Survey of World Religions: Eastern Exam Review

These flashcards cover key concepts from the Survey of World Religions: Eastern lecture notes, including terminology, historical perspectives, and theoretical approaches to the study of religion.

What is the origin of the term 'Religion'?

Derived from the Latin word 'religio' which means 'to tie to' or 'to bind back'.

What percentage of the world's population claims some form of religious affiliation according to Pew studies?

85%.

Who argued that 'the person who knows only one religion understands none'?

Max Müller.

What approach suggests that religion may be considered 'off limits' to rational analysis?

Essentialism.

What does the functionalist approach in studying religion emphasize?

Analyzing religion as an adjunct to other scientific disciplines using empirical methodologies.

What is 'Epochē' in the context of observing religious phenomena?

Suspending moral judgments regarding what is being observed.

Who suggested that religion can be explained as a society's effort to externalize and elevate valued traits?

Emile Durkheim.

What is 'critical theory' in the study of religion?

An approach by Karl Marx that views religion as a system of oppression that perpetuates economic power.

What is meant by 'syncretism'?

A synthesis whereby two or more belief systems combine to form a new belief incorporating elements of the former systems.

What term refers to the acceptance of a set of 'right beliefs' preserved in texts or traditions?

Orthodoxy.

What does the term 'myth' refer to in a religious context?

A symbolic story or narrative that relates humans to powers governing the cosmos.

What is 'divination' in shamanic practice?

The skill of interpreting chaotic events to foretell future occurrences.

Who proposed that our species should be named 'Homo religiosus'?

Anthropologist Mircea Eliade.

What were 'Venus figurines' likely used for in prehistoric societies?

To emphasize the importance of maintaining fertility rates.

What distinguishes shamans from sorcerers in religious contexts?

Shamans impersonate natural forces for the community's survival, while sorcerers manipulate nature for personal gain.

What is the role of 'tutelary spirits' in shamanism?

They are supernatural agents channeled by shamans to assist their communities.

What is a 'Vision Quest' in the Lakota Sioux tradition?

A journey undertaken by adolescents to establish connections with personal protective spirits.

What ongoing effort relates to the Lakota Sioux's attempt to restore traditional religious practices?

The Ghost Dance.