Religion

Read this chapter for a review of religion. As you read each section, consider the following topics:

  • Read the "Introduction to Religion" section, paying close attention to the sociological definition of religion.
  • Take note of the sociological view of religion and attempt to understand how each of the major sociological perspectives consider religion.
  • List the differences between various types of religious organizations. Take note of classifications of religion, such as animism, polytheism, monotheism, and atheism.
  • Take note of how religion can be used as an agent of social change. In addition, focus on trends in secularization and the significance of secularization on a fundamental social institution.

Key Terms

animism
the religion that believes in the divinity of nonhuman beings, like animals, plants, and objects of the natural world

atheism
the belief in no deities

cults
religious groups that are small, secretive, and highly controlling of members and have a charismatic leader

denomination
a large, mainstream religion that is not sponsored by the state

ecclesia
a religion that is considered the state religion

established sects
sects that last but do not become denominations

liberation theology
the use of a church to promote social change via the political arena

megachurch
a Christian church that has a very large congregation averaging more than 2,000 people who attend regular weekly services

monotheism
a religion based on belief in a single deity

polytheism
a religion based on belief in multiple deities

religion
a system of beliefs, values, and practices concerning what a person holds to be sacred or spiritually significant

religious beliefs
specific ideas that members of a particular faith hold to be true

religious experience
the conviction or sensation that one is connected to "the divine"

religious rituals
behaviors or practices that are either required for or expected of the members of a particular group

sect
a small, new offshoot of a denomination

totemism
the belief in a divine connection between humans and other natural beings