Worldviews, Salvation, Tolerance, and Animism

A set of Q&A flashcards spanning worldview evaluation tests, religious pluralism/inclusivism/exclusivism, tolerance varieties, and Animism concepts and practices.

What does the test of reason assess?

Logical consistency and absence of contradictions.

What does the test of the outer world assess?

Evidence from reality (science, history, experience) supporting the worldview.

What does the test of the inner world assess?

Whether the worldview addresses human needs such as meaning, morality, and purpose.

What does the test of the real world assess?

Practicality and sustainability for most people in daily life.

What is pluralism in religion?

The belief that all religions and spiritual paths ultimately lead to God or heaven.

What is inclusivism in salvation claims?

The belief that one religion is true, but people from other religions may still find salvation through it (often unknowingly).

What is exclusivism in salvation claims?

The belief that only one religion is true and provides salvation; all other paths are insufficient.

What is the technical meaning of tolerance?

The ability to bend without breaking; remaining firm in one's beliefs while allowing space for others.

What is legal tolerance?

Recognizing that every person has the legal right to believe what they want, even if we disagree.

What is social tolerance?

Treating others with dignity and respect regardless of their religion or worldview.

What is uncritical tolerance?

The idea that no religious belief should ever be judged false or inferior; all beliefs are considered equally true.

In Animism, what is mana?

A spiritual life force or power that permeates the universe; impersonal but very powerful.

In Animism, who is the Supreme God?

The ultimate creator; distant, all-powerful, and righteous.

In Animism, who are lesser gods?

Mediators between the Supreme God and humans, often tied to natural forces.

In Animism, what are spirits?

Local or nature spirits connected to specific places, animals, or objects.

In Animism, who are ancestors?

Deceased family members who influence the living and are revered or worshiped.

Name a theme in Animism related to community.

Community-centered life with strong social bonds and shared rituals.

What is the theme 'The spiritual world' in Animism?

Belief that unseen forces interact with daily life.

What is the theme 'The present' in Animism?

Focus on living in harmony with the here and now.

What is the theme 'Power' in Animism?

Spiritual power (mana) that can be harnessed or respected.

What is the theme 'Pragmatism' in Animism?

Practical rituals and customs to deal with daily challenges.

What is the theme 'Transformation/transportation' in Animism?

Shamanic practices, spiritual journeys, or shape-shifting.

What is the theme 'A holistic view of life' in Animism?

Everything is interconnected; no divide between sacred and secular.

What is the theme 'Religion' in Animism?

Rituals and worship connect people with spirits and ancestors.

What is the theme 'Stories' in Animism?

Oral traditions carry spiritual truths and lessons.

What are taboos in Animism?

Prohibitions because certain actions offend spirits or disrupt cosmic order.

What is 'The Sacred' in Animism?

Certain people, places, objects, words, and actions hold special spiritual power.

Who are typical practitioners in Animism?

Shamans, chiefs, or elders.

What are sacred places in Animism?

Sites like mountains, rivers, or groves.

What are sacred things in Animism?

Objects with spiritual power (amulets, charms).

What are sacred words in Animism?

Sacred chants, prayers, or names.

What are sacred actions in Animism?

Rituals that must be done carefully to avoid spiritual danger.

What is magic/divination in Animism?

Using supernatural means to understand the future, heal, or gain knowledge from spirits.