Chapter 12 Religion

Question 1

What is religion?

Answer 1

Religion—a social institution that involves shared beliefs, values, and practices based on the supernatural and unites believers into a community

Question 2

Cult

Answer 2

Cult—a religious group that is devoted to beliefs and practices that are outside of mainstream society; also called new religious movement

Question 3

Sect

Answer 3

Sect—a religious group that has broken off from an established religion to form its own

Question 4

Denomination

Answer 4

Denomination—subgroup within a religion that has a common name, tradition, and identity

Question 5

Church

Answer 5

Church—a large body of people belonging to an established religious group that has strong ties to the larger society

Question 6

Christianity

Answer 6

The largest group worldwide Largest numbers are in Latin America and Europe.

Question 7

Islam

Answer 7

Founded by Muhammad Mainly in Asia

Question 8

Hinduism

Answer 8

Mainly in India, Nepal, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka

Question 9

Buddhism

Answer 9

Throughout Asia

Question 10

Judaism

Answer 10

Mainly in Israel and the United States

Question 11

Describe the state of religion in the U.S.

Answer 11

About 87% of Americans believe in God.

About 64% say that religion is important in their lives.

Mainline Protestant groups have lost membership. Evangelicals have increased in number.

About 4 in 10 Americans attend religious services at least once a week.