Questions and Topics We Can Help You To Answer

Chapter 13 Regards the power of Religion. Religion is a very powerful medium because it touches a person at the deepest part of who they are as a person. Some consider their religious practices and beliefs as very private, Others consider it their religious duty to tell others what the truth is (as they see it) and try to "convert" others to their belief system. Others view religious observances as a "Crutch" for the weak. Difference of religious opinions throughout the history of humankind has created much conflict between peoples. Many wars throughout history have been battled over differences in religious ideas. Today is no different. "Jihads" or  holy wars are still fought today. Even our own 9/11 tragic situation was primarily a religous difference. Today's concerns of "Isis" is a constant news item.  Religion is a very important conversation in sociology.



1. What are the two functions of religion found in its definition



2. How would you say the "profane" is in connection with the "Secularized?"

3. Describe an example of what might be considered sacred

While this idea is not in the book, I want this to be a part of our conversation on adhering to a particular religious belief system.

  4 elements of secular peoples compilance to a religious idea and behavior

A. Belief- strong recognition of the importance and truth of a certain idea. " ie- I think the Baptist church is the one who really tells the whole truth"

if a person didn't feel this way , he/she would not put any energy to the next element. Once a belief is in place, the next element is:

B. Involvement- participation at a beginning level in religious activities. "ie- attend Sunday morning service."

Once involvement is in place, the next element is:

C. Commitment- giving of ones time and resources - "ie - Give money to the church regularly, teach a sunday school class, give self to any projects the church might have. Then  lastly is:

D. Attachment- You consider how your behavior is affecting others in the church "i.e. it will hurt Pastor's feeling if I don't go the church today.

4. Question 4- I have given you examples of the 4 elements that secure compliance of a person to a religion. Please develop your own examples of the 4 elements may be present in a person's life.

Back to the book

5. If prayer is our attempt to persuade God and magic is one's attempt to coerce "spirits?" What is the difference bewteen prayer and magic?



6. How would you explain what a religious taboo is and give an example.

7.  Explain the concept of "Animism" and how it might be recognized today.

8. Explain the difference of polytheism ans monothiesm, give examples of each.

9. Explain religion from the functionalist perspective, using the definitions the book describes

10. Explain religion from a conflict theory, using the definitions the book describes.

11. Many of us attach great significance of religious ideas to our lives. Do you feel that sociology takes away the true importance of religion or does sociology give greater understanding to the role of religion in our lives?

12. What is the difference in recognizing oneself as religious or spiritual? Explain your answer.

13. What are the pros and cons of ecumenism?

14. Would you say America is less religous than it once was, the same, or more religious? explain your answer.

15. Give an example of the five organizations of religious life.