SOCL 2001 Religion

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions from a lecture on religion, including its nature, organization, and varying approaches to understanding it.

What is Religion?

A unified system of beliefs and practices relative to sacred things that unites a moral community.

Sacred

Objects, places, or things that are considered holy or worthy of reverence.

Monotheism

The worship of one god.

Polytheism

The worship of multiple gods.

Totemism

The worship of plants, animals, or other natural objects as sacred symbols.

Functionalist Approach to Religion

Theory that emphasizes religion's role in preserving and solidifying society by creating a sense of belonging.

Conflict Approach to Religion

Perspective that sees religion as a tool used by elites to maintain social inequality and control.

Secularization

The process of decline in religious influence in public life and the growing focus on science and reason.

Rituals

Ceremonial acts that are carried out according to a prescribed order and are often associated with religious practices.

Religiosity

The intensity of religious observance and belief in an individual or community.

Durkheim's Definition of Religion

A unified system of beliefs and practices relative to sacred things, which unite into a moral community.