Believe Systems Part Two

Question 1

Priests

Answer 1

A special type of supernatural practitioner

• religious leader
• part of the bureaucracy

Question 2

Ritual

Answer 2

is behavior that is formalized, is regularly repeated, and has symbolic content

• Holds people together
• Comfort is found
• reflects the values of the culture

Question 3

Rites of passage

Answer 3

Focuses on individuals

-culturally defined biological and social phases that humans pass through in their lives
Example: birth to death “The arc of life”

Question 4

What function do rites of intensification serve?

Answer 4

Focuses on groups

Reinforce (1) group solidarity (2) values of the culture, subculture, or microculture, and (3) social and political status relationships within the group

Question 5

Shamans

Answer 5

Specializes in dealing with supernatural beings and forces

• Shamans are like part-time practitioners