An example of animism where it was believed to be angry at tourists during a significant earthquake.

Totemism

When clans or tribes adopt a totem as their divine protector and provider, which may symbolize their society.

Durkheim’s study of Australian Aboriginal Totemism

A study that concluded that the animal or plant worshipped by clans represents the society itself.

Theistic religions

Religions that focus on belief in sacred, higher controlling powers, such as gods.

Monotheistic religions

Religions that believe in one divine power.

Polytheistic religions

Religions that believe in multiple gods.

Non-theistic religions

Religions that make no reference to supernatural powers or gods.

Prevalence of Christianity

Christianity constitutes approximately 33% of the world's religion.

Prevalence of Islam

Islam makes up about 21% of the world's religions.

Enlightenment impact on religion

While the Enlightenment promoted a scientific approach, statistics indicate only a slight chance it led to the decline of religion.