Chapter 18 - Religion
Religion and Society
-Some form of religious belief exists all over the world.
-Sociologists do not debate religious doctrine.
-Sociologists do study the social functions and pitfalls of religion.
Religion Defined
Religion- a unified system of beliefs and practices regarding sacred things that unites its adherents into a single moral community.
-This is a functionalist definition provided by Durkheim.
Beliefs- regarding sacred things.
Practices- rituals and behaviors designed to demonstrate beliefs.
Sacred things- unwordly things inspiring awe, reverence, deep respect, or fear.
Single moral community- any group of people sharing religious beliefs and practices; any ?church.?
3 Categories of Religion
-Each category is defined by how the ?sacred things? are identified.
1.Theism - one or more supernatural beings.
-Monotheism (one God)
?Christianity, Islam, Judaism
-Polytheism (more than one God)
?Hinduism
2. Ethicalism - moral principles
-Not supernatural.
-The principles guide righteous living.
-Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism
3. Animism - spirits capable of helping or harming people.
-Not necessarily Gods.
-Spirits can be placated and manipulated.
-Shinto
Ethicalism: Buddhism
-The Four Noble Truths:
1. Life is suffering; Suffering exists.
2. Suffering is caused by attachments to titles and objects.
3. Suffering ceases when desire ceases.
4. Follow the Eightfold path.
The Eightfold Path:
1. Right belief. 5. Right occupation or living
2. Right resolve 6. Right effort
3. Right spe ...