Socio Y13 What is Religion? 05/09/25

what are the three main ways sociologists define religion as?

• substantive

• functional

• constructionist

what do substantives believe religion is defined as?

the belief of a God or a supernatural

what is weber’s definition of religion?

the belief of a God or a supernatural that is above nature and can’t be scientifically explained

are substantive definitions inclusive or exclusive?

exclusive

how are substantive definitions of religion exclusive?

because they leave out beliefs and practices that preform the same function of religion, they have a western bias.

what do functionals believe religion is defined as?

preforms physical and psychological function for individuals or society.

How does Durkheim define religion?

in terms of the contribution it makes to social integration .

What does Yinger identify about religion?

functions that religion preform for individuals

Give an example of functions that Yinger say religion preform for individuals.

‘Ultimate Questions’

What do Constructionist believe on religion?

believe that members of society themselves define religion, as it is not possible to produce a universal definition to cover all cases.

Finish the sentence

'“ Social constructionist are interested in the way religion is …?”

constructed, challenged, and sought over.

Briefly explain: Aldridge

Scientology has been denied as a religion by governments