What is Religion?

• What are the three main approaches to defining religion in sociology?

  Substantive, Functional, Social constructionist
• How did Max Weber define religion?

  As a belief in a supernatural power
• What is required for a belief to be considered religious according to Weber?

  A belief in God or supernatural powers
• How does a functional definition of religion differ from a substantive definition?

  It focuses on social functions, not beliefs
• What do interpretivist sociologists argue about defining religion?

  There are too many types for a single definition
• What is significant about the process of recognizing a set of beliefs as a religion?

  It involves power dynamics and societal recognition
• What law did the UK government pass in 2006 regarding religion?

  Outlawing incitement to religious hatred
• What debate arose regarding Scientology?

  Whether it is a religion or a dangerous cult
• What conclusion do those applying substantive or functional definitions reach about Scientology?

  It fits the criteria to be considered a religion
• What should sociologists focus on instead of commonalities among religions?

  What religions mean to their believers
• How does the definition of religion vary according to society and time?

  It likely differs from society to society