Religion and Non-Religion Flashcards
Animism definition
Belief in the existence and activity of spirits in various natural forms
Examples of Animism
Shinotism, Aboriginal
Animists tend to…
Worship the things of nature because they sensed how important they were to sustaining the world they lived in.
Animists worship…
Their land and its many features because they believe this is where their spiritual ancestors live
Polytheism definition
Belief that there is more than 1 God
Example of Polytheism
Hinduism
Polytheistic Gods…
Are often more like spirit beings rather than the ‘God’
Monotheism definition
Belief that there is 1 God
Montheists tend to…
Naturally believe their God is powerful (omnipotent), ever-present (omnipresent) and all-knowing (omniscient)
Examples of Monotheism
Christianity, Islam, Judaism
3 reasons for significane for the individual:
Meaning and purpose for the individual, social cohesion and social transformation
Meaning and purpose for the individual (4 reasons)
- Offers the believer the opportunity to make sense of life. 2. Creates an identity for the individual. 3. Gain a sense of who they are by bring in a religious community. 4. Sacred texts explain the purpose in life and the creation of the universe.
Social Cohesion (5 reasons)
- During disagreements, religion can sort out differences and bring people together. 2. Priests and Shamans role was to resolve conflicts. 3. Religion can set 1 society against anoter. 4. Religion creates laws, customs and practices for adherants and society. 5. Provides art, music, architecture based on beliefs
Social Transformation (3 reasons)
- Can transform society through social welfare, social justice (St. Vincent de Paul). 2. Religons can integrate new cultural and social factors into their own system. 3. Destruction of culture - impact of Christianity on Aboriginal People
Christianity Distribution
1/3. Europe, South America and Africa
