Beliefs in Society Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts and theories regarding beliefs, religion, and their sociological implications from the lecture notes.

What does religiosity refer to?

The extent to which someone sees themselves as religious.

What is fundamentalism in the context of religion?

An appeal to tradition, seeking a return to the basics or fundamentals of faith.

Define secularisation.

The decrease in power that religion has in society.

What are theistic beliefs?

Beliefs in a higher power, which can be monotheistic (one God) or polytheistic (many gods).

What characterizes New Age movements?

Spiritual rather than religious belief systems focused on self-development and fulfilment, often based on Eastern religions like Buddhism.

What is animism?

A belief in spirits and ghosts that can impact the human or natural world, often found in pre-industrial societies.

Define totemism.

A form of animism where a community creates a symbol that represents them and is believed to protect the people.

What is a substantive definition of religion?

Identifies core characteristics that major religions share and is exclusive in nature.

What is a functional definition of religion?

Focuses on what religion does for society, such as providing comfort or reinforcing societal values.

Define the constructionist definition of religion.

Interests in how definitions of religion are constructed and contested, emphasizing who holds power.

List the five features of religion.

1) Belief in sacred beings, 2) Sacred and profane objects, places, and times, 3) Ritual acts, 4) Moral code with supernatural origins, 5) Prayer and other forms of communication with the supernatural.

How is ideology related to religion?

Ideologies provide a set of ideas, values, and beliefs for interpreting the world and can be seen as closed belief systems.

What does Popper mean by science being an open belief system?

Scientific knowledge is open to challenge and growth through falsification.

What is the concept of 'internal secularisation'?

The process by which some religions adapt beliefs to stay relevant in modern society.

What does Marxism suggest about religion and social inequality?

Religion is a tool of the ruling class to maintain power and justify oppression.

What is the primary focus of feminism in relation to religion?

To highlight how religion contributes to the oppression of women and the patriarchal structure.

What does the term 'spiritual shopping' refer to?

The postmodern trend of individuals selecting and mixing beliefs from various religions.

What is civil religion as described by Bellah?

A belief system that attaches sacred qualities to society itself, integrating various religious groups.

What is the significance of the Protestant work ethic?

The belief that hard work and discipline are spiritually rewarding, historically linked to Calvinism.

How do NRMs (New Religious Movements) differ from traditional religions?

NRMs are often more flexible, less bureaucratic, and appeal to personal spirituality. They also often emerge in response to social changes.

What does 'believing without belonging' mean?

The idea that individuals can hold religious beliefs without being part of a religious institution.

What is the relationship between globalisation and religion?

Globalisation leads to interconnectedness and changes in religious practices and identities, often fostering new religious movements.

What is the impact of age on religious beliefs, particularly among the elderly?

Elderly individuals often show increased religiosity as they confront existential questions about life and death.

What are the main reasons for the decline in church attendance among younger individuals?

Factors include individualisation, cultural amnesia, and a lack of connection to traditional rituals.