What is a religion

Hand written MM

What is the substantive definition of religion

The focus on the context of a religion eg the belief in god or the supernatural

Clear line between religious and non-religious beliefs

exclusive

Weber

Religion is a belief in the supernatural power that is above nature, can’t be explained scientifically

Criticisms of the Substantive definition

1. Leaves no room for religions that have similar functions but don’t believe in a ‘god’

2. Western Bias —> excludes religions like Buddhism as they do not have a western view of god

What is the functional definition of religion

Instead of focusing on the specific kind of belief, this definition focuses on the social and psychological role it plays for individuals and society

Durkheim

Defines religion in terms of the contribution it makes to social integration rather than the specific belief in god

Yinger (functionalist)

Looks at specific functions religion plays eg answering the ‘ultimate question’

Strengths of the functional definition of religion

1. Inclusive definition

2. No bias against non-western religions

Criticisms of the functional definition of religion

Just because it integrates doesn't make it a religion eg football

What is the constructionist definition of religion

An interpretivist approach which focuses on how members of society themselves define religion. They argue it is not possible to create a universal definition of religion, but are instead interested in how definitions are constructed.

Aldridge

Shows how members of Scientology see it as a religion but several governments have banded it/ denied it legal status. This shows the definition of religion can be contested

Strengths of the Constructionist definition of religion

1. Don’t assume religion involves a god or has similar functions for society

2. Allows them to get close to the meanings people themselves give religion

Criticisms of the constructionist definition of religion

1. This definition makes it impossible to generalise WHAT a religion is