What is your definition of religion?

Question

I have been studying anthropology and sociology and have come across many definitions of the word religion. I would like to ask everyone what is their understanding of the meaning of this word and what is a precise definition for religion, which might be used for the study of religion in general and the religion of certain persons, groups, etc ?

I am looking more for personal opinions than quoted resources of anthropologists, etc. In particular what are any ideas for overcoming the problems in studying religions from a social perspective. I especially do not like the study of religion as it is presented in anthropology books.

Answer 1

I tend to believe after reading your question, that the reason you do not like the way that Anthropology texts describe religion is that the given definitions disturb your own viewpoints. This is one of the major problems that occurs when you are forced to look at your own behavior the same way you look at other cultural beliefs, and this has caused many rifts between Anthropologists and different religious groups around the world. Nevertheless, in order to be a good Anthropologist, you should be an objective participant. This approach is directly opposed to being a member of a religious group, which requires that you firmly believe as you participate.

Religion is a set of common beliefs and doctrines that are used by a group of people to guide their lives spiritually and explain their creation and purpose

This does not mean that a particular religion is any more accurate than any other, and this is why so many people are so upset about the question. Perhaps if you look at the big picture you will see that any set of beliefs and doctrines are by their very nature subjective and therefore can be looked at by an outsider as a set of tribal-like behaviors.

Answer 2

Religion is basically a set of guidelines that we use to define the way we act in the world. If we didn't have these guidelines there would be no purpose. This is true even with atheists. Their purpose is to disprove the existence of God or god whichever you prefer. Also the Agnostics, they are looking for proof of a higher being so that they can have a more substantial belief.

Answer 3

According to an ancient saying religion is the opium of the masses.I totally agree with this view.Look at the number of people in this world who are prepared to massacre thousands of others for the sake of their religion without even knowing the basic alphabets of their religion.For the sane amongst us though,it could be said that religion is a way of life.

Answer 4

I think there is religion as the pratice of a set of beliefs or system of beliefs. Religon can be a bunch of rules of a lifestyle or A whole different way of being. Depends on the person.

Answer 5

Religion is something one holds on to when they have nothing left. Humans are materialistic by nature, hell look at certain religions of monks the first thing they have to do is give up all of their worldly (physical) possessions. Religion is a last resort for most. Look at criminals they are given the chance to repent for their sins before they are executed. I am a Christian but I see religion sometimes as a weapon other than salvation.

Answer 6

It is nothing but a human mind's wave, that wave follows the traits of human instinct of fear, happiness, imagination and curiosity about future. This is what the basic of religion is. When men try to find the answers of something he can't reply then he solaces himself that it is something from god. Naturally and genetically man like to worship and following something more powerful than him, etc.

Answer 7

Religion is is the service and worship of God or the supernatural or the commitment or devotion to religious faith or observance. Religion might also be defined as scrupulous conformity to a personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices. Finally, religion may be a cause, principle, or system of beliefs held to with ardor and faith.

Answer 8

My personal definition, is a belief that describes the creation of the Universe. This belief would include a superior being, who help orchestrate it. I do not include Buddhism or confuscionism as a religion, since neither actual has a god by itself nor do they discuss the creation of the Universe.

Answer 9

Religion—sometimes used interchangeably with faith or belief system—is commonly defined as belief concerning the supernatural, sacred, or divine, and the moral codes, practices and institutions associated with such belief. In its broadest sense some have defined it as the sum total of answers given to explain humankind's relationship with the universe. In the course of the development of religion, it has taken a huge number of forms in various cultures and individuals. ... source wiki

for 0 intro apr credit cards visit http://www.card-gallery.com/0_Intro_APR.html

Answer 10

My idea? well. One who believes in a higher power? depends on if they call that higher power, or god, allah, buddah, scientology (some of those fake religions, and worshiping a statue) Depends on what culture. society, and believes they have. Or you could be religious to what you do everyday, as in following a routine. I have my own way of praying, I don't go to church, but I beleive in God. I feel that, well I won't give my opinion/reason on why I don't go to church, so I must stop there. I just say to each his or her own. Just don't push religion on me, because I believe in what I believe in.