Discussion Post
What is religion?
Sociologists have offered several definitions for "religion." Your textbook describes both Durkheim's and Marx's perspectives. A more contemporary sociological definition comes from Giddens (2006):
Religion: a cultural system of commonly shared beliefs and rituals that provide a sense of ultimate meaning and purpose by creating an idea of reality that is sacred, all-encompassing, and supernatural.
Key elements to this definition include:
• Religion is a form of culture- shares all characteristics of culture such as shared beliefs, values that create an identity
• Religion involves beliefs that take the form of ritualized practices- all members engage in behaviors that identify them as members of the community
• Religion provides a sense of purpose- feeling that life is ultimately meaningful
Task
• Identify the organization you chose to write about. Is this organization a religion according to the sociological definition? Why or why not? (Note: you may use Durkheim's definition from the textbook or any other sociological definition.)
• What type of religion is it (ecclesia, denomination, sect, new religious movement)? If you decided that it is not a religion, what type does it most closely resemble? Explain your choice.
• How would a functionalist theorist understand and discuss this organization?
• How would a conflict theorist understand and discuss this organization?
The response must include a reference list. Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.