Defining Religion Flashcards
1
Q
What is the substantive definition?
A
Focuses on the content of religous belief like belief in God or the supernatural
Exclusive- to be a religion, it must have a belief in God/ supernatural
2
Q
Criticism of substantive definition
A
Has a W. bias as it excludes religions like Buddhism
3
Q
Whats the functional definition?
A
Defines it by the functions it performs for society e.g. Durkheim defines it in terms of its contributions to social intergration
Inclusive
4
Q
Whats the constructionist definition?
A
Focuses on how members of the group define the it.
Aldridge- scientologists see it as a religion but many govs deny it legal status and ban it