Anthropology of Religion: Beliefs, Rituals, and Cults

What is religion?

A set of attitudes and beliefs that relate to the supernatural.

Define supernatural.

Powers believed to be beyond human understanding or the laws of nature.

What is a ritual?

A formalized action or series of actions often associated with religious practices.

How do food foragers view the world?

They have a naturalistic worldview and see themselves as part of nature, at the mercy of their environment.

How do industrial societies differ in their approach to problems?

They tend to solve problems using technology and are generally less religious.

What is the relationship between poverty and religion?

Impoverished people are usually more religious, while wealthier individuals tend to be less religious.

What are the psychological functions of religion?

Religion helps explain the universe, provides order, and aids in coping with stress.

What social functions does religion serve?

Social control, solidarity through rituals, and education by passing down culture.

What economic function is associated with food taboos in religion?

Food taboos can protect vital resources, such as cattle in Hinduism, which were historically needed for agriculture.

What is animism?

The belief that nature has spirits, such as those in mountains, rocks, and rivers.

What is mana?

A concept referring to luck or the belief that certain objects can be lucky.

What characterizes industrialistic cults?

Each person is a specialist, such as in the Native American Vision Quest.

What is a shamanistic cult?

A cult where a shaman acts as a part-time specialist who can control supernatural beings.

What are communal cults known for?

They perform rituals that promote solidarity, such as funerals and rites of passage.

What defines ecclesiastical cults?

They have full-time professional clergy and a passive congregation.

What is witchcraft in the context of religion?

The belief that some individuals have the power to cause harm, often leading to accusations and social cohesion.

What historical event is associated with witchcraft accusations?

The Salem Witch Trials of 1692, where 19 people were executed.

What is ergot and its significance in the Salem Witch Trials?

A fungus that caused hallucinations when consumed, possibly explaining some behaviors during the trials.

What is revitalization in a religious context?

A social movement of a religious nature that emerges under societal stress, preaching salvation.

Provide an example of a revitalization movement.

Christianity and the Jim Jones cult are examples of revitalization movements.